under eye tape for bags

20 DORM ROOM ESSENTIALS YOU SHOULD KNOW

Heading off to college is such an exciting milestone, and preparing for dorm life is all part of the adventure. I still remember how much fun it was to gather everything I needed to create a space that felt truly my own—it was like the first real step into independence.

For freshmen ready to transform their dorm into a cozy retreat or returning students looking to refresh their setup, having the right essentials makes all the difference. From practical must-haves that bring comfort and convenience to little luxuries that elevate the everyday, creating a functional and inviting space lays the foundation for an unforgettable college experience.

BED SHEETS

Comfortable and easy-to-care-for bed sheets are essential for dorm living. Opt for soft, breathable materials like cotton or microfiber. Make sure to select twin XL sheets to fit most dorm mattresses.

Examples:

  • Amazon Basics Lightweight Microfiber 3-Piece Bed Sheet Set, Twin XL, Blush Pink
  • Linen Market Ultra-Soft & Cooling 3-Piece Twin Bedding Sheet Set, Light Blue Floral

PILLOWS

A quality pillow ensures restful sleep. Choose one based on your sleeping style—side, back, or stomach. Memory foam or down alternatives are versatile and popular choices.

Examples:

  • HIMOON Bed Pillows for Sleeping, Cooling, Set of 2
  • Amazon Basics Down Alternative Pillow, Soft Density, Pack of 2

PILLOWCASES

Pillowcases protect your pillows while adding a decorative touch. Match them to your sheets or mix and match for a pop of color.

Examples:

  • FLXXIE Microfiber Pillowcases, Wrinkle-Resistant, 20×30, Blush Pink
  • FLXXIE 6-Pack Microfiber Pillowcases, Ultra-Soft, 20×30, White

DUVET SET

A duvet set transforms your bed and keeps it cozy. Look for one that includes a removable, washable cover for easy cleaning.

Examples:

  • BELADOR All-Season Down Alternative Duvet Insert, Twin
  • DOWNCOOL Lightweight Pink Comforter, Twin Size

AREA RUG

An area rug adds warmth and style to your dorm. Go for durable, easy-to-clean options with a low pile for high-traffic areas.

Examples:

  • SAFAVIEH Moroccan Tassel Shag Area Rug, Ivory & Beige
  • Fortsea Washable Non-Slip Area Rug, 5×7, Vintage Design

HEADBOARD

A headboard enhances your bed’s look and provides back support. Choose one that’s both stylish and functional.

Examples:

  • Modway Annabel Velvet Tufted Twin Headboard, Pink
  • Modway Emily Upholstered Twin Headboard, Ivory

THROW BLANKET

A throw blanket is perfect for added warmth and decor. Look for soft, lightweight designs that are easy to care for.

Examples:

  • NEWCOSPLAY Silky Flannel Fleece Blanket, Ivory Checkered
  • FY FIBER HOUSE Fuzzy Throw Blanket, Beige Heart Checkered

NIGHTSTAND

A nightstand keeps essentials like a phone, lamp, and books within reach. Choose compact designs with storage features.

Examples:

  • Huuger Nightstand with Charging Station and Fabric Drawers
  • Yoobure Modern Nightstand with Open Storage Shelf

DESK LAMP

An adjustable desk lamp is a must for late-night studying. Look for features like brightness levels and eye-caring light.

Examples:

  • Vicsoon LED Desk Lamp with Wireless Charger, Pink
  • DEEPLITE LED Desk Lamp with Touch Control, White

LAUNDRY BASKET/BAG

A sturdy, portable laundry basket or bag makes trips to the laundry room hassle-free. Collapsible designs are great for saving space.

Examples:

  • Simple Houseware Double Laundry Hamper with Removable Bags
  • 75L Tall Laundry Hamper with Handles, Waterproof

UNDER-BED STORAGE

Maximize dorm space with under-bed storage containers for clothing, shoes, or seasonal items. Containers with wheels are extra convenient.

Examples:

  • Rubbermaid 68-Quart Rolling Under-Bed Storage Box
  • PHINOX Under-Bed Storage with Wheels, 2-Pack

STORAGE OTTOMAN

A storage ottoman doubles as a seat, footrest, and hidden storage for books or electronics. Select one that fits your dorm decor.

Examples:

  • Amazon Basics Tufted Storage Ottoman, Burlap Beige
  • SONGMICS Velvet Foldable Storage Bench with Extra Compartments

CLOSET ORGANIZERS

Maximize your dorm closet with hanging organizers for clothes, shoes, and accessories. Compact designs help keep things neat.

Examples:

  • Simple Houseware 6-Shelf Hanging Closet Organizer, Grey
  • MAX Houser Hanging Shoe Organizer with Pockets, Beige

SHOWER CADDY

A portable shower caddy is essential for keeping your toiletries organized during dorm bathroom trips.

