There is something deeply satisfying about a drawstring bag. I keep a little stack of them beside my machine, sewn from leftover scraps, and they have a way of multiplying because they are so quick and so useful. One holds my knitting, one travels with my shoes, one keeps small toys off the floor when the grandchildren visit, and a pretty one is always ready to turn into a last minute gift wrap.
Best of all, a drawstring closure is the friendliest sewing there is. No zipper, no snap, no buttonhole, just a channel and a length of cord, which makes these bags a perfect first project if you are only just starting out. People have understood this for centuries, all over the world.
I have gathered some of the best free drawstring bag patterns and tutorials I could find around the web, in every size and style from a tiny treat pouch to a roomy lined backpack. If you would like to ease in with one of our own designs first, this simple lined drawstring bag is a lovely place to start:
When you are ready to explore further, browse our full library of free sewing patterns and bag patterns, and keep a reel of soft cotton drawstring cord on hand, since you will want it for all of these.
Free Drawstring Bag Patterns Roundup
Hover over a picture to see the title, click to open the pattern, or right click and open in a new tab to keep this page open too. And do not forget to pin your favourites for later.
Some links above are Amazon affiliate links. As an Amazon Associate, So Sew Easy earns from qualifying purchases at no cost to you. Pattern links lead to the original designers free tutorials on their own sites.
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