DIY Rolled Bag Handles: A Beginner's Guide

Updated at: 22/05/2025

Tired of flimsy, uncomfortable bag handles that constantly slip off your shoulder? Upgrading your bags with durable, stylish, and custom-made handles is easier than you think! This beginner-friendly guide will walk you through the process of creating your own rolled bag handles, transforming your favorite totes, purses, or even luggage into comfortable and personalized accessories. Forget paying exorbitant prices for designer handles – you’ll be amazed at how easy and cost-effective it is to create professional-looking results.

This DIY project is perfect for crafting enthusiasts of all skill levels, requiring only basic materials and simple tools. Whether you're looking to replace worn-out handles or add a unique touch to a new bag, this guide will equip you with the knowledge and confidence to create beautiful, long-lasting rolled handles. Ready to get started? Let's dive into the step-by-step process outlined below.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • Fabric of your choice
  • Fabric glue (Liquid Stitch or contact cement recommended)
Safety Guidelines
  • Always use sharp, clean scissors or a rotary cutter to prevent frayed edges and ensure clean cuts. Dull tools increase the risk of injury.
  • Handle materials should be strong and durable enough to support the weight of your bag. Avoid using flimsy or easily-torn fabrics.
  • Securely stitch or glue all seams and joins to prevent the handles from separating under stress. Reinforce stress points with extra stitching or interfacing.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Cut and Prepare Fabric

    • Double the desired handle width, then double it again. For example, a 1-inch wide handle requires a 4-inch wide fabric piece. The length is customizable (17 inches used in example).
    • Mark ½ inch from the edge on the wrong side of the fabric. Apply glue within this area and fold the edges up to the lines, creating a ¼-inch fold.
    Prepare fabric edges: Mark ½ inch from the edge on the wrong side of the fabric. Apply glue within this area and fold the edges up to the lines, creating a ¼-inch fold.Prepare fabric edges: Mark ½ inch from the edge on the wrong side of the fabric. Apply glue within this area and fold the edges up to the lines, creating a ¼-inch fold.
    Cut and Prepare Fabric

  2. Fold and Glue the Fabric Strip

    • Mark the middle of the strip. Apply glue and fold one edge into the middle, ensuring the ends match. Fold the other side in to meet the first, pressing down well.
    • Apply glue to the wrong side and fold the strip in half again, ensuring all edges line up perfectly.
    Create the handle base: Apply glue to the wrong side and fold the strip in half again, ensuring all edges line up perfectly.Create the handle base: Apply glue to the wrong side and fold the strip in half again, ensuring all edges line up perfectly.
    Fold and Glue the Fabric Strip

  3. Design and Mark the Handle

    • Decide how the handle will attach (directly to the bag, to a ring, etc.) This affects the placement of the sew line and pinch point.
    • On the right side, mark ⅛ inch from the edge on both sides. Mark the desired sew line and pinch point (example: sew line 2 ½ inches from the edge, pinch point ¾ inch above).
    Mark sewing lines: On the right side, mark ⅛ inch from the edge on both sides. Mark the desired sew line and pinch point (example: sew line 2 ½ inches from the edge, pinch point ¾ inch above).
    Design and Mark the Handle

  4. Sew the Handle

    • Starting at the ⅛ inch mark, sew an ⅛ inch from the edge, ensuring stitches hit the marked lines. Continue to the other ⅛ inch mark.
    • Sew the outer areas of the closed side, starting and ending at the ⅛ inch marks, stopping one stitch before/past the marked lines to create a clean finish.
    Sew the closed side: Sew the outer areas of the closed side, starting and ending at the ⅛ inch marks, stopping one stitch before/past the marked lines to create a clean finish.Sew the closed side: Sew the outer areas of the closed side, starting and ending at the ⅛ inch marks, stopping one stitch before/past the marked lines to create a clean finish.
    Sew the Handle

  5. Finish the Handle

    • Apply glue to the area between the pinch point lines. Fold the fabric in half, ensuring both sides line up perfectly, and press down well.
    • Stitch from one pinch point to the other on the side with existing stitching, using the same stitch length as before to align with existing holes.
    Sew the pinch point: Stitch from one pinch point to the other on the side with existing stitching, using the same stitch length as before to align with existing holes.Sew the pinch point: Stitch from one pinch point to the other on the side with existing stitching, using the same stitch length as before to align with existing holes.
    Finish the Handle

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Tips

  • Using glue makes the process more precise and durable.
  • Contact cement is beneficial for the pinch point but regular fabric glue works too.
  • Letting the handle sit in a rubber band can help shape it.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Unevenly Cut Fabric

Reason: Inconsistent fabric strips lead to handles of different lengths or widths, resulting in an uneven and unprofessional look.
Solution: Carefully measure and cut your fabric strips using a ruler and sharp scissors to ensure consistency.

2. Loosely Wrapped Fabric

Reason: Insufficiently tight wrapping during the rolling process creates flimsy handles that easily unravel or become distorted.
Solution: Wrap the fabric tightly and securely around the handle core, ensuring even tension throughout the rolling process.

FAQs

What materials do I need to make rolled bag handles?
You'll primarily need fabric (heavyweight cotton canvas or upholstery fabric works well), interfacing (for structure), and strong thread. You'll also need basic sewing supplies like scissors, pins, and a sewing machine (though it's possible to hand-sew, it will be more time-consuming).
How long should I make my rolled handles?
The ideal length depends on the size and style of your bag. Measure the distance between the attachment points on your bag, adding at least 2-3 inches extra on each end for seam allowance and to create a comfortable grip. Consider how you'll be carrying the bag – longer handles are better for shoulder carrying.
What type of fabric is best for rolled bag handles?
Heavyweight fabrics like canvas, upholstery fabric, or even denim are best for durability. Lighter fabrics might be too flimsy to hold their shape and won't last as long. Avoid fabrics that are too stretchy, as they won't roll neatly.