This drawstring bag is made of a reversible jacquard fabric, with three pieces alternately combined. Depending on how you tie the string, it can be used as a tote bag or a shoulder bag. The fabric used for this bag is “Anpan,” a representative pattern of the “MUDDY WORKS” series. The jacquard woven in Nishiwaki, Hyogo Prefecture, the birthplace of Banshu weaving, is soft and has a unique sheen. With the small Anpan (Japanese sweet bean bun) pattern, it can be used in a variety of ways, such as for clothing and scarves.
Fabric shown for this sample: EKX-139-1A
Materials:
- Fabric: 34cm x 66cm
- Fusible Interfacing (medium weight) (RakuHari Presion Interfacing): 28cm x 40cm
- Artificial Leather Tape: 2.5cm wide x 37cm
- Waxed Cord: 0.3cm diameter x 1.8m
Size:25.5cm (l) 28cm (w)
We interviewed Satomi about her creation:
Kokka Fabric (KF): What did you think of the fabric you used for this project?
This jacquard fabric is very soft and relatively thin, so I made a ruffled drawstring bag with beautiful gathering. The bag is designed in a simple form without a gusset so that the Anpan pattern will stand out.
KF: Can you tell us any special elements or ideas that you incorporated into this creation?
Taking advantage of the reversible fabric design, three pieces are sewn together alternately on the front and back sides to play with the fabric. The lining side is a single piece of fabric applied with a convenient interfacing (Presion). It is a very easy process, making the back side beautiful. By attaching the tape on the sides from the front, the shape of the bag becomes more solid and it changes its look into a structured bag.
KF: What are some tips for making this bag?
Adjust the opening for the string according to the size of the string.
KF: How should we incorporate this bag into one’s styling?
It is even easier to use if you add a pocket inside. By tying the string in a different way, you can carry it easily like a tote bag. In addition, if you pull only one string, it becomes a shoulder strap, which is very convenient. It will make me happy if you can make many bags in various colors and patterns and use them to accessorize your styling.
KF: Thank you very much, Satomi! Here are sewing instructions along with step by step photos from her. Enjoy crafting!