Ever since this idea made it’s way into my head I’ve working to create this DIY kit for the shop. What if a kit had existed that could have taught me all of the things that I needed to know to get started making my own camera straps? At first, I really just wanted to make one for myself – I wanted something comfortable and chic to help me get around with my camera. Eventually, it led to more, but really, I just wanted to create for me when it all started.
Wow! Did I hit a lot of roadblocks! I wanted high quality materials so that I didn’t have to worry that my strap or the hardware that held it on to my camera would break while I was juggling my bags and kids, running to activities and places. I wanted fabrics that were soft to the touch, comfortable, and added a bit of cushion to my camera when I tossed it into my bag.
So I started searching. I knew I wanted leather, but couldn’t find it in any crafting or fabric stores. So, I started learning how and where leather was sold – by the hide, in case you’re wondering! My business license also gave me access to companies that I could bulk order commercial grade hardware and nylon to use. On top of that, I spent hours researching and learning how to work with, sew, and handle the leather, nylon, glues, and fabrics all combined together.
Fast forward to today. I’ve sold hundreds of straps to happy owners – and the top feedback I receive? Beautiful. Strong. Comfortable.
So, now it’s my turn to share with you. I’ve been pouring my heart into this pdf, sharing all of the secrets that I’ve learned along the way. It’s over 30 pages long and features 50 photos! (I tend to want to err on the side of including more than is needed to be sure that things are extra clear.)
The kits will include:
- the crazy detailed pdf (printed copy) – I’m using all of my years experience writing DIY sewing articles for Mollie Makes and Simply Sewing Magazine to create and easy to read and follow instruction guide.
- one half yard of fabric (the mint is featured in the photos, but I’ll have several styles of fabric available)
- one full set of leather tabs to enclose your fabric and nylon strapping
- one set of two nylon straps
- one set of commercial grade keepers
- one set of commercial grade tri-glides
- 6 clothespin clips for holding your leather in place while glue dries
- 1 tea light candle for melting the ends of your nylon strapping
You’ll just need a few tools – your heavy duty sewing machine, iron for pressing, thread for stitching, and glue to put it together.The last two items included in the kit are to make it easier for you – so you don’t have to buy a big box of each.
The kit is for personal use, or to use to make gifts. BUT, you’re welcome to use the instructions to learn how to make your own for sale, so long as you don’t copy the design – meaning: If you’d like to make them to sell, create your own fabric lengths, different style of leather tabs, etc.
The biggest advantage that the kits offer you outside of the instructions, is the easy access to exactly the length of fabric you need, exactly the amount of leather you need (normally sold by the hide, which wholesales anywhere from $150-180), the heavy tensile strength nylon, and the commercial grade hardware.
The kits will be available next week in the shop, and will retail for just $40. Newsletter subscribers will also receive a big discount the first week they’re available. I will also have a few options, like the digital pdf instruction file sold separately.
Giveaway details: Use the form below and enter to win one of our new DIY Scarf Camera Strap Kits. You can earn up to three entries! I can not WAIT for you to see these, try them, learn, and share your stories with us! Good luck!
Leave a Reply