Drawstring Bag Pattern Maker
Drawstring bags get made in every size, from a pouch for dice to a sack for laundry, and each one needs its casing deep enough for the cord and its cord long enough to open the bag.
Type the size, choose one cord or two, and say how thick the cord is. The casing depth, the gap in the side seam where the cord comes out, and the length of cord to buy are all worked out, for a flat bag or one with a boxed base, lined or not.
Make it yours: This is a starting point. Change the size, proportions, pockets, closures, strap or handle lengths and other details to suit how you will use it, and measure the item (or yourself) it is for. If you are unsure, sew a quick mock-up in scrap fabric first. Change the width, height, depth, the top (open, drawstring, roll-top, zip), the handle length and the pockets.
Make this pattern in your size →Who it's for
- Anyone wrapping gifts in fabric instead of paper
- Parents making shoe, swim and toy bags to an exact size
- Sewists using up fabric on quick, useful makes
How it works
- Type the finished width and height, and a base depth if you want it to stand
- Choose one cord or two, the cord thickness, and lined or unlined
- Print the pattern, or cut the rectangle from the cutting list
- Sew the sides with the cord gap, make the casing, and thread the cord
Frequently asked questions
How deep should the casing be?
Deep enough for the cords side by side plus room to gather. The app allows about one more cord thickness than there are cords, plus a little ease, and rounds up to a tidy measurement. You can set it yourself too.
How much cord do I need?
Each cord goes once round the opening, plus about 15 cm (6″) at each end for knots. With two cords you need two of those.
Can I make it without printing?
A flat bag is just a rectangle, so yes: the cutting list gives the size to cut, with the casing included.