If you're looking for a fun and creative DIY project, consider making your own blind bags. Not only is it a great way to upcycle materials you already have, but it's also an excellent opportunity to customize your storage solutions. Plus, blind bags make wonderful gifts! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to make your own DIY blind bags, perfect for organizing small items, jewelry, toys, or even snacks.
Before you start, gather your materials. You'll need fabric, scissors, needle and thread, a pencil, a ruler, and optionally, a sewing machine for a faster process. Let's dive into the tutorial!
Designing Your Blind Bag
First, decide on the size and shape of your blind bag. Consider what you'll be using it for – smaller bags are great for trinkets, while larger ones can hold make-up, stationery, or even food. For this guide, let's focus on a medium-sized rectangular bag.
Using your pencil and ruler, draw out a template on your fabric. For a simple rectangle, you'll need two identical pieces. If you're feeling adventurous, consider cutting out shapes or patterns. Just remember, each side with a seam will need to have an overlap for sewing.
Calculating the Template Size
Let's calculate the size of your template. We'll make a bag that's 8 inches wide, 6 inches tall, and 3 inches deep. Start by cutting out two pieces of fabric that are 8 inches wide and 11 inches tall (including a 1-inch overlap for the bottom seam).
For a shaped bag, you can play around with different designs. Just ensure each side with a seam has an overlap for sewing, and remember to turn your bag right-side-out after sewing!
Sewing the Bags' Sides
Now, let's start sewing the sides of your bag. With one piece of fabric facing up, start at the top of one of the short edges, and fold over a 1/4-inch hem. Press it and pin in place.
Using your needle and thread (or sewing machine), stitch along the crease you've just pressed. Repeat this process for the other side of your bag. Next, pin the two pieces of fabric together with the right sides facing each other. Sew along all four edges, leaving the bottom open.
Creating the Blind Bag's Bottom
To create the boxed bottom for your blind bag, we'll make a simple fold-over drawstring acrylic box. This adds structure and makes it easy to close your bag. Start by cutting four pieces of fabric, each 3 inches wide and 2 inches tall.
Fold over one end of each piece, creating a 1-inch hem. Stitch it in place. Next, align these pieces to form a box shape on the bottom of your bag. Pin it in place and stitch all around the edges, careful not to sew the bottom closed!
Attaching the Drawstring
Now, let's add a drawstring to close our blind bag. Cut a piece of fabric about 3/4-inch wide and 24 inches long. Fold it in half lengthwise, then stitch along the long edge, leaving one end open. This will create a casing for your drawstring.
Turn the casing right-side-out, then insert a piece of cotton cord or string through it. Tuck one end of the cord under the stitched edge of the casing at the open end of the bag. Pull the other end through the casing until the cord is taut, then knot the ends together.
Finishing Touches
Finally, turn your bag right-side-out, and pull the drawstring cords to close the bottom. Your blind bag is now ready to use, or you can add a personal touch with some decorated fabric, appliqués, or a customizable label.
Making your own DIY blind bags is a rewarding project that lets you flex your creative muscles. They're perfect for organizing, gifting, or simply adding a personal touch to your space. So go ahead, grab your supplies, and start creating!