If you’re tired of lugging your yoga mat around in your arms, learning how to make your own yoga mat strap is a perfect solution. It’s a simple, cost-effective project that lets you add a personal touch to your gear.
You can create a strap that matches your style and fits your mat perfectly. All you need are a few basic materials and a little bit of time. Let’s get started on crafting a functional accessory for your practice.
How to Make Your Own Yoga Mat Strap
This guide will walk you through two popular methods: a no-sew version using a carabiner and a sewn version for a more polished look. Choose the one that best suits your skills and the tools you have available.
Why Create a DIY Yoga Mat Strip?
Making your own strap has several advantages over buying one. First, it’s incredibly budget-friendly. You can often use materials you already have at home.
Second, you get complete control over the design. Pick a fabric pattern or color you love. Finally, it’s a satisfying quick project that reduces waste and gives you a sence of accomplishment every time you use it.
Materials and Tools You’ll Need
The materials vary slightly depending on your chosen method. Here’s a basic list to get you organized.
* For Both Methods:
* Strong fabric or webbing (1.5 to 2 inches wide)
* Scissors
* Measuring tape
* A yoga mat (to measure against)
* For the No-Sew Carabiner Method:
* A locking carabiner (medium strength is fine)
* Lighter or clear nail polish (for sealing cut ends)
* For the Sewn Buckle Method:
* A side-release buckle (1.5″ or 2″ wide)
* Heavy-duty thread
* Sewing needle or sewing machine
* Safety pin or bodkin
* Lighter (for sealing webbing ends)
Choosing the Right Fabric or Webbing
Your strap’s strength depends on your material choice. Nylon or polyester webbing is the most durable and easiest to work with, especialy for beginners.
If you prefer fabric, choose a sturdy canvas or upholstery fabric. Cut it into a long strip and fold it to create a strong band. Remember, it needs to support the weight of your rolled mat.
Method 1: The Simple No-Sew Carabiner Strap
This is the fastest way to make a strap. It requires absolutly no stitching and is very adjustable.
1. Measure and Cut: Roll up your yoga mat tightly. Wrap the measuring tape around it to find the circumference. Add about 30 to 40 inches to this length for the tail you’ll use to carry it. Cut your webbing to this total length.
2. Seal the Ends: Quickly melt the cut ends of the webbing with a lighter to prevent fraying. Just pass the flame near the edges until they slightly melt and fuse. Be careful not to burn it.
3. Attach the Carabiner: Feed one end of the webbing through the carabiner. Fold about 3 inches of the end back onto the main strap.
4. Secure the Loop: Tightly wrap the short tail around both layers of webbing and the carabiner’s base. Use a series of secure knots (like a series of half-hitches or a constrictor knot) to bind it all together. The carabiner should be fixed in a loop.
5. To Use: Roll your mat, wrap the long tail of the strap around it, and clip the carabiner onto the webbing at your desired tightness. It’s that easy!
Method 2: The Sewn Buckle Strap
This method creates a more traditional and adjustable strap with a buckle. It looks very professional when finished.
1. Measure and Cut: Determine your desired carrying length. A good starting length is about 70 to 80 inches. Cut your webbing to this length.
2. Seal the Ends: Seal both cut ends of the webbing with a lighter to stop them from fraying during sewing.
3. Attach the Buckle Parts: Slide the male end of the buckle onto one end of the webbing. Fold about 1.5 inches of the webbing back and pin it. Slide the female end of the buckle onto the other end of the webbing.
4. Sew the Fixed End: Sew the folded webbing at the male buckle end securely. Use a box stitch or a square pattern with an X in the middle for maximum strength. This end is now fixed.
5. Create the Adjustable Tail: On the female buckle end, feed the webbing back through the other bar of the buckle to create the adjustable loop. You can use a safety pin to help pull it through.
6. Test and Finish: Try the strap on your rolled mat. Adjust the length, then trim any excess webbing if needed, remembering to seal the new cut end. You can add a final line of stitching near the female buckle to keep the tail from pulling all the way out if you wish.
Adding Personal Flair to Your Strap
Once your basic strap is functional, consider customizing it. This makes it uniquely yours and easier to spot in a crowded studio.
* Fabric Paint or Markers: Decorate plain webbing with patterns, your name, or inspirational words.
* Patches or Pins: Sew on iron-on patches or attach enamel pins to a fabric strap.
* Beads or Charms: Thread a few beads onto the webbing before attaching the buckle, securing them in place with your stitches.
Care and Maintanence Tips
To ensure your DIY strap lasts a long time, a little care is needed. If it’s fabric, you can usually spot clean it with a damp cloth and mild soap.
For webbing, a quick wipe down is sufficient. Avoid soaking it or using harsh chemicals. Periodically check the stitching or knots for any signs of wear, especially if you carry a heavy mat.
FAQs About DIY Yoga Mat Straps
How long should my homemade yoga mat strap be?
A good rule is to make it between 70 and 90 inches long. This allows for plenty of length to sling over your shoulder and enough adjustability to fit your mat snugly. Always measure with your mat rolled up first.
What is the strongest material for a DIY strap?
Nylon webbing is the strongest and most reliable choice. It’s designed for weight-bearing purposes and resists stretching. Polyester webbing is also very strong and has good UV resistance if you often walk to class outdoors.
Can I make a strap without any hardware?
Yes, you can. You can create a long fabric loop that you thread the entire mat through, though it’s less adjustable. Another option is to use a long scarf or a strong piece of rope, tying it securely around the mat with a reliable knot.
How do you secure a yoga mat strap without a buckle?
The no-sew carabiner method above is one excellent way. You can also use a system of knots, like a sliding knot or a toggle system made from a wooden dowel. Simple braided ropes with a cinching knot are also very effective and stylish.
Learning how to make your own yoga mat strap is a rewarding small project. It saves you money, lets you recycle materials, and gives you a custom accessory. With these simple methods, you’ll never struggle to carry your mat again. Just grab your supplies and give it a try this weekend