Easy DIY Drawstring Bag

 Japanese-style bag. How to Make a Drawstring Bag. It’s a beginner-friendly project with a free pattern included.

Supplies:
- A 50 cm square of printed fabric;
- A 50 cm square of solid-colored or subtly textured fabric (for the lining);
- 150 cm of matching cord;
- 2 beads;
- A scrap of the printed fabric for making tassels.

Instructions:
1. Place the two squares with their right sides (printed/finished sides) facing each other. Sew along all 4 sides, leaving a small opening to turn the piece right-side out. Close the opening using an invisible stitch (blind stitch). Ensure that the result is a perfect square; this is crucial for the next steps.

2. Fold the square in half diagonally and press the crease. Unfold it; the lining side should now be facing up. Position the square diagonally and place a long ruler across it. 

Fold the fabric into three equal parts, as shown in photo 1, using the ruler as a guide. You should end up with a square shape on each side, as illustrated in photo 2 (CDEF). This folding step requires great precision.

Photo 1

 

Photo 2

 3. Sew along points A, B, and C using invisible stitches, as shown in photo 1, taking care not to catch the fabric that lies beneath the ruler. 4. Fold the points in half, overlapping one onto the other, so that the printed fabric is on top.  

Using small, tight stitches, sew across the fold—from D to G, and likewise on the other side from F to H (see photo 3). Alternatively, you may use a sewing machine.

Photo 3

 

Photo 4

 5. Fold as shown in photo 4. This will reveal points G and H. Mark a line 4 cm from the edge and sew along it, as shown in photo 5. 

Fold the triangles down onto the bottom of the bag and secure them with a stitch or two. The base will then form a rectangle.

Photo 5

 

Photo 6

 6. Turn the bag inside out and sew a line of stitching 1.5 cm from the edge (see photo 6). All that remains is to insert the two 75 cm cords and sew the beads onto the two ends. 7. The tassel: take an 8 cm by 6 cm rectangle of printed fabric.  

Fold over 3 mm along the width. Run a gathering stitch through it. Place the knot of the cord inside. Stuff with a little batting and sew shut using small, invisible stitches.