Staying organized while juggling a busy schedule and family commitments can be a challenge, especially for those of us trying to maintain an active lifestyle. For Rachel Denbow and her family, rejoining the gym was an exciting step towards health and wellness, but it also brought along a small logistical challenge: managing gym essentials, especially when accompanied by a little one. To address this, Rachel crafted a DIY gym bag that is not only functional but stylish, perfect for anyone looking to make their gym visits or weekend getaways more convenient. Here’s how you can make your own.
Materials Needed:
- One yard of colored canvas, denim, or outdoor fabric (36″ x 60″)—blush pink is a lovely choice.
- Three yards of 2″ (38mm) nylon or cotton webbing for handles.
- 22″ sport zipper in a coordinating color.
- 12″ brass hoop or wooden embroidery hoop for marking.
- Fabric scissors.
- Straight pins.
- Sewing machine.
- Thread in coordinating colors.
- Chalk or fabric marking pen.
- Yardstick.
- Iron and ironing board.
Step 1: Prepare the Fabric
Start by cutting your chosen fabric into a piece that measures 27″ wide by 40″ tall. This will form the main body of your bag. Then, cut this piece in half to create two panels, each measuring 27″ x 20″. Set these aside.
Step 2: Create the Base Circles
From the remaining fabric, cut out four circles. To do this, fold your fabric into quarters to layer it into four. Place a 12″ hoop on the fabric as a guide, trace the circle, and carefully cut through all four layers. These circles will form the ends of your gym bag.
Step 3: Attach the Zipper
Take two small pieces of scrap fabric, each measuring about 1.25″ x 4″. Pin these to each end of your zipper, right sides facing each other, and stitch about 1/4″ from the edge. Fold the fabric on the seams and press flat, then top-stitch close to the fold. This finishes the ends of your zipper neatly.
Step 4: Prepare the Handles
Cut the webbing into two equal lengths of 1.5 yards each. Lay one strap on one of the 27″ x 20″ fabric panels. Position each end of the strap 5.5″ in from the side edges. Secure with pins. Measure and mark 5″ down from the top edge of the fabric and another 2″ below that. Sew a square with an ‘X’ through it at these marks for added durability, then continue to sew down the edges of the straps.
Step 5: Assemble the Bag
Place the two main fabric pieces with right sides together, aligning the edges where the straps are attached. Stitch these sides together. Then, attach the zipper by pinning it along the top edge of one side, right sides together. Stitch in place, then fold the zipper so it faces out and top-stitch along the fold. Repeat on the other side.
Step 6: Attach the Circular Ends
Turn the bag so the right side faces out. Take one circle and pin it to the open end of the bag, aligning the edges and ensuring even distribution of fabric. Sew around the circle, backstitching at the start and end for security. Repeat on the other side.
Step 7: Final Touches
To create easy-to-carry handles, find the center of each handle and mark it. Measure and mark 3″ on either side of this center point. Sew the marked sections together to form handles. This provides a comfortable grip and stylish finish.
Conclusion
With your new DIY gym bag complete, you’re ready to tackle any workout with ease or head out for a relaxing weekend getaway. This bag is not only practical but also a testament to your crafting skills and sense of style. Enjoy the functionality and the compliments that will surely come your way!