Charm-FIlled Carry Bag Tutorial

Feeling those summer vibes? I sure am!

I think that calls for a new summery bag to carry around my sunscreen, book, and phone! I used the warm prints from a pack of Color Notes 5" squares to get started.

Working with precut squares is such a great shortcut - you can simply start sewing! I created a patchwork drawstring bag and couldn't believe how quickly it came together. These bags are addictive - I bet you'll want to make more than one! The finished bag measures 13-1/2" square.

You'll Need:

(18) 5" precut squares

1/2 yard lining fabric

1/4 yard drawstring fabric

Step 1: Lay out (9) 5" squares into (3) rows of (3). Sew the squares into rows and join the rows to make a pieced bag side. Make (2). Tip: Press seams in opposite directions in each row so seam allowances will nest.

Step 2: Layer the (2) pieced bags right sides together. Mark both sides 1" and 2" down from the top edge (this will be for the drawstring casing). Stitch around the sides and bottom of the bag using a 1/4" seam allowance.

Here's a close-up of this section stitched:

Press the seam allowances open by the unstitched casing sections.

Step 3: Cut (2) 14" squares from the lining fabric. Place right sides together and stitch around the sides and bottom, leaving a 6" opening on the bottom for turning.

Tuck outer bag inside lining with right sides together. Stitch around the top edge.

Stitch the opening in the lining closed. Tuck the lining inside the bag and press the top edge.

Step 4: Using a ruler, mark lines approximately 3/4" and 1-3/4" from the top edge to align with casing openings. Stitch on the marked lines through both layers to create a casing tube.

Note: Make sure that you're not accidentally sewing through both sides of the bag - you'll be sewing in a circle, following the edge of the bag.

Step 5: Cut (2) 2" x WOF strips from drawstring fabric. Fold and press each strip in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and then unfold. Press long edges in to center fold. Refold on original center fold and press. Topstitch down each strip to make a drawstring.

Step 6: Using a safety pin at one end, feed a drawstring in the right side casing hole, through the entire casing tube, and out the same right side casing hole. Knot ends. Repeat with the second drawstring, starting and ending at the left side casing hole.

That's it! Your bag is complete! What will you use yours for?

May 29th 2025 Lisa Swenson-Ruble for Sit n' Sew Fabrics

Sewing with Solids