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Make an adjustable bag strap: Free sewing tutorial!

Make an adjustable bag strap: Free sewing tutorial!

by | Mar 6, 2023 | Care and Repair, Fabric, Interfacing and Interlining, Project Ideas, Quilt Fabric, Sustainable Sewing, Tutorials

I recently found this fab vintage bag in a charity shop but the strap was too short for my liking… I decided to replace the strap so I could wear it cross-body, whilst adding a pop of rainbow at the same time ✂️ So here’s a quick post on how to make an adjustable bag strap!

This is a really easy project – knock one up in less than 30 minutes ⏰

Knowing how to make an adjustable bag strap is a really useful skill to have in your sewing techniques toolbox… I’ve replaced quite a few of the straps on my daughter’s bags as she’s grown… it’s also a great option if a current bag strap is uncomfortable, or just a bit tatty & worn out.

Replacing the strap can prolong the life of your fave bag, or just give it a new look! You only need a few supplies too!

Scroll down for a written tutorial or catch the vid below…

How to make an adjustable bag strap

A sewing project for: Beginner Friendly

Sewing Time: Under an hour

 

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

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Need to know:

  • For steps using machine sewing, straight stitch, backstitching at the start & end using stitch length 3mm unless otherwise stated.
  • Read through the instructions fully before starting

Disclaimer: Strangulation hazard: Children must be supervised at all times.

You will need:

Thank you for supporting our online shop with your sewing shopping… It means the world to us & enables us to keep putting out FREE content like this for you to make & create ❤️

We have an amazing selection of bag hardware and notions… check out our full range of bag-making supplies here

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

 

  • 2m of your chosen webbing of strapping
  • 2 x swivel clips (also know as dog hooks) that match the width of your webbing or strapping
  • 1 x slider that match the width of your webbing or strapping
  • 2 x D-Rings (optional – if you’re using an existing bag then you are likely already to have D rings already sewn in)

Sewing Equipment You Will Need:

Make a replacement cross-body bag strap

  1. Cut off the original strap
2. Thread 1 end of your webbing/ strapping through from the underside of the strap slider. Bring the end over the central bar then thread back through to the back

3. Sew the end to secure – a zipper foot can make this easier

4. Thread a swivel clip/ dog hook onto the strap. Hook on the opposite side to sewn hem near the slider

Want to know your #5 from your #3 zip?  Check out our Zip Type Guide

5. Checking the strap isn’t twisted, thread the unsewn end of the strap through the slider

6. Thread the unsewn end through the remaining swivel clip

7. Sew the strap end down to secure the hook around the final swivel clip

8. Clip and go!

And you’re finished, well done!

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13 Tips For Sewing With Bamboo Towelling Fabric

13 Tips For Sewing With Bamboo Towelling Fabric

by | Oct 5, 2021 | Bamboo towelling, Cloth Nappy Making, Fabric, Fabric Guides, Fabric Information Guide, Product Guides, Project Ideas

Bamboo is one of the most sustainable sources on the planet, but did you know that it can be used to produce a soft, strong and eco-friendly textile that is perfect for keeping cosy, mopping up spills and a variety of re-usable projects?!

Non? Well!  In this guide we’ll be talking aaalllll about bamboo towelling fabric, sharing how this super-fabric is made and giving you 13 sewing tips for handling this fluffy little fella of a fabric…

What is Bamboo Towelling fabric?

Bamboo Towelling is a natural textile, and is considered one of the most eco-friendly fabrics available! Bamboo was traditionally used in Asia to make paper, but the pulp is now used to make a variety of eco-friendly and useful textiles, including Bamboo Towelling, Bamboo Jersey, Bamboo Velour, Bamboo French Terry and more mixed fibre textiles.

Boring Legal Bit: If you follow any tutorial or guidance found in this post, or on this blog, you agree to be bound by our disclaimer which can be viewed here

Bamboo textiles are described as eco-friendly as the bamboo plant grows multiple new shoots a year, and with little intervention naturally replenishes. Both the plant and its products are 100% biodegradable and it is said to be the most renewable source on the planet, due to the usable oxygen it produces to offset carbon.

