In the realm of DIY creations, the drawstring bag emerges as a versatile and practical accessory. It offers ample storage for your essentials, making it ideal for everyday use, school, or even as a thoughtful gift. Crafting a drawstring bag is surprisingly simple, requiring minimal materials and a touch of creativity. With a few basic sewing skills and some simple steps, you can embark on a fun and rewarding project that will yield a durable and stylish companion for your belongings.
To lay the foundation for your drawstring bag, you’ll need a rectangular piece of fabric. The size of the fabric will determine the dimensions of your bag. For a medium-sized bag, a piece measuring approximately 20 inches by 30 inches is suitable. Once you’ve selected your fabric, fold it in half lengthwise and stitch the two raw edges together, forming a long, narrow tube. This tube will serve as the body of your bag.
The next step involves creating the drawstring channel. Fold down the top edge of the bag about 1 inch and press it. Fold the edge down another 1 inch and press it again. Topstitch along the folded edge to create a sturdy channel for the drawstring. Cut two pieces of cord or ribbon, each measuring twice the width of the bag plus a few inches for tying. Thread the cords through the channel and secure them with knots at both ends. With a final pull on the cords, your drawstring bag is complete, ready to accommodate your precious trinkets and everyday essentials.
Selecting the Right Fabric
Choosing the ideal fabric for your drawstring bag is crucial, as it will directly impact the bag’s durability, appearance, and overall functionality. Consider the following factors when selecting your fabric:
1. Fabric Weight and Thickness
The weight of the fabric refers to its thickness and density. For a drawstring bag, a medium-weight fabric is generally recommended, as it provides both durability and flexibility. Lightweight fabrics may be more prone to tearing or snagging, while heavyweight fabrics can be bulky and less pliable. Consider the items you plan to store in your bag when selecting the fabric weight. Heavier items, such as books or electronics, will require a stronger fabric, while lighter items, such as clothing or toiletries, can be accommodated with a lighter fabric.
Alongside weight, the thickness of the fabric should also be taken into account. Thicker fabrics provide more opacity and structure, ensuring the contents of your bag remain concealed and minimizing wrinkles. Thinner fabrics are more translucent and flexible, allowing them to be folded or stuffed into tight spaces easily.
Here’s a table summarizing the key considerations for fabric weight and thickness:
| Fabric Weight | Fabric Thickness | Characteristics |
|---|---|---|
| Light | Thin | Translucent, flexible, folds easily |
| Medium | Medium | Durable, flexible, good opacity |
| Heavy | Thick | Strong, structured, minimizes wrinkles |
Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Now that you have your fabric and know the size of the bag you want to make, it’s time to measure and cut the fabric.
For a simple drawstring bag, you will need two pieces of fabric. One piece will be the main body of the bag, and the other piece will be the lining. The main body of the bag should be twice the width of the bag you want to make, plus 2 inches for seam allowances. The length of the main body of the bag should be the height of the bag you want to make, plus 4 inches for the drawstring casing and the hem.
The lining should be the same width as the main body of the bag, but it should be 2 inches shorter in length. This will allow the lining to be folded over the top of the bag and stitched down.
Once you have measured and cut your fabric, you are ready to sew the bag. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to sew a drawstring bag:
| Step 1: | Sew the side seams of the main body of the bag. |
|---|---|
| Step 2: | Fold the top edge of the main body of the bag over by 1 inch and press. |
| Step 3: | Fold the top edge of the main body of the bag over by 1 inch again and press. |
| Step 4: | Stitch the top edge of the main body of the bag. |
| Step 5: | Insert the drawstring casing into the top of the bag and stitch it in place. |
| Step 6: | Insert the drawstring into the drawstring casing. |
| Step 7: | Fold the top edge of the lining over by 1 inch and press. |
| Step 8: | Fold the top edge of the lining over by 1 inch again and press. |
| Step 9: | Stitch the top edge of the lining. |
| Step 10: | Insert the lining into the bag. |
| Step 11: | Fold the top edge of the bag over by 1 inch and press. |
| Step 12: | Fold the top edge of the bag over by 1 inch again and press. |
| Step 13: | Stitch the top edge of the bag. |
Creating the Drawstring Channel
The drawstring channel is a crucial component that allows you to cinch up the bag and secure its contents. Follow these detailed steps to create a sturdy and functional drawstring channel:
- Fold the top edge of the fabric: Fold down the top edge of the fabric by approximately 1 inch (2.5 cm). Press the fold to create a crease.
