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For those who love to express their creativity through crafting, making a simple drawstring bag is a fantastic project to undertake. Not only is it beginner-friendly, but it also requires minimal materials and time. Whether you’re looking to create a gift for a friend, a convenient storage solution for yourself, or simply a canvas for your artistic expression, this step-by-step guide will lead you through the process effortlessly.
Firstly, gather your materials: a piece of fabric measuring approximately 20 inches by 16 inches, a drawstring cord (ribbons, laces, or any suitable material), a needle, and thread. The type of fabric you choose depends on your desired outcome; for a sturdy and durable bag, opt for canvas or denim, while for a softer and more delicate look, consider cotton or linen. Once you have everything ready, let’s embark on the exciting journey of creating your own personalized drawstring bag.
Next, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, aligning the edges precisely. Stitch the sides together using a straight stitch, leaving a small opening at the top for the drawstring. Turn the bag right side out. To create the casing for the drawstring, fold the top edge of the bag down by about 1 inch and press it. Fold it down again by another 1 inch and stitch it in place, creating a channel for the cord. Insert the drawstring through the channel, secure the ends with knots, and voila! You now have a fully functional and stylish drawstring bag that reflects your unique personality and creativity.
Cutting the Fabric Pieces
Step 1: Measure and Mark the Fabric
To begin, you’ll need to decide on the desired size of your bag. For a basic drawstring bag, the fabric should be roughly twice as wide as it is high. For example, if you want a bag that measures 12 inches tall, cut a rectangle of fabric measuring 24 inches wide by 12 inches high.
Step 2: Cut the Fabric
Once you’ve marked the fabric, use a pair of sharp fabric scissors to cut out the rectangle. Be sure to cut straight lines and avoid any jagged edges.
Step 3: Hem the Edges (Optional)
If desired, you can hem the edges of the fabric to prevent fraying. To do this, fold the edge of the fabric over by about 1/4 inch and press it with an iron. Then, fold the edge over again by another 1/4 inch and press it again. Topstitch the hem in place using a sewing machine.
Step 4: Fold in Half and Sew the Sides
Next, fold the fabric in half lengthwise, right sides together. Pin the sides together and sew them with a 1/2 inch seam allowance. Be sure to leave a 2-inch opening at the top for turning the bag right side out.
| Fabric Size | Bag Size |
|---|---|
| 24 inches wide x 12 inches high | 12 inches tall x 12 inches wide |
| 36 inches wide x 18 inches high | 18 inches tall x 18 inches wide |
| 48 inches wide x 24 inches high | 24 inches tall x 24 inches wide |
Creating the Drawstring Channel
To create the drawstring channel, follow these steps:
- Fold the top edge of the bag over by 1/2 inch (1.3 cm). Press the fold down.
- Fold the folded edge over again by 1/2 inch (1.3 cm). Press the fold down again.
- Sew a straight line along the folded edge, close to the inner fold. This will create the casing for the drawstring.
- Make four evenly spaced buttonholes along the casing. To do this, use a sharp object to punch small holes through the fabric, then carefully cut the holes open to 1/4 inch (6 mm) wide. These buttonholes will allow the drawstring to be threaded through.
The following table summarizes the steps for creating the drawstring channel:
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1 | Fold the top edge of the bag over by 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) and press the fold down. |
| 2 | Fold the folded edge over again by 1/2 inch (1.3 cm) and press the fold down again. |
| 3 | Sew a straight line along the folded edge, close to the inner fold. |
| 4 | Make four evenly spaced buttonholes along the casing by punching small holes through the fabric and carefully cutting the holes open to 1/4 inch (6 mm) wide. |
Inserting the Drawstring
Once the bag is sewn, it’s time to insert the drawstring. You will need two pieces of cord or ribbon, each twice the length of the bag’s opening plus an extra 12 inches for tying.
1. Thread a large-eyed needle with one end of the cord.
2. Insert the needle into the top of the bag, just inside the casing. Pull the cord through until the ends are even.
3. Repeat steps 1-2 with the other end of the cord on the opposite side of the bag opening.
4. Pull both ends of the cord gently to tighten the casing. Tie the ends together in a knot to close the bag.
5. To create a more secure closure, you can either:
| Option | Description |
|---|---|
| Double knot | Tie a regular knot, then pass the loose ends through the loop and pull tight. |
| Bow knot | Form a loop with each end of the cord, then cross the loops and pull tight. |
| Surgeon’s knot | Create a figure-eight with one end of the cord, then pass the other end through the loop and pull tight. |
Adding a Lining (Optional)
If you desire a more finished appearance for your drawstring bag, consider adding a lining. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you achieve this:
- Cut the Lining Fabric: Cut two pieces of lining fabric that are the same size as the outer fabric pieces.
