Burda WOF April 2009 - #147 Bottle Bags

This was a fast and easy project to sew! I found it in the Burda World of Fashion April 2009 issue's Children's Fashion section on Page 58. All you need to do is measure your water bottle from the neck down and add 3 1/4" to the length to allow for tying the bottom shut. Then measure the circumference and add 3/4" for the seam allowance. For the Costco/Kirkland water bottle, your measurements will be 8 3/4" length and 9" circumference. Or just make it easy and cut a 9" x 9" scrap of fabric. (Bandanas would be a good source of material, too - especially if you find them on sale.) If you still have the selvedge, you can arrange your layout and use that for the top to save an extra step finishing one of the edges. If you want to add trim to the top and bottom, do it before you sew the side seam - it's still doable if you change your mind and want to do so afterwards, as I did. The strap measures 28 inches. Burda suggests 3/8" ribbon or Fast-Turn loops. I butted the edges of the lace to make a wider strap. Because of the weight of the bottle, you may want to consider a ribbon or strap to be about 1" for comfort. I also used a new, leftover children's shoe lace to tie the bottom closed. Easier to tie and untie to let the cover dry out between uses. If you want to use ribbon, you'll need about 6 inches or a little bit longer.

I think this would also make a cute birthday or pool party favor - with different fabrics they can easily identify their own water bottle. While obviously not that practical on warm days, it's an easy way to transport your bottle for a walk or to free your hands if you plan to drink your water sooner than later.