Bamboo Towelling fabric is made from the pulp of bamboo grass. The fibre is made by pulping the bamboo grass until it separates into thin fibrous threads, which are then spun, dyed and woven into cloth.

It is supersoft, with a smooth side and a fluffy side, whilst also being extremely strong, hardwearing, and constructed for maximum absorption – with pile loops or three dimensional weave structures. It is said to be 300% more absorbent than Cotton, and holds its shape much better than other fibres used for towelling offering comfort and support.

Bamboo textiles have a similar softness to silk, due to the lack of chemical treatments in their production, and so are perfect for those who require hypoallergenic textiles. There are no short, sharp fibres to irritate the skin as they are naturally smoother and rounder, and the fibre is 100% natural.

Bamboo material is also naturally antibacterial and antifungal, due to the presence of a natural anti-bacteria bioagent, ‘Bamboo-Kun’, which helps the bamboo plant survive and flourish in the wild with little to no human intervention, pesticides or fertilisers. Bamboo textiles have other interesting health related properties, such as their natural UV resistance, helping protect skin against cancers, making them perfect for leisurewear and sportswear.

Bamboo plants regulate their internal temperature well, and this is a property bamboo textiles also have. They keep you cool in summer and warm in winter, due to the cross section of the bamboo fibre being covered with small gaps, meaning better moisture absorption and breathability. They are also very effective at wicking moisture away from the body.

We stock a variety of different Bamboo Towelling fabrics, in a selection of luxury natural shades, perfect for a variety of different projects with an eco-friendly vibe!

Preparing and Cutting Bamboo Towelling

It is essential to pre-wash Bamboo Towelling fabric. Not only can it shrink quite considerably, it also sheds a lot of lint in the first few washes, so pre-washing will help remove the bulk of this without clogging up your sewing machine. Using fabric softener is also said to reduce the amount of lint produced, and cool machine wash and line dry for the best result.

Ideally press Bamboo Towelling with a ‘self’ pressing cloth, and iron on a cool heat. This will prevent the pile and texture of the towelling from flattening and losing shape as easily.

When cutting, mark the right side of the fabric with a pin, and use long, flat pins like flower head pins to keep the pattern pieces in place. Use sharp scissors, a rotary cutter can be tricky to use due to the textured surface but can be used. Mark any notches with pins or clips to prevent the towelling from splitting beyond the seam allowance.

We recommend buying an extra 25cm / ¼ y for every 2m / 2y you purchase for your project to allow for shrinkage – any leftover towelling would be great to use in one of our reusables projects like our Un-Sponges or Un-Paper Towels!

