Yoga mats provide a non-slip surface for you to practice your yoga asanas. They also provide a small degree of cushioning and protect you from getting dirty if you practice outdoors. A yoga bag is a hands-free way to carry your mat to class as well and protect and store it between sessions. You can buy a yoga bag from sporting goods or yoga supply stores, but some bags may be expensive and have limited design options. With a few supplies, you can make your own yoga mat in the fabric and pattern of your choice.
Step 1
Roll your yoga mat, lengthwise, into a cylinder. Measure the length and circumference of the cylinder with the tape measure.
Step 2
Write down the measurements and add 6 inches to the length and 3 inches to the circumference to accommodate the folding and stitching of the fabric. The extra inches will also create a loose bag which can accommodate mats of different thicknesses or a mat plus an accessory, such as a towel.
Step 3
Cut a piece of fabric in the length and width to match the length and circumference measurements in Step 2. You should have a large rectangle of fabric.
Step 4
Create a strap by cutting a 4-inch wide strip of fabric the same length as your bag fabric. The strap should be slightly shorter so that you can center it on the bag.
Step 5
Fold the fabric strap in half, lengthwise with the dull side out. Iron the fold and sew the sides of the strap.
Step 6
Turn the strap to right side out. Fold down the ends 1/2 inch, and iron the folds. Set the strap aside.
Step 7
Lay out the bag fabric lengthwise and dull side up. Fold down the top edge of the fabric 1 inch to create a pocket for the drawstring.
Step 8
Iron the fold and pin down the edge to hold it in place while sewing. Stitch the pocket 5/8 inch from the top of the fold.
Step 9
Turn the bag fabric right side out and pin each end of the strap, fold side down, to the bag fabric. Attach the ends approximately 4 inches from the top and bottom of the bag fabric so that it is centered on the bag.
Step 10
Stitch the ends of the strap to the bag.
Step 11
Fold the bag fabric in half, lengthwise and inside out, so that the strap is on the inside of the fold. Pin the edges together and stitch the length up to the folded edge. Do not stitch to the top. You need to leave the edges open to run the drawstring later. You should now have an inside-out cylinder of fabric.
Step 12
Remove the pins and lay the cylinder flat with the bottom edge nearest you. Put your hand inside the end of the cylinder and lift to create an opening.
Step 13
Push in the sides of the opening and close the end to create a triangle shape. Iron the triangle to flatten the folds.
Step 14
Make a 1-inch fold in the end of the triangle, iron the fold, and stitch.
Step 15
Cut a length of cord 6 inches longer than the circumference of the bag. Attach a safety pin to the end of the cord and run through the pouch at the top of the bag. Tie knots into the ends of the cord.
Step 16
Turn the bag right side out. Your bag is now ready for use.
Tips and Warnings
- If you are using a delicate fabric, turn the iron to "Low," place a towel over the fabric to prevent scorching, or avoid ironing altogether.
Things You'll Need
- Yoga mat
- Tape measure
- Pencil
- Paper
- 1 yard, or more, of the fabric of your choice
- Scissors
- Iron
- Straight pins
- Thread, in the color of your choice
- Sewing machine
- Braided cord, in the color of your choice
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