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Upcycled Bandana DIY Drawstring Bag

Oh happy day! It’s Reduce, Reuse, REFASHION time! That means is the last Tuesday of the month (gasp…already?!?). Sigh…well time flies when you’re having fun…er…in lockdown. haha. I found a slew of these brand new bandanas at the thrift store and am geared to make upcycled bandana drawstring bags, plus a fun extra project too.

Thrifted Bandana's Before Upcycled to Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

For real tho, I’ve had these in my stash for a few years, yes, YEARS. I bought them when my 3rd daughter was little and had the intention to make play skirts and dresses for her. I blinked and now my 4th daughter is receiving the benefit. Tell me I’m not alone in this, k?

These bandanas were brand new at the thrift store and I’m assuming someone had a party or something and didn’t need these. I love bandanas for hair accessories, cleaning doo-rag, and so much more. They’re a timeless piece of Americana.

DIY TIME

However, because my little doesn’t need more skirts, I decided to make one skirt (I’ll share that at the end), and a few upcycled bandana drawstring bags. Ya know, like the hobo looking kinda thing we used as kids to tie to a stick? Dems da good ol’ days.

Handmade Bandana Drawstring Bag by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces with video tutorial | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #fashion #upcycle #farmhouse #sewing

These are perfect for gift-giving, Easter baskets, make-up storage, snack bags…you get the idea. Just adjust the diameter for your needs. Think BIG for kids toys or small for hide-away bags for purses and duffel bags.

If you’d like to create one of these too, I’ve created a video tutorial for you below. In addition, I have the steps written out for you here as well.

Materials:

  • Bandana or cotton fabric
  • 19″ square PUL fabric + scrap
  • satin cord: 2 – 41″ lengths
  • 2 cord stops(optional)
  • ¼” or larger grommets or eyelets – this kit is awesome or a
  • thread – coordinating

TOOLS

    • serger and/or sewing machine
    • fabric scissors
  • sewing measuring tape
  • sewing clips
  • disappearing fabric pen or pen
  • crochet hook or large safety pin (for threading cord)
  • large paper for circle template

Step 1

First, you’ll need to create a 19″ circle template. You can use paper, cardboard, hardboard, or even a heavier fabric. I saved old desktop calendars because my kids and I love to draw on the backside of them. Plus, they are awesome for making my patterns. I had to tape two together to make this large of a circle.

To get the perfect circle, I use a pencil and twine or ribbon. Place a pushpin in the center and make the ribbon 9 ½” from pin to pencil. That will give us a 19″ diameter circle. Cut out the circle.

Paper Circle Template for Upcycled Bandana Drawstring Bag Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

*note: You can make this circle as large or as small as you like. I’m gaming to make use of as much of the bandana as possible. However, you can make it a large 3 ft diameter for Legos or toys, or super small for jewelry. The options are limitless for these.

STEP 2

Next, use your paper template to cut out a circle out of the bandana. The round thing in the middle is a stack of 3 large metal washers wrapped in fabric. I LOVE having several sizes of these as my pattern weights. You need to make you some, just sayin’.

DIY Pattern Weight by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Also, use the template and cut out a circle of PUL too.

Bandana and PUL Layers of DIY Drawstring Bag by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

STEP 3

Now that you have your circles cut, it’s time to add the funk. First, measure 1 ½” from the edge on one side and also on the opposing side and mark.

Measuring for Grommet on DIY Upcycled Bandana Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

Since I plan to make about a ½” channel for my cord, I cut a scrap of PUL about 1″ x ¾” square and sew it centered over my mark. You can use a standard needle on your machine for sewing the PUL.

PUL Facing for Grommets | prodigalpieces.com

STEP 4

Next, take your grommet set or Crop-a-Dile and punch a centered hole through both layers.

Grommet Hole Made with Crop-a-Dile | prodigalpieces.com

Insert the grommet or eyelet and press with your tool.

Set eyelet in Upcycled Bandana Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

STEP 5

In this step we put the two circles right sides together (the fabric with designs facing). I prefer to use these sewing clips to hold my work. With PUL, the less holes you make the better for moisture control.

Right Sides Facing of Bandana Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

Eyelets Inside Out for Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

Then, we will serge the edges together starting by leaving an opening at each grommet or eyelet. This means you will have two different passes. You can also use a zig-zag stitch on your sewing machine.

Turn the circles right side out through one of the spaces we left open.

STEP 6

Now, we’re going to create the cord casing by top-stitching. We are creating two stitch passes that will be closed differently.

Bandana Drawstring Bag Stitch Pattern for Cording Channel | prodigalpieces.com

First, using the stitched box of PUL around the grommet as reference, begin making a curved stitch. However, in this first pass you can close the stitch the entire way around.

Next, you’ll create another stitch pass to create the casing. This will be about ¾” out from your first stitch pass.

Sewing Casing for Drawstring Bag by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

However, this time, you will NOT be closing the casing. You’ll want to use the diagram above to start at the grommet and finish at the opposing grommet. Then, do the same for the other side.

STEP 7

Time to insert the cording. I prefer to use a crochet hook to pull my cording through. I tie a tight know and hook it on. Then, insert the hook with hook end last.

Inserting Circle Drawstring Bag Cording | prodigalpieces.com

Drag through the casing all the way around until you come back out where you entered. Once you have both ends out, insert them through the grommet.

Threading Drawstring Cord Thru Grommet | prodigalpieces.com

At this point, you can add the cord stops, but I don’t always find them necessary. It depends on the fabric you’re using.

