How to Sew a Drawstring Bag

A drawstring bag is an easy sewing project for anyone with limited sewing experience who wants to make something beautiful and useful. These types of bags can be used as simple storage or as gift bags just by modifying the dimensions. All you need are a few materials and 30 to 60 minutes.

Step 1 - Cut the Fabric

First decide what size drawstring bag you'd like to make. On a flat surface like a kitchen table, cut the fabric twice the finished length of your desired bag size plus 1.5 inches. Cut the width to the final desired width plus 1/2 inch. A 12-inch by 6-inch bag will require a fabric length of 25.5 inches and a fabric width of 6.5 inches. 

Step 2 - Sew the Edges

It's important to sew the raw edges so that the fabric doesn't unravel after the bag gets used a few times. Use your sewing machine on the overlock stitch setting. If you have a more basic machine that doesn't have this setting, a zig-zag stitch works well too.

Step 3- Create the Shape

To create the shape of the drawstring bag, fold the fabric in half. Align the raw edges at the top and make sure the wrong sides are facing out. Use sewing pins to keep the fabric in place. The folded edge will be the bottom of your bag.

Sew all the way up one side with a 1/4-inch seam making sure to back stitch at the beginning and end of the stitching. This reinforces the stitching. With your measuring tape, measure an mark the 3/4-inch spot with a pin on the other side. Sew a 1/4-inch seam on this side as well, but stop at the pin mark. Back stitch with this seam as well.

Fold the top edge 1/4 inch and press. Then fold the edge down again 1/2 inch and pin. Your new folded edge should align with the 3/4-inch mark made earlier. Place the sewing machine needle at this mark and stitch around the folded edge you just made to create the pocket for your drawstring.

Remove the drawstring bag from the machine, turn it right side out and press it. You've now created your bag!

Step 4 - Add the Drawstring

Attach a large safety pin to the edge of the cord or ribbon you've selected as the drawstring. Slide it through the pocket and keep pulling the pin through until the entire cord has been threaded through the pocket. Leave at least 2 inches of cord or ribbon on each end. Remove the pin and tie each end with a knot that's bigger than the opening of the pocket. This prevents the drawstring from completely sliding through the pocket.

Step 5- Add Decorations

You can leave the drawstring bag as is. But decorating it allows you to add your personal creative touch and make it look a little fancier. Try sewing sequins or beads to the material. Cut out unique shapes in iron-on fabrics and iron them to the bag. You can even use glittery fabric glue to write a message across the bag.