Easy DIY Drawstring Handbag Tutorial

Updated at: 28/05/2025

Tired of expensive handbags that lack personality? Do you crave a unique accessory that reflects your style without emptying your wallet? Then look no further! This easy DIY drawstring handbag tutorial will guide you through creating a stylish and practical bag in just a few simple steps. You'll be surprised how quickly you can transform readily available materials into a beautiful, personalized piece that's perfect for everyday use or a special occasion. Forget about the frustrating search for the ideal handbag – you'll be designing your own in no time!

This tutorial provides a clear and concise guide, perfect for beginners and experienced crafters alike. We'll walk you through each stage of the process, from selecting the right materials to finishing touches that elevate your creation. Ready to get started on your very own custom-made drawstring bag? Let's dive into the step-by-step instructions below!

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric (two prints, two solid)
  • Interfacing
  • Sewing machine
  • Iron
  • Scissors
  • Measuring tape
  • Pins
  • Buttons
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp scissors to prevent frayed edges and ensure clean cuts. Dull scissors can lead to injuries.
  • Be mindful of your fingers when working with needles or pins. Take your time and avoid rushing to prevent accidental pokes or pricks.
  • If using a sewing machine, ensure it's properly threaded and functioning correctly before starting. Always keep your fingers clear of the needle.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cut Fabric

    • Cut fabric pieces:
    • 7.5 inches x 10 inches
    • 7.5 inches x 10 inches
    • 7 inches x 10.25 inches
    Two pieces of interfacing: 7 inches x 10.25 inchesTwo pieces of interfacing: 7 inches x 10.25 inchesTwo pieces of interfacing: 7 inches x 10.25 inchesTwo pieces of interfacing: 7 inches x 10.25 inches
    Cut Fabric

  2. Prepare Interfacing

    • Prepare interfacing:
    • Iron interfacing onto the wrong side of the solid fabric pieces, leaving a 0.25-inch seam allowance.
    Iron interfacing onto the wrong side of the solid fabric pieces, leaving a 0.25-inch seam allowance.Iron interfacing onto the wrong side of the solid fabric pieces, leaving a 0.25-inch seam allowance.
    Prepare Interfacing

  3. Sew Side Panels

    • Sew side panels:
    • Sew the top and bottom edges of one patterned and one solid fabric piece together. Do not sew the sides.
    • Repeat for the second pair of patterned and solid fabric pieces.
    Repeat for the second pair of patterned and solid fabric pieces.Repeat for the second pair of patterned and solid fabric pieces.Repeat for the second pair of patterned and solid fabric pieces.
    Sew Side Panels

  4. Create Main Body

    • Create the main body:
    • Place the two completed panels right sides together. Sew the top and bottom edges.
    Place the two completed panels right sides together. Sew the top and bottom edges.Place the two completed panels right sides together. Sew the top and bottom edges.
    Create Main Body

  5. Add Pocket (Optional)

    • Add the pocket (optional):
    • Fold a piece of fabric in half. Sew a quarter-inch seam along the sides, leaving the top open for a pocket.
    • Attach the pocket to the main body.
    Attach the pocket to the main body. Attach the pocket to the main body. Attach the pocket to the main body.
    Add Pocket (Optional)

  6. Create Handles

    • Create the handles:
    • Cut two pieces of fabric 2.5 inches x 15 inches. Add 1 inch wide interfacing. Fold over 0.25 inch and press.
    • Sew the long edges of each handle piece together.
    Sew the long edges of each handle piece together.Sew the long edges of each handle piece together.Sew the long edges of each handle piece together.
    Create Handles

  7. Attach Handles

    • Attach handles:
    • Fold the handles in half and place them at the top center of the bag, sew in place.
    Fold the handles in half and place them at the top center of the bag, sew in place.Fold the handles in half and place them at the top center of the bag, sew in place.
    Attach Handles

  8. Sew Top Edges

    • Sew the top edges:
    • Sew the top of the bag, leaving a small gap for turning.
    Sew the top of the bag, leaving a small gap for turning.Sew the top of the bag, leaving a small gap for turning.
    Sew Top Edges

  9. Turn Right Side Out

    • Turn right side out:
    • Turn the bag right side out through the opening.
    Turn the bag right side out through the opening. Turn the bag right side out through the opening.
    Turn Right Side Out

  10. Finishing Touches

    • Finishing touches:
    • Sew around the top edge of the bag, creating a channel for the drawstring.
    • Add drawstrings and buttons.
    Add drawstrings and buttons.Add drawstrings and buttons.Add drawstrings and buttons.
    Finishing Touches

Read more: DIY Quilted Makeup Pouch Tutorial: The Easiest and Fastest Method

Tips

  • Use interfacing to provide structure and support to the bag.
  • Press seams open for a cleaner finish.
  • Clip curves to reduce bulk and improve turning.
  • Leave a small opening for turning the bag right side out, and then close the opening by hand.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Cut Fabric

Reason: Inconsistent fabric cuts can lead to a lopsided or misshapen bag.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut your fabric pieces using a ruler and rotary cutter for precise cuts.

2. Too Tight or Loose Drawstring

Reason: A drawstring that's too tight is difficult to use, while one that's too loose makes the bag look sloppy and the contents insecure.
Solution: Adjust the length of the drawstring before sewing the casing to achieve the optimal tightness for smooth opening and closing.

3. Poorly Finished Edges

Reason: Raw edges can fray and make the bag look unprofessional and less durable.
Solution: Use a serger or zigzag stitch to finish the raw edges of the fabric before assembling the bag.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make a drawstring bag?
You'll primarily need fabric (cotton, linen, or even repurposed materials work well), a drawstring cord (cotton, ribbon, or leather), scissors, pins, a sewing machine (or needle and thread), and measuring tape. Optional additions include interfacing for extra structure and decorative embellishments.
How long does it take to make a drawstring handbag?
The time it takes depends on your sewing skills and the complexity of your design. A simple drawstring bag can be completed in an hour or two, while more elaborate designs might take a few hours. Don't rush the process; take your time and enjoy the creation!