DIY Drawstring Backpack: Free Sewing Pattern & Tutorial

Oct 28, 2025 by SLV Team 56 views

Hey guys! Are you looking for a fun and easy sewing project? Then you've come to the right place! In this article, we're diving deep into drawstring backpacks, a super practical and stylish accessory that you can totally make yourself. We'll explore what makes drawstring backpacks so awesome, why a DIY approach is the way to go, and provide you with a free sewing pattern and a step-by-step tutorial to guide you through the process. Get ready to unleash your inner sewist and create a personalized backpack that's perfect for your needs! Let's get started!

Why Choose a Drawstring Backpack?

Drawstring backpacks are incredibly versatile and have become a go-to bag for many people. But what makes them so popular? Let's break it down:

Simplicity and Functionality: The beauty of a drawstring backpack lies in its simple design. It's essentially a bag with a drawstring closure, making it lightweight, easy to carry, and quick to open and close. This makes them perfect for situations where you need to grab your belongings in a hurry.
Versatility for Various Activities: Drawstring backpacks are suitable for a wide range of activities. Need a gym bag? A lightweight travel companion? A casual daypack for errands? A drawstring backpack fits the bill perfectly. They can carry your workout gear, a change of clothes, books, snacks, or even your laptop (depending on the size and material).
Comfort and Portability: Unlike bulky backpacks with rigid frames, drawstring backpacks are usually made from soft, flexible materials. This makes them comfortable to wear, especially for shorter periods. They're also easy to fold up and store when not in use, making them a great option for travel.
Style and Personalization: Drawstring backpacks are available in countless styles, colors, and materials. You can find them in sporty designs, trendy patterns, or minimalist aesthetics. And that's where the DIY aspect comes in – you can completely customize your backpack to match your personal style and preferences.
Affordability: Compared to other types of bags, drawstring backpacks are generally quite affordable, especially if you make your own. This makes them an excellent option for students, athletes, or anyone on a budget.

Basically, guys, a drawstring backpack is a fantastic choice if you value convenience, versatility, and style. And when you make one yourself, you get to enjoy all these benefits plus the satisfaction of creating something unique and functional. Now, let's talk about why the DIY route is the best way to go!

The Benefits of DIY: Why Sew Your Own Drawstring Backpack?

Okay, so you know drawstring backpacks are awesome, but why should you sew your own? There are tons of reasons why DIY is the way to go, and here are some of the most compelling:

Complete Customization: This is the biggest perk, hands down. When you sew your own drawstring backpack, you have total control over every aspect of the design. You can choose the fabric, colors, patterns, size, and even add extra pockets or features. Want a super durable canvas backpack with bright floral lining? You got it! A sleek minimalist design in black with reflective accents? No problem! The possibilities are endless. This level of personalization is simply not possible when buying a pre-made bag.
Cost-Effectiveness: Sewing your own drawstring backpack can save you a significant amount of money compared to buying one from a store. Fabric and other supplies are usually much cheaper than the retail price of a finished backpack, especially if you use materials you already have on hand or find on sale. This is a great option for budget-conscious individuals who still want a high-quality and stylish bag.
Sustainable and Eco-Friendly: DIY is a fantastic way to reduce your environmental impact. By sewing your own backpack, you can choose sustainable fabrics like organic cotton, hemp, or recycled materials. You're also reducing the demand for mass-produced goods, which often involve environmentally harmful manufacturing processes. Plus, you can repurpose old fabrics or clothes to create a unique and eco-friendly backpack.
Creative Outlet and Skill Development: Sewing is a fun and rewarding hobby that allows you to express your creativity and develop new skills. Making a drawstring backpack is a great project for beginners, as it involves relatively simple sewing techniques. As you gain experience, you can tackle more complex projects and expand your sewing repertoire. It's a great way to unwind, de-stress, and create something beautiful with your own hands.
A Unique and Meaningful Creation: There's something special about using a bag that you made yourself. It's not just a functional item; it's a reflection of your creativity, your skills, and your personal style. Every time you use your DIY drawstring backpack, you'll be reminded of the effort and love you put into making it. It's a unique and meaningful creation that you can be proud of.

So, guys, if you're looking for a personalized, cost-effective, sustainable, and creatively fulfilling project, sewing your own drawstring backpack is the perfect choice! Now, let's get into the nitty-gritty and talk about the supplies and tools you'll need.

