How to make an adjustable bag strap

Hello lovelies!

Today I thought I'd post a tutorial on how to make an adjustable bag strap. Or if you live over t'other side of the pond an adjustable purse strap.

My new bag pattern (eee!) is hopefully coming out later on this month..no, wait, next month, June, and it will include instructions for an adjustable strap.

So I thought I'd post a picture heavy tutorial in case anyone needs some extra guidance. I don't want to load my pattern full to bursting!

I've picked up this method through various books, tutorials and a bit of trial and error!

Ok, to begin with my buckle and triglide had a 1.5" width inside. So I made my strap pieces 52" x 6" and 10" x 6".

If your buckle was 1" then you'd need 52" x 4" and 10" x 4". If your buckle was 1.25" you'd need 52" x 5" and 10" x 5". Get it? I'm not very good at maths but you multiply the interior of your buckle by 2 and then multiply that by 2 again.

Spray starch will make this so much easier and your folds crisper. It's only cheap so invest in a can, you can thank me later!

Ok, step 1) Start with your short strap piece, it's easier to man handle!

Step 2)

Step 3) repeat for the bottom.

Now your short strap piece is ready, start on your long strap piece. Yes, it really does need to be 52". Unless you're making it for a child or an elf in which case you can shorten it to suit.

Ok, now your pieces are folded they should stay (if you used starch like I told you to) but a couple of pins never hurt anyone. Except when you get spiked with a pin, that hurts.

Anyway, topstitch your short piece down the two long edges (you can do all 4 if it makes life easier) and around all 4 for your long piece. You might want to change to a heavy-weight needle for this and practise with your tension before starting...things are GOING TO GET CHUNKY!

I've done a folded piece of paper for sewing chunky things picture in case you want to pin it, my boards are full of tips!

This is what you should end up with, two strap pieces ready for the hardware.

Ok, on to the adjustable strap making bit.

That's it, just sew either end of your strap to the top of your bag, sew your lining in and you're ready to go. If there's anything missing or you're not sure of anything give me a shout and I'll try to help.

I promise it's not as complicated as the pictures make out and it's easier when you are actually doing it yourself. :)

Alternatively you could use a plastic buckle and triglide set which are cheap and freely available all over the internet!