Sturdy Crochet Bag Straps: Mastering The Art Of Durability

Creating a sturdy crochet bag strap can be challenging, but with the right techniques and materials, it is possible to make a strap that is both attractive and functional. One common issue with crochet bag straps is that they tend to stretch over time, causing the bag to sag or become misshapen. To avoid this problem, several methods can be employed, including using specific types of yarn or cord, working the strap in a particular way, or adding reinforcement to the strap.

One popular method to create a sturdy crochet bag strap is to use a non-stretch yarn such as 100% cotton. Going down a hook size can also help reduce stretch. Certain stitches, such as the thermal stitch or Siberian stitch, create a thick, strong fabric suitable for bag straps. Working the strap lengthwise rather than in short rows can also help minimize stretch. Additionally, adding a reinforcing material such as fishing line, nylon thread, or plastic cord can provide extra support and prevent the strap from stretching.

By combining these techniques and materials, crocheters can create attractive and functional bag straps that won't stretch or sag over time.

Using fishing line

Materials:

• Yarn of your choice
• Crochet hook
• Fishing line (at least 15-pound test clear fishing line is recommended)
• Scissors
• Stitch marker (optional)

Instructions:

• Start by crocheting a length of chain stitches that will form the base of your strap. The number of chains you need will depend on the desired length of your strap.
• Take your fishing line and place it behind your work, ensuring it is taut but not too tight.
• Begin crocheting single crochet stitches (sc) over the fishing line. Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, and crochet over the fishing line.
• Continue crocheting single crochet stitches across the row, ensuring that the fishing line is laid over the stitches being crocheted. Be careful not to pull the fishing line too tightly, as this can cause your strap to curl.
• As you work, make sure that the fishing line stays behind your work when crocheting on the right side and in front of the work when crocheting on the wrong side.
• Repeat this process for each row, always ensuring that the fishing line is laid over the stitches and that your strap remains flat.
• Once you have reached your desired strap length, you can finish off the strap by crocheting a round of crab stitch or single crochet stitches around it.
• If there are any visible "waves" of the fishing line on the wrong side, you can hide them by inserting your hook under the waves while crocheting the final round.
• That's it! Your non-stretchy crochet bag strap is now ready to be attached to your bag.

Tips:

• It is important to use a clear or matching colour fishing line so that it blends seamlessly with your yarn.
• When working with fishing line, be gentle and avoid wrapping it tightly around your fingers to avoid any cuts.
• Always use separate scissors for cutting fishing line to avoid dulling your yarn scissors.
• You can also use other strong and flexible materials such as nylon thread or guitar strings instead of fishing line.

Thermal stitch

The thermal stitch is a type of crochet stitch that creates a thick, sturdy fabric, making it perfect for projects that require added warmth and weight. It is one of the warmest crochet stitches and is ideal for items that need to withstand wear and tear, such as bags, baskets, and washcloths.

To create the thermal stitch, you will be using single crochet stitches. Instead of working into both loops of each stitch on the current row, you will insert your crochet hook through the back loop of the current row and the open loop from the row below. While it may sound complicated, the thermal stitch is quite simple once you get the hang of it. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Step 1: Make a slip knot and chain any number of chains by yarning over and pulling through the loop on your hook. There is no specific multiple required for this stitch, so you can chain your desired length.

Step 2: Starting in the second chain from the hook, single crochet using only the back loop of the chain. Continue this until you reach the end of the row. Then chain one and turn your work.

Step 3: Insert your hook through both the back loop of the current row and the open loop from the previous row. Yarn over and pull through two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through the remaining loops to complete your first single crochet thermal stitch. Continue this process until the end of the row, then chain one and turn.

Step 4: Using only the back loop of the current row and the unworked loop from the row below, single crochet across. Repeat this step until your piece reaches your desired height.

Step 5: To finish your piece, chain one and turn. For the last row, insert your hook through both loops of the current row and the open loop from the previous row (a total of three loops). Then, you can single crochet or slip stitch across to finish.

