Practical examples of examples of making a drawstring bag

Simple starter examples of making a drawstring bag

When people ask for examples of examples of making a drawstring bag, I usually start with the most forgiving version: a flat, unlined cotton pouch. It’s the kind of project you can finish in under an hour, even if you’re still side‑eyeing your sewing machine.

For this first example of a drawstring bag, you:

• Cut two rectangles of quilting cotton (say, 10 x 12 inches).
• Sew around the sides and bottom.
• Fold the top edge down twice to form a casing.
• Thread a cord through the casing.

That’s it. No lining, no boxed corners, nothing fancy. This is one of the best examples of a confidence‑building project because it teaches straight seams, seam allowances, and how a simple casing works. Many sewing teachers and community education programs use a version of this project as a first assignment because it’s fast, useful, and not intimidating. (You can find local sewing classes through community colleges or adult education listings; many U.S. schools share beginner sewing syllabi on their .edu sites.)

Once you’ve made this basic version, you’ve built the foundation for all the other examples of making a drawstring bag in this article.

Trendy lined gift bag – one of the best examples of making a drawstring bag for 2024

A step up from the flat pouch is the lined drawstring gift bag. This is one of my favorite real examples of making a drawstring bag because it taps into a huge 2024–2025 trend: reusable gift wrap and low‑waste packaging.

Instead of buying single‑use wrapping paper, you sew a pretty fabric bag that can be used over and over. Many sustainability‑minded organizations encourage swapping disposable packaging for reusable options like this. While not sewing‑specific, U.S. agencies like the EPA highlight the benefits of reducing waste and reusing materials, which lines up nicely with this kind of project.

Here’s how this example differs from the starter pouch:

• You cut four rectangles: two for the outer fabric, two for the lining.
• You sew the outer bag and lining bag separately, then join them at the top.
• The casing can be created between the layers or as a visible band at the top.

This lined version is a great example of how small construction changes give you a more polished, gift‑worthy finish. It also hides all your raw edges inside, which feels very satisfying if you’re the kind of person who loves a neat interior.

Fabric ideas that are very on‑trend right now:

• Linen‑look cotton blends in muted, earthy colors.
• Tiny florals or cottage‑core prints.
• Bold graphic prints for kids’ birthday bags.

These examples of making a drawstring bag are ideal for holidays, baby showers, or re‑usable birthday “wrapping.” Write the recipient’s name on a small fabric tag, and the bag itself becomes part of the gift.

Shoe bag example of a practical drawstring project

Another very practical example of making a drawstring bag is a shoe bag for travel or the gym. This is where you start thinking about function as much as aesthetics.

For a shoe bag, you’ll usually:

• Make the bag taller and slightly narrower than a gift bag.
• Use a sturdier fabric like canvas or twill.
• Add a boxed bottom so shoes sit flat.

Boxed corners are a classic technique used across many examples of making a drawstring bag. You sew the bag as usual, then pinch and stitch across the corners to give the bottom depth. It looks more advanced than it feels once you’ve done it once or twice.

This is also a great place to experiment with:

• Lining the bag with a wipeable fabric if you’re storing dirty sneakers.
• Adding a small fabric tab so it can hang on a hook in a locker room.

If you’re concerned about storing sweaty gym shoes, you can look up general hygiene and odor‑control tips from trusted health sources like Mayo Clinic or NIH. While they won’t tell you how to sew, they do offer guidance on keeping gear clean and dry, which you can pair with your handmade shoe bag.

Backpack‑style drawstring bag – a real example with cords as straps

When people ask for more advanced examples of making a drawstring bag, the backpack‑style version is usually next. This is the classic PE‑class gym sack: a soft fabric bag with cords that cinch the top and act as shoulder straps.

What makes this example different:

• You add small tabs or grommets at the lower corners.
• The drawstrings run through the top casing and then down to those bottom corners.
• When you pull the straps on your shoulders, the top closes automatically.

This is one of the best examples for teens or older kids who want a custom bag for sports, dance shoes, or library books. You can sew it from:

• Sturdy cotton canvas.
• Outdoor fabric for a more water‑resistant option.
• Upcycled denim from old jeans.

This type of bag shows up in a lot of beginner sewing curricula and youth programs because it blends simple construction with real‑world use. If you’re teaching a group, this is a strong example of examples of making a drawstring bag that feels “cool” enough for older kids and still manageable for newer sewists.

Color‑blocked and patchwork examples of making a drawstring bag

Once you’ve got the basics, it’s fun to play with the outside of the bag. Two of the most creative examples of making a drawstring bag are:

• Color‑blocked bags (large geometric sections of different fabrics).
• Patchwork bags (smaller pieces sewn together like a mini quilt).

These are especially popular in 2024–2025 because scrap‑busting and slow sewing are having a moment. Quitting fast fashion and using what you already own shows up in everything from fashion blogs to sustainability discussions.

In a color‑blocked example of a drawstring bag, you might:

• Use one fabric for the top third and a darker, sturdier fabric for the bottom.
• Add a horizontal seam where the colors meet.

In a patchwork example, you sew small squares or strips together first, then treat that new patchwork piece as your “fabric” for the bag. This is where you can mix prints, use leftover quilting scraps, or even highlight meaningful fabrics (like pieces from a child’s outgrown clothing).

These real examples of making a drawstring bag are perfect if you:

• Love quilting cottons and have a growing scrap bin.
• Want each bag to feel personal without changing the basic construction.