Examples:

  • Attmu Mesh Shower Caddy Tote with 8 Pockets
  • Casabella Plastic Shower Tote with Drainage Holes

BATH TOWELS

Invest in soft, quick-drying bath towels for daily use. Microfiber options save space and dry faster than cotton.

Examples:

  • JML Microfiber Quick-Dry Bath Towels, 2-Pack
  • Amazon Basics Quick-Dry Cotton Bath Towels, White, Set of 4

DESK ORGANIZER

Stay productive with a desk organizer to store pens, notebooks, and other essentials. Compact designs help reduce clutter.

Examples:

  • SimpleHouseware Mesh Desk Organizer with Drawer
  • Marbrasse Rotating Desk Organizer with Compartments

EXTENSION CORD WITH USB PORTS

Keep your devices charged and accessible with an extension cord featuring USB ports. A must-have for dorm life!

Examples:

  • Anker PowerExtend USB-C Power Strip with Surge Protection
  • Belkin Surge Protector Power Strip with USB Ports, 6 Outlets

MIRROR

A full-length or over-the-door mirror is great for getting ready in the morning and making your space feel larger.

Examples:

  • NeuType Full-Length Mirror with Aluminum Frame, Gold
  • Mkono Over-The-Door Mirror with Hooks, Black

WALL DECOR

Personalize your dorm with posters, tapestries, or string lights to make it feel cozy and inviting.

Examples:

  • Mkono Hanging Photo Display with Lights, Wooden
  • Lush Decor Bohemian Mandala Tapestry, Blue

INSULATED WATER BOTTLE

Stay hydrated throughout your busy day with a durable, insulated water bottle that keeps drinks hot or cold.

Examples:

  • Hydro Flask Wide Mouth Water Bottle with Straw Lid, 32 oz
  • Contigo Autoseal Chill Stainless Steel Water Bottle, 24 oz

LUNA CIRCLE PURSE TUTORIAL WITH SEWING PATTERN

Embark on a celestial crafting journey! In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to construct a stunning Luna Circle Purse, inspired by the mystical allure of the moon. We’ll guide you through each step, from understanding the sewing pattern to mastering the intricate details.

LUNA CIRCLE PURSE SEWING PATTERN

You’ll love this DIY Luna Circle Purse sewing pattern because:

  • Quick and Easy: It only takes 1 to 2 hours to complete!
  • User-Friendly: The PDF pattern is simple to assemble—just follow the cut lines.
  • No Measurements Needed: You won’t need any body measurements to find the perfect size for you.
  • Comprehensive Instructions: The pattern includes video tutorials and step-by-step photos that are easy to follow.
  • Great for Beginners: It’s perfect for beginners looking to learn how to sew a zipper and add eyelet trim.

For the Luna Circle Purse, we recommend using medium to heavy-weight woven fabric. You can choose any color or print, and feel free to add lining by simply copying the circle pattern.

One of the best aspects of using duck canvas fabric is its width—most cotton fabrics are 60 inches wide, and you’ll need less than half a yard to complete this project.

If you’re hesitant about sewing with patterns, this beginner-friendly bag project is a fantastic way to build your confidence. All you need are a straight stitch and a zigzag stitch, and the addition of a metal eyelet will give your bag a professional, store-bought finish.

HOW DO YOU MAKE A LUNA CIRCLE PURSE?

Whether you’re a sewing novice or simply looking for a cute purse to enhance your DIY wardrobe, this tutorial is perfect for you. Start by selecting your desired material and remember to wash, dry, or press it beforehand. This simple routine will help you get ready for your sewing journey!

DIY LUNA CIRCLE PURSE MATERIALS

  • Circle Purse Sewing Pattern
  • ½ yard of medium to heavy cotton duck canvas fabric
  • 2 pieces of size 10 gunmetal grommets
  • 9-inch long zipper
  • Sewing machine

INSTRUCTIONS TO MAKE THE LUNA CIRCLE PURSE

  • Assemble the Pattern: Begin by putting together the pattern pieces.
  • Zigzag Stitching: Use a zigzag stitch around the purse pocket and the side purse pieces.
  • Attach the Pocket: Sew the purse pocket onto the side purse pieces.
  • Prepare the Zipper: Zigzag stitch around the zipper plackets and the bottom piece.
  • Install the Zipper: Attach the zipper to the zipper placket.
  • Add Grommets: Insert the grommets into the bottom piece.
  • Join the Zipper Placket: Connect the zipper placket to the bottom purse piece.
  • Assemble the Purse: With the right sides facing together, join the side purse pieces to the bottom purse piece.
  • Create the Shoulder Strap: Make the shoulder strap and thread the ends through the grommets, tying a knot on both sides to complete your DIY circle purse.

Enjoy your new stylish creation!

