Introduction: Minimalist Waterproof (nearly Bulletproof) Wallet
Here is a small wallet that will hold several ID and/or credit cards and some cash. It fits neatly in a front pocket or shirt pocket and you almost won’t know it’s there. It is very quick and easy to make and very durable. Best of all, it's recycled from an old treadmill belt, making the cost almost nothing!
Step 1: Materials
Find a treadmill belt. I got mine from a neighbor who was replacing his. Other sources might be a gym or the dump. Maybe even your own treadmill if it has been sitting in the corner being used as a clothes hanger for the last 6 years. You can easily remove the belt from a treadmill by cutting it in two and pulling it off. All you need for this project is a small piece.
Step 2: Pattern
Tthe pattern I used is courtesy of JLSleather.com. He has fabulous tutorials on pattern making as well as several free patterns and his site is well worth a look. The particular pattern I used is for a horizontal card wallet. I printed the pattern full size, glued it to a piece of stiff poster board and cut it out.
Step 3: Trace Pattern Onto Material
Trace the pattern onto your belt material. A plain #2 lead pencil works well for this
Step 4: Cut Out Pattern
Cut out your wallet. I used scissors. A razor knife could also be used, but the material cuts very easily with scissors, so I recommend them.
Step 5: Sewing
fold your wallet into the proper configuration and sew it together. I found my old Pfaff up to the task. It could also be hand sewn if necessary, but a machine makes quick work of this task.
Step 6: Finishing Up
I used a hammer to flatten the wallet out into its final shape. It could also be flattened by pulling it over the edge of a table. You could skip this step, but I think it makes the wallet look better.
Step 7: Done!
Load your cards and cash into your new wallet and enjoy having a unique and durable wallet you made yourself for nearly no cost using recycled material!

Participated in the
Pocket-Sized Contest

Participated in the
Trash to Treasure
3 Comments
4 years ago
Nice design. It sure beats the "genuine leather" wallet that is falling apart in my pocket. I might have to try this.
Reply 4 years ago
Thanks - it was a lot of fun. Some of my simpler projects turn out the best. I actually find this wallet to be nicer to carry than a similar leather one I made. The bills and cards are easier to get in and out.
4 years ago on Step 7
If you liked this instructable, please vote for me in the pocket-sized and trash to treasure contests. Thanks!!