Are you looking for the perfect sling bag patterns to sew? Look no further! In this comprehensive blog article, we will guide you through a variety of free sling bag patterns that you can use to create stylish and functional bags. Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced sewer, these patterns are suitable for all skill levels.
Sling bags are not only fashionable but also convenient for carrying your everyday essentials. By making your own sling bags, you can customize the design, size, and fabric to suit your personal style. Plus, sewing your own bags is not only a fun and creative activity but also a sustainable way to reduce waste and save money.
Basic Sling Bag Pattern
Creating a basic sling bag pattern is a great way to start your sewing journey. This pattern is simple yet versatile, making it suitable for beginners. Here’s a step-by-step guide to help you create your own basic sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of fabric
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your sling bag. You’ll need two pieces of fabric: one for the exterior and one for the lining. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a standard-sized sling bag, cut two rectangles measuring 15 inches by 12 inches.
Next, cut a strip of fabric measuring 4 inches by 44 inches for the strap. This length can be adjusted based on your preference for the strap length.
Step 2: Sewing the Strap
Take the strip of fabric you cut for the strap and fold it in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the long edge and sew a straight stitch, leaving both ends open. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance. Once sewn, turn the strap right side out and press it flat with an iron.
Next, fold the strap in half and mark the center point. Attach the strap to the exterior fabric of the bag by aligning the center point of the strap with the top center of one of the fabric rectangles. Pin the strap in place.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the lining fabric on top of the exterior fabric, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, making sure to leave the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, leaving a ½ inch seam allowance. Trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk.
Turn the bag right side out through the open top edge. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the basic sling bag, add a closure of your choice, such as a magnetic snap or a button and loop. You can also add pockets to the interior or exterior of the bag, depending on your preference.
And there you have it! Your very own basic sling bag. Feel free to experiment with different fabrics, colors, and embellishments to create a unique and personalized bag.
Crossbody Sling Bag Pattern
If you prefer a crossbody style, this pattern is for you. A crossbody sling bag offers a hands-free option for carrying your essentials while keeping them easily accessible. Here’s how you can create your own crossbody sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of fabric for the exterior
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
- Adjustable strap hardware (such as a slider and D-rings)
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your crossbody sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized crossbody sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Next, cut a strip of fabric measuring 3 inches by 44 inches for the strap. This length can be adjusted based on your preference for the strap length.
Step 2: Sewing the Strap
Take the strip of fabric you cut for the strap and fold it in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the long edge and sew a straight stitch, leaving both ends open. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance. Once sewn, turn the strap right side out and press it flat with an iron.
Attach the adjustable strap hardware to the ends of the strap. Thread one end of the strap through the slider and fold it over. Sew a box stitch to secure the strap end. Thread the other end of the strap through the D-ring and fold it over. Sew a box stitch to secure the strap end.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 4: Attaching the Strap
Take the strap with the adjustable hardware and thread it through one side of the bag, aligning the center of the strap with the center of the bag’s top edge. Fold the raw edge of the strap under and pin it in place. Repeat the same process for the other side of the bag.
Sew a box stitch to secure the straps to the bag, making sure to reinforce the stitching for extra durability.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
To complete the crossbody sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
And there you have it! Your very own crossbody sling bag. Feel free to add pockets or embellishments to customize the bag according to your preferences and style.
Convertible Sling Backpack Pattern
Do you need a bag that can easily transition from a sling bag to a backpack? A convertible sling backpack offers the best of both worlds. Here’s how you can create your own convertible sling backpack:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of fabric for the exterior
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
- Adjustable strap hardware (such as a slider, D-rings, and swivel hooks)
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your convertible sling backpack. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized convertible sling backpack, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 14 inches by 12 inches.
Next, cut two strips of fabric measuring 3 inches by 44 inches for the straps. This length can be adjusted based on your preference for the strap length.
Step 2: Sewing the Straps
Take one strip of fabric and fold it in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the long edge and sew a straight stitch, leaving both ends open. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance. Once sewn, turn the strap right side out and press it flat with an iron. Repeat the same process for the second strap.
Attach the adjustable strap hardware to one end of each strap. Thread one end of each strap through a swivel hook and fold it over. Sew a box stitch to secure the strap end.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sidesfacing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 4: Attaching the Straps
Take one end of each strap and align them with the top edges of the bag, positioning them on opposite sides. Fold the raw edges of the straps under and pin them in place. Sew a box stitch to secure the straps to the bag, reinforcing the stitching for added strength.
Step 5: Creating the Backpack Straps
To create the backpack straps, you’ll need two additional strips of fabric measuring 3 inches by 22 inches. Fold each strip in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the long edge and sew a straight stitch, leaving both ends open. Turn the straps right side out and press them flat with an iron.
Attach one end of each strap to the bottom corners of the bag’s exterior, sewing a box stitch to secure them in place. Attach the other ends of the straps to the top corners of the bag, positioning them on opposite sides. Sew a box stitch to secure the straps, reinforcing the stitching for durability.
