Quick answer
For most DIY bag handles and straps, 1.5 inch cotton webbing offers a good balance of durability and sewability. Retiring webbing like the Everyday Webbing is a budget-friendly option when you need reliable straps without paying full retail.
Why 1.5 inch webbing works for handles and straps
A 1.5 inch width is a sweet spot for bag handles: wide enough to distribute weight comfortably across your shoulder or hand, yet narrow enough to fit through most hardware like slider buckles and swivel hooks. Cotton webbing at this width also holds its shape well, so handles don't roll or twist under load.
The Everyday Webbing is slightly thicker than herringbone webbing, which gives it more body for structured bags. That extra thickness still sews easily on a standard home machine, so you don't need heavy-duty equipment.
When retiring webbing makes sense
Retiring webbing is inventory that the store is phasing out, but the quality and construction are the same as the regular line. If you find a color or size you like, it's a smart way to save money on a material that performs identically for bag handles and straps. The trade-off is limited availability: once it's gone, that specific color or width may not come back.
Decision rules for choosing webbing for bag handles and straps
- Width decision: Use 1.5 inch webbing for standard bag handles and shoulder straps. This width fits most hardware and provides comfortable weight distribution. For thin lanyards or keyfobs, choose a narrower width; for heavy-duty luggage straps, go wider.
- Material decision: Choose cotton webbing when you want a soft hand feel, easy sewing, and a natural look. It's ideal for totes, lunch bags, and toiletry bags. For outdoor or heavy-wet use, consider nylon or polyester webbing instead. Cotton webbing is not waterproof; avoid it for rain-exposed bags.
- Retiring webbing decision: If you find a retiring webbing color you like, buy enough for your current project plus a spare. Because stock is limited, you cannot rely on it for future projects. Use it when you want to save money without sacrificing quality. Check the available colors and sizes before planning your project.
Product facts
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Everyday Webbing - 1 ½ Inch: Loved by makers across the globe. Our Everyday webbing is great for making beautiful bag straps, handles and keyfobs. It's durable and perfect for everyday projects like backpacks, totes, lunch bags and toiletry bags. Slightly thicker than our Herringbone webbing but still easy to sew. You get a strap that holds up to daily use without needing a heavy-duty sewing machine, making it a practical choice for both beginners and experienced sewists.
Everyday Webbing - 1 ½ Inch
Who should choose this webbing
Best for
- DIY bag makers who want a reliable, easy-to-sew strap material
- Projects like backpacks, totes, lunch bags, and toiletry bags
Not for
- Outdoor or marine gear that needs waterproof or UV-resistant webbing
- Projects requiring a very thin, flexible strap (choose herringbone webbing instead)