- Stitch the folded edge: Stitch along the folded edge using a straight stitch or a zig-zag stitch. This will secure the fold and create the lower edge of the drawstring channel.
- Fold and stitch the top edge: Fold down the top edge of the fabric by approximately 1.5 inches (3.8 cm). Press the fold to create a crease. Stitch along the folded edge, leaving a small opening in the center. This opening will allow you to insert the drawstring.
| Stitch Length | Stitch Type |
|---|---|
| 2-3 mm | Straight stitch or zig-zag stitch |
Note: The width of the drawstring channel should be slightly wider than the diameter of the drawstring you plan to use. This will allow for easy insertion and smooth movement of the drawstring.
Inserting the Drawstring
Once the bag is sewn together, it’s time to insert the drawstring. Here’s how to do it step-by-step:
1. Cut the Drawstring to Length:
Cut two pieces of cord or ribbon to the desired length for your drawstring. Ensure they are long enough to tie knots and have some slack for adjustability.
2. Thread One End Through the Channel:
Take one end of one drawstring and thread it through one of the casing channels you created earlier. Use a safety pin or a crochet hook to help guide the cord through the channel if needed.
3. Pull the Drawstring Through:
Gently pull the drawstring completely through the channel until it exits the other side of the bag.
4. Secure the Drawstring Ends:
This is the most important step to ensure the drawstring stays in place. Follow these sub-steps carefully:
| Sub-step | Description |
|---|---|
| A. Stop Cord at the Channel Entrance: | Pull the drawstring until one end reaches the edge of the channel on the opposite side. |
| B. Tie a Knot: | Tie a secure knot close to the end of the cord, near the channel opening. |
| C. Secure with a Backstitch: | Thread the drawstring back through the same channel for an inch or two. Sew a few stitches to secure the knot against the fabric. |
| D. Repeat with the Other End: | Repeat steps A-C with the other end of the drawstring on the opposite channel. |
Tying the Drawstring Ends
Once your drawstring is threaded through the casing, it’s time to tie the ends securely. Here’s a step-by-step guide to make sure your drawstring stays tied:
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Create a loop: Take one end of the drawstring and fold it in half, forming a loop.
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Pass the loop through the other end: Take the loop and pass the other end of the drawstring through it.
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Tighten the knot: Pull on both ends of the drawstring to tighten the knot. This will form a secure overhand knot.
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Repeat on the other side: Repeat the above steps on the other end of the drawstring.
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Double knot (optional): For extra security, you can tie a double knot by repeating the above steps once more on both ends.
Another option for tying the drawstring ends is to use a cord lock. This is a small plastic device that allows you to adjust the tightness of the drawstring without having to tie a knot. To use a cord lock, simply insert the ends of the drawstring through the holes in the cord lock and pull to tighten.
| Tying Method | Knot Type | Security Level |
|---|---|---|
| Overhand Knot | Knot | Moderate |
| Double Knot | Knot | High |
| Cord Lock | Cord Lock Mechanism | Adjustable, Moderate to High |
Adding a Lining (Optional)
A lining provides an inner layer to your bag, covering the seams and offering a more polished look. It also adds extra durability and longevity. To add a lining:
1. Cut and Prepare the Lining: Cut two pieces of lining fabric to the same size as your bag fabric. Finish the edges of the lining fabric by serging, overlocking, zigzag stitching, or using bias tape.
