A drawstring tote bag is very easy to make and can be done by a beginner. It is very stylish and the small size makes it perfect for students to make sure that they are carrying a small pack and a light load.
The best part is that since you can easily sew a drawstring bag, you can customize it any way you want so your personality would show, or the person you are making it for can choose from a variety of fabric designs and styles.
Also, if you need a bigger drawstring tote bag, all you have to do is to get bigger sized fabric and you will be all set. But first, try making a standard sized tote bag to get down the basics. Later on when you are more confident with your sewing skills you can even add some pockets and embellishments like buttons.
To sew a drawstring tote bag, follow the simple steps:
- Prepare a work area where you will have enough space. Prepare the materials you will need. If you have one, use a sewing machine. If you plan to do many sewing projects, it would be a good idea to invest in a good sewing machine. If you are a hobbyist, you can opt for a small sewing machine set up that does not cost as much. If you are the type who would like to sew by hand, you can choose to do so with this project too.
- Get ½ yard fabric with a design that you like. You can opt for a solid color, patterned, or unique design. There are also different textures of fabric, so choose something that you like. You can choose canvas, suede, denim, or something with a satin-like finish.
- Also prepare 1 ½ yard of ¼ inch drawstring cording. Choose something that complements the fabric material you chose. Also get matching thread, or if you want it to stand out, bright colored thread would be a good choice too.
- Gather your fabric and cut it into two, each part should measure 16 x 20 inches. This would comprise the sides of the tote bag.
- Next, fold ¼ inch on all sides – this will be the hem lining. Stitch the hem lining on both pieces of fabric.
- Put together the two pieces of fabric with the right side facing in. Later you will turn it inside out so that none of the stitching will show through. Of the hemmed lining, choose one side of each to be the opening of the bag. This is where you will put the cord later to be the string so you have to leave this part open as you sew the sides of the bag. Measure three inches from the opening and mark it.
- Start sewing the fabric together by sewing ¼ inch seams, or if you want sew just beyond the hems. After stitching the bag’s sides, fold down the 3 inches you marked earlier at the bag’s opening. Sew it at the side, leaving the inside of the fold free, as this would make a casing for the cord. After you finish the sewing, turn the bag inside out.
- Get the drawstring cording and cut it into pieces, ideally 27 inches long each. If you have a preferred length to personalize the bag for a small kid, you can measure the drawstring cord to meet your needs, as you would use it for the bag.
- Get a pin and tuck one end of the cord to the pin. Insert the pin with the cord securely pinned on it inside the cord casing you created at the bag’s opening. Work your way with the pin until you reach the other end of the cord casing. Pull out the pin with cord. You have successfully put in the cord in the bag.
- Do the same thing with the other cord casing.
- After you have installed the cords on both sides, you will have two cords with loose ends. Tie the loose ends with the cord parallel to it with an overhand knot.
Now you have completed your drawstring tote bag. Hold the cords and pull to close the bag.
