Introduction
We have all been there. You are walking into your favorite studio or headed to a park for an outdoor session, and you are struggling to keep your rolled-up mat from unfurling. Between your water bottle, keys, and phone, your hands are full. A carrier is a simple tool that makes the journey to and from your practice much easier. While Hugger Mugger has been providing high-quality, practice-tested gear since 1986, we also know that many practitioners enjoy the creative process of making their own accessories. This post covers several ways to create a functional, stylish carrier, from simple no-sew rope designs to durable sewn fabric slings. You will learn how to choose the right materials and construct a carrier that lasts as long as your favorite mat.
Quick Answer: To make a basic yoga mat carrier, you can use a 60-inch length of sturdy fabric or nylon webbing. Create two adjustable loops at either end using D-rings or reinforced stitching, allowing the center length to serve as a shoulder strap.
Why Make Your Own Yoga Mat Carrier?
Making your own gear allows for complete customization. You can choose a fabric that matches your personal style or repurpose materials you already have at home. This approach is not only budget-friendly but also environmentally conscious.
A DIY carrier can be tailored to the specific weight and thickness of your mat. For example, a heavy natural rubber mat like our Para Rubber Yoga Mat might require a wider, more cushioned strap to prevent it from digging into your shoulder. A thinner travel mat might only need a lightweight cord.
Beyond aesthetics, a handmade strap can often serve a dual purpose. Many practitioners use their carrying straps as a yoga strap during practice. This helps with reach in seated forward folds or provides stability in balancing poses. When you make your own, you control the length, width, and texture.
No-Sew Methods for Quick Transport
If you do not have a sewing machine or need a carrier immediately, several no-sew options work remarkably well. These methods use household items or basic hardware store supplies.
The Reliable Pants Belt
A sturdy leather or canvas belt is one of the easiest ways to secure a mat. Loop the belt around the center of your rolled mat and cinch it tight. While this does not provide a long shoulder strap, it keeps the mat from unrolling while you carry it under your arm or inside a larger bag.
The Scarf or Shawl Wrap
For a softer look, use a long, sturdy scarf. Lay the scarf flat and place your rolled mat in the center. Bring the ends of the scarf over the mat, cross them, and tie a secure knot. You can then use the remaining length of the scarf as a handle or shoulder sling.
The Simple Rope Slip Knot
You can create a minimalist carrier using about 6 to 8 feet of soft cotton rope or clothesline.
- Fold the rope in half to find the center.
- Create a slip knot at each end of the rope.
- Slide the loops over each end of the mat.
- Pull the center of the rope to tighten the loops.
Key Takeaway: No-sew carriers are excellent for practitioners who want a functional solution without the commitment of a sewing project or those who need a temporary carrying option.
How to Sew a Durable Fabric Yoga Mat Sling
For those who want a more permanent and polished look, a sewn fabric sling is the way to go. This design uses a long strip of fabric that is comfortable on the shoulder and distributes the weight of the mat evenly.
Materials Needed
- Two pieces of heavy-weight fabric (canvas or upholstery fabric works best), 6 inches wide by 30 inches long.
- Coordinating heavy-duty thread.
- Sewing machine and iron.
- Two D-rings (optional, for an adjustable version).
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Prepare the fabric strips. Place the two short ends of your fabric pieces together with the right sides facing each other. Sew them together with a half-inch seam allowance. This creates one long 60-inch strip. Iron the seam flat.
Step 2: Fold and press. Fold the long edges of the strip toward the center, wrong sides together. Press this with an iron. Then, fold the entire strip in half lengthwise (hot dog style) so the raw edges are tucked inside. Press again.
Step 3: Stitch the length. Sew along the open edge of the folded strip using a quarter-inch seam allowance. For extra durability, sew another line of stitching along the folded edge. This creates a strong, finished strap.
Step 4: Create the loops. Take one end of the strap and fold it back about 3 inches to create a loop. If you are using D-rings, slide them onto the strap before folding. If you are not using hardware, simply overlap the end of the strap onto itself.
Step 5: Reinforce the stitching. Sew a "box and X" pattern where the fabric overlaps. This involves sewing a small square and then sewing a diagonal "X" inside the square. This is the strongest way to secure a strap that will be under tension. Repeat this on the other end.
Step 6: Finish the carrier. Thread the ends of the strap through the loops or D-rings to create two adjustable circles. Slide these over your mat and pull tight.
The Minimalist Webbing Strap with D-Rings
If you prefer a utilitarian look, using nylon or cotton webbing is the most efficient method. This is similar to the classic yoga straps used in many studios to help with alignment and flexibility.
Choosing Your Webbing
Nylon webbing is very strong but can be slippery. Cotton webbing is softer on the skin and provides more "bite" when cinched around a mat. We recommend a 1-inch or 1.5-inch width for the best balance of comfort and security.
