Yes, your bag is washable!
First, dump out the loose chalk and invert the lining to remove as much chalk as possible. I like to take mine outside and beat it against the grass or a rock so there’s less chalk caught in the fleece of the lining. Next just wash the bag separately on a cold, gentle machine cycle (by hand works too) and air dry.
Washing can help to smooth out the drawstring action if your cord has gotten coated with chalk during use, and of course will remove dirt from the cute print that you worked so hard to choose!
Closing the drawstring tightly:
Hold the drawstring enclosure fabric away from the grommet when you pull the drawstring, so that the two ends of the cord do not pinch the fabric and draw it into the grommet hole. If the fabric pulls into the grommet the bag may not close as tightly as possible and this also puts wear on the cord, causing more friction between the cord and grommet. If your cord wears out eventually, you can find tips on replacing it here.
Chalk bucket tips:
While in use, roll the top down and outward twice so that the velcro and buckle are covered up by the top closure fabric. This makes the bag dimensions the most stable while sitting on the ground and keeps the velcro from getting full of chalk.
To close, press the velcro together at the top of the bag, roll the top twice to one side, and clip the buckle. This creates a double seal to keep the chalk inside and conveniently forms a handle for carrying your bag. :)