Learning how to sew a drawstring bag was such a fun project for me as a beginner. Not only is it a very quick and easy project but the finished product serves multiple purposes! It can be used as a gym bag, mini diaper bag and even a bread bag. And as a lover of bread and owner of a bread machine, I was inspired to do this project with the intention of making a bread bag!
Storing homemade bread in a 100% Linen bag can not only help it to last longer, but it helps to reduce your waste by not using a plastic bag or plastic wrap for your homemade goodies. So, if you are interested in projects that promote sustainable living and reduce waste…this one is for you! This is also a great project for those new to sewing and looking for beginner-level sewing tutorials.
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Materials and tools needed to make a drawstring bag:
2 pieces of fabric (preferably linen or organic muslin cotton if making for bread bag) 12 X 17 inches
35 inches of a natural fiber cord
Thread of a coordinating color
How to Sew a Drawstring Bag: Step-by-step Instructions
Directions:
- Pin together one side from each piece of fabric (the long sides) and sew a straight top-stitch the length of the fabric. Remember to back-stitch at the beginning and end.
- Place the cord one inch from the top of the fabric. Fold fabric inward 1 inch and over the cord and pin. Sew a top-stitch enclosing the cord in the fabric. Remember to back-stitch at the beginning and end.
- Bring the two remaining, unstitched long sides together so that the bag looks inside-out. Sew a top-stitch (and remember to back-stitch at the beginning!) on the remaining unstitched long side, starting just below the opening for the cord.
- When you reach the bottom of the seam on the previous step, lower your needle into fabric, raise the presser-foot and rotate the fabric so that you can begin sewing the remaining unstitched seam at the bottom of the bag. Lower your presser-foot and sew a top-stitch remembering to back-stitch at the end.
- Turn your bag inside-out and your project is complete!
This is a really great project for those who are beginner level sewists and looking to be self-taught because it’s rectangular and fairly straight forward. And the measurements do not need to be exact for it to turn out well. Make sure you follow me on Instagram and sign up for my newsletter for exclusive upcoming content all about sewing projects for beginners.
Best Sewing Projects for Beginners:
Envelope Pillow Cases
Burp Cloths/Unpaper Towels
Curtains
Bibs
Sewing has become a passion of mine and it’s actually so much easier than I initially realized. You can be self-taught through blogs, youtube, library books, etc. and you can go from knowing absolutely nothing about sewing to completing simple projects-like the ones listed above-in a short period of time. I love sewing because it’s a creative outlet and I also find it soothing to my mind. Plus, it’s always fun to give handmade gifts to people you love, so that they know you put time and effort into their gift. Be sure to follow me on social media so you won’t miss more simple sewing projects like this one!
Keep Creating-
Natalie from Deerwood + Jones
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Brother Intl LX3817 Lightweight and Full-Size Sewing Machine
Coats & Clark All Purpose Thread 400 Yards White
SINGER Fabric Scissors with Comfort Grip, 1-pack, Red & White