Joy to Create - Handy Drawstring Bag

You can make this type of bag any size you wish and the storage possibilities are endless from swimming or shoe bags to tiny gift bags for jewellery.

To make a bag that is 8.5”x6.5” (22cmx16cm ) as shown. you will need:

  • 2 x rectangles of fabric each measuring 10”x 7.5” (21.5cmx17cm)
  • Ribbon or cord 2 pieces 16” (40cm) long
  • 2 buttons (optional)
  • Thread, sewing machine, scissors

How to make it:
Cut out your fabric to size

  1. With the wrong side of the fabric facing you, measure 1.5” from the top of the long side of the rectangle and put a mark. Then make another mark 0.5” along. This will be the gap for the cord to be inserted later on. Repeat on the other side;
  2. Using a straight stitch, stitch the sides and the bottom on the bag taking a half inch seam Remember to leave the measured gap on both sides open. Press seams open;
  3. Turn over the top edge (from the right side to the wrong side of the fabric) of the bag by half an inch and stitch around the edge with a straight stitch;
  4. Turn the top edge over again taking a 1” hem and lining up with the gap you left. Stitch close to the bottom of the hem to allow room for the cord;
  5. Trim corners and seams and use a zig zag stitch along the edge to prevent fraying. Turn to right side and press.
  6. Cut ribbon and using a bodkin or safety pin thread one piece of ribbon through one side of the bag and take it all the way round the bag and out through the hole you started, by passing the hole on the other side. Repeat this process with the other piece of ribbon from the other side;
  7. Fasten the ends of the ribbon together with a button or tie together

Visit www.joytocreate.com for more small projects you can make.

Posted on