Have you ever fallen in love with a bag pattern, only to wish it included hidden strap connectors? Don’t worry—I’ve got you covered! In this video on The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube channel, I’m sharing a detailed, step-by-step guide to adding hidden strap connectors to any bag project. Whether you’re working with vinyl, cork, or fabric, this technique will give your bag a sleek, professional finish. Let me walk you through the highlights of the video, but don’t miss the full tutorial for all the essential tips and tricks!
Adding hidden strap connectors to a bag can seem daunting, but it’s actually much simpler than you’d think. In this video tutorial, I break it down into easy-to-follow steps so you can confidently create a seamless look for your next bag. Let me give you a glimpse of the process!
Preparing Your Materials
In this demo, I used a 1-inch strap connector folded and top-stitched, paired with a 1-inch D-ring. Following the pattern’s guide for connector placement, I marked where the connectors would go on the vinyl. It’s always a good idea to double-check your measurements at this stage—precision is key for a clean result.
Marking and Cutting the Opening
This is where the magic begins! I started by marking the bottom line of the connector placement, matching the width of the connector (1 inch in this case). To ensure the strap fits snugly, I measured a quarter-inch depth for the connector opening. Then I drew additional lines to form a triangular guide, making it easier to cut accurately.
When cutting, only the diagonal and shorter lines were trimmed to create the perfect slot. It’s worth taking your time here—clean cuts make all the difference!
Attaching the Connector
With the opening ready, it’s time to insert the strap connector. I started by threading the D-ring onto the connector strap and carefully positioning it into the opening. This part can be a bit fiddly, but once everything is aligned, the results are so satisfying!
Stitching and Reinforcing
Now for the stitching! Using a construction stitch set to a 2–2.5 length, I sewed the connector between the marked ¾-inch lines. This step secures everything firmly without over-stitching, which is especially important when working with delicate materials like vinyl or cork.
For extra durability, I added a second row of stitching and suggested the option of inserting a rivet. Rivets are a fantastic way to reinforce the area while adding a touch of style.
Stabilizing with Decovil
To ensure the connector area holds up over time, I added a piece of Decovil stabilizer behind it. If you’re working with foam, you’ll want to install the connectors before attaching the foam to reduce bulk—it’s little tips like this that make the process so much easier!
Final Touches
Finally, I adjusted the D-ring to ensure it lay flat and aligned perfectly with the connector. A neat finish here is what gives the bag that professional, polished look.
Adding hidden strap connectors might seem tricky, but with the right steps, you’ll nail it every time! If you’re ready to see this process in action, head over to The Bag Makers Sew-Ciety YouTube channel for the full tutorial. I’ll guide you through each step in detail and share more insider tips for perfecting your technique. Trust me, this is a skill you’ll want in your bag-making toolkit!
Until next time happy sewing and may your bobbin always be fulll.
Deb x
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