DIY LUNA CIRCLE PURSE SEWING TIPS

As you print and review the Luna Circle Purse tutorial, you’ll learn how to add a zipper to the top opening of your DIY purse. While you’re copying the pattern onto the fabric and gathering your sewing tools, here are some helpful tips to ensure you assemble the Luna Circle Purse smoothly and without mistakes.

SEWING TIPS FOR THE LUNA CIRCLE PURSE

  • Sewing Machine: Always adjust the sewing machine tension when working with thicker thread or canvas fabric. Don’t forget to modify the pressure on your presser foot; heavier fabrics require less pressure than lightweight ones.
  • Needle & Thread: Swap out your regular needle and thread for heavy-duty options when sewing with thicker materials. Choose a heavy-duty thread, such as size 40, made from polyester or cotton-wrapped polyester, and use a size 100/16 or 110/18 needle for best results.
  • Stitch Length: The recommended stitch length for this project is between 3 and 3.5. This length creates nice, long stitches that are easier to sew through multiple layers. Always test your stitch on a scrap piece of fabric before starting on the pattern pieces.
  • Zipper Installation: Remember to replace the regular foot with a zipper foot when sewing along the sides of the zipper tape. If you’re unsure, you can hand-baste the zipper to the top opening to ensure it is centered within the seams. Once the zipper tape is attached, open the seam and topstitch the edges for a clean finish.
  • Grommet Installation: To install grommets, use an eyelet kit that includes a setter and anvil matching the size of your grommets. A mallet or hammer can help evenly distribute force when hammering. Work on a smooth, flat surface to ensure the grommet sets properly.

With these tips in mind, you’ll be well-prepared to tackle your Luna Circle Purse project with confidence!

HOW TO MAKE A LUNA CIRCLE PURSE WITH SEWING PATTERN

Prep Time: 30 minutes
Active Time: 1 hour
Total Time: 1 hour 30 minutes
Difficulty: Beginner
Estimated Cost: $10.00

If you’re new to making bags or purses, you’ll love this simple sewing pattern! The Luna circle purse features a charming shape with ample space for your phone, wallet, keys, and more. Just follow the detailed instructions, along with accompanying photos and a how-to video, to create a couple of Lunas for a stylish DIY outfit.

MATERIALS NEEDED

  • Luna Circle Purse Sewing Pattern
  • ½ yard of medium to heavy cotton duck canvas fabric
  • 2 pieces of Size 10 Gunmetal Grommets
  • 9” long Zipper

TOOLS

  • Sewing Machine
  • Straight Pins

INSTRUCTIONS

Prepare the Pattern Pieces:

  • Assemble your Luna purse pattern pieces.
  • Fold a piece of duck canvas fabric in half, pinning the paper pattern to the fabric. Ensure the two fabric layers remain taut by pinning around the edges.
  • Cut out the side purse pieces, pocket pieces, and zipper plackets.

Cut the Shoulder Strap:

  • Fold another piece of duck canvas in half and pin to secure. Cut the shoulder strap using the folded edge to double the length.
  • Cut out one bottom piece for the circle purse.

Finish Pocket Edges:

  • For the purse pocket pieces, use a zigzag stitch along the top edge to create a clean finish.

Attach Pocket to Side Pieces:

  • Align the purse pocket with the side purse pieces. Fold the top edge of the pocket over and pin to secure.
  • Sew around the edge of the side pieces to attach the pockets.

Prepare Zipper and Bottom Pieces:

  • Zigzag stitch along the sides of the zipper plackets and the bottom piece for a neat finish.
  • To attach the zipper, place one side of the zipper between two placket pieces and straight stitch along the edge.
  • Open the seam and topstitch along the seam line for a polished look. Repeat this for the other side of the zipper.

Add Grommets:

  • To attach the grommets to the bottom piece, measure 2” from each side of the bottom piece and mark.
  • Use scissors to make a small snip in the center of each marked area, position the grommets, and use a mallet to secure them in place.

Attach Zipper Placket to Bottom Piece:

  • Pin the zipper placket to the bottom piece and straight stitch along the edges.
  • Open the seam and topstitch for a clean finish.

Attach Side Pieces to Bottom Piece:

  • Fold the side and bottom pieces in half to mark the center placement. Line up the centers and pin to secure.
  • Zigzag stitch around the edges of the purse, ensuring the right sides are facing each other.

Finish the Purse:

  • Flip the circle purse inside out.
  • For the shoulder strap, fold each side in ⅛” and then fold the strap in half lengthwise.
  • Edge topstitch both sides of the shoulder strap for a polished finish.

Final Assembly:

  • Insert the ends of the shoulder strap through the grommets and tie a knot on both sides to secure.

Now you have your very own Luna circle purse, perfect for completing any DIY outfit! Enjoy your sewing project!