DIY Projects & Crafts Sewing Drawstring Pouches Whether you're packing a suitcase or storing items at home, these drawstring pouches are handy to have around. Made in a range of sizes, they are perfect for stowing jewelry, shoes, and even laundry. By Martha Stewart Editors Martha Stewart Editors Facebook Instagram Twitter Website An article attributed to "Martha Stewart Editors" indicates when several writers and editors have contributed to an article over the years. These collaborations allow us to provide you with the most accurate, up-to-date, and comprehensive information available.The Martha Stewart team aims to teach and inspire readers daily with tested-until-perfected recipes, creative DIY projects, and elevated home and entertaining ideas. They are experts in their fields who research, create, and test the best ways to help readers design the life they want. The joy is in the doing. Editorial Guidelines Updated on September 20, 2018 Share Tweet Pin Email Even a beginner can easily master sewing this drawstring bag. It requires just a few straight seams, and introduces the method of sewing a channel at the top (in this case, for a pair of ties used to cinch the bag closed). Dimensions for bags are as follows: shoe bag, 15 by 37 inches (finished size 13 by 17 inches); lingerie bag, 10 by 28 inches (finished size 8 by 11 inches); jewelry bag, 9 by 17 inches (finished size 7 by 7 inches). The amount of fabric will depend on desired size of bag; wool suiting and cotton shirting are shown. For more ideas, scroll through our entire collection of Handmade Clutches and Handbags. What You'll Need Materials Assorted fabric (Pictured: Tahoe flannel, $10.80 per yard; Kona cotton, $7.60 per yard, purlsoho.com) Sewing machine Sewing supplies Iron 1/2-inch or narrower bias tape, twill tape, or cord (optional) Instructions Cut out 2 rectangles from fabrics that pair well together (1 for outside, 1 for lining). Pin rectangles, right sides facing, along long sides; sew with a 1/2-inch seam allowance. Turn right side out; press with an iron. For channels, double-hem short sides: Fold over 1/2 inch, then 1 inch, and pin in place; edge-stitch 1/8 inch from inner edge. Fold bag in half, outside fabric facing, so hems meet. Stitch long sides with a 1/4-inch seam allowance, stopping 1 1/2 inches from hems (to accommodate channels). For ties, use bias tape, twill tape, or cord. If you prefer, make your own: Cut 2 strips of fabric 2 inches wide by twice the length of top of bag plus 3 inches. Fold edges in lengthwise so they meet in the middle; press. Fold strip in half lengthwise; press again. Make an 1/8-inch edge stitch along open edge. Attach a safety pin to 1 tie and thread through both channels, working left to right. Do the reverse with other tie, threading from right to left. Knot ties; turn bag right side out.