Make these easy drawstring pouches by upcycling old t-shirt sleeves. The hem makes the perfect already-made hem enclosure, making this project quick and simple.
Turn the sleeve inside out. Cut it into a symmetrical shape, just slightly bigger than you want the finished pouch to be.
Sew down the side(s) of the sleeve, if you have cut it. If the sleeve is square enough, you can leave the sides as is.
Sew the bottom seam closed. If you have a serger, use that to have tidy seams. If not, consider using a zigzag stitch and cut off excess fabric neatly and carefully.
Turn the sleeve/pouch right side out again. You have finished sewing!
To finish up the drawstring closure, you will need to make two small holes in the top layer of fabric (only) in the tube seam at the top of the bag, on either side of the seam. You'll have to make 4 slits, 2 on each side.
Using a safety pin to help pull it through, pass the cording or ribbon through the hem enclosure. Start on one side and pull the string out the hole on the other side. Then, pull the cording through the other side back to where you started.
Here you can see how I have pulled the cording through the drawstring enclosure. This is enough for a single drawstring pouch.
If you are making a double drawstring, you'll have to repeat the process with another cord using the holes on the opposite side.
To make a double drawstring that is easily closed, you'll need to use another cord, pulling it through the enclosure from the opposite side.
Tie the ends of the cord(s) together, and you have finished making your drawstring pouch!
Video
Notes
Use the bottom hem of the shirt to make larger drawstring bags. Use the sleeves to make smaller pouches. Small pouches can be used to organize small objects or as gift pouches.