- Pin the Lining to the Outer Fabric: Place the lining fabric pieces right sides together with the outer fabric pieces. Pin them around the edges, leaving a 1/2-inch seam allowance.
- Sew the Lining: Stitch around the edges of the bag, leaving a 3-inch opening for turning. Reinforce the corners for added durability.
- Turn the Bag Right Side Out: Reach through the opening and pull the bag right side out. Press the seams flat.
- Close the Opening: Fold the edges of the opening inward and stitch them closed either by hand or machine.
- Topstitch the Exterior: Topstitch around the top edge of the bag, approximately 1/4-inch from the edge. This will help secure the lining and create a polished look.
- Insert the Drawstring: Follow the steps in the “Inserting the Drawstring” section to complete your lined drawstring bag.
Creating a Pattern (For More Complex Bags)
For more intricate drawstring bags, using a pattern is essential for accuracy and consistency. Here’s a detailed guide to creating a pattern:
1. Determine the Bag’s Size and Shape
Determine the desired dimensions (length, width, height) and shape (rectangular, cylindrical, etc.) of your bag.
2. Draft a Basic Rectangle Pattern
Draw a rectangle on a piece of paper or tracing fabric, with the length equal to the circumference of the bag and the width equal to the desired height.
3. Add Seams and Hem Allowances
Add a 5-10 mm seam allowance to all sides of the rectangle. Hem allowances are not necessary for bags with a drawstring.
4. Create Gussets (for Cylindrical Bags)
If making a cylindrical bag, divide the rectangle lengthwise into equal sections. Draw curved lines connecting the bottom corners to create gussets.
5. Determine Drawstring Channel Width
Decide on the desired width of the drawstring channel. This will determine the size of the drawstring casings.
6. Fold and Cut the Drawstring Casings
Fold the top edge of the pattern by the desired channel width and cut along the fold to create 2 drawstring casings.
7. Mark the Drawstring Holes
Mark evenly spaced holes along the top edge of the casings for the drawstring.
8. Advanced Techniques for Complex Designs
For more intricate designs, additional pattern modifications may be required, such as:
| Technique | Description |
|---|---|
| Folds and Pleats | Create dimension by folding or pleating the fabric before sewing. |
| Apliqué | Embellish the bag by sewing on fabric appliqués or patches. |
| Embroidery | Add personal flair by embroidering designs or motifs onto the bag. |
| Pockets and Dividers | Increase functionality by incorporating pockets or dividers within the bag. |
How To Make Simple Drawstring Bag
Drawstring bags are a great way to store and carry your belongings. They’re easy to make, and you can customize them to your own style. Here’s a simple guide on how to make a drawstring bag:
- Cut out two pieces of fabric that are 18 inches wide by 12 inches high.
- Fold one of the pieces of fabric in half lengthwise, and sew the two raw edges together. This will create the casing for the drawstring.
- Turn the fabric right side out, and fold the top edge down by 1 inch. Press the fold with an iron or seam roller.
- Fold the top edge down again by 1 inch, and press the fold. Stitch the top edge down close to the folded edge.
- Repeat steps 2-4 with the other piece of fabric.
- To create the drawstring, cut two pieces of cord that are each 48 inches long. Thread one end of each cord through the casing on one of the pieces of fabric, and tie the ends together.
- Repeat step 6 with the other piece of fabric.
- Your drawstring bag is now complete!
People Also Ask
How can I make a drawstring bag without sewing?
You can make a drawstring bag without sewing by using a no-sew fabric glue or tape. Simply follow the steps outlined in the guide above, but instead of sewing the edges together, use the glue or tape to bond them.
What kind of fabric is best for a drawstring bag?
Any type of fabric can be used to make a drawstring bag, but some fabrics are more durable than others. Cotton, canvas, and nylon are all good choices for drawstring bags. Avoid using delicate fabrics like silk or chiffon, as they may tear easily.
How big should I make my drawstring bag?
The size of your drawstring bag will depend on what you plan to use it for. If you’re making a bag to store small items like jewelry or cosmetics, then a small bag measuring 6 inches by 8 inches will suffice. If you’re making a bag to carry larger items like books or groceries, then you’ll need a larger bag measuring 12 inches by 18 inches or larger.
