Easy Valentine Gift Bag Craft

A Valentine present becomes even more special when you present it in this Easy Valentine Gift Bag that you sew yourself. This is a great beginning sewing project for kids and beginners, and the finished bag can be reused again and again. Try making one for Mother’s Day, birthdays, or any holiday. It doesn’t have to be red.

Supplies

• 6″ x 16″ Piece of Fabric
• Scissors
• 20″ of Satin Cord or Ribbon

Instructions

1. Serge or overlock stitch the raw edges of your fabric. If you do not have an overlock stitch, use a zig-zag stitch along the raw edges to prevent fraying.
2. Fold the fabric in half with right sides together. Line up the side edges and top edges. The folded edge will become the bottom of your bag. Press and pin if needed.
3. Sew one side seam all the way up using a 1/4″ seam allowance. Be sure to backstitch at the beginning and end.
4. On the other side, measure down 3/4″ from the top and mark with a pin. Sew the seam from the bottom up to the pin, then stop and backstitch. This small opening will be for the drawstring.
5. Fold the top edge down 1/4″ and press. Then fold it down again 1/2″ and press to create a casing for the drawstring.
6. Stitch around the top edge close to the fold, starting at the pin mark and sewing all the way around. This creates the pocket for your ribbon or cord.
7. Turn the bag right side out and press. Thread your satin cord or ribbon through the casing. A safety pin or small piece of wire can help guide it through.
8. Pull the ends of the ribbon to gather the top closed and tie.

Fun Facts

Valentine’s Day was once celebrated mainly by exchanging simple cards. Over time, it has grown to include candy, flowers, and thoughtful handmade gifts like this one.

Patterns, Templates and Printables

This project does not require a printable template, but you can easily adjust the size by cutting different fabric dimensions. Try making smaller bags for party favors or larger ones for gift wrapping.

Once you learn the basics, the possibilities are endless. Add sequins, beads, or appliqué shapes. Try different fabrics like felt, cotton, or even recycled materials. These reusable gift bags are a fun and eco-friendly alternative to wrapping paper.

Contributor

Terri Bose of MakingFriends.com

Terri is the creator of makingfriends.com, freekidscrafts.com, scoutswaps.com and badginabag.com. Her work is republished all over the internet and is considered the queen of kids crafts.