How to make a DIY crossbody bag with a button closure?

Jul 10, 2025

Hey there, DIY enthusiasts! Today, I'm super stoked to share with you a step-by-step guide on how to make a DIY crossbody bag with a button closure. As a supplier of DIY Crossbody Bags, I've seen firsthand the joy and satisfaction that comes from creating your own unique piece. So, let's dive right in!

Materials You'll Need

First things first, you gotta gather all the materials. Here's what you'll need:

Fabric: Choose a fabric that you love. You can go for a funky print, a solid color, or even a combination. About 1 yard of fabric should do the trick.
Thread: Make sure it matches your fabric color.
Buttons: I recommend using two medium-sized buttons for the closure.
Interfacing: This will give your bag some structure.
Zipper: A medium-length zipper for the main compartment.
Strap material: You can use leather, fabric, or even a chain. Cut it to your desired length.
Sewing machine (optional): While you can sew by hand, a sewing machine will make the process much faster.
Scissors, pins, and a measuring tape: The basics for any sewing project.

Step 1: Cutting the Fabric

Lay your fabric out flat and measure the dimensions for your bag. For a standard crossbody bag, you can cut two rectangles that are about 10 inches by 14 inches. Don't forget to add a 1/2-inch seam allowance all around. Use your measuring tape and scissors to make clean cuts.

Next, cut a piece of interfacing the same size as your fabric rectangles. Iron the interfacing onto the wrong side of the fabric. This will give your bag some stiffness and make it more durable.

Step 2: Adding the Zipper

Take one of your fabric rectangles and fold it in half lengthwise, with the right sides facing each other. Pin the long edge together. Then, open up the fabric and place the zipper along the open edge, with the teeth facing down. Pin the zipper in place, making sure it's centered.

Using your sewing machine or a needle and thread, sew the zipper to the fabric, following the edge of the teeth. Make sure to backstitch at the beginning and end to secure the stitches. Repeat this process with the other fabric rectangle.

Step 3: Sewing the Sides and Bottom

Now, it's time to sew the sides and bottom of the bag. Place the two fabric rectangles with the right sides facing each other. Pin the sides and bottom edges together, making sure the zippers are aligned.

Christmas DIY Bag Christmas Bag

Using your sewing machine or needle and thread, sew along the pinned edges, leaving a small opening at the bottom for turning the bag right side out. Backstitch at the beginning and end of each seam.

Once you've sewn the sides and bottom, trim the corners diagonally to reduce bulk. Then, turn the bag right side out through the opening at the bottom. Push out the corners and edges to make them nice and sharp.

Step 4: Closing the Opening

Use a ladder stitch or a simple running stitch to close the opening at the bottom of the bag. Make sure the stitches are small and invisible from the outside.

Step 5: Adding the Button Closure

Decide where you want to place the button closure on the front of the bag. Mark the spots with a pin or a fabric marker. Sew one button to the front of the bag at the marked spot.

On the flap of the bag (the part that will cover the zipper), mark a spot for the second buttonhole. Use a buttonhole foot on your sewing machine or a buttonhole stitch to create the buttonhole. Make sure the buttonhole is the right size for the button.

Step 6: Attaching the Strap

Cut your strap material to the desired length. You can make it adjustable by adding a buckle or a slide. Fold the ends of the strap under by about 1/2 inch and sew them down to create a clean edge.

Pin the strap to the sides of the bag, about 2 inches from the top. Make sure the strap is centered and evenly spaced. Sew the strap to the bag using a straight stitch or a zigzag stitch.

Step 7: Finishing Touches

Trim any loose threads and give your bag a good press with an iron. You can also add some embellishments, like beads, sequins, or patches, to make your bag even more unique.

And there you have it! Your very own DIY crossbody bag with a button closure. It's a great way to express your creativity and have a one-of-a-kind accessory.

More DIY Bag Ideas

If you're looking for more DIY bag inspiration, check out our Christmas Bag and Christmas DIY Bag collections. We also have a DIY Basket Handmade Bag that's perfect for summer.

As a supplier of DIY Crossbody Bags, we offer a wide range of high-quality materials and kits to help you create your own bags. Whether you're a beginner or an experienced sewer, we have everything you need to get started.

If you're interested in purchasing our products or have any questions, feel free to reach out to us. We'd love to help you bring your DIY bag ideas to life.