2. Pin the Lining to the Bag: Place the lining fabric right side down inside the bag fabric. Align the edges and pin them together.
3. Sew the Lining: Stitch around the top edge of the bag, leaving a small gap for inserting the drawstring. Fold the lining over the raw edge of the bag opening and topstitch it down.
4. Insert the Drawstring: Thread the drawstring through the gap in the lining stitching. Secure the ends of the drawstring with knots or beads.
5. Press and Trim: Press the lining to remove any wrinkles. Trim any excess lining fabric around the edges.
6. Optional: Adding Interior Pockets (Advanced):
To add interior pockets to your lined bag:
–
| Steps | Details |
|---|---|
| Cut the pocket pieces | Determine the size and shape of the pockets. Cut two pieces of fabric for each pocket. |
| Sew the pocket sides | Place the pocket pieces right sides together and sew around the sides, leaving the top open. |
| Attach the pockets | Turn the pocket right side out. Place it inside the bag lining and pin it in place. Topstitch around the edges of the pocket to secure it. |
Reinforcing the Top Edge
Step 7: Iron or Glue the Interfacing
If you’re not using fusible interfacing, apply a thin layer of fabric glue to the wrong side of the interfacing and align it with the top edge of the bag. Smooth it out with your fingers or a ruler to ensure there are no wrinkles or air bubbles.
Step 7a: Stitch the Interfacing to the Fabric
For both fusible and non-fusible interfacing, you’ll need to stitch it in place to prevent it from moving or unraveling. Fold the top edge of the bag down by about 1/2 inch and press it. Unfold the edge, aligning it with the top of the interfacing.
Using a topstitch or regular stitch on your sewing machine, sew a straight line along the top edge of the interfacing, about 1/8 inch from the folded edge. This will secure the interfacing in place and reinforce the top edge of the bag.
Note: If you’re concerned about the stitching being visible from the right side of the bag, you can topstitch from the wrong side, aligning the needle with the previous straight stitch.
Step 7b: Reinforcing with Bias Tape
For an additional layer of reinforcement and a decorative touch, you can use bias tape to bind the top edge of the bag. Fold the bias tape in half and align the folded edge with the raw edge of the bag. Sew along the top edge, stitching close to the edge of the tape.
Fold the bias tape to the inside of the bag and press it. Topstitch along the folded edge of the bias tape to secure it in place.
| Material | Quantity |
| ———– | ———– |
| Fabric | 1/2 yard |
| Interfacing | 1/8 yard |
| Bias tape (optional) | 1 yard |
| Drawstring cord | 1/2 yard |
Hemming the Bottom Edge
After your bag is assembled, it’s time to hem the bottom edge for a clean and finished look. Here’s a step-by-step guide:
Materials You’ll Need
- Sewing machine
- Thread
- Iron and ironing board
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Fabric marking pen or chalk
- Scissors
Instructions
- Measure and mark the hem: Fold the bottom edge of the bag up by 1/2 inch (12 mm) and press it with an iron. Fold it up again by 1/2 inch (12 mm) and press again. This will create a double-folded hem.
- Pin the hem: Pin the hem in place, starting from one side of the bag and working your way around. Make sure the pins are parallel to the edge of the fabric and evenly spaced.
- Sew the hem: Use your sewing machine to sew the hem in place. For a secure stitch, use a straight stitch with a stitch length of 2.5 or 3 mm.
- Remove the pins: Once the hem is sewn, remove the pins.
- Press the hem: Press the hem flat with an iron to give it a professional finish.
Tips
- To make your hem even, use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the distance from the edge of the fabric to the fold.
- If your fabric is fraying, consider using a serger or zigzag stitch to prevent the edges from fraying.
- For a more decorative touch, you can use a contrasting thread color to sew the hem.
