I haven't made mine yet. But, when I was reading the instructions, it sounded like you would do the top stitching all around, leaving the 8" opening. Then you would do a line of stitching 1 1/4" below the top stitching that stopped 7" short of either end. This creates a channel to feed the elastic through, neither end is closed at this point. You would then reach your hand in through the 8" opening and feed the elastic through. Get it in place, pin it and stitch it. I have been day dreaming about making one, convinced myself I have to finish a different project first though...the bag will be my reward!