Messenger Bag Anti-slip Strap

by Tinkerchimp

2.0K338

Intro: Messenger Bag Anti-slip Strap

I have a canvas messenger bag that I use to carry my paperwork. I like it because it’s versatile, and can look formal or casual depending on the outfit. The problem is, it slips when I cycle with it, and I end up banging it with my knee as I pedal. I decided to fashion a strap that I could clip on so that the bag doesn’t slip sideways.

STEP 1: Source the Braces (suspenders)

Buy heavy duty braces (suspenders in the US). They shouldn’t cost more than £4 on ebay. I got a pair in red and black for £3.29 each. The wider the elastic, the better.

STEP 2: Take Apart Suspenders

Take apart the suspender ‘biting clip’ (not sure if that’s what it’s called) to release the strap

STEP 3: Cut Down the Strap

I chose a length by eye that I thought would be short enough to restrain the bag.

STEP 4: Burn the End to Prevent Fraying

STEP 5: Put the Strap Back Together

Crimp the ‘biting clip’ to the strap. You can then put the strap back together as it was originally, only shorter.

STEP 6: Strap to Bag and Chest Strap!

You can just put the strap itself into the bag when you’re not using it.

I was a bit worried at first that the clips would be torn off due to the forces put on the strap while cycling with the bag full. I found that because the strap is able to stretch, there aren't really any sharp tugs on the clips, and I haven't had a single incident! Also note that my bag is canvas, which is ideal for this type of clip, as they are designed to bite into cloth.

9 Comments

El_Gato 4 years ago

Great idea. Some bag companies have this on their bags by default (crumpled call it the „third leg“).
Will remember this when in need (hopefully).

El_Gato 4 years ago

Crumpler not crumpled ...

SecondPersonShooter 5 years ago

The Same could be accomplished if you were in ROTC in High School, and still have shirt stays- you know, the elastic things that attached to your shirt by your socks, and were under your pants?

2hess 5 years ago

Useful, versatile, simple, strong and (at the same time) not tearing the clamped material (the bag and the strap) - in a word: brilliant.

Tinkerchimp 5 years ago

Thanks! It's still holding up after all this time!

Uncle Kudzu 6 years ago

Very clever and simple solution!

Swansong 6 years ago

That's a neat simple fix :) You should enter it in the Fix It contest!