Keychain in the hoop

In-the-Hoop Key Fobs Tutorial

A collection of colorful, finished in-the-hoop key fobs with various designs.

What Can You Do With a Key Fob?

Key fobs are versatile little projects! Use them as dangly things to hang on purses, zippers, or luggage. You can also use them as ornaments, banners, cord wraps, or for labeling things. The point is, a key fob can have many uses. Some can just be pretty and remind us to smile.

Recommended Materials

It is recommended to use a non-fraying material like vinyl, leather, or faux leather. Please do not use heat-press or adhesive-backed vinyl. Marine vinyl or upholstery vinyl, which typically have a plastic layer over a knit backing, will work well. You can also practice on felt with a water-soluble film topping.

For your project, you will need two pieces of your chosen non-fraying fabric.

The designs are made for a 4x4 hoop, but I used a larger hoop since I made four key fobs at once.

Embroidering Instructions

Step 1: Stitch the Design

Hoop a tear-away stabilizer only.
Place a layer of your non-fraying fabric, right side up, over the stabilizer. You may use tape to hold the fabric in place. I am using white faux leather.
Stitch the design and stop the machine before the last seam, which will be the key fob outline. Please do not unhoop your project yet!
Step 2: Add the Backing

Remove the hoop from the machine and turn it over to see the back side of the project.
Place your second piece of non-fraying fabric, right side up, over the stitches on the back of the hoop. Please be sure the key fob shape is fully covered. You may use tape or pins to hold the fabric in place.
Step 3: Final Stitch and Finishing

Now, flip the hoop upright and return it to your machine. Stitch the final outline.
When finished, unhoop your project.
Cut out the key fob shape, leaving about a 1/8-inch border. Please do not cut too close to the seam. Use sharp scissors and long strokes for a clean edge.
Here are my four completed key fobs:
Step 4: Add Hardware

Now, apply your snaps and a swivel clasp or key split ring. Adding snaps is easy; just follow the instructions that come with your snap pliers and snaps. (I got a kit on Amazon that included snap pliers, snaps, an awl, and swivel clasps).
Congratulations! You are done!