Finishing Touches
Once the bag is sewn together, it’s time to add the finishing touches that will make it unique and stylish. Here are a few ideas for finishing touches:
9. Embellishments
Embellishments can add a personal touch to your drawstring bag. Consider adding:
| Embellishment | Description |
|---|---|
| Beads | Thread beads onto the drawstring cords for a colorful and sparkly touch. |
| Buttons | Sew buttons onto the bag for a decorative and functional touch. |
| Pom Poms | Attach pom poms to the drawstring ends for a playful and whimsical look. |
| Appliqué | Sew or glue fabric shapes onto the bag to create a unique design. |
| Embroidery | Embroider a name, initials, or a design onto the bag for a personal and elegant touch. |
Variations in Bag Design
Experiment with different bag shapes, such as square or round, and sizes to accommodate various items. Consider adding a lining or interior pockets for organization. You can also incorporate embellishments like embroidery or appliqués to personalize the bag.
Customizing the Drawstring
Choose cords or ribbons that complement the bag’s fabric and style. Consider using different materials, such as leather, velvet, or twine, for a unique look. Adjust the length of the drawstring to ensure comfortable carrying and adjustability.
Creative Fabric Choices
Select fabrics that suit your desired style and purpose. Lightweight cottons or linens are ideal for casual bags, while more durable materials like canvas or denim provide extra strength. Consider using patterned or printed fabrics to add visual interest.
Embellishments and Decor
Enhance the bag’s appearance with various embellishments. Add tassels or charms to the drawstring ends, attach patches or appliqué designs, or stitch decorative seams and topstitching. These details can personalize and elevate the bag’s aesthetic.
Clever Closures
Explore different closure options beyond traditional drawstrings. Consider using snap buttons, magnetic clasps, or toggles for a more secure and convenient closure. Experiment with placement and style to create a unique and functional design.
Multiple Carry Options
Make the bag versatile by incorporating multiple carry options. Add handles or shoulder straps to enable both handheld and over-the-shoulder carrying. Adjust the strap length and style to suit different preferences and activities.
Incorporating Pockets and Compartments
Maximize organization by adding pockets or compartments to the bag’s interior or exterior. Consider zippered compartments for valuables or items that require secure storage. Design them in various sizes and shapes to accommodate different items.
Reversible Designs
Create a bag with two distinct looks by using reversible fabric. Sew the two fabrics together, right sides facing each other, then turn the bag inside out through a small opening. This technique allows for quick and easy style changes.
Quilting and Padded Bags
Add warmth and durability to the bag by incorporating quilting or padding techniques. Layer batting or fabric scraps between the exterior and lining fabrics, then stitch in a grid-like pattern. This creates a cozy and protective barrier for delicate items.
Multi-Fabric Combinations
Create a unique and colorful bag by combining different fabrics with contrasting patterns or textures. Experiment with patchwork, strip piecing, or appliqué techniques to add visual interest and dimension to the bag’s design.
How To Make A Drawstring Bag Easy
Drawstring bags are a great way to store and transport items, and they’re surprisingly easy to make. With just a few simple materials and a little bit of time, you can create a custom drawstring bag that is perfect for your needs.
To make a drawstring bag, you will need the following materials:
- 1/2 yard of fabric
- 1/4 yard of cording or ribbon
- Scissors
- Measuring tape or ruler
- Iron and ironing board
- Sewing machine
Once you have gathered your materials, follow these steps to make your drawstring bag:
1. Cut two pieces of fabric that are 18 inches wide by 15 inches tall.
2. Fold one long edge of each piece of fabric over by 1/2 inch and press.
3. Fold the fabric over again by 1/2 inch and press.
4. Stitch the folded edge down.
5. Place the two pieces of fabric right sides together and sew around the edges, leaving a 2-inch opening at the top for the drawstring.
6. Turn the bag right side out and press.
7. Insert the cording or ribbon through the opening at the top of the bag and tie the ends together.
