an bagmaking essential
As you can tell by the name, webbing or strap ends are used to cover the raw, unfinished ends of a webbing or other strap. If folding/stitching strap ends is too bulky or just not your style, it’s strap ends to the rescue! This way of finishing a strap is sleek and adds some bling.
There are two different styles of webbing/strap ends. One style is a clamp version with “teeth”, intended for webbing or very thin straps. You apply this style using a mallet or a hand press tool. Make sure you protect your strap and the hardware! You don’t want any scratches or snags.
Another style covers more of the strap end and is more substantial. It usually has a nice shape, too! This style is attached to your strap with set screws and can accommodate a thicker strap.
It is also referred to as: tail clip, belt tip
Webbing and strap ends come in various styles and sizes. Common widths range from 19 to 38mm (3/4″ to 1 1/2 inches).
A strap end should have the exact width as your strap.
When you buy a webbing or strap end, the size that is indicated refers to the inner width of the strap end. This is the most important measure since you have to match it to the width of the strap you intend to use with it.
Side note: The strap end you want to use depends on the strap.
- Straps that are made out of webbing work well with webbing ends.
- Custom-made straps from (faux) leather, canvas, or fabric need strap ends that accommodate the thickness (channel depth) as well as the width.
FAQ
Answer: There is a very small tolerance allowance. Do a test fit to make sure your strap will work with your hardware. Ideally, the strap matches the hardware width exactly.
Answer: Yes! Think of comfort in addition to style. A bag that is intended to be filled to the brim will weigh a lot, and a skinny strap would be very uncomfortable for the wearer. Similarly, a small delicate bag would not need a thick, wide, leather strap.
Strap ends come in many shapes and sizes, including different thicknesses, and open or closed sides.
Webbing ends come in different widths, and are typically used for webbing or very thin handmade straps.
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Since strap ends are attached with tiny set screws, you will need to punch holes in your strap. Remove the screws from the hardware and tuck the end of your strap inside, with the holes on the underside of your strap. Mark where the holes are, remove the hardware, and punch holes where you marked. The holes should be approximately the same diameter as the set screw. Add a small amount of glue inside the strap end and also on the tips of the set screws, insert your strap, line up the holes, and screw in the set screws.
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You need a mallet or hand press to add a webbing end to a webbing strap. Add a very small amount of glue to the inside of the webbing end. Insert the end of the strap into the webbing end. Surround the hardware with a scrap of fabric or leather to keep it from getting scraped. Using a mallet or hand press, clamp the webbing end shut.
Tip: If you are using nylon or polyester webbing, burn the cut ends to keep them from fraying.
