How to Make a Drawstring Cosmetic Bag

Making your own drawstring cosmetic bag is an easy and fun DIY sewing project. These cute little bags are perfect for storing makeup, toiletries, art supplies, jewelry, and more. With just some basic sewing skills and supplies, you can create a custom cosmetic bag to match your style.

 

Choose Your Fabric

The first step is to decide what fabric you want to use. Good fabric choices for drawstring bags include:

Cotton - Cotton is a popular choice as it's soft, breathable, easy to sew, and comes in tons of cute prints. Look for quilting cotton or apparel cotton.

Canvas - Canvas adds durability and structure. It's available in many colors and can be decorated with fabric markers.

Felt - For a thicker, more structured bag, felt is a great option. It comes in almost every color imaginable.

Flannel - Super soft flannel makes these bags extra cozy for storing delicate items.

No matter what fabric type you choose, make sure to pre-wash and iron it before sewing to prevent later shrinking.

 

Take Measurements

Once your fabric is prepped, lay it out flat and decide how big you want your bag. A good standard size is about 9" wide x 6" tall, but you can adjust up or down as desired. Measure and mark your dimensions on the fabric, adding 1/2 inch seam allowances all around.

 

Cut Out Your Fabric

Using a rotary cutter and ruler will ensure nice straight edges. Cut out the following:

1 piece for the bag body - Your marked dimensions

2 pieces for straps - Width should equal about 2-3" by the height of your bag plus seam allowances

 

Sew the Side Seams

With right sides facing, fold your bag piece in half matching the short ends. Sew along this edge with a 1/2 inch seam allowance to create a tube shape. Do the same with the strap pieces.

 

Attach the Straps

Turn the tube right side out. Align the raw edges of one strap piece with the top edge of the bag, placing it 1 1/2" in from the side seam. Sew in place along the top bag edge. Repeat with the second strap on the opposite side.

 

Finish the Top Edge

Fold over the top edge of the bag 1/2" and press. Fold over again by 1/2" and stitch all around the top edge to enclose the raw fabric. This encased edge finishes the bag nicely.

 

Add Decorative Touches (Optional)

Customize your bag to match your style by adding details like ribbons, buttons, appliques, embroidery, fabric markers and more. Get creative with the finishing touches!

And that's it - you now have a cute and functional drawstring cosmetic bag! Make several in different prints to keep yourself organized in style.