How to sew a drawstring bag
Sewing your own drawstring bag is not only a great way to express your creativity, but it also allows you to customize the size, fabric, and design according to your preferences. Whether you are a beginner or an experienced seamstress, making a drawstring bag is a relatively simple and enjoyable project that can be completed in just a few hours.
To get started, you will need a few basic supplies such as fabric, a sewing machine (or a needle and thread if you prefer hand sewing), a pair of scissors, a ruler or measuring tape, a safety pin, and a drawstring cord or ribbon.
First, measure and cut two pieces of fabric to your desired size for the bag. Make sure you add a seam allowance of about ½ inch on all sides. Once you have cut the fabric, lay the pieces right sides together.
Next, using a sewing machine or needle and thread, sew along the sides and bottom of the fabric, leaving the top open. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end of your seams to secure them. Trim any excess fabric and press open the seams with an iron.
Now, fold the top edge of the fabric down about ½ inch and press with an iron. Then fold it down another inch and press again. This will create a clean edge for the drawstring casing.
Using your sewing machine or needle and thread, sew along the bottom folded edge, leaving a small opening to insert the drawstring cord or ribbon. Attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring and thread it through the casing, all the way around the bag, and back out through the opening. Tie the ends of the drawstring together in a knot, and your drawstring bag is complete!
Now that you know how to sew a drawstring bag, you can make as many as you like in different sizes and fabric patterns. These versatile bags are perfect for storing small items, organizing your belongings when traveling, or even as gift bags for friends and family.
Choosing the right fabric for your drawstring bag
When it comes to sewing a drawstring bag, choosing the right fabric is essential for both the functionality and appearance of the finished product. Here are some factors to consider when selecting the fabric for your drawstring bag:
Durability: The fabric you choose should be able to withstand regular use and the weight of the items you plan to carry in the bag. Look for fabrics that are sturdy and made to last, such as canvas or denim.
Weight: Depending on the purpose of your drawstring bag, you may want to consider the weight of the fabric. If you plan to use the bag for carrying lightweight items, you can choose a lighter fabric like cotton. However, if you need to carry heavier items, opt for a heavier fabric like twill or upholstery fabric.
Color and Print: The fabric you choose for your drawstring bag can also be a way to express your personal style. Consider the color and print options that suit your taste and the purpose of the bag. Bright colors or bold patterns can make your bag stand out and add a touch of fun to your sewing project.
Care Instructions: Before you make a final decision about the fabric, check the care instructions to ensure that it is easy to maintain and clean. Some fabrics need special care, such as dry cleaning or delicate hand washing, which may not be convenient for a practical bag that will be used frequently.
By considering factors such as durability, weight, color and print, and care instructions, you can choose the perfect fabric for your drawstring bag that meets both your aesthetic preferences and practical needs.
Measuring and cutting the fabric for your drawstring bag
Before you start sewing your drawstring bag, you’ll need to measure and cut the fabric to the appropriate size. This will ensure that your bag is the perfect fit, whether you plan to use it for carrying books, as a gift bag, or for any other purpose.
Here’s what you need to do:
- Start by considering the size of the bag you want. Measure the width and length you desire, and then add an additional 1 inch (2.5 cm) to both measurements to account for seam allowance.
- Using a ruler and fabric chalk, mark the measurements directly onto your fabric. Make sure that the marks are clear and accurately placed.
- Gently fold the fabric in half, matching the short edges, with the right sides together. Line up the edges and corners carefully.
- Now, it’s time to cut the fabric. Using sharp fabric scissors, cut along the marked lines, ensuring that you follow a straight line to achieve even edges.
- After cutting, unfold the fabric to reveal two identical rectangular pieces that will form the front and back of your drawstring bag.
Remember to double-check your measurements and cuts to avoid any mistakes that could impact the final result. Once you have completed these steps, you’ll be ready to move on to sewing the drawstring bag together.
Sewing the drawstring bag together
Once you have cut out your fabric pieces and prepared your drawstring, it’s time to sew the drawstring bag together. There are a few steps involved in this process:
Step 1: Place the two fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other. Pin the edges together to keep them in place.
Step 2: Starting at one of the bottom corners, sew along the sides and the bottom of the fabric pieces using a straight stitch. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches.
Step 3: Once all the sides and the bottom are sewn, trim the excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk.
Step 4: Turn the bag right side out by pulling it through the opening at the top.
Step 5: Press the bag with an iron to smooth out any wrinkles and to give it a finished look.
Step 6: To create the casing for the drawstring, fold down the fabric at the top of the bag around 1-2 inches (depending on the size of your drawstring) and press it with an iron. Then, fold it down again and stitch along the bottom edge, leaving a small opening to slide the drawstring through.
Step 7: Attach a safety pin to one end of the drawstring and thread it through the opening in the casing. Once it’s all the way through, knot the ends of the drawstring together to secure it.
And there you have it! Your drawstring bag is now sewn and ready to be used. Use it to store small items, as a gift bag, or for any other purpose you desire.
Adding the drawstring to your bag
Once you have completed sewing the bag, the next step is to add the drawstring. This is what allows you to open and close the bag by pulling on the strings.
Here’s how you can add the drawstring:
| Step 1: | Measure the width of the bag’s opening. This will be the length of your drawstring. |
| Step 2: | Cut two pieces of cord or ribbon to the length measured in Step 1. |
| Step 3: | Thread one end of one drawstring through a safety pin. Insert the safety pin through the casing at the top of one side of the bag opening. |
| Step 4: | Push the safety pin through the casing until it comes out on the other side of the bag opening. This will pull the drawstring through the casing. |
| Step 5: | Repeat Steps 3 and 4 with the other drawstring, starting at the opposite side of the bag opening. |
| Step 6: | Tie the ends of each drawstring together in a tight knot to secure them. |
| Step 7: | Trim any excess length from the drawstrings if desired. |
| Step 8: | Your drawstring bag is now complete and ready to use! |
Adding the drawstring to your bag is a simple and essential step in finishing off your project. Once done, you can fill your bag with essentials and pull the drawstrings to keep everything secure.
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