13 Sewing & Handling Tips For Bamboo Towelling

  1. What needle should I use for bamboo towelling? –  Sharps or Universal machine needles work well with Bamboo Towelling in a size 80/12 or 90/12. Always use a new needle to avoid snags or tension issues.
  2. What thread should I use for bamboo towelling?  – A cotton all purpose thread , polyester thread or silk thread work well. Matching the composition of the fibres and choosing something natural like Cotton or Silk is preferred.
  3. Should I pre-wash bamboo towelling? Yes! There maybe be some shrinkage of bamboo towelling so it’s advisable to purchase a little extra (1/4m for every 2m required)
  4. How do I mark bamboo towelling? It can be tricky to mark towelling fabric.   A Chaco Pen works well with the pile. It is also a good idea to mark the right side of the towelling with safety pins
  5. How do I cut bamboo towelling? – Use a rotary cutter & mat or scissors. If you are making a garment you should follow the “With Nap” cutting layout.
  6. What stitch length do I need for bamboo towelling?  – A good stitch length to use is 3-3.5mm
  7. Should I use interfacing with bamboo towelling? Interfacing isn’t usually required with bamboo towelling as the fabric has quite a lot of body on its own.
  8. How do I hem bamboo towelling? Overlock or flatlock the raw edge then turn up the required hem and stitch in place with a 4mm stitch. You need a longer stitch because of the bulky layers
  9. Should I use facings with bamboo towelling? – Avoid using facings where possible as this can become very bulky. Instead add ribbing on places like necklines, or use cotton binding strips/bias binding. 
  10. What machine foot do I need for bamboo towelling? – You can use a regular sewing foot on your machine but if you are sewing layers of different fabric types then a walking foot will hel
  11. What seam finishes do I use for Bamboo Towelling – You can simply use plain, pressed open seams, or overlock for a professional finish. Piped and bound seams work well on Bamboo Towelling as you can encase the raw edge which can break down and lint after use and washing.
  12. What edge finishes do I use  for Bamboo Towelling? – Most edges are either overlocked for a basic finish, or most commonly bound with piping or bias binding, encasing the raw edge in a coordinating printed cotton binding, piping or braid.
  13. What closures should I use for bamboo towelling? – generally zips are not advised for bamboo towelling as the fabric is too bulky. KAM snaps may be used, use long pronged if you have lots of layers. You can also use button holes

What can I make with Bamboo Towelling?

Lots of things! There are many projects that are suitable for this fluffy and absorbent fabric. Some ideas are:

For free tutorials and other ideas, check out our blog series.

Looking for Bamboo Fabric in the UK? We have a few options available on our website, including bamboo towelling, bamboo velour and other absorbent material. 

Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier

by | Oct 2, 2021 | Fabric, Interfacing and Interlining, Project Ideas, Quilt Fabric, Sustainable Sewing, Tutorials

♻️ Hands up if you’re trying to reduce your plastic waste! Ditching plastic bottles of water in favour of a refillable water bottle is a no-brainer, right? Then you’ll need our free pattern for a water bottle carrier, for sure!

And our pattern is really cleverly crafted too!

We’ve designed this water bottle carrier with children in mind… so us grown-ups can feel less like a cart-horse & empower the youngsters to carry their own water 💦  

The clever thing about this pattern is the multi-way strap – kids can carry their water on their scooter, their book bag OR wear it cross-body

Watch the multi-way strap in action to see what we mean below

AND the wadding we’ve chosen is amazingly effective – we’ve used Insul-Bright – a  Thermal Insulated Wadding which will help to keep water bottles cooler for longer… 

And – let’s face it –  it’s not just for kids… Grown-ups would love one too!

You can feel proud of your sewing prowess, whilst helping the planet at the same time!

Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier

Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier

A sewing project for: A Confident Beginner

Finished Dimensions: 19cm x 9cm approx (excluding strap). This carrier is sized to fit a water bottle with a 23cm circumference and fits most water bottles we tried

Sewing Time: Sew in an afternoon

Need to know:

  • 1cm seam allowance throughout, unless directed.
  • For steps using machine sewing, straight stitch, backstitching at the start & end using stitch length 2.5mm unless otherwise stated.
  • When topstitching – use a 3-3.5mm length & stitch approx 3mm from the seam
  • Prepare your fabrics as per the manufacturer’s care advice
  • WST = Wrong Sides Together
  • RST = Right Sides Together
  • Read through the instructions fully before starting  

Disclaimer: Strangulation hazard: Children must be supervised at all times.

Request The Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier here:

REquest the Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier
Item:Amount required:We used
Fabric A: Cotton fabric for Outer Top Contrast1 Fat QuarterFabrics from the Acorn Wood Collection
Fabric B: Cotton fabric for Outer Main1 Fat QuarterFabrics from the Acorn Wood Collection
Fabric C: Cotton fabric for Lining1 Fat QuarterFabrics from the Acorn Wood Collection
Fabric D: Insul-Bright 40cm x 50cmInsul-Bright 
25mm Webbing2m25mm Cotton Canvas webbing
25mm Slide buckle/ Glide buckle1Hemline Slide Buckle
25mm Dog hooks/ swivel clips (20mm will also be ok) We used2Metal Heart Shaped Swivel Clip
25mm D rings2Metal D-Rings
KAM snaps size 202 setsKAM snaps

Sewing Equipment You Will Need:

Make Life Easier With

Firstly, grab your Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier here

RRequest the Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier

1) Request , Print & Cut Out The Free Pattern For A Water Bottle Carrier

  1. Use the 1” test square to check the sizing. If the sizing is incorrect check print settings. Depending on the device used, select ‘actual size’ or deselect the “Fit to page” option.