Gathering Your Supplies and Tools

Before you can start sewing your amazing drawstring backpack, you'll need to gather a few essential supplies and tools. Don't worry; most of these are readily available at fabric stores or online. Here's a rundown of what you'll need:

Fabric: The most important part! The type of fabric you choose will impact the durability, appearance, and functionality of your backpack. Here are a few popular options:
- Canvas: A sturdy and durable fabric that's perfect for everyday use. It's available in various weights and colors.
- Cotton: A versatile and breathable fabric that's easy to work with. It's a good choice for lightweight backpacks.
- Linen: A natural and durable fabric with a slightly textured look. It's a good option for a more rustic or bohemian style.
- Ripstop Nylon: A lightweight and water-resistant fabric that's ideal for outdoor activities or travel.
- Duck Cloth: A heavy-duty woven cotton fabric that is similar to canvas but has a tighter weave. It’s very durable and suitable for heavier items.
Consider the intended use of your backpack when choosing your fabric. For example, if you'll be carrying heavy items, a durable fabric like canvas or duck cloth is recommended. If you need a water-resistant backpack, ripstop nylon is a great choice. You'll need approximately 1 yard of fabric for the main backpack and extra fabric if you want to make pockets or use a contrasting lining.
Drawstring Cord: You'll need cord for the drawstring closure. Cotton cord, nylon cord, or paracord are all good options. The length of the cord will depend on the size of your backpack, but approximately 4-5 yards should be sufficient.
Thread: Choose a thread that matches your fabric color and is suitable for the fabric weight. All-purpose polyester thread is a good choice for most projects.
Sewing Machine: A sewing machine will make the sewing process much faster and easier. However, you can also sew the backpack by hand if you prefer. Just be aware that it will take more time and effort.
Scissors or Rotary Cutter: Sharp scissors or a rotary cutter will be needed for cutting the fabric accurately.
Measuring Tape or Ruler: A measuring tape or ruler is essential for measuring the fabric and ensuring accurate cutting.
Pins or Clips: Pins or clips will hold the fabric pieces together while you sew.
Iron and Ironing Board: Ironing the fabric before cutting and sewing will help to create crisp, professional-looking seams.
Seam Ripper: A seam ripper is a handy tool for removing unwanted stitches. Mistakes happen, and it’s best to be prepared!
Optional Supplies:
- Grommets or Eyelets: If you want to reinforce the drawstring openings, you can use grommets or eyelets.
- Fabric Marker or Chalk: A fabric marker or chalk is useful for marking cutting lines and seam allowances.
- Pattern: Of course, you'll need a pattern! We'll provide a free pattern in the next section, but you can also find other patterns online or in sewing books.

Once you've gathered all your supplies and tools, you're ready to move on to the next step: downloading and printing the free sewing pattern!

Free Drawstring Backpack Sewing Pattern

Alright guys, let's get to the good stuff! Here's a free sewing pattern you can use to create your own awesome drawstring backpack. This pattern is designed for beginner sewists and is easy to follow.

[Note: Due to limitations in this format, a visual pattern cannot be directly embedded here. Instead, you would typically provide a link to download a PDF pattern or a series of images with measurements. For example:]

Download the FREE PDF Pattern Here: [Insert Link to PDF Pattern Here]

This PDF pattern includes all the pattern pieces you'll need to make a basic drawstring backpack. The pattern is designed for a medium-sized backpack, approximately 14 inches wide and 17 inches tall, but you can easily adjust the size by adding or subtracting inches to the pattern pieces. The PDF will include:

Main Body Panel: This is the main piece of fabric that forms the body of the backpack. You'll need to cut two of these pieces.
Bottom Panel (Optional): This is a separate piece of fabric that forms the bottom of the backpack. Using a separate bottom panel adds durability and structure. You'll need to cut one of these pieces.
Drawstring Channel: These are the pieces of fabric that create the channel for the drawstring. You'll need to cut two of these pieces.

Pattern Printing Instructions:

Download the PDF pattern to your computer.
Open the PDF file using Adobe Acrobat Reader (or another PDF viewer).
Print the pattern at 100% scale (actual size) on standard letter-size paper (8.5 x 11 inches).
Make sure the scaling is set to “None” or “Actual Size” in your printer settings to ensure the pattern prints at the correct size.
Some patterns may consist of multiple pages. Tape the pages together along the indicated lines to form the complete pattern pieces.

