• Weekend Bag Shoulder Strap
  • Illustrated structured handbag with closeup of strap
  • Illustrated belt bag with closeup of strap

    • Bag Strap

    carry on!

    Good news: bag straps provide beauty and function! Straps help you comfortably carry a bag in one or more different ways. They come in many shapes, sizes, and materials, and are designed to handle the weight of what’s in your bag. They can be sewn in place or removable, fixed length or adjustable, and matching or contrasting the bag.

    You can have as much or as little hardware as you want on a strap. Do you want an all-metal chain strap, or maybe one with leather interwoven into the chain? Do you want a fun printed webbing strap with minimal hardware? Or maybe a sophisticated (faux) leather strap with some added bling? All of these are possible with the right skills for the materials and hardware you’re working with.

    Straps are an integral part of bagmaking, so make sure to devote time to making them!

    It is also referred to as: crossbody strap, shoulder strap, wrist strap, adjustable strap, belt strap

    Size Matters

    The thickness of a strap is just as important as the width and length. Depending on your sewing machine and any hardware you want to use, you may need to limit or reduce your strap layers.

    Consider the bag size and shape when deciding on the straps to make for it. While you might be able to use a rivet to attach a very small strap to a wallet, you will need a more substantial method for a larger bag. How will your planned strap(s) look on the bag? Are there placement considerations that may affect any dimension of the strap you need to make?

    When selecting hardware, make sure the strap will work with the hardware dimensions. For example, a strap end should have the exact width as your strap, and might accommodate a thicker strap. A strap slider/adjuster might require a thin or single-layer strap.

    Question: Is the length of the strap important?

    Answer: Absolutely, even if the strap is adjustable for length. A crossbody strap needs to be long enough to be worn across the body, including over a coat. Handles for hand carrying should be a comfortable fit in the hand and around the wrist: not too tight, and not excessively loose. Shoulder straps should comfortably hang from the shoulder and keep the bag from impeding arm movement. If you’re making a custom bag, be sure to ask the client for any preferences in length!

    Question: Can I buy pre-made straps for a bag I’m making?

    Answer: Yes! There are a few options. You can buy complete straps, handles, or chain straps, ready to attach to your bag. You can also make a semi-DIY strap using webbing and a precut (faux) leather webbing end, which allows you to easily attach a d-ring or swivel hook. If you’re attaching a webbing strap directly to the bag or making webbing backpack straps, you can use webbing end hardware to cover the cut end of the strap so it doesn’t fray.

    Common Styles

    • Straps come in many shapes, sizes, lengths, and materials. A small clutch might only need a single lightweight wristlet strap. A carryall bag needs sturdy straps, or even multiple types of straps. You might have a long crossbody strap accompany short handles meant for hand carrying. A bag with double shoulder straps might also offer an optional removable strap. Some straps can even convert a bag into a backpack!

    Inspiration