installation instructions FAQ & sizing
  • Illustrated weekend bag with closeup of bag feet

    • Bag Feet

    a bagmaking essential

    Bag feet are used to protect the bottom of a bag from dirt and wear and tear.

    You can find metal as well as plastic or rubber feet. Bag feet are available as prong-, rivet-, and screw-together styles. Prong-style bag feet are very common due to ease of installation, but are the least durable of the three. The other two types are more expensive, but this pays off in terms of longevity.

    It is also referred to as: studs, bottom studs, bottom nails

    Size Matters (A Little)

    Bag feet come in various sizes, shapes, and installation methods. Though generally the same size visually, the key part is determining how thick or thin a layer you need for a successful installation.

    Prong-style bag feet can be installed through most thicknesses. You just bend the prongs to secure the bag feet in place.

    The more durable and often more luxurious screw-in style of bag feet need a more precise installation. If the layers are too thick, you won’t be able to screw the bag foot securely. If too thin, you’ll need to add filler layers to take up the extra space.

    The most finicky of all are rivet-set bag feet. Not only do you need to consider the layer thickness, you also need special tools to install the rivets.

    Question: How many bag feet do I install in a bag?

    Answer: It’s your preference! Bag feet are typically sold in packets of 4–6. Some bagmakers prefer to install 5, while others prefer to install an even number of 6.

    Question: Are there any tips for placement?

    Answer: Definitely measure your placement with a ruler. It will be noticeable if you just ‘wing it.’ Also keep in mind your seam allowances! You don’t want your bag feet to end up right near the seams in a finished bag, because they likely won’t rest flat on the ground.

    Question: Can I move the location of a bag foot and reinstall if I mess up?

    Answer: No, because the holes you make for the bag feet are permanent. Mark your placement and make sure you’re happy with them before making any holes!

    Common Styles

    • Bag feet come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, with three types of installation methods (prong, screw, or rivet).

    How to Apply

    Select one of the following for bag feet installation steps.

    Illustration of bag feet placement step 1

    Step 1

    Decide whether you want 4, 5, or 6 bag feet.

    Illustration of bag feet placement step 2

    Step 2

    Measure, and measure again! Make sure everything is evenly spaced.

    Illustration of bag feet placement step 3

    Step 3

    Remember to consider your seam allowances! Don’t install bag feet too close to the final seams.

    Illustration of screw-in bag feet step 1

    Step 1

    On the wrong side of the bag bottom, on top of any interfacing or stabilizer, mark the placement for the holes.

    Illustration of screw-in bag feet step 2

    Step 2

    Carefully punch the holes using a handheld tool or table press.

    Illustration of screw-in bag feet step 3

    Step 3

    Place the screw through the hole from the wrong side of the bag bottom. Add a tiny bit of glue to the cap.

    Illustration of screw-in bag feet step 4

    Step 4

    Screw the bag foot together. Wipe away any excess glue immediately.

    Illustration of screw-in bag feet step 5

    Step 5

    Cover the screws with tape to protect the rest of the bag. Repeat for the number of bag feet you are installing (4, 5, or 6).

    Illustration of pronged bag feet step 1

    Step 1

    On the wrong side of the bag bottom, on top of any interfacing or stabilizer, use a washer to mark the placement for the slits.

    Illustration of pronged bag feet step 2

    Step 2

    With a sharp crafting knife, carefully cut the slits through all the layers.

    Illustration of pronged bag feet step 3

    Step 3

    Place the washer on top of the wrong side of the bag, and press the prongs of the bag foot through the slits and washer from the right side of the bag bottom. Bend the prongs outward.

    Illustration of pronged bag feet step 4

    Step 4

    Cover the prongs with tape to protect the rest of the bag. Repeat for the number of bag feet you are installing (4, 5, or 6).

    Inspiration