Don't have a printer? No worries! You can easily create your own pattern by drawing the pieces directly onto fabric or paper using the measurements provided in the next section. It's a great way to practice your drafting skills and customize the size of your backpack.

Now that you have the pattern, let's talk about how to use it to cut your fabric. Accurate cutting is crucial for a well-made backpack!

Cutting Your Fabric

Once you've downloaded and printed your pattern (or drafted your own), the next step is to cut your fabric pieces. Accurate cutting is essential for a professional-looking finished product, so take your time and be careful.

Prepare Your Fabric: Start by ironing your fabric to remove any wrinkles or creases. This will make it easier to cut accurately and ensure your pattern pieces lay flat. Fold your fabric in half, right sides together (if applicable), to cut two pieces at once.
Lay Out the Pattern: Place the pattern pieces on your fabric, making sure to align them with the grain of the fabric (usually indicated on the pattern piece). The grainline runs parallel to the selvage edge of the fabric. Pin the pattern pieces to the fabric or use pattern weights to hold them in place.
Cut the Fabric: Using sharp scissors or a rotary cutter, carefully cut around the pattern pieces, following the cutting lines. If using scissors, cut with long, smooth strokes to avoid jagged edges. If using a rotary cutter, use a cutting mat to protect your work surface.
Transfer Markings: If your pattern includes any markings, such as notches or dots, transfer them to the fabric using a fabric marker or chalk. These markings will help you align the pieces correctly during sewing.
Cut Additional Pieces (Optional): If you're adding pockets or other features to your backpack, cut out the necessary pieces according to your pattern or design. Remember to add seam allowances to all pieces unless otherwise indicated.

Cutting Tips:

Use Sharp Tools: Sharp scissors or a fresh rotary cutter blade will make cutting much easier and more accurate.
Cut on a Flat Surface: Work on a large, flat surface to ensure your fabric lays flat and doesn't shift during cutting.
Cut Inside the Lines (If Necessary): If you're using a thick fabric or want a slightly smaller finished product, you can cut slightly inside the cutting lines.
Label Your Pieces: Once you've cut out all the fabric pieces, label them with the pattern piece name using a fabric marker or chalk. This will help you keep track of the pieces during sewing.

With your fabric cut and labeled, you're now ready to start sewing your drawstring backpack! Let's move on to the step-by-step sewing tutorial.

Step-by-Step Sewing Tutorial

Okay, guys, the moment we've all been waiting for! It's time to transform those fabric pieces into a functional and stylish drawstring backpack. This tutorial is designed for beginners, so we'll break down each step clearly and concisely. Grab your sewing machine, thread, and let's get started!

[Note: Since this is a text-based tutorial, visual aids like photos or diagrams cannot be directly included. For a complete tutorial, you would typically include detailed photos or illustrations for each step. However, we'll provide clear written instructions so you can follow along.]

Step 1: Prepare the Drawstring Channel

Take your two drawstring channel pieces and fold them in half lengthwise, wrong sides together. Press with an iron to create a neat crease.
Open up the folded pieces and fold the raw edges in towards the center crease. Press again.
Fold the pieces in half along the original crease, encasing the raw edges. Press one last time. You've now created a double-folded hem that will form the drawstring channel.
Pin or clip the folded edges in place.
Sew along the open edge of each drawstring channel, close to the edge, to secure the fold. Use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of about 1/8 inch.

Step 2: Attach the Drawstring Channel to the Main Body Panels

Take your two main body panel pieces and lay them right side up.
Position the drawstring channels along the top edges of the main body panels, aligning the raw edges. The folded edge of the drawstring channel should be facing upwards, away from the raw edge.
Pin or clip the drawstring channels to the main body panels, ensuring they are securely attached.
Sew along the raw edges, attaching the drawstring channels to the main body panels. Use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/2 inch.

Step 3: Attach the Bottom Panel (Optional)

If you're using a bottom panel, pin it to the bottom edge of one of the main body panels, right sides together. Match the center points and the corners.
Sew the bottom panel to the main body panel, using a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/2 inch. Repeat for the other main body panel.

