Make Drawstring Bags in No Time

Do you want to make some kick tail drawstring bags? i am going to show you how you can be a pro in no time. just read the rest and find out. They can be any size and shape that you want and they are a perfect way to use up leftover fabric and threads. Drawstring bags can be used in several ways; they can be used to hold loose change, mementos or keepsakes; filled with potpourri; or hung on the wall as artwork. Since they have so many purposes, drawstring bags are the perfect homemade gift. Plus, they are so easy to make. Here's some easy to follow instructions on how to make your very own drawstring bag.

before you get deep in here is the first part of this. Small sampler patterns work the best. The size of the pattern will determine the size of the drawstring bag. As well, the colour of the fabric should compliment the colours found in the pattern. If you plan to use leftover fabric, just make sure that the pattern will fit on it.

Once you have selected the pattern you will use, you need to determine the size of the fabric. The fabric will be one piece, which will be folded in half with the edges sewn together. Decide whether you want to have the design wrap around from the front of the bag to the back, or whether you want the design to only be on the front of the bag. If you have decided that the design will wrap around, simply take the pattern size and add two inches to the top and two inches to one side. So, if the pattern is 2 x 3 inches, then the fabric size will be 4 x 5 inches. If you have decided to have the design on only the front of the bag, using the same pattern size of 2 x 3 inches, your fabric will need to be 4 x 10 inches.

After you have cut your fabric, you are ready to cross stitch the pattern on it. For the design that wraps around, simply find the middle of the fabric and cross stitch as normal. For the design that will be cross stitched on only the front of the bag, fold the fabric in half. Then find the middle of the front half and cross stitch as normal.

Next, you will need to create the drawstring for the bag. Choose two or three complimentary colours from your DMC thread. The colours can be those that were used in the pattern or colours that will compliment the ones found in the pattern. Simply braid the complimentary colours together, until the length of the drawstring is approximately twice the width of the bag.

Once you have finished creating the drawstring, you will need to attach it to the top of the bag. Turn the fabric over so that the wrong side is facing you. Place the drawstring near the top and turn the fabric over it. If you like, you can use safety pins to keep the fabric temporarily in place. Use a decorative stitch to permanently stitch the fabric in place and to add beauty to your drawstring bag.

The final step is to sew the edges of the drawstring bag together. First, fold the bag in half with the wrong side of the fabric facing out. Start at the top and use a backstitch to sew the edges together. Make sure to do the stitch about four to five squares from the edge so that it won't become loose and fall out. Once the sides and bottom of the fabric have been sewn together, you can turn the bag inside out. You are now finished! Enjoy and show off your new beautiful drawstring bag.

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