Step 6: Finishing Touches
To complete the convertible sling backpack, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a polished finish.
And there you have it! Your very own convertible sling backpack. Enjoy the versatility of being able to wear it as a sling bag or convert it into a backpack to suit your needs and preferences.
Quilted Sling Bag Pattern
If you’re looking for a more intricate and textured design, the quilted sling bag pattern is perfect for you. Quilting adds depth and visual interest to your bag, making it a true statement piece. Here’s how you can create your own quilted sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of fabric for the exterior
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining
- 1 yard of batting
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
- Quilting ruler and rotary cutter (optional)
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your quilted sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric, two rectangles for the lining fabric, and two rectangles for the batting. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized quilted sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 14 inches by 12 inches and the batting rectangles to measure the same size.
Step 2: Quilting the Fabric
Take one exterior fabric rectangle and place it right side up on top of one batting rectangle. Pin the layers together to hold them in place. If desired, you can also use a quilting ruler and rotary cutter to create quilted lines or patterns on the fabric.
Repeat the process for the remaining exterior fabric and batting rectangles. Once quilted, trim any excess batting that extends beyond the fabric edges.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the quilted exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the quilted sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
And there you have it! Your very own quilted sling bag. The quilted design adds a touch of elegance and texture to your bag, making it a stylish and unique accessory.
Mini Sling Bag Pattern
For those who prefer smaller bags, a mini sling bag is the perfect option. Despite its compact size, it still provides enough space to carry your essentials. Here’s how you can create your own mini sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- ½ yard of fabric for the exterior
- ½ yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your mini sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a small-sized mini sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 10 inches by 8 inches.
Next, cut a strip of fabric measuring 2 inches by 44 inches for the strap. This length can be adjusted based on your preference for the strap length.
Step 2: Sewing the Strap
Take the strip of fabric you cut for the strap and fold it in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the long edge and sew a straight stitch, leaving both ends open. Use a ¼ inch seam allowance. Once sewn, turn the strap right side out and press it flat with an iron.
Attach one end of the strap to one side of the bag’s exterior fabric, positioning it near the top edge. Sew a box stitch to secure the strap end.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the mini sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
And there you have it! Your very own mini sling bag. Despite its small size, it’s perfect for carrying your essentials in style.
Boho Sling Bag Pattern
If you love bohemian style, a boho sling bag is a must-try. With its unique and eclectic design, it adds a touch of bohemian flair to any outfit. Here’s how you can create your own boho sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of bohemian-inspired fabric for the exterior
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining
- Assorted trims, such as fringe, beads, and embroidery
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your boho sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized boho sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Step 2: Embellishing the Exterior Fabric
Before sewing the bag, it’s time to get creative and add boho-inspired embellishments to the exterior fabric. Youcan use a variety of trims, such as fringe, beads, and embroidery, to add texture and visual interest to your bag. Here are a few ideas to get you started:
1. Fringe:
Attach fringe trim along the bottom edge of the exterior fabric, using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch to secure it in place. You can choose a fringe trim in a contrasting color or opt for a more subtle tone-on-tone look.
2. Beads:
Add beads to your bag by hand-sewing them onto the fabric in a pattern or randomly scattered. You can use colorful beads to create a vibrant look or opt for more neutral tones for a boho-chic vibe.
3. Embroidery:
Use embroidery floss to create intricate designs on the exterior fabric. You can choose to embroider flowers, geometric patterns, or any other bohemian-inspired motifs. Be creative and experiment with different stitches and colors.
Feel free to mix and match these embellishments or incorporate other boho-inspired elements, such as patches, tassels, or fabric appliques. The goal is to create a unique and personalized boho sling bag that reflects your style.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
With the embellishments in place, it’s time to sew the bag. Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the boho sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
And there you have it! Your very own boho sling bag. The unique embellishments and bohemian-inspired details make it a standout accessory that complements any boho-chic outfit.
Reversible Sling Bag Pattern
Why settle for just one design when you can have two? A reversible sling bag offers versatility and the option to switch up your look whenever you want. Here’s how you can create your own reversible sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of fabric for each side of the bag (2 different fabrics)
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your reversible sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for each side of the bag, one for the exterior and one for the lining. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized reversible sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Step 2: Sewing the Bag
Take one exterior fabric rectangle and one lining fabric rectangle for each side of the bag. Place them right sides together, with the exterior fabrics facing each other and the lining fabrics facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the other side of the bag.
With both sides of the bag sewn, turn each side right side out through the opening in the top edge. Press each side flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly.
Step 3: Joining the Sides
To create the reversible effect, you’ll need to join the two sides of the bag together. Insert one side into the other, aligning the top edges and matching the side seams. Pin along the top edge to hold the sides together.
Sew a straight stitch along the top edge, sewing through all layers of fabric. Reinforce the stitching at the beginning and end to ensure the bag is securely joined.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the reversible sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in one of the sides. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
And there you have it! Your very own reversible sling bag. Enjoy the versatility of being able to switch between two different fabric designs with a simple flip of the bag.
