Sewing Drawstring Bags by Ashley Nickels

Beginner | 38 min

Taught by Ashley Nickels

Drawstring bags are a charming way to present a gift, and they couldn't be easier to make. Ashley Nickels adds a twist to this beginner sewing project by showing you how to finish the inside with French seams, and instead of twine or rope, she shows how to use selvedge trim to create your own drawstring. This customizable bag can be sewn in any size desired.

Learn how to:

Trim selvedge for drawstrings
Construct a bag with French seams
Make drawstrings out of fabric
Insert drawstrings using a loop turner
Finish drawstring ends with a handmade "end pull"

What you'll get:

Step-by-step expert instruction on sewing a drawstring bag in any size
5 HD video lessons you can access online anytime, anywhere
Detailed supplies list
The ability to leave comments, ask questions, and interact with other students

Chapters

Sewing a Drawstring Bag
Overview00:45
Materials00:53

Make Bag
Cut out fabric and sew drawstring channel07:57
French seams12:08
Make drawstrings and finish16:40

Materials

Here’s what you’ll need:

1 or 2 fat quarters or 2 matching rectangles of fabric (1 fat quarter makes a 10" x 12" bag; 2 fat quarters makes a 14 ½” x 17 ½” bag)
Cutting mat
Rotary cutter
Ruler
Ribbon or 1 ½” selvedge strip that is cut lengthwise to double the width of your bag, plus 4 inches (if using for drawstring)
Loop turner (to string drawstring through bag)
Iron and ironing surface
Sewing machine with presser foot
Coordinating thread
Scissors
Snips
Pins