How to Make Fabric Gift Bags

Wrapping paper and gift boxes really add up in the trash after the holidays so why not start a new trend of giving gifts in handmade fabric gift bags that can be used year after year? The gift bags will be as appreciated as the gift to anyone who is conscious of the environment and the need to re-use.

Things You'll Need

• Sewing machine
• Scissors
• Thread
• Fabric
• Iron and ironing board

Instructions

1. Calculate what size gift bag you wish to make. For instance, if you want a bag to hold a jar candle, you might make a bag that is 8 inches tall and 7 inches around. You should add 1 inch for seam allowances.

2. Cut one length of fabric twice the size of the height (plus 1 inch). This would mean a 17-inch long strip that is 8 inches wide.

3. Hem all four edges of the fabric with a 1/4-inch seam. Press the seam flat with the iron.

4. Cut two strips of fabric (same or coordinating) 10 inches long by 2-1/2 inches wide. Fold these so that the patterned sides are facing one another in a long strip. Sew one short end and along the long end with a fairly tight (12 stitches per inch) stitch. These will be the handles and need to be strong. Turn the straps inside out and press them flat with the iron. Fasten a safety pin to the outside of the sewn corner and close it. Insert the pin into the tube made by stitching; by working the pin through, it brings the inside out. Hand sew the unsewn edge so that the rough edges don't show.

5. Create a "U" with each handle and sew it on the inside on each short edge of the bag, stitching on the same seam as you hemmed. Again, use a 12-stitch per inch stitch for strength.

6. Fold the fabric so that the patterned sides are facing. Stitch up each side, double stitching at the top end. Flip the bag so that the patterned sides are out. Press with a hot iron.

Tips & Warnings

• Use up those scraps for making bags of different sizes. Buy seasonal fabric on sale after the season to save money for next year's bags.