How to Make Versatile Drawstring Evening Bags

by CrystalClutch / Sunday, 11 September 2022 / Published in Blog

Evening bags are a must-have accessory for formal events, adding both functionality and a touch of glamour to your outfit. Among the various styles, drawstring evening bags stand out for their versatility and charm. Creating your own drawstring evening bag allows you to customize it to match your personal style, outfit, or even the specific theme of an event. Here’s a comprehensive guide on how to make versatile drawstring evening bags that are both elegant and practical.

1. Gather Materials and Tools

Before you begin, it’s crucial to have all the materials and tools ready. This ensures the process is smooth and efficient. Below is a list of what you’ll need:

Materials	Tools
Luxury fabric (e.g., satin, velvet, silk)	Sewing machine or needle
Lining fabric (optional)	Fabric scissors
Decorative embellishments (crystals, beads, sequins)	Measuring tape
Drawstring cord or ribbon	Pins
Interfacing (for added structure)	Tailor’s chalk
Thread (matching or complementary color)	Iron

Opt for high-quality fabrics that exude elegance, such as satin for a classic look or velvet for a more luxurious aesthetic. If you’re aiming for sparkle, consider embellishing your bag with crystals from CrystalClutch.com for a stunning finish.

2. Design and Measure

Start by determining the size and shape of your bag. A common design is a rectangular or oval drawstring bag that cinches closed at the top. Use the following steps to design and measure:

Decide the bag’s dimensions. A 10” x 12” rectangle is a good standard size.
Add 1 inch to each side for seam allowances.
Cut your luxury fabric and lining fabric (if using) to the measured size.

If you want the bag to stand out, sketch your design first, including plans for embellishments or patterns. Consider how the drawstring will run to ensure the closure functions smoothly.

3. Add Structure with Interfacing

Interfacing gives the bag its shape and ensures it doesn’t collapse when in use. Iron a piece of interfacing to the wrong side of your luxury fabric, following the manufacturer’s instructions. If you prefer a softer, slouchy look, you can skip this step or use a lightweight interfacing.

4. Create the Bag Body

To assemble the main body of the bag:

Pin the right sides of the luxury fabric together, aligning the edges carefully. If you’re using a lining, do the same for the lining fabric.
Sew along the sides and bottom of the fabric, leaving the top open. Use a ½-inch seam allowance.
Turn the bag body inside out and press the seams with an iron to make them crisp.
If using lining, repeat the process, but leave a small gap in one seam to turn the bag right side out later.

5. Prepare the Drawstring Casing

The casing is where your drawstring will thread through, allowing the bag to cinch closed. Here’s how to make it:

Fold the top edge of the bag down by ½ inch, then another 1 inch. Press with an iron to secure the folds in place.
Stitch along the lower edge of the fold to create a channel for the drawstring. Be sure to leave a small opening on each side to insert the cord.

Repeat this process for the lining if you’re using one.

6. Embellish the Bag

Personalizing your bag with embellishments is where you can let your creativity shine. Attach crystals, beads, or sequins to the fabric using thread or fabric glue. CrystalClutch.com offers a wide range of high-quality embellishments that can elevate your bag to designer levels of sophistication.

When adding embellishments:

Mark their placement on the fabric using tailor’s chalk.
Sew or glue them securely, ensuring they won’t snag or fall off during use.
Keep the design balanced by concentrating embellishments on one area, such as the bottom half or center of the bag.

7. Insert the Drawstring

To complete the bag, insert the drawstring cord:

Cut two pieces of cord, each long enough to loop through the entire casing and tie into a bow.
Attach a safety pin to one end of the first cord and thread it through the casing. Repeat with the second cord, starting from the opposite side.
Knot the ends of each cord together to prevent fraying.

For an extra touch of elegance, consider using satin or silk ribbons as the drawstring, or choose cords with metallic threading.

8. Assemble and Finish

If you’re using lining, place the lining inside the outer bag with the right sides facing each other. Sew the lining and outer bag together along the top edge, ensuring the casing openings remain clear. Turn the bag right side out through the gap you left in the lining, then stitch the gap closed.

Press the bag with an iron for a polished finish. Ensure the drawstring functionality works properly and adjust as needed.

9. Versatile Styling Tips

Your newly crafted drawstring evening bag is now ready to use. Its versatility lies in its design and embellishments, making it suitable for everything from formal galas to intimate dinner parties. Pair it with a sleek gown or a chic cocktail dress for a cohesive look.

Consider creating multiple versions of the bag in different sizes and colors to suit various occasions. Experiment with embellishments, such as adding pearls for a vintage vibe or rhinestones for modern glamour.

Conclusion

Making your own drawstring evening bag is a rewarding experience that allows you to showcase your creativity and style. With the right materials, a thoughtful design, and attention to detail, you can craft a bag that’s not only functional but also a statement piece. Whether embellished with crystals from CrystalClutch.com or adorned with intricate beadwork, your handmade evening bag is sure to turn heads and complement any outfit. So gather your materials, follow these steps, and enjoy the satisfaction of carrying a one-of-a-kind accessory you created yourself!