Drawstring Bags

I've had a couple of requests for a tutorial on how to make the bags I sewed up over Christmas.

Side note: I find this funny. Becky probably finds it even funnier. You see...my sewing skills are minimal and I usually find myself yelling for Becky to get me out of jams.

I made Benny a bag this morning to hold his birthday presents. I timed myself just to see how long it takes. 15 minutes from start to finish - and that was stopping every step to take a few pictures. In fact, it takes longer to haul out the sewing machine than it does to make these things.

Note to self: Include craft/sewing room in post-lottery dream house plans.

So, here it is, for your crafting pleasure:

Step 1:

You will need flannel (my fave since it doesn't require hemming), cord or ribbon and a safety pin. (I assume you know you need a sewing machine and thread.)

Step 2:

Lay out the flannel on the fold.

Step 3:

Measure out how much fabric you'll need. I usually go about three inches wider per side to account for the depth of the gift. When I made these bags for DVD's, I cut off a section at the top. This time I kept it so that Rachel can re-use the bag as a wine holder.

Step 4:

Turn the fabric inside out and sew a straight stitch down each open side.

Step 5:

I use pinking shears to finish off my edges. You don't really need to do this - especially if you use flannel, so this step is optional. I just think it looks prettier.

Step 6:

Fold the top of the bag down about two inches. (Less if your cord or ribbon is fine.) I've discovered it's easier to string the drawstring if you leave pleanty of room.

Step 7:

Sew the top leaving about a half inch on either side of one seam.

Step 8:

Cut a little triangle out where the drawsting will come out. This isn't strictly neccessary, but it looks cleaner and prevents bunching.

Step 9:

Attach the safety pin to your ribbon or cord. Thread through the opening, working it around the top of the bag.

Step 10:

Tie off the cord or ribbon.

Ta-da!