If you’re interested in learning more about quilting techniques that pair well with patchwork drawstring bags, many U.S. extension and education services share free quilting basics. For instance, land‑grant universities often host sewing and quilting guides through their .edu domains.

Reusable produce and bulk‑food bag – eco‑focused example of a drawstring bag

Another very current example of making a drawstring bag is the reusable produce or bulk‑food bag. Grocery stores across the U.S. and internationally are increasingly friendly to customers bringing their own bags for produce and bulk bins. While you should always check your local store’s policy, many welcome lightweight, see‑through fabric bags.

For this type of project, examples include:

• Sheer cotton or muslin bags for produce like apples, oranges, or onions.
• Mesh or lightweight netting bags that allow staff to see contents quickly.

Construction is usually simple: a flat bag with a casing and cord, just like the starter example, but made from lighter fabric. If you’re planning to store food in these, it’s wise to wash the fabric first and choose fibers that are easy to launder in hot water. General food safety guidance from sources like USDA can help you think about cleaning and handling, even though they don’t address sewing specifically.

This is one of the best examples of how a basic sewing skill can support everyday habits like reducing single‑use plastic.

Kids’ treasure bag – playful example of making a drawstring bag

If you sew for kids, a “treasure bag” is a charming example of making a drawstring bag that’s all about imagination. The construction can be as simple as the flat pouch, but the magic is in the details:

• Fun prints: dinosaurs, outer space, animals, or favorite characters (using licensed fabric where appropriate).
• Iron‑on letters or fabric paint for their name.
• Small size for marbles, toy cars, or doll accessories.

This is a great project to make with kids. Older children can help pin, press, or guide fabric under supervision. Organizations like 4‑H and school‑based sewing clubs often use small bags as a first sewing project precisely because they’re quick, rewarding, and easy to personalize.

These examples of making a drawstring bag for kids show that you don’t need a huge project to spark creativity. A tiny bag can become a dragon hoard pouch, a fairy treasure sack, or a secret rock collection holder.

Travel laundry bag – larger example of a drawstring bag in action

For adults who travel, a large laundry bag is a very practical example of making a drawstring bag. It’s usually:

• Made from lightweight cotton or poly‑cotton.
• Unlined, to keep it breathable.
• Oversized, so it can hold several days of clothes.

You can use the same techniques as the shoe bag or gift bag, just scaled up. Some people add a French seam (sewing the seam twice to encase raw edges) for durability, especially if the bag will be washed frequently.

If you’re concerned about odor build‑up or washing routines, health resources like CDC share general laundry and hygiene advice that pairs well with your handmade laundry bags.

This is one of the best examples of how a simple pattern scales. Once you understand the basic math of height, width, and seam allowance, you can make a tiny jewelry pouch or a full‑size laundry sack using the same core steps.

How to choose the right example of a drawstring bag for your skill level

With so many examples of making a drawstring bag, it helps to match the project to your current skills and patience level.

If you’re a true beginner, start with:

• The flat unlined pouch (starter example).
• The simple kids’ treasure bag.

These examples of examples of making a drawstring bag keep the steps short and the fabric easy to handle.

If you’re comfortable with your machine and want a bit more challenge, try:

• The lined gift bag.
• The shoe bag with boxed corners.
• A simple color‑blocked bag.

If you’re ready for something more involved and functional, reach for:

• The backpack‑style drawstring bag.
• The large laundry bag.
• Patchwork or more intricate real examples of making a drawstring bag that showcase your fabric stash.

The beauty is that you don’t need a new pattern for every version. Once you understand the basics, each new bag becomes another personal example of how you can tweak dimensions, add features, and choose fabrics that fit your life.

FAQ: Real‑world questions about examples of making a drawstring bag

What are some easy beginner examples of making a drawstring bag?

Easy beginner examples of making a drawstring bag include a flat unlined cotton pouch, a small kids’ treasure bag, and a basic reusable gift bag. All three use straight seams, simple casings, and minimal measuring. They’re forgiving if your stitching wobbles a bit and can usually be finished in under an afternoon.

Can you give an example of a drawstring bag that uses up fabric scraps?

A patchwork drawstring bag is a perfect example of a drawstring bag that eats up scraps. You sew small pieces together into a larger panel, then cut your bag pieces from that panel. It’s a satisfying way to use leftover quilting cottons, old shirts, or offcuts from other projects.

What are the best examples of drawstring bags for travel?

For travel, the best examples are the shoe bag, the large laundry bag, and a small pouch for cables or toiletries. All three use the same basic construction but in different sizes and fabrics. Canvas or twill works well for shoes, while lighter cotton is comfortable for laundry and packing organizers.

Are there examples of making a drawstring bag without a sewing machine?

Yes. Hand‑sewn examples of making a drawstring bag are absolutely possible. You can use a backstitch for the side seams and a simple running stitch for the casing. It takes longer, but for small bags—like jewelry pouches or kids’ treasure bags—it’s very manageable and a good way to practice stitching.

What are some creative examples of personalizing a drawstring bag?

Creative examples include adding iron‑on vinyl designs, fabric appliqué, embroidery, fabric paint, or name labels. You can also personalize by choosing themed fabrics—sports, music, animals—or by color‑blocking in someone’s favorite colors. Even changing the drawstring to a bright paracord or a pretty ribbon can make the bag feel more personal.

If you treat each project in this article as one of your own examples of making a drawstring bag, you’ll quickly build skills, confidence, and a little collection of handmade bags that actually get used—at the gym, in your suitcase, at the grocery store, or under the holiday tree.