Adding Cord Stop to Circle Drawstring Bag | prodigalpieces.com

Then, turn your circle to the other grommet opening and insert the second cord using the same steps.

STEP 8

Last, turn the open edges by your grommets in and top-stitch them closed. You’re done!

DIY Bandana Drawstring Bag with Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #sewing #fashion #upcycle #refashion #handmade

Blue Bandana Drawstring Bag by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #handmade #sewing #fashion #bag

For contrast, I did a bag in the manner I’ve seen others do and I didn’t like the outcome. One cord with stop, plus casing is at the top edge. I explain in my video below. See the difference?

Drawstring Bag Side-by-Side Comparison | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

 

DIY Upcycled Bandana Drawstring Bag Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com

The bag that has the casing down lower creates that ruffle that cinches it up tight with two cords AND also encloses your valuables.

DIY Upcycled Bandana Drawstring Bag in Green by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #sewing #crafts #giftidea #easter

Handmade Makeup Bag DIY Video Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #sewing #makeup #women

So…are you ready to sew? You can do this! My goal every time I create content is to inspire you in your own DIY journey. In addition, I’m eager to help, so feel free to ask any questions.

Super Fun Upcycled Drawstring Bags by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #sewing #upcycle #crafts

ONE LAST THING

Before I wrap this upcycled bandana fun, I’m going to quickly share how I made a skirt for my littlest.

DIY Bandana Skirt for Girls by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #kids #clothes #skirt #upcycled

It is so easy to make…really! Here it is in a nutshell. First, I took 3 bandanas and joined them together on their short edge with a serger (or zig-zag) stitch to make a tube.

DIY Bandana Skirt Tube | prodigalpieces.com

Then, take an edge and fold it down ½”. Next, fold down that fold to make another edge 1″ down. You’re making a casing for the elastic to hold the skirt up.

Sew along the bottom edge of that fold, leaving a space open to be able to insert the elastic.

Bandana Skirt Waist Sewn | prodigalpieces.com

To know how much elastic, just pull a length around your girls waist and make it tight enough, but not too tight. Insert the elastic with a crochet hook just like for the bags. However, you will need to leave the very end in the opening space and stitch it down with a zig-zag stitch.

Threading Elastic into Bandana Skirt | prodigalpieces.com

Finally, once the elastic is thread through, stitch the other end down. Last, top-stitch your casing opening close. Viola!

Handmade Bandana Skirt for Girls Tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #kids #handmade #clothes #fashion

And that’s all folks. Leave me a comment telling me what you’d use your bag for. In addition, pin and share my upcycled bandana bags to inspire others too.

How cute are these?!? Whip up some upcycled bandana drawstring bags for your friends, family and YOU. Video tutorial by Larissa of Prodigal Pieces at prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #sewing #upcycle #gift #easter #handmade #refashion

To get these DIY tips & tricks in your inbox, be sure to sign up for my newsletter. Until next time!

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Also, more sewing fun like my upcycled bandana bags:

Handmade Feedsack, Linen, and Leather Purse by Prodigal Pieces | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces

Sew much fun! You can create these upcycled sock dolls & animals with just a few supplies. It all starts with SOCKS! Head to Prodigal Pieces to get the DIY details | prodigalpieces.com #prodigalpieces #diy #handmade #toys #dolls #crafts #giftidea #kids

Comments

  1. Debbie Leonhardt says

    Thank you! When I locate the bandanas stash I will make a skirt for a wee girl I know! Hugs!

  2. Frances Batson says

    Love the bags. I kept a bag ready for the hospital when my husband would need to go to the ER and this would be great to keep items separated.

  3. Trish says

    Larissa i really love both ideas. It’s hard to chose one over the other. The skirt is so darling though.

    • Larissa says

      aww…thanks so much! She wouldn’t wear it at first when I made it in the fall, but when she finally did she got so many comments she is now wearing it daily. haha! 😀

  4. Christy says

    Such cute projects! Your daughter totally steals the show though…cutie! XO

    • Larissa says

      Thanks! Finally made use of that stash. Now to unload my 5 other tubs. haha!

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Client Love

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

~ Laurel

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:34:13-04:00

~ Laurel

I love it! Larissa is amazing. She listened to what I wanted and then she took care of the rest! This is my second piece I've bought from her and I'm in love! I highly recommend her.

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

~ Stephanie

Prodigal Pieces
2020-03-21T21:39:34-04:00

~ Stephanie

I love this cart, it's exquisite. The item was received in extremely secure packaging, no damage to the item. The delivery person was very professional and courteous. Larissa of Prodigal Pieces is so very amazing. A rating of 10 is deserved. Thank you, Larissa.

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

~ Mikki

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2020-03-21T21:43:16-04:00

~ Mikki

I should have left this review MONTHS ago! I absolute love this lunch bag. I honestly carry this 5 days a week. It is the perfect size! Not only can you put your lunch in it, it can also hold your book. I enjoy reading at lunch, so I have all I need in one cute bag. Thank you so much Larissa!

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2020-03-21T21:45:37-04:00

~ Sharon

Awww…I love this sweet Cat with an attitude!! SO SO adorable! Well worth the money, and he will become a priceless treasure in my home! Thanks Larissa for always making your ideas turn into true treasures!

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2020-03-21T21:52:00-04:00

~ Deanna

Perfect purchase from start to finish! Absolutely adorable piece so creatively thought out. Packed with the greatest of care with lightening fast delivery. Very customer-oriented and friendly crafter. Could not ask for more! Thank you!
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