These instructions explain how to make fabric chair bags for Senior and Junior classroom chairs. The construction method is the same for both sizes; only the measurements differ.
Finished Main Pocket Sizes
Chair Type
Finished Width
Finished Height
Senior Chair
46 cm
31 cm
Junior Chair
40 cm
42 cm
Materials Required
Fabric (see cutting options below)
Matching thread
Sewing machine (straight stitch and zigzag recommended)
Scissors, pins or clips, measuring tape
Allow extra fabric when purchasing to account for uneven cutting.
Fabric Cutting Options
Option A – Two Fabric Pieces (Most Fabrics)
Chair Type
Cut Size (each piece)
Senior Chair
50 cm high x 53 cm wide
Junior Chair
60 cm high x 47 cm wide
Cut two identical pieces per chair bag.
Option B – One Fabric Piece
Chair Type
Cut Size
Senior Chair
98 cm high x 53 cm wide
Junior Chair
118 cm high x 47 cm wide
Using Option B allows you to skip the fabric-joining step.
Assembly Instructions
1. Join Fabric Pieces (Skip if using Option B – One Fabric Piece)
Place the two fabric pieces together:
One with the printed side facing up
One with the printed side facing down
Ensure the top of the print is at opposite ends
Sew together with a 1 cm seam allowance
Press seam flat
2. Hem the Top and Bottom Edges
Before forming any pockets:
Fold the top edge over 1 cm, then another 1 cm, and sew
Repeat for the bottom edge, this should be on the opposite side to the top edge.
This creates a neat, durable finish for the pocket openings.
3. Form the Front Pocket
From the bottom hemmed edge, fold fabric up towards the front:
Chair Type
Front Pocket Fold
Senior Chair
31 cm
Junior Chair
42 cm
Pin or press in place.
This fold defines the finished height of the chair bag front pocket.
4. Form the Chair Pocket
From the top hemmed edge, fold fabric down towards the back:
Chair Type
Chair Pocket Fold
Senior Chair
Approx. 15 cm
Junior Chair
Approx. 15 cm
Adjust the fold so the bottom edge of the chair pocket aligns with the top edge of the front pocket
Ensure the folded sections align neatly and do not overlap
5. Stabilise Side Seams (Recommended)
Zigzag stitch along both side edges to hold all layers in position before final sewing
6. Finish Side Seams
On each side:
Fold the edge 1 cm to the back, then fold again
Sew down the folded edge
Repeat on the opposite side
Check internal width between seams:
Chair Type
Target Width
Senior Chair
46–47 cm (minimum 44 cm)
Junior Chair
40 cm
7. Reinforce Stress Points
Zigzag stitch several times at the point where the front pocket and chair pocket meet on each side seam
Completion
Once all seams are secure and measurements confirmed, the chair bag is complete and ready for use.