Using the pattern pieces as templates pin & cut out the following from the fabrics *: 

From Fabric A: 

  • 1 x Outer Top Contrast*

From Fabric B: 

  • 1 x Outer Main*
  • 1 x Base Circle

From Fabric C: 

  • 1 x Lining Main*
  • 1 x Base Circle

From Fabric D ( Insul-Bright Insulated Wadding):

  • 1 x  Lining Main
  • 1 x Base Circle

* For directional fabrics the shorter edge on the pattern pieces runs top to bottom of the finished carrier

2) Transfer the pattern markings  

It’s time to sew!
1. Align the bottom edge of the outer top contrast piece with the top edge of the Outer Main piece right sides together & pin
2. Sew, then press the seam allowance open

3. Draw a line 1cm up from the bottom of the outer & lining pieces on the wrong side

Baste the Insul-Bright

  1. 4. Baste the Insul-Bright main panel to the wrong side of the sewn outer panel, aligning at the top edge. The Insul-Bright should be 1cm shorter than the outer panel 
  2. 5. Baste the Insul-Bright in place around the top and 2 sides, 5mm from the edge. Do not baste along the bottom edge.
  3. 6. Baste the Insul-bright base onto the lining fabric base. NB: basting the Insul-Bright base to the lining & side to the outer panel makes sewing a small circle easier

Assemble the side panels

  1. 7. Fold the lining panel in half bringing the short side edges RST & pin
  2. 8. Sew the side seam, leaving a 10cm opening for turning
  3. 9. Repeat steps 7 & 8 for the outer panel, but omit the turning gap

 10. Trim back the Insul-bright bulk. Press the seam allowances on the outer & lining panels open.

11) On both the lining & outer panels snip around the bottom edges; make cuts that stop 2mm from the 1cm marked line, approx 1cm apart

Add the base circles to the outer & lining side panels

12) On both outer & lining pieces, mark ¼ points on the base circles & bottom edges
of the side panels:
a) On the side panels, fold the fabric on the seam & smooth & fold it across;
the seam line is a one-quarter point & the fold crease is another. Bring
those points together & smooth the fabric out to the sides; mark where the
next 2 folds form.
b) For the base circle, fold it in half, make marks at each end of the fold line.
Fold it in half again and mark both layers of fabric where they fold.
13) One at a time, match up the quarter points on the side panels & base circles & pin
14) Pin the fabric between the ¼ points, using the snips to help ease the fabric
around the outer edge. Aligning the fabric edges & pinning where the seam line will be sewn will help accuracy.

15) Sew the base circles in place. Dropping your stitch length to 2mm will help you
sew the curve. Keep adjusting the fabric on your sewing machine to ensure you don’t
sew in any puckers.
16) Trim back any Insul-Bright in a seam to reduce bulk
17) Turn outer piece right side out

Add the straps to the water bottle carrier

18) Cut 2 x 32cm (12 ½ “) lengths
of webbing
19) At one end of each length,
Create a double fold – turn over 1cm, then another 1cm & sew to hem with a longer stitch length (If your sewing machine struggles with the bulk here, just fold one
hem & seal the webbing end with Fray Stop or a zig-zag stitch)
20) Position the unhemmed strap ends between the notches on the outer piece, edges aligned & clip
like the photo.
21) Baste each strap in place with a 5mm seam allowance

Eleanor Harris (American, 1901-1942)

