Action cameras are fantastic. They can take high quality videos and photos. However, the quality of the videos and photos will be greatly reduced if we have scratches on our lens or waterproof case. Although, I try to put my action cam in a case every time, there are instances when it just isn't convenient and the action camera is put in a pocket, or in my backpack..

It is easy, quick and inexpensive to make felt bag that can provide added protection for my camera. This intractable will show you how to make an action camera case quickly. I made both cases in about a half hour.

Step 1: Determine the Amount of Felt You Need

At this time, getting an estimate of the size of felt needed. Put your camera on a piece of felt or on a piece of paper. Make the width big enough to go around your camera plus some to allow for a 1/4 inch seam and to make it easy to slide your camera in. For the height, I add about 2 inches below the camera and 3 inches above the camera. Be generous in your size determination. It is easy to cut down - not so easy to add in material. I picked a bright color felt so I can easily spot it if I happen to lay my bag down when I am working.

Step 2: Cut the Felt

Square off your felt and cut your felt to its initial rough cut size.

Step 3: Make the Sleeve for the Drawstring

On one of the long sides, fold over a piece of the material to make a sleeve for your drawstring. I fold over about 7/8 inch.

I then sew it with seam 1/4 inch from the loose side of the felt sleeve. You can machine or hand sew this and other seams.

Step 4: Test the Size Felt Bag, Prep for Sewing

Fold the felt right sides together. The drawstring sleeve Pin the bottom and side. Take care to match the Test fit your action cam. I found my bag was too wide. It was easy to modify the size at this point. Sew around the bottom and side with a 1/4 inch seam making sure to stop sewing the side seam at the the drawstring seam. We need to be able to insert the drawstring in the next step. Do not sew the top where the drawstring is.

Step 5: Insert the Drawstring in the Drawstring Sleeve

Turn the bag right side out. You can use a pin or a chopstick to pull or push the corners out.

I used a small diameter paracord for my drawstring. You can also use a shoelace or other string. To help string the drawstring through the sleeve, I put a pin on the free end of the the drawstring. I do not cut the drawstring string length until I have retested putting my action cam in the bag and done a test tie. Even after my test tie, I cut my drawstring a little long. I can always cut it shorter later.

Step 6: Keep Your Drawstring From Fraying at the Ends Needed

If you need to keep your drawstring ends from fraying, use a method appropriate for your material. This may be glue, an anti-fray solution.... Take care when using any anti fray glue, solution or process.

Step 7: Enjoy Your Bag

Enjoy your bag. After I put my camera with it small tripod into the bag, I tie the bag closed - just to maker sure my camera/waterproof case are more protected.