Step 4: Sew the Main Body Panels Together

Place the two main body panels right sides together, aligning the side and bottom edges. Pin or clip the edges together.
Sew along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top open. Use a straight stitch and a seam allowance of 1/2 inch. Remember to backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam to secure the stitches.
If you've used a bottom panel, you'll be sewing around the bottom corners. Take your time and pivot the fabric carefully to create neat, rounded corners.

Step 5: Finish the Seams

To prevent fraying and create a more professional finish, finish the raw edges of the seams. You can use a serger, a zigzag stitch, or a pinking shears.
If you don't have a serger, a zigzag stitch is a simple and effective option. Sew a zigzag stitch along the raw edges of the seams, close to the edge.

Step 6: Create the Drawstring Openings

On each drawstring channel, locate the side seams where the channel is attached to the main body panel.
Using a seam ripper, carefully create a small opening (about 1 inch long) in the seam allowance on each side of the drawstring channel. These openings will be used to thread the drawstring through.
Optional: If you're using grommets or eyelets, install them in the drawstring openings according to the manufacturer's instructions. This will reinforce the openings and prevent them from tearing.

Step 7: Thread the Drawstring

Cut your drawstring cord into two equal lengths.
Attach a safety pin to one end of one piece of cord. This will help you thread the cord through the drawstring channel.
Insert the safety pin into one of the drawstring openings and thread the cord all the way around the drawstring channel until it comes out the same opening.
Repeat the process with the other piece of cord, inserting it into the other drawstring opening and threading it around the drawstring channel until it comes out the same opening.

Step 8: Tie the Drawstring Ends

Remove the safety pins from the drawstring ends.
Tie the ends of each cord together in a secure knot. You can also use cord locks or other decorative closures if desired.

Step 9: Turn the Backpack Right Side Out

Carefully turn the backpack right side out through the top opening.
Use your fingers or a point turner to push out the corners and create a neat shape.

Step 10: Admire Your Handiwork!

Congratulations! You've just sewn your own drawstring backpack! Fill it with your belongings and show off your amazing creation.

Customization Ideas: Make Your Backpack Unique

Now that you've mastered the basic drawstring backpack pattern, the real fun begins! Here are some ideas to customize your backpack and make it truly your own:

Add Pockets: Pockets are a great way to add extra storage and organization to your backpack. You can add exterior pockets, interior pockets, zippered pockets, or even slip pockets for your phone or water bottle. Consider adding a large front pocket for easy access to frequently used items.
Use Different Fabrics: Experiment with different fabrics to create a variety of looks. Try using contrasting fabrics for the main body and the drawstring channel, or add a fun lining fabric for a pop of color. You could even use quilted fabric for a more structured and padded backpack.
Add Embellishments: Embellishments are a fun way to personalize your backpack. Try adding patches, embroidery, fabric paint, or even studs and rhinestones. Get creative and express your unique style!
Adjust the Size: The basic pattern can be easily adjusted to create a backpack of any size. Simply add or subtract inches to the pattern pieces to create a smaller or larger backpack.
Add a Lining: Adding a lining to your backpack will make it more durable and give it a more professional finish. A lining also adds an extra layer of protection for your belongings.
Add a Carrying Handle: If you prefer to carry your backpack by hand, you can add a carrying handle to the top. Simply cut a strip of fabric, fold it in half lengthwise, and sew it to the top of the backpack between the drawstring channels.
Use Different Drawstring Closures: Instead of a simple drawstring, you can use other types of closures, such as a toggle closure, a magnetic snap, or even a zipper.

Conclusion: Unleash Your Creativity and Sew Your Own Style!

So there you have it, guys! You've learned how to sew your own drawstring backpack from scratch, and you've discovered a whole world of customization possibilities. Drawstring backpacks are incredibly versatile, practical, and stylish, and when you make your own, you get to create a bag that's perfectly tailored to your needs and preferences.

Whether you're a beginner sewist or an experienced crafter, this project is a fun and rewarding way to express your creativity and develop your sewing skills. So grab your fabric, gather your supplies, and let your imagination run wild! Sew a backpack for yourself, for your friends, or for your family. The possibilities are endless.

Remember, the most important thing is to have fun and enjoy the process. Don't be afraid to experiment, make mistakes, and learn along the way. Sewing is a journey, and every project is a chance to learn something new. So go ahead, unleash your inner sewist, and create a drawstring backpack that's as unique and awesome as you are! Happy sewing!