Crafting Crossbody Straps: Discover 3 Techniques for Stunning Results
When it comes to bag making, the crossbody strap is the perfect blend of function and style. But have you ever wondered how to make straps that look professional while being totally customisable? Well, you’re in for a treat! In my latest video on The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube Channel, I guide you through three fabulous methods for making your own crossbody straps. Whether you prefer the simplicity of cotton, the sleek look of vinyl, or the bold contrast of a two-tone strap, this tutorial has something for everyone.
Grab a cuppa and settle in, as I’ll give you a little sneak peek at what you can expect from the video – but trust me, you’ll want to head over to YouTube to catch all the details!
Cotton Double-Fold Strap: Simple and Sturdy
First up is the cotton double-fold strap – an absolute staple in any bag maker’s toolkit. It’s straightforward to sew and results in a neat, polished strap with no raw edges. By cutting your fabric 4 inches wide, you’ll end up with a lovely 1-inch finished strap that’s just the right balance of width and strength.
I even share a nifty trick for joining shorter pieces seamlessly using a diagonal seam – perfect if you’re working with leftover fabric scraps. And, of course, a bit of pressing magic and some topstitching bring it all together beautifully.
Vinyl Double-Fold Strap: Sleek and Stylish
Next, we switch gears with the vinyl double-fold strap. Now, I know vinyl can feel a bit intimidating to work with, but don’t worry – I’ve got loads of tips to help you along the way.
Forget pressing – vinyl doesn’t play well with heat. Instead, I show you how to use double-sided tape to fold the edges perfectly, and a rolling tool to flatten everything out. Topstitching the vinyl strap gives it a professional, high-end look, and I finish it off with strap ends and rivets. If you’ve ever wanted to take your bag-making game up a notch, this is the strap for you.
Two-Tone Strap: A Perfect Combination
Finally, there’s the two-tone strap – a gorgeous mix of cotton and vinyl. This one’s a bit of a showstopper, combining the softness of fabric with the sleekness of vinyl.
The trick here is to make the cotton piece slightly narrower than the vinyl base, so when they’re layered and topstitched together, the result is a crisp, clean strap with a striking contrast. It’s perfect for adding a pop of personality to your bag designs, and the layering ensures it’s sturdy enough for everyday use.
Adding Hardware Like a Pro
No strap is complete without hardware, right? In the video, I also demonstrate how to attach tri glides, lobster clasps, and D-rings so they stay secure without twisting. There’s nothing worse than fiddly hardware ruining your beautifully made strap, so I’ll guide you step-by-step to get it spot on.
Why Watch the Full Video?
While I’ve shared a little taste of the techniques, the magic is really in the details – and that’s where the video comes in. You’ll see exactly how to handle each material, topstitch perfectly, and even customise your strap lengths to suit any project. Plus, I’ve packed the tutorial with tips to make working with vinyl and cotton a breeze, from interfacing to hiding those pesky thread ends.
Whether you’re looking for a sleek vinyl strap, a sturdy cotton one, or something with a bit of flair like the two-tone option, this tutorial has you covered. By the end, you’ll have the skills and confidence to craft straps that are as beautiful as the bags they’re attached to.
Head over to The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube Channel now to watch the full video – and don’t forget to let me know which strap method is your favourite.
Until next time, happy sewing and may your bobbin always be full
Deb x
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