Leather Sling Bag Pattern
If you’re looking to work with leather or faux leather, a leather sling bag is a stylish and durable option. Here’s how you can create your own leather sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- ½ yard of leather or faux leather for the exterior
- ½ yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors or rotary cutter
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
- Leather needle (if working with genuine leather)
- Leather glue (optional)
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your leather sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create. For a medium-sized leather sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Step 2: Sewing the Bag
Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
If you’re working with genuine leather, it’s recommended to use a leather needle and adjust your sewing machine settings accordingly. Leather can be thicker and tougher to sew, so take your time and make sure to use the appropriate tools and techniques.
Step 3: Attaching the Lining
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Sew a straight stitch along the top edge, sewing through both the exterior fabric and the lining fabric. This will attach the lining to the bag and give it a clean finish. Trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
If desired, you can add a strap to your leather sling bag. Cut a strip of leather or faux leather measuring 2 inches by your desired strap length. Fold the strip in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Sew a straight stitch along the long edge, leaving both ends open. Turn the strap right side out and press it flat with an iron.
Attach one end of the strap to one side of the bag, positioning it near the top edge. Sew a box stitch to secure the strap end. Repeat the same process for the other side of the bag.
And there you have it! Your very own leather sling bag. The use of leather or faux leather adds a touch of sophistication and durability to your bag, making it a timeless accessory.
Floral Sling Bag Pattern
Add a touch of femininity to your sling bag with a floral pattern. Floral fabrics are versatile and can be used to create a variety of styles, from soft and delicate to bold and vibrant. Here’s how you can create your own floral sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 yard of floral fabric for the exterior
- 1 yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Start by measuring and cutting the fabric for your floral sling bag. You’ll need two rectangles for the exterior fabric and two rectangles for the lining fabric. The dimensions will depend on the size of the bag you want to create.For a medium-sized floral sling bag, cut the fabric rectangles to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Step 2: Sewing the Bag
Place the exterior fabric rectangles on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the lining fabric rectangles.
With the exterior fabric right side out and the lining fabric wrong side out, place the lining inside the exterior fabric, aligning the top edges. Pin along the top edge to hold the fabrics together.
Step 3: Finishing Touches
To complete the floral sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in the lining. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
To enhance the floral theme, you can also add floral embellishments such as fabric flowers, appliques, or embroidery. These details can be added to the exterior of the bag to further enhance the floral design.
And there you have it! Your very own floral sling bag. The floral pattern adds a touch of femininity and charm to your bag, making it a delightful accessory for any occasion.
Denim Sling Bag Pattern
Upcycle your old denim jeans by turning them into a trendy sling bag. Denim is a durable and versatile fabric that adds a casual and stylish touch to any outfit. Here’s how you can create your own denim sling bag:
Materials Needed:
- 1 pair of old denim jeans
- ½ yard of fabric for the lining
- Matching thread
- Scissors
- Pins
- Measuring tape
- Sewing machine
Step 1: Preparing the Denim
Start by cutting off one of the pant legs from the jeans, leaving the side seam intact. This will serve as the main body of the sling bag. Cut open the leg along the seam so that you have a flat piece of denim fabric.
Step 2: Measuring and Cutting the Fabric
Measure and cut the denim fabric to the desired size for your bag. For a medium-sized denim sling bag, cut the denim fabric to measure 12 inches by 10 inches.
Next, cut two rectangles from the lining fabric, using the same dimensions as the denim fabric.
Step 3: Sewing the Bag
Place the denim fabric and one lining fabric rectangle on top of each other, with the right sides facing each other. Pin along the sides and bottom edges, leaving the top edge open. Sew a straight stitch along the pinned edges, using a ½ inch seam allowance. Repeat the same process for the other side of the bag, using the remaining lining fabric rectangle.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
To complete the denim sling bag, trim any excess fabric and clip the corners to reduce bulk. Turn the bag right side out through the opening in one of the sides. Press the bag flat with an iron, making sure to fold and press the top edge neatly. Topstitch around the top edge of the bag to give it a finished look.
For added style, you can also incorporate denim details such as pockets or belt loops into your design. These can be attached to the exterior of the bag to enhance the denim look and provide additional functionality.
And there you have it! Your very own denim sling bag. By upcycling your old denim jeans, you not only create a trendy and unique bag but also contribute to sustainable fashion.
In conclusion, sewing your own sling bags allows you to express your creativity while also providing functional and stylish accessories. With these free sling bag patterns, you can create bags that suit your style and needs. Whether you choose a basic design, a crossbody style, a convertible backpack, a quilted look, a mini size, a boho-inspired design, a reversible option, a leather finish, a floral pattern, or a denim upcycle, each bag offers its own unique charm.
Remember to customize your bags by adding details such as straps, pockets, or embellishments to make them truly one-of-a-kind. Sewing your own sling bags not only allows you to showcase your sewing skills but also empowers you to create accessories that reflect your individuality.
So gather your sewing supplies, choose a pattern that inspires you, and let your creativity flow as you sew your way to a collection of stylish and functional sling bags. Happy sewing!
