Project DIY: custom ribbon camera strap

Since I had lots of interest for a how-to on my camera strap, here is it :-). Please remember though, I am not a teacher…if I confuse you or you have any questions, please just drop me a line. Also, use your own creativity to alter the steps if you wish…I simply used what I had on hand.

DIY Custom Camera Strap

time needed:

• 2 hours (if you are engrossed in NCIS like I was:-)

supplies needed:

• camera strap (one that is the same width for the length of the strap)
• ribbon of your choice (the same width as your strap)
• nylon thread
• seam ripper
• scissors
• larger sewing needle
• sewing machine
• heatbond seam tape
• iron
• ironing board
• thimble
• super glue

1. Select and measure the width of your strap so you can pick out ribbon accordingly. I used the strap that came with my camera. I primarily use a hand strap, so if I messed it up I wasn’t going to be stressed and you can get replacements on B&H or Adorama for less than $20. I also like the fact that it is made for my camera…I feel a bit safer.

2. Use a seam ripper to remove the *ends* from the main portion of the neck strap. This is the part that took me the longest because I didn’t want to tear up the ends.

3. Cut a length of ribbon to fit the main strap portion. I used a strip of heatbond tape to secure the ribbon to the strap but this is optional. I also slightly trimmed the corners of the ribbon so it would not hang out once I put the *ends* back on.

4. Stitch down the length of both sides of the ribbon/strap assembly.

5. Reattach the *ends* making sure to overlap the ribbon. I chose to hand stitch the *ends* so that I could use the previous holes but you can machine stitch it as well. Make sure to stitch over the important bits twice for added strength.

6. Add a drop of super glue to each side of the *ends* so that the ribbon does not fray. I also added a drop of super glue to my knots since I used nylon thread (just in case).

7. Do a pull test on both ends of the strap to make sure all is well and your camera will be safe.

8. Reattach to the strap to your camera and enjoy your new strap that is uniquely *you*!

***If you like the idea but don’t have the equipment or time to DIY, here are a few sites to try…

• emfalconbridge.etsy.com
• My Funky Camera
• Heyday Fashions – these are adorable but all that metal around an expensive camera scares me