Making a drawstring bag is a simple and practical sewing project, perfect for beginners or anyone looking to create a handy storage solution. The beauty of this project lies in its versatility; you can use it for everything from gym clothes and shoes to storing craft supplies or even as a gift bag. Below is a step-by-step guide on how to sew a basic drawstring bag.
Materials You’ll Need:
Fabric:Choose a fabric of your choice—cotton is a great option for beginners because it’s easy to work with.
Thread: Pick a thread that matches or contrasts with your fabric.
Scissors: To cut the fabric.
Pins: To hold the fabric pieces in place as you sew.
Safety pin or bodkin: To help thread the drawstring through the bag’s casing.
Ribbon, cord, or fabric strips: These will be used as the drawstrings.
Step 1: Cutting the Fabric
Start by cutting your fabric. For a standard drawstring bag, cut two pieces of fabric. The size can vary depending on how large or small you want your bag to be. For a simple, medium-sized bag, aim for a 12-inch by 16-inch piece of fabric for each side of the bag.
Once you have your two pieces cut, you’ll also need to cut two strips of fabric for the drawstring, each about 2 inches wide and 36 inches long (this length can vary depending on the size of your bag and how long you want the drawstring to be).
Step 2: Sewing the Sides of the Bag
With the two fabric pieces right sides together best mini sewing machine (the sides you want to show when the bag is finished), pin the sides together. Use a ¼-inch seam allowance to sew around the sides and the bottom of the fabric. Make sure to leave the top open, as this will be the area where you thread the drawstring later.
For a cleaner finish, consider using a zigzag stitch along the raw edges of the fabric to prevent fraying.
Step 3: Creating the Drawstring Casing
Turn the bag inside out so that the right side of the fabric is facing out. At the top edge of the bag, fold the fabric down about 1 inch and press it with an iron to create a neat edge. Then, fold it down again about 1 inch to create a casing for the drawstring.
Pin the fold in place and sew around the top of the bag, leaving about a 1-inch opening at the side seam. This opening is where you’ll later thread the drawstring through.
Step 4: Making the Drawstring
Now, take the two strips you cut for the drawstring. Fold each strip in half, lengthwise, with the right sides facing inward. Sew along the edge using a ¼-inch seam allowance. Once sewn, turn the strips inside out using a safety pin or a bodkin, so the seams are hidden inside. Press the drawstring flat to make it look crisp.
Step 5: Inserting the Drawstring
To insert the drawstring, attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring. Use the safety pin to thread the drawstring through the casing you created at the top of the bag. Once both ends of the drawstring have made it all the way through, tie knots at each end to prevent the drawstring from coming loose.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
To finish the bag, you can sew the sides of the casing shut where you left the opening for the drawstring. You can also add decorative elements like fabric appliqué, embroidery, or a cute button to personalize your bag.
And just like that, you have a cute and functional drawstring bag!
Conclusion
Sewing a drawstring bag is a great beginner project that allows you to practice basic sewing techniques while making a practical item. Once you get the hang of it, you can experiment with different fabrics, sizes, and designs to create bags for all sorts of uses. Whether you use it for storage, gifting, or organizing, your new drawstring bag is sure to come in handy!