Assemble the water bottle carrier

22) Position the outer panel inside the lining panel, right sides together, seams
aligned, straps sandwiched between the layers & clip around the top edge
23) Starting at the centre back seam, sew all the way around the top
24) Turn the bottle carrier out the right way & press. A Tailor’s Sleeve Roll is a handy
tool here

25) Machine sew the opening in the lining closed, or hand sew using a ladder stitch
26) Topstitch around the top of the carrier

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Adding KAM snaps

27) Add male KAM snaps at the marked positions on the carrier, with the smooth cap on the inside: 

c) At the centre of the snap placement mark use an awl to make a hole through the carrier, ensuring the fabrics are smooth

d) Thread the cap prong through the hole from the inside of the carrier

e) Slip the male snap socket onto the cap prong on the outer of the carrier

f) Sit the snap cap flush into the black dish of the plier base

g)Position the pliers on a solid surface & press firmly (lean into the pliers for added force) until the snap is fixed in place

28) Add the female KAM snaps to the strap ends – When positioning, ensure the snap cap is clear of the hemmed strap end or it may be too thick to attach properly

a) Use the awl to make a hole 2cm from the end, central to the width of the strap

b) Thread the cap prong through the hole from what will be the outside of the strap. Double check the female snap will fit the male part without your strap twisting before applying the snap

c) Follow the steps as before, using female snap piece

Watch our video tutorial on how to attach KAM Snaps here or check out our Beginner’s Guide to KAM Snaps post

Make the adjustable multi-way strap

29) Using the remaining webbing, thread 1 end through from the underside of the
strap slider. Bring the end over the central bar then thread back through to the
back
30) Sew the end to secure – a zipper foot can make this easier

31) Thread a swivel clip onto the strap, hook on the opposite side to sewn hem near the slider32) Checking the strap isn’t twisted, thread the unsewn end of the strap through the slider

33) Thread the unsewn end through the remaining swivel clip

34) Sew the strap end down to secure the hook around the final swivel clip

35) To add the strap to the carrier, thread the D rings onto the grab handles then clip and go!

And you’re finished, well done!

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Get Set for Back To School and Sew a Fabric Notebook Cover in 30 minutes!

Get Set for Back To School and Sew a Fabric Notebook Cover in 30 minutes!

by | Aug 9, 2021 | back to school, Fat Quarter Friendly Project, My Makes, Project Ideas, Tutorials

Are you ready to get the kids back to school? Sew a fabric notebook cover in no time. With the first school run of the year just around the corner, we thought this tutorial would be handy to get you and the kids prepared for the lessons to come.

Pin for later!

Take a look at the tutorial HERE

You may have seen our Father’s Day notebook covers earlier in the year, but this time we have super sized them into A4 ready for all those school books. How impressed will the kids be with a cool fabric notebook to show off in September? Not only will they protect the covers, but they’ll also look super stylish and make a perfect gift, personalised to their taste.

Never miss another tutorial or guide…

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Why not use a fabric that relates to the subject the notebook is for? We have some fabulous music themed fabrics from Nutex and the Venom Black fabric from the Beguiled collection would be perfect for an art journal!

For this project you will need…

1 FQ Cotton Fabric

1 FQ Decovil Light

1m Fold Over Elastic (We used Black Fold Over Elastic)

Thread (We used Gutermann 38)

To access the tutorial just check out our blog! All you have to change is the size when drafting the pattern.

SEW A 30 MINUTE NOTEBOOK COVER

We can’t wait to see your finished notebooks!

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Get 3 FREE Christmas Projects straight to your inbox!

by | Jul 5, 2021 | My Makes

If you’re feeling Christmas ready like us, you’ll want some free Christmas projects to get your teeth into right?

Well, we have a super offer where not only do you get 10% off when you shop in our Christmas shop until July 18th, you’ll also get these 3 FREE Christmas projects winging their way to your email inbox with every purchase from the Christmas Shop!

Free Christmas project
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