As we’ve been getting my daughter ready to head off to her first year of college, I realized that some items are best purchased and some items are best made by mama. This easy diy laundry bag uses repurposed pillow cases and is much stronger than a purchased laundry bag.
I found these cute king size pillow cases on sale at Target, but you could easily use thrifted ones or one you already have. A king size pillow case is the perfect size for a laundry bag. You could use a standard size pillow case, but it would be a bit small for most college students’ use. I purchased coordinating cording from the fabric store, but you could use an old shoe lace or cording you already have.
Wash both pillow cases. Turn one inside out and place it inside the first. Be sure to line the side seams and the bottom corners up well. Using 2 pillow cases makes the laundry bag much stronger (remember how much laundry you used to stuff in your college laundry bag?) and makes it pretty both inside and out.
Sew 2 seams about an inch apart around the top of the pillow cases. Be sure to leave about a 3/4 ” opening on the side of the top seam so that you can insert the cording.
Use a safety-pin to thread the cording through the bag to create a drawstring. Knot the end of each side of the cording and then knot both pieces together so they don’t slip through the bag.
Voila! In less than 15 minutes, you have a diy laundry bag that is both strong and pretty or cool (your choice). You can easily coordinate it with your bedding or interests.
More easy sewing projects:
I’m a mom of 3, a veteran and military spouse. I’ve moved into 20+ homes all around the world. My passion is helping busy people make the space and time for what’s really important to them.
Cynthia L says
I really love this idea and wish I would have thought about it 4 years ago! My daughter has gone through 3 of the purchased laundry baskets! These are cuter than the ones you buy at the store too!
susan says
I think making these laundry bags is my new obsession, Cynthia. They’re so easy to make.
Holly @ Coconutheadsurvivalguide says
Hi Susan – What a great idea and I love that it’s also much sturdier. Needed for college! Hugs, Holly
Leah says
Don’t you just love seeing those red clearance tags at Target? So cute and a great idea!
susan says
Thanks, Leah, and yes, those tags are my favorite sight at Target.
Patti says
Hi Susan,
This is a great idea for college kids. So easy too. Can’t wait to tell mine.
Have a great weekend!
Patti
susan says
Patti, thanks. My daughter seems to like hers so far.
Skye says
So glad to have found this tutorial! I am on the “sunshine committee” for the students from my church who are away at college. These laundry bags will be a fun, easy-to-make, and useful gift to give them at the start of the school year. 🙂
susan says
Skye, what a fun committee to be a part of. Have fun making and giving these easy laundry bags.