DIY crossbody bag (Sew a sling bag) – Make a crossbody bag
Learn how to make a crossbody bag from scratch! This page introduces a simple DIY crossbody bag project and shows how to sew a sling bag step by step. Perfect for anyone looking to make a DIY crossbody bag at home.
Materials for a handmade crossbody bag (Sling bag making materials)
For the outer fabric of the crossbody bag (sling bag) body, prepare two pieces measuring approximately 28cm × 18cm (including seam allowance), with fusible interfacing applied to the back.
For the upper gusset of the crossbody bag (sling bag), prepare two pieces of fabric measuring 5.5cm × 35cm (including seam allowance, with fusible interfacing applied).
Prepare one 35cm nylon coil zipper.
For the lower gusset of the crossbody bag (sling bag), prepare one piece of fabric measuring 10cm × 43cm (including seam allowance, with fusible interfacing applied).
The fabric pieces for the tab are two pieces, each measuring 6cm × 5cm (including seam allowances).
The fabric pieces for the lining of the main body of the crossbody bag are two pieces, each approximately 28cm × 18cm (including seam allowances).
The lining fabric used for the upper gusset of the crossbody bag (sling bag) consists of two pieces, each measuring 5.5cm × 35cm (including seam allowances).
The lining fabric used for the lower gusset of the crossbody bag is one piece measuring 10cm × 43cm (including seam allowances).
The fabric used for the shoulder strap of the crossbody bag is one piece measuring 10cm × 82cm (including seam allowances, with fusible interfacing applied).
The side fabric pieces for attaching to the shoulder strap are four pieces, each measuring 7cm × 12cm (including seam allowances).
Make the shoulder strap and tabs for the crossbody bag (sling bag)
1. Fold the fabric for the crossbody bag’s shoulder strap 1cm in from the edges, then fold it in half lengthwise.
When making the folds, it’s recommended to use a hot hemmer (hot ironing ruler). It helps create crisp folds and results in a cleaner finish for the crossbody bag.
https://www.jewel-track.com/en/post-628-en2. Stitch the edge.
3. Sandwich the crossbody bag’s shoulder strap between the side fabric pieces and sew around the edges.
4. Turn inside out, and stitch the edges.
5. For tabs, fold the hems and fold in half.
Make the outer fabric of the crossbody bag (Make the outer bag of the sling bag)
1. Sew the upper gusset of the crossbody bag (sling bag) and the zipper together with the right sides facing each other.
2. Stitch the edge.
Unlike metal zippers, nylon coil zippers are thin and flexible, making length adjustment easy. The linked page explains how to shorten them by cutting with scissors and how to attach nylon coil zippers.
3. Sew tabs to both ends of the zipper.
4. Sew the upper gusset and the lower gusset of the crossbody bag (sling bag) together with the right sides facing each other.
5. Press seam allowances to lower side, and stitch.
6. Sew the shoulder strap onto one piece of the fabric for the main body of the crossbody bag.
7. Sew the main body of the crossbody bag and the gusset together with the right sides facing each other. (Keep the zipper open.)
※The most difficult part of making a crossbody bag is sewing along the curved sections. Take your time and sew carefully.
Make the lining of the crossbody bag (Make the inner bag of the sling bag)
1. Fold the seam allowance on the opening side of the upper gusset of the crossbody bag.
2. Sew the inner body, same way as the outer.
Sew the outer fabric and lining together to finish the crossbody bag
1. Place the outer fabric and lining of the crossbody bag right sides facing out together, and sew the lining to the zipper.
2. This completes your handmade crossbody bag (sling bag).
Making movie is the following.