In this article, I will guide you through the process of making your very own cross body strap. Whether you're an experienced bag maker or a beginner, this project is perfect for adding a personal touch to your bag making projets. So, let's dive in and learn how to make a stylish and functional cross body strap that will take your bag to the next level!
Making your cross body strap.
Measure and cut your cross body strap:
Start by measuring the desired length and width for your cross body strap. Consider the size of your bag and how you want it to hang. Typically, a comfortable finish length is between 40-50 inches (adjust as needed). For the width, 1 to 1.5 inches is a good range, depending on your preference. I cut my cross body strap out at around 56-60 inches but tend to just use the full width of my chosen fabric, and then multiple my width by 4 to work out the width I need to cut, for example a 1 inch cross body strap I will cut out at 4" x 60"
Reinforcing your cross body strap (Optional):
If you want extra strength and structure for your strap, you can apply fusible interfacing to the wrong side of your fabric pieces. Follow the manufacturer's instructions for applying the interfacing. A piece of stabiliser the width the of the finish strap can also be used to give extra strength and to stop the strap stretching, cross grain ribbon can also be used in the same way
Folding the cross body strap
Mark the centre of you strap piece fold each edge into the centre and press if using cotton fabric, if you are using vinyl or a material than can be pressed use some double sided tape along the edge so that when the fabric is folded in, the double sided tape will hold it securely in place. Once each edge has been folded to the centre fold along the centre line so that the two folded edges meet and use clips to keep in place.
Sewing the cross body strap.
Using a sewing machine sew a straight stitch along each edge of the strap, using around 1/8" allowance and a top-stitching length stitch on your machine. Sew both edges going in the same direction as this will stop the strap from wanting to curl and twist, if you have a walking foot on your machine you wont need to so that and the cross body strap can be sewn in either direction.
Adding your cross body strap hardware.
Start with the triglide strap adjuster feed through one end of the cross body strap and loop over the middle section of the glide, using either rivets or your sewing machine secure the edge of the cross body strap down. With the cross body strap laid flat and facing upwards (so you can see the end of strap you have just secured) feed the other end through the swivel lobster clasp right to left. You are then going to feed that end of the cross body strap through the tri glide strap adjuster and out the other side. At this point I turn my strap over again to feed the strap through the other lobster swivel clasp again going right to left. This will ensure your hardware is all facing the correct way.
Finishing Touches:
Trim any loose thread if you want to add bag strap ends to the cross body strap you can do this now, this will give the cross body strap a professional and classy finish.
Congratulations! You've just created your own stylish cross body strap to elevate your bag making game. With a few simple materials and some basic sewing skills, you can now customise your bags with unique and trendy accessories. Experiment with different fabrics, colours, and patterns to match your personal style and create eye-catching cross body straps that make a statement. Now, go rock that new cross body strap and showcase your Me Made Makes with pride!
I hope this article has been helpful,
Until next time happy sewing
Deb xx
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