How to Make Remote Control Holders

Remote controls have a way of disappearing - into couch cushions, behind chairs, and under newspapers and magazines. Some households have remotes for their television, DVD player, and stereo system, not to mention remotes for lighting and ceiling fans. A remote control holder, sometimes called an armchair caddy, is a great way to keep track of different remotes. This is also an excellent first sewing project that makes a great gift.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric of your choice - 1 yard Elastic Heavy craft thread Piping or edging

1. Measure your armchair. The remote holder will need to be long enough to cover the inside of the arm rest with the pocket that holds the remotes hanging on the outside of the armrest. Some patterns suggest 22 inches long and 14 inches wide, but customizing the holder to your armchair will provide the best results.

2. Cut the fabric. Cut three identical pieces of fabric (22" by 14" or customized for your chair). Two pieces will be used for the body of the holder, and one piece will be folded in half and used as the pocket.

3. Fold and sew the pocket piece. Fold the pocket piece length-wise, to create a piece 7 inches by 22 inches. The long open edge will be the opening of the pockets. Fold back the opening 1/2 inch and sew. Then measure the length into thirds, leaving a half inch on each side to sew into the body. This should provide three 7-inch-wide pockets. Mark the thirds, but do not sew.

4. Add the elastic. Thread the elastic through the hem at the opening of the pocket. Bunch the fabric until the long side (22 inches) is equal to the short side of the body pieces (14 inches). Make sure the gathering is equal, then sew to separate the pockets.

5. Attach the pocket to one body piece. Pin or baste to keep the bottom of the pocket in place, then add the other body piece on top with the "bad" sides of the fabric showing on both sides. Sew around the 3 edges that include the pocket, leave the edge without the pocket open.

6. Invert the body pieces. The pocket should be secured to the body pieces now. Tuck in the open edge and sew to close it. This flap will sit on the inside of the armchair while the pockets sit on the outside with the remotes.

Tips & Warnings

• Add piping or other embellishments to the edges before sewing the pieces together. For an easier holder, let your kids decorate a cardboard box to be used as a remote holder. To avoid sewing, use an old tote bag and add Velcro to the straps to hold it to your chair.

Resources

• Remote Holder Pattern
• Cardboard Remote Holder