The thermal stitch is a versatile stitch that can be used for various projects. However, due to the thickness of the fabric it creates, it is not recommended for wearable items. Some popular projects using the thermal stitch include potholders, baskets, and bag straps.

When working with the thermal stitch, it's important to note that each row is relatively short, and it takes a while to build up height. This is something to consider if you're planning larger projects, such as blankets, that already take a significant amount of time to complete.

Additionally, counting rows with the thermal stitch can be a bit tricky since it is worked in two different rows. To make it easier, you can leave your starting tail loose and use it as a guide. Depending on the position of the tail, you can determine whether you're working on an odd or even-numbered row.

The thermal stitch also has some variations, such as the half-double crochet thermal stitch and the double crochet thermal stitch, which result in slightly thicker fabrics.

Tapestry crochet

When working with tapestry crochet, it is important to use a thick yarn and a larger hook to make the technique easier to learn. The yarn should not be fluffy, as this will obscure the stitches. It is also important to crochet tightly, as this will prevent the different colours from showing through the stitches. The crochet hook should match the yarn being used, and the tension should be adjusted until the desired look is achieved.

When crocheting in rows, it is important to decide which side is the right side and which is the wrong side. This will determine how the second yarn is held. When starting a row on the wrong side, the second yarn should be held in front of the work, and when starting a row on the right side, the second yarn should be held behind the work. This will create small colourful waves on the wrong side, while the right side will look neat.

To create a strong and sturdy crochet strap, a technique called the "thermal stitch" or "strap single crochet stitch" can be used. This stitch creates a fabric that is thick, strong, and suitable for bag straps, bands, and belts. The stitch is worked by skipping the first stitch of each row and working into the back loop of the second stitch and the corresponding loop of the row below to create a strong, straight edge.

Using hardware

Choosing the Right Hardware

When selecting hardware for your crochet bag strap, opt for sturdy and durable pieces that can bear the weight of the bag. Consider the aesthetic appeal of the hardware and choose pieces that enhance the bag's overall design. You can find hardware specifically designed for bag straps, such as D-rings, swivel hooks, magnetic snaps, or lobster clasps.

Attaching the Strap

You can sew or attach the hardware directly to the bag before adding the strap. If you're using D-rings or swivel hooks, sew them onto the bag and then attach the strap to these pieces. This allows for easy removal or interchangeability of the strap. Alternatively, you can use magnetic snaps or lobster clasps to securely attach the strap to the bag.

Anchoring the Strap

For a secure attachment, wrap the strap around the hardware and go up 2-3 inches at the back. Avoid simply wrapping it around the strap holder. You can anchor the strap on the inside of the bag using a washer, knot, or large wood toggle to ensure it stays in place.

Finishing Touches

Once the strap is in place, close it off to create a secure circle around the hardware. You can also add a row of crochet stitches around the strap, such as a crab stitch, to enhance its durability and hide any visible cord or hardware.

Using nylon guitar strings

Nylon guitar strings can be used to make a non-stretchy crochet bag strap. The process is similar to the technique of tapestry crochet, where you carry the tail of yarn, but instead, you carry the nylon guitar string.

Firstly, choose a nylon guitar string that is much thinner than your yarn, to avoid influencing your gauge. Then, make a tail of chain stitches—the length of this tail will be the width of the strap. Place the nylon guitar string behind the work and start making single crochet stitches over it. Remember to lay the guitar string over the stitches being crocheted into, and then single crochet across as usual, crocheting under and over the string. Ensure that the carried string is not visible from the back or front of the work.

When crocheting on the right side, the nylon guitar string should stay behind your work, and when crocheting on the wrong side, it should be carried in front. Insert your hook from back to front when working on the wrong side to avoid stripes and keep your strap neat.

Additionally, you can use nylon thread, which is typically used for upholstery, to create a non-stretchy crochet bag strap. This method involves crocheting over the nylon thread, ensuring that it is laid flat and not pulled too tight to avoid warping the work. This technique will result in a sturdy and non-stretchy bag strap.

Frequently asked questions