Sewing a Drawstring Cosmetic Bag Pattern

Drawstring cosmetic bags make packing a cinch! Follow our easy pattern and instructions to sew a custom drawstring pouch perfect for toting makeup, toiletries, art supplies, gym gear - you name it.

We'll provide dimension guidelines for drafting a pattern from scratch. Adjust sizes as needed to create a bag that suits your needs.

Plan Bag Size and Details

First decide how big you'd like the bag. Dimensions like 10" wide x 12" tall are common. Add at least 1.5 inches for seam allowances and hem.

Also determine:

Drawstring length

Strap length if adding a shoulder strap

Any inner pockets wanted

Jot down all measurements for reference as you draft.

Create the Pattern

Using your plans, create pattern pieces on paper or cardstock:

Bag Body - Cut a wide rectangle with curved corners on bottom. Add 1⁄2 inch seam allowance.

Lining - Cut same shape about 2 inches smaller all around. This prevents peeking out.

Casing - Cut a straight strip 6 inches wide by bag width.

Drawstring - Cut a strip about 4 inches wide by 60 inches long. Fold lengthwise right sides together.

Strap (optional) - Cut a strip 2 inches wide by desired strap length.

Mark the Fabric

Use your pattern to cut pieces from fabric. Transfer any pocket placement lines or guidelines to the wrong side of fabric pieces with marking tools.

Cut two exterior pieces and two lining pieces. Cut casing and drawstring strips from coordinated fabrics.

Sew the Exterior Shell

With right sides facing, stitch the side seams of the exterior rectangle using 1⁄2 inch seam allowance. Press seams open.

Attach the ends of the casing strip to the top edge, encasing it fully. Stitch close to upper and lower edges.

Assemble the Lining

Sew the lining pieces together at the side seams as you did for the exterior shell. Leave an opening for turning along one seam.

To add pockets, stitch them to the lining now as desired before assembling bag.

Shape the Drawstring Bag

With right sides together, place exterior shell inside fully sewn lining so upper raw edges match up. Stitch around the top perimeter.

Clip corners, turn through lining opening, and press. Slipstitch lining closed.

Finish It Off

Push lining down inside bag and press upper casing edge. Thread drawstring through casing tunnel.

Edge stitch around top opening of bag to reinforce shape. Add shoulder strap if desired.

Now cinch up your drawstring pouch and hit the road!