How to Sew a Bag

This craft project lets you create a drawstring bag. Use denim, tapestry, sailcloth or fleece in patterns or solids. Embellish the finished bag with buttons, ribbons or fancy trims. Decide the dimensions, so the same instructions work whether you want to create a small cell phone bag or a beach tote.

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Instructions

Things You'll Need:

• Fabric
• Straight edge
• Seamstress pencil
• Scissors
• Thread
• Sewing machine
• Straight pins
• Cording or ribbon

1. Choose a durable mid-weight fabric with a tight weave. Pick a bright solid or pattern to create a fun, casual bag, or a more subdued tone for a bag more neutral.

2. Decide on the size of the finished bag. Write down the length and width of the bag. Add a 1/2 inch all around by increasing both the length and width by 1 inch. Purchase enough fabric to cut out the length and width on a double thickness.

3. Use a straight edge and a seamstress pencil. Consider the folded edge of the fabric as the bottom edge of the bag. Mark the width of the bag along the fold. Measure the length along both sides and mark these measurements perpendicular to the bottom width.

4. Cut out the bag through both thickness of the fabric. Fold the cut out piece so that the right sides are touching. Pin along both sides of the bag. Leave the top open.

5. Sew up both sides of the bag. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each side seam. Turn under 1/4 inch around the top of the opening and sew it in place. Turn down another 1/2 inch around the top and carefully stitch around it, leaving a small opening at one side.

6. Take a length of cording or ribbon and attach one end to a large safety pin. Thread the safety pin through the opening at the side seam and work the cord or ribbon all the way through. Tie the two ends in a secure knot.

7. Trim the seams and clip any stray threads. Turn the bag right side out. Pull the cord or ribbon to draw the bag closed.