If you’re tired of juggling your mat, water bottle, and keys, learning how to make a yoga mat carrier is a great solution. A DIY carrier saves money and lets you create a bag that perfectly fits your style and needs.
How to Make a Yoga Mat Carrier
This guide covers two simple methods. You can choose the no-sew option or a basic sewing project. Both are effective and use easy-to-find materials.
Why a DIY Carrier is a Smart Choice
Buying a carrier is easy, but making your own has real benefits. You control the fabric, size, and features. It’s also often cheaper than store-bought versions. Plus, you get the satisfaction of using something you made yourself.
You can repair it easily if it wears out. And it makes a thoughtful, personalized gift for a yoga friend.
Materials You’ll Need
Gather your supplies before you start. For most projects, you will need a few basic items.
* Fabric: For a sewn carrier, use sturdy cotton, canvas, or upholstery fabric. You’ll need about half a yard. For a no-sew carrier, a strong scarf or long piece of fabric works.
* Straps: You can use webbing, ribbon, or make your own fabric straps.
* Closures: D-rings, buckles, or velcro are common choices.
* Basic Tools: Scissors, a tape measure, and safety pins.
* For Sewing: A sewing machine (or needle/thread), matching thread, and pins.
Method 1: The No-Sew Yoga Mat Carrier
This is the fastest method. It takes just a few minutes and requires absolutly no special skills.
Step 1: Choose Your Fabric
Pick a long, rectangular piece of strong fabric. A large scarf, a towel, or a cut of fabric about 28 inches wide and 70 inches long is ideal. Ensure it’s long enough to tie comfortably over your shoulder.
Step 2: Lay Out Your Mat
Lay your fabric flat on the floor. Place your rolled yoga mat horizontally across one end, leaving about 10 inches of fabric below it.
Step 3: Roll and Tie
Lift the bottom edge of the fabric up and over the mat. Then, continue rolling the mat tightly inside the fabric until you reach the end. The two long ends of the fabric will now be free.
Step 4: Create the Strap
Take the two long ends and tie them together in a secure knot or a double knot. You can now slip the long loop over your shoulder, or use the ends to tie the carrier around your waist. It’s really that simple!
Method 2: A Simple Sewn Carrier Bag
This method creates a more permanent, bag-style carrier. It involves straight sewing only.
Step 1: Measure and Cut Your Fabric
Measure your rolled yoga mat’s height and circumference. Add 2 inches to the height and 4 inches to the circumference for seam allowance and room. Cut one rectangle of fabric to this size.
For the strap, cut a piece of fabric 4 inches wide and about 60 inches long, or to your desired length.
Step 2: Prepare the Strap
Fold the long strap fabric in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and press. Open it, then fold each long edge into the center crease and press again. Fold it in half along the original crease and pin. Topstitch close to both long edges to create a neat strap. Set it aside.
Step 3: Form the Main Bag
Fold your main fabric rectangle in half, right sides together, so the shorter edges meet. Pin along this side seam. Sew using a ½ inch seam allowance. This creates a fabric tube.
Step 4: Create the Bottom and Channel
Turn the tube right side out. At the bottom, fold about 1.5 inches of fabric to the inside (the wrong side) and press. This will be the bottom hem. Topstitch it in place, leaving a small gap of about 1 inch unsewn. This gap is the channel for your strap.
At the top, fold about 1 inch of fabric to the inside and press to create a clean top hem.
Step 5: Attach the Strap
Attach a safety pin to one end of your fabric strap. Thread it through the channel you left in the bottom hem. Guide it all the way around the bag until it comes back out the same gap.
Step 6: Finish the Carrier
Overlap the two ends of the strap and sew them together securely. You can add a velcro closure or a button at the top to keep your mat from falling out. Slip your mat inside, pull the strap, and your carrier is ready.
Customization Ideas
Make your carrier truly yours with these simple additions.
* Pockets: Sew a small zippered or slip pocket on the outside for your keys, phone, or cards.
* Insulation: Use a layer of insulating fabric to keep your mat warm in colder weather.
* Personal Touch: Add fabric paint, patches, or embroidery to decorate the fabric.
* Extra Padding: Pad the strap with a peice of foam for more comfort on long walks.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Sometimes a project doesn’t go perfectly on the first try. Here’s how to fix common problems.
* Mat Won’t Fit: Always measure your mat before cutting. If it’s too tight, you may need to seam rip and add a fabric panel.
* Strap is Uncomfortable: Widen the strap or use a padded material. You can also attach it more securely at both ends for better weight distribution.
* Closure Doesn’t Work: If a button hole is too loose, sew a snap underneath it. If velcro loses its grip, replace the strip or add a secondary toggle clasp.
Care and Maintenance
To make your carrier last, proper care is essential. Check the fabric label for washing instructions first.
Most cotton or canvas carriers can be spot cleaned with a damp cloth. For a deeper clean, use a gentle cycle with cold water and mild detergent. Air dry is best to prevent shrinkage or damage to any closures. Avoid harsh chemicals or bleach.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the easiest way to carry a yoga mat?
The easiest way is the no-sew scarf method described above. It uses items you probably already have at home.
How do you carry a yoga mat without a bag?
You can use a long strap or belt to tie around the center of your rolled mat, creating a simple handle. Another option is to use a large reusable shopping bag.
What fabric is best for a yoga mat strap?
Sturby fabrics like cotton canvas, duck cloth, or upholstery fabric are best. They are strong enough to support the weight without tearing.
Can I make a carrier for two yoga mats?
Yes, you can. Simply adjust the measurements to fit the circumference of two mats rolled together. You might want to add a second strap for better balance.
Learning how to make a yoga mat carrier is a practical and rewarding project. Whether you choose the instant no-sew method or a stitched bag, you’ll end up with a useful accessory. It helps you get to class with everything in hand, and it reflects your personal effort and style. Give one of these methods a try this weekend.