Okay, let’s clear something up right away: this article is *not* about making any kind of explosive device. When we say ‘bomb bag,’ we’re referring to a very specific style of bag, sometimes called a ‘barrel bag’ or a ‘duffel bag,’ that gets its nickname from its cylindrical shape and robust construction. It’s a durable and versatile bag, perfect for gym gear, travel essentials, or even a weekend getaway. The project we are detailing here is all about crafting a functional and fashionable accessory; not to be used for any illegal purposes.
This project requires some basic sewing skills and the right materials. We will go through each step methodically, providing detailed instructions to ensure you are able to craft your own awesome bomb bag with ease.
**Before We Begin: Safety First**
Even though this isn’t about explosive devices, sewing requires some basic safety practices. Here are a few pointers:
* **Use Sharp Scissors Carefully:** Be mindful of your fingers and always cut away from yourself.
* **Keep Pins Away from Your Mouth:** Pins are sharp and can cause injury if accidentally swallowed.
* **Be Mindful of Your Sewing Machine:** Keep fingers away from the needle while it is moving.
* **Work in a Well-Lit Area:** Good lighting reduces strain and makes it easier to see what you are doing.
**Materials You’ll Need:**
* **Durable Fabric:** Heavy canvas, denim, or even a thick upholstery fabric work well. You’ll need about 1.5 to 2 yards (depending on your desired size; adjustments will be discussed later). Pick a color and pattern that excites you!
* **Lining Fabric:** Cotton or a thinner nylon fabric will work. You will need the same yardage as your outer fabric.
* **Interfacing (Optional):** This adds structure, especially if your fabric is on the thinner side. Use a medium-weight fusible interfacing for the outer panels and pockets if you choose to use them.
* **Zipper:** A sturdy zipper, preferably with metal teeth, at least 24 inches long (or longer, depending on the length of your bag. We will discuss this below).
* **Webbing or Strapping:** For the handles. About 2 yards (or more, again depending on the desired handle length. We will address this later).
* **Optional:** Leather or vinyl for reinforcements and accents.
* **Matching Thread:** Choose a strong, durable thread that matches or complements your outer fabric.
* **Sewing Machine:** A reliable machine that can handle thick fabrics is recommended.
* **Scissors:** Fabric scissors and paper scissors. Keep them separate!
* **Pins:** Lots of them. These will be your best friends during this project.
* **Measuring Tape and Ruler:** Accuracy is key when sewing.
* **Marking Tool:** Tailor’s chalk, a fabric marker, or even a pencil will do.
* **Optional: Zipper Foot:** Makes zipper installation much easier, but not strictly necessary.
**Let’s Get Started: The Steps**
**Step 1: Preparing Your Pattern**
This style of bag utilizes a cylindrical shape. There isn’t really a ‘pattern’ like you may see in store-bought sewing guides. Instead, we will be using a rectangular shape that we will later sew into a cylinder. This section is important for deciding on size.
* **Decide on Your Bag’s Dimensions:** Think about what you intend to use the bag for. Will it be for the gym, for travel, or for carrying supplies for a craft project? Consider the circumference, the diameter, and the length of the bag.
* **Circumference:** The circumference will be the measurement around the widest part of the bag. A common circumference is about 36-40 inches. It is easily adjusted; just measure the desired circumference with your tape measure.
* **Diameter:** This is the distance across the circle of your bag, at its ends. To calculate this, take your desired circumference and divide by 3.14 (or Pi, if you prefer). This will give you a rough diameter. For example, if your circumference is 36 inches, the diameter would be 36/3.14= approximately 11.5 inches.
* **Length:** The length will determine how long your bag will be. A common length is 20-24 inches. Adjust to taste.
* **Cut Your Fabric:** Now, based on the desired dimensions, cut out your fabric pieces. You will need:
* **Outer Fabric Main Panel:** Cut a rectangle of the fabric. The length of this rectangle should match your desired bag length plus 1 inch for seam allowances. The width of this rectangle should match your desired circumference plus 1 inch for seam allowances. For a 24” long bag with a 36” circumference you would cut a rectangle that is 25” x 37”.
* **Lining Fabric Main Panel:** Cut a rectangle of the lining, with the exact same dimensions as your outer panel.
* **End Panels (2):** You will need two circles of fabric, both from your outer fabric and lining. The diameter of the circles should be your diameter measurement plus 1 inch. For a bag with a diameter of 11.5 inches, this would make a circular panel with a diameter of 12.5 inches. You can easily measure this out by using a compass, if available, or by tracing a suitable circular object.
* **Handle Webbing or Straps:** Cut two pieces of your webbing to your desired handle length. Typical handle lengths range from 12-18 inches. If you would like an optional shoulder strap, cut another longer piece of webbing. (This will be addressed further on).
* **Optional Pocket Panels (Optional):** If you want an internal or external pocket, cut additional fabric to the desired size. We will not include instructions for how to construct a pocket at this time, but that can be covered in future articles. If you do want a pocket, you will need to also cut lining pieces for each pocket, that match its size.
