Making a simple DIY Drawstring Bag | Sewing Tutorial

Summary

In this tutorial, Lou demonstrates how to create a simple yet practical drawstring bag. The project, perfect for keeping bamboo makeup wipes secure in the wash, also makes a great gift idea when made from decorative fabrics. Lou guides viewers step-by-step, from cutting and sewing the fabric to adding the drawstring. The tutorial also includes tips on making the bag the right size, using a sewing machine, and choosing materials like cotton or organza for a more polished look. Whether for personal use or gifting, this easy-to-follow DIY project is a great way to create something functional and stylish.

Takeaways

• 😀 A simple drawstring bag tutorial is provided, ideal for organizing small items like makeup wipes or using as a gift bag.
• 😀 The bag is made from durable, minimalist cotton calico, but any fabric can be used, including organza for a decorative option.
• 😀 The project is straightforward, requiring basic materials: fabric, sewing machine, ribbon, safety pins, and pins for securing fabric.
• 😀 Pinking shears are suggested for cutting fabric to prevent fraying, but regular scissors work fine as well.
• 😀 The bag's size is customizable; the tutorial uses dimensions of 23 cm by 25 cm for the main body, with additional fabric for the top channel.
• 😀 The fabric is folded in half to form the bottom of the bag, and the sides are sewn with a 1.5 cm seam allowance.
• 😀 A 5 cm gap is left at the top of the bag for creating the drawstring channel, ensuring the bag remains open for threading ribbons.
• 😀 After sewing the sides, the seams are pressed open, and the top is folded to create the channel for the drawstrings.
• 😀 Two ribbons or cords are threaded through the bag using a safety pin to guide them through the channel, allowing for easy closure.
• 😀 The ends of the ribbons are tied in knots to prevent them from slipping back into the bag after threading.
• 😀 This DIY bag is versatile, perfect for small laundry items, and can be made into gift bags for special occasions like birthdays or Christmas.

Q & A

What is the primary purpose of making a drawstring bag in this tutorial?

The primary purpose is to create a simple bag to store bamboo makeup wipes while washing them in the machine, preventing them from getting lost in the door seal and protecting them from damage.

What type of fabric does Lou use for the drawstring bag and why?

Lou uses plain cotton calico because it is durable and hard-wearing, perfect for a utilitarian bag. However, she mentions that you could use nicer fabrics like organza for decorative purposes.

How does Lou ensure that the fabric won't fray?

Lou uses pinking shears to cut the fabric, which helps prevent fraying. If pinking shears are unavailable, she suggests using regular scissors, although this may result in some stray threads.

What measurements does Lou use for the fabric and why?

Lou cuts the fabric to 23 cm wide (including a 1.5 cm seam allowance on each side) and 25 cm long, with an additional 4 cm at the top for the drawstring channel. These measurements ensure the bag is the right size for the intended purpose.

Why does Lou press the fabric before sewing?

Lou presses the fabric to remove any creases and ensure the fabric is smooth before sewing, which helps achieve a cleaner and more professional finish.

What is the purpose of the marks Lou makes on the fabric with tailor's chalk?

The marks indicate where Lou should stop and start sewing to create the drawstring channel, ensuring a gap for the drawstrings to be inserted later.

What technique does Lou use to sew the sides of the bag?

Lou sews the sides with a 1.5 cm seam allowance, stopping at the chalk marks. She reinforces the seams at the start and end to ensure they are secure.

How does Lou create the drawstring channel at the top of the bag?

Lou folds the top of the bag down twice: first by 1 cm and then by 3 cm, pinning and sewing along the fold to create a channel where the drawstrings will be threaded.

What is the purpose of using a safety pin when inserting the drawstrings?

The safety pin helps guide the drawstring through the channel easily by attaching to the end of the cord, making it simpler to push the cord through the fabric.

What is the final step after threading both drawstrings through the bag?

After threading both drawstrings through the bag, Lou ties knots at the ends of the cords to prevent them from slipping back into the bag and ensures the bag can be securely closed.