Are you tired of flimsy plastic bags and looking for a reusable, stylish way to carry your belongings? A drawstring bag with lining is a fantastic project for beginners and experienced sewers alike. If you’re struggling to find a clear, step-by-step guide, this article will walk you through everything you need to know – and we’ll start with a quick fix for common beginner mistakes: ensuring your lining is the correct size!
This comprehensive guide will cover everything from choosing the right fabrics and tools to the complete sewing process, including creating a professional-looking lining. You’ll learn how to cut your fabric accurately, assemble the bag, and finish it with a durable drawstring closure. By the end of this guide, you’ll be confidently creating beautiful, functional drawstring bags with linings that you can use for years to come.
Materials and Tools Needed
| Item | Quantity | Specifications |
|---|---|---|
| Fabric (Outer) | 1/2 yard | Cotton, linen, canvas, or other medium-weight fabric |
| Fabric (Lining) | 1/2 yard | Lightweight cotton, quilting cotton, or nylon |
| Drawstring Cord | 2 yards | 1/4″ – 1/2″ diameter cord, ribbon, or twill tape |
| Safety Pin | 1 | For threading the drawstring |
| Sewing Machine | 1 | With standard needle and thread |
| Fabric Scissors | 1 | Sharp scissors for accurate cutting |
| Rotary Cutter & Mat | Optional | For faster, more precise cutting |
| Ruler/Measuring Tape | 1 | For measuring fabric |
| Iron & Ironing Board | 1 | For pressing seams |
| Seam Ripper | 1 | For correcting mistakes |
| Pins or Fabric Clips | 1 box/set | For holding fabric pieces together |
Preparing Your Fabric
Cutting the Fabric
- Outer Fabric: Cut two rectangles measuring 14” x 16”. (Adjust dimensions for desired bag size.)
- Lining Fabric: Cut two rectangles measuring 13” x 15”. (The lining should be slightly smaller than the outer fabric to ensure it sits neatly inside.)
- Drawstring Channels: The 1″ difference in size between outer and lining fabric will create the channel for the drawstring.
Preparing the Drawstring
- Cut the Cord: Cut the drawstring cord to a length of approximately 70 inches. (This allows for tying knots and comfortable closure.)
- Attach Safety Pin: Attach a safety pin to one end of the cord. This will help with threading it through the casing.
Assembling the Bag – Outer Fabric
Sewing the Side Seams
- Place the two outer fabric rectangles right sides together.
- Pin along both side seams and the bottom seam, leaving the top edge open.
- Sew along the pinned seams with a 1/2” seam allowance.
- Press the seams open with an iron.
Creating the Drawstring Casing
- Fold the top edge of the outer fabric down 1.5” towards the wrong side.
- Press the fold to create a crisp crease.
- Fold it down another 1.5” and press again, encasing the raw edge. This creates the drawstring casing.
- Pin the folded casing in place.
- Topstitch along the bottom edge of the casing, approximately 1/8” from the folded edge, leaving a 2” opening on one side seam. Do not sew the opening closed! This is where you’ll insert the drawstring.
Assembling the Bag – Lining Fabric
Sewing the Side Seams
- Place the two lining fabric rectangles right sides together.
- Pin along both side seams and the bottom seam, leaving a 4” opening on the bottom seam. Do not sew the top edge.
- Sew along the pinned seams with a 1/2” seam allowance.
- Press the seams open with an iron.
Combining Outer Fabric and Lining
Joining the Layers
- Turn the outer fabric right side out.
- Keep the lining wrong side out.
- Insert the outer fabric into the lining, aligning the top edges. The right sides of the fabric should be facing each other.
- Pin around the entire top edge, matching the side seams.
Sewing the Top Edge
- Sew around the entire top edge with a 1/2” seam allowance, joining the outer fabric and lining.
Finishing the Bag
Turning and Pressing
- Gently pull the entire bag through the opening in the lining.
- Press the top edge of the bag carefully, ensuring the casing is neatly pressed.
- Press the seams flat.
Inserting the Drawstring
- Attach the safety pin-equipped end of the drawstring to one side of the drawstring casing.
- Carefully thread the drawstring through the casing, working your way around until it emerges from the other side.
- Remove the safety pin.
- Tie the ends of the drawstring together in a secure knot.
Closing the Lining Opening
- Fold the raw edges of the opening in the lining inward by 1/2”.
- Pin the opening closed.
- Topstitch the opening closed, ensuring a neat and secure finish.
Pro Tips
- Fabric Choice: For durability, choose a tightly woven fabric like canvas or linen for the outer layer.
- Seam Allowance Consistency: Maintaining a consistent seam allowance is crucial for a professional finish.
- Reinforced Drawstring Casing: Consider stitching a second line of stitching near the top of the casing for added strength.
- Corner Stress Relief: Clip the corners of the outer fabric before turning it right side out to reduce bulk and create sharper corners.
- Press as You Go: Pressing seams after each step is essential for a clean, crisp look.
- Pre-wash Fabrics: Always pre-wash your fabrics to prevent shrinkage after the bag is sewn.
- Experiment with Drawstrings: Use different types of cords, ribbons, or twill tape to customize the look of your bag.
Professional Help
If you’re struggling with specific steps or encounter issues like uneven seams or difficulty threading the drawstring, consider:
- Local Sewing Classes: Many fabric stores and community centers offer sewing classes for beginners.
- Online Tutorials: YouTube is a great resource for visual learners. Search for “sew drawstring bag with lining tutorial.”
- Professional Seamstress/Tailor: For complex problems or if you’re short on time, a professional can complete the project for you. Typical costs range from $30-$60 depending on complexity and location.
FAQ
Q: My lining is too big. What did I do wrong?
A: You likely didn’t account for the seam allowance when cutting your lining fabric. The lining should be slightly smaller than the outer fabric.
Q: How can I prevent the drawstring from slipping out?
A: Secure the drawstring with a tight knot, or consider adding beads or tassels to the ends.
Q: Can I use a different type of closure instead of a drawstring?
A: Absolutely! You can add a button and loop, a zipper, or magnetic snaps.
Q: What’s the best fabric for a waterproof drawstring bag?
A: Use PUL (polyurethane laminate) fabric for the lining and a water-resistant outer fabric like ripstop nylon.
Alternative Solutions
If you’re finding the lining too difficult to work with, you can create a simple unlined drawstring bag. This is a great option for beginners who want a quick and easy project. Alternatively, consider using pre-made bias tape to finish the edges of the bag, eliminating the need to create a casing.
| Solution | Pros | Cons | Best For |
|---|---|---|---|
| Unlined Bag | Simpler, faster | Less durable, less polished look | Beginners, quick projects |
| Bias Tape Finish | Easier than casing | May not be as durable | Simple aesthetics, quick finish |
Keep Your New Bag in Great Shape!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully sewn a drawstring bag with a lining! By following these steps, you’ve created a durable, reusable bag that you can enjoy for years to come.
Remember these key takeaways:
* Accurate cutting is essential.
* Pressing seams makes a huge difference.
* Don’t be afraid to experiment with different fabrics and drawstrings.
Share your finished drawstring bag in the comments below! We’d love to see your creations and hear about your experience.