* **Optional Interfacing:** If you are using interfacing, fuse this to your outer fabric main and end panels.
**Step 2: Sewing the Main Bag Body**
* **Prepare the Zipper:** Depending on the length of your zipper compared to your calculated circumference, you may need to trim the ends (but don’t open it yet). Your zipper needs to be shorter than your total circumference, or it will be too big for the bag. If you need to trim, make sure you secure the trimmed ends, so that the zipper slider doesn’t accidentally fall off.
* **Attach the Zipper:** Place the outer main panel on a flat surface, right side facing up. Pin one edge of the zipper along one of the long edges of the outer panel, making sure the zipper teeth are facing inwards. If using a zipper foot, now is the time to attach it to your machine. Sew the zipper to the edge of your outer panel, using a ½” seam allowance. Repeat this for the other edge of the zipper with the other edge of the outer main panel. At this stage, you will essentially have created a large rectangle out of your outer fabric, with a zipper running down the center of it.
* **Sew into a Cylinder:** Now we need to join the ends of the rectangle into a cylinder. With right sides together, pin the short edges of your newly-zipped rectangle together. Sew with a ½” seam allowance. Now you have a fabric tube, with a zipper running around it. Don’t sew the zipper closed here, or you will not be able to turn your project right side out.
* **Prepare the Lining:** Sew the short edges of your lining panel together, forming a tube. This time, leave a 4-5” gap in the seam. This will be how you turn the bag right-side out after it’s completed. Press the seam open.
* **Pin Lining and Outer Together:** With the outer cylinder right side out, insert the lining cylinder into it (wrong sides facing each other). Align the top edges of both. It is important that your zipper is unzipped at this stage. Pin these edges together all the way around, making sure that the zipper seam (on the inside of your project) is as flat and close to the fabric edge as you can make it.
* **Stitch Lining to Outer:** Sew the lining to the outer fabric around the top edge, making a seam. Keep your seam allowance the same as before (1/2”).
**Step 3: Adding the End Panels**
* **Attach the First End Panel:** Place your outer fabric cylinder right side out. Take one of the outer fabric circles. With right sides together, pin it to the opening of the cylinder. Align the edge of the circle with the edge of the cylinder, and pin around. Sew using a ½” seam allowance. Repeat with the lining circle, and sew it to the inner cylinder, right sides together. (The raw edge of the seam should be tucked neatly between the outer and lining).
* **Attach the Second End Panel:** Repeat the previous step with the other end of your bag, attaching both outer and inner circle pieces.
**Step 4: Turning and Finishing**
* **Turn the Bag Right Side Out:** Carefully reach through the 4-5 inch gap in the lining and gently pull the entire bag through, turning the bag right side out. This may take a few minutes, be patient and work slowly.
* **Close the Gap in the Lining:** Hand-stitch or machine-stitch the opening in the lining closed. Try to make it as clean as possible.
* **Push the Lining Inside:** Push the lining back into the main body of the bag. Smooth it out so that it lies flat against the inside of the outer fabric.
**Step 5: Adding the Handles and Shoulder Strap**
* **Position the Handles:** Decide where you want your handles to be placed on the bag. Pin the ends of the handle webbing to the outer fabric of the bag, being sure to use both pins for each end and evenly space them. Make sure that you are securing these to the outer layer only, otherwise your stitches will show on the inside of the lining. Measure the distance between each handle and ensure they are evenly spaced along the top of the bag.
* **Sew the Handles:** Sew securely onto the bag, using a square or “X” stitch pattern for extra strength and durability. Repeat this with both ends of both handle pieces.
* **Adding the Shoulder Strap:** If you opted for a shoulder strap, pin the webbing onto the outer bag in the same fashion, except this time you will be securing the strap near the end panels. Attach the shoulder strap in the same way as the handles, using a square or “X” stitch pattern. You may choose to add metal clips at the ends of the shoulder straps and corresponding loops on the bag in the same location, if you prefer a detachable shoulder strap. (instructions for this will be addressed in future articles).
**Step 6: Final Touches**
* **Inspect Your Bag:** Check all seams and make sure that they are secure. Trim any loose threads or errant pieces of fabric.
* **Optional Reinforcements:** Consider adding additional stitching around the base of the handles and shoulder strap for added durability. You may also reinforce the end panels by adding an additional stitch around the edge. If you chose leather or vinyl accents, this is the time to attach them.
* **Press:** Give your bag a final press with an iron, if desired. This step is not strictly necessary but will make your creation look crisp and professional.
**Congratulations!**
You’ve now created your very own bomb bag! Remember, this bag is designed for everyday use and storage, *not* for anything dangerous or illegal. Feel free to customize it further by adding pockets, embellishments, or experimenting with different fabrics and patterns. This detailed guide provides all the information you need to craft a professional-looking and functional bag. With each new bag you create you will gain confidence and speed. Share your creation with others and enjoy using your hand made and unique bomb bag! Don’t hesitate to ask questions in the comments section.