12 Crafts of Christmas - Reusable Gift Bags

DIY Reusable Gift Bag Tutorial (Overlocker-Friendly!)

I’m sharing how to make a reusable fabric gift bag—the easiest one ever! It only takes three seams and is perfect for beginners or anyone getting comfortable with their overlocker. This project is quick, eco-friendly, and a great way to reduce holiday waste.  This tutorial has been on my YouTube channel with over 1.3k views.

Why Reusable Gift Bags?

This year, I’m using fabric gift bags to reduce paper and plastic consumption. They’re a fantastic stash-busting project, but you can also use festive fabrics if you're feeling extra seasonal!

Materials You’ll Need:

• Main fabric: 50 cm fabric from the bolt
• Drawstring casing: 6 cm x 90 cm.
• Ribbon: About 1 meter (adjust based on the bag size).

Instructions

1. Prepare the Fabric

• Main Bag: Cut a piece of fabric so it is twice the desired finished size.
• Drawstring Casing: Cut a strip 6cm wide and the same length as your bag. Fold each short end in by 1cm, twice, press and sew down.
• Then fold the strip in half lengthwise and press again.

2. Attach the Drawstring Casing

• Find the center point of the casing and the bag fabric.
• Pin the casing to the main fabric, matching the centers.
• The casing will be shorter than the main fabric—this is intentional. Leave some fabric at the edges.

3. Overlock the Raw Edges

• Overlock the casing along the top edge, ensuring the raw edges are neatly finished.

4. Sew the Bag

• Fold the bag right sides together.
• Overlock the two raw edges (leave the casing side open). These are the side and bottom seams.

5. Turn and Press

• Turn the bag right side out.
• Press the seams and casing flat.

6. Thread the Drawstring

• Use a bodkin, safety pin, or plastic dining needle to thread the ribbon through the casing.
• Tie a knot at each end of the ribbon to prevent fraying. For extra durability, lightly melt the ribbon edges with a lighter.

Optional Finishing Touch

Topstitch around the casing to keep it from flipping up or shifting. You can do this by hand or with a sewing machine.

Reusable and Versatile!

These bags can be scaled up or down to fit different gifts. They’re great for:

• Toys
• Pajamas
• Cosmetic bags
• Toy sacks for kids

And best of all? They become part of the gift itself, offering reusable joy for years to come.

Happy sewing, and don't forget to subscribe for more tutorials and tips. 🎄