Construction Steps
- Cut the webbing. You will need roughly 5 to 6 feet.
- Seal the edges. If using nylon, carefully use a lighter to melt the cut ends to prevent fraying. If using cotton, fold the end over twice and sew it flat.
- Attach the D-rings. Slide two D-rings onto one end of the webbing. Fold the end over the flat side of the rings by about 2 inches.
- Stitch securely. Use a heavy-duty needle and thread to sew multiple rows of stitches across the overlap.
- Form the carrier. Thread the opposite end of the webbing through both D-rings, then back through one, just like a belt. This creates one large loop. For a two-loop carrier, you will need D-rings at both ends.
Myth: A yoga mat carrier must be a full bag to protect the mat. Fact: Simple straps and slings are often better because they allow the mat to "breathe" and dry out after a sweaty practice, preventing odors and bacteria growth.
For ready-made alternatives, explore the yoga mat carrier collection.
The Upcycled T-Shirt Carrier
You can turn an old, well-loved t-shirt into a stretchy, comfortable mat carrier. This is a great project for beginners and requires minimal sewing.
- Cut the shirt. Cut a wide strip from the body of the shirt, about 10 inches tall.
- Create the strap. Cut the remaining fabric into three long strands and braid them together to create a strong shoulder strap.
- Assemble. Sew the ends of the braided strap to the circular strip of fabric.
- Use. This creates a "tube" that you can slide your mat through, with the braid serving as the handle.
Because t-shirt material (jersey) is stretchy, it will naturally snuggle around your mat. This works particularly well for our Tapas Original Yoga Mat, which is lightweight and easy to roll.
Choosing the Right Materials for Longevity
The secret to a carrier that lasts for years is in the material selection. Since your mat might be heavy, the strap needs to resist stretching and tearing.
Fabric Comparisons
| Material | Pros | Cons |
|---|---|---|
| Canvas | Extremely durable, classic look, easy to wash. | Can be stiff until broken in. |
| Nylon Webbing | Waterproof, very strong, thin and packable. | Can have sharp edges; less "natural" feel. |
| Cotton Rope | Soft, aesthetic, doubles as a stretch strap. | Can stretch over time; needs secure knots. |
| Denim | Very strong, repurposes old clothing. | Thick and sometimes difficult to sew. |
Hardware Options
If you want your carrier to be adjustable, hardware is helpful. Plastic buckles are lightweight and won't rust if they get damp. Metal D-rings are more traditional and offer a higher weight capacity. If you want a completely silent carrier (no clinking metal), stick to the fabric-loop-only method.
Using Your Carrier as a Yoga Prop
One of the best things about a DIY strap is that it can transition from a carrier to a tool for your asana (posture) practice. Many practitioners use their carrying straps to bridge the gap in poses where they cannot yet reach their feet or hands.
- Seated Forward Fold: Loop the strap around the balls of your feet to help keep your spine long while gently pulling your chest forward.
- Reclined Leg Stretch: While lying on your back, place the strap around one foot and extend the leg toward the ceiling. The strap allows you to keep your shoulders relaxed on the floor.
- Bound Poses: Use the strap to "connect" your hands behind your back in poses like Cow Face Pose.
If you plan to use your carrier as a prop, ensure the material is non-stretch cotton. Stretchy materials do not provide the stable resistance needed for safe alignment support. Our standard cotton yoga straps are 1 inch wide for this reason—they provide a firm grip without slipping.
For more guidance on choosing supportive equipment, see the Yoga Prop Guide.
Caring for Your Handmade Carrier
Just like your yoga mat, your carrier will need occasional cleaning. Sweat and oils from your skin can transfer to the strap during transport.
- Washing: Most fabric or cotton webbing carriers can be tossed in the washing machine on a cold, gentle cycle.
- Drying: Air drying is best to prevent shrinkage, especially for cotton and canvas.
- Inspection: Regularly check your stitching, especially at the stress points near the loops. If you see threads starting to pull, reinforce them immediately to prevent the strap from snapping while you are carrying your mat.
Note: If you use your strap as a prop during a particularly sweaty session, wash it more frequently to maintain hygiene and prevent the fabric from becoming brittle.
For additional care advice, review these care and cleaning tips for yoga mats.
Summary of DIY Steps
To ensure your project is a success, follow these final tips:
- Measure twice. Make sure the strap is long enough to fit comfortably over your shoulder when the mat is attached.
- Reinforce everything. The weight of a yoga mat pulls constantly on the seams. Single rows of stitching are rarely enough.
- Test the grip. Before heading to class, make sure your loops cinch tightly enough that the mat won't slide out if it is tilted vertically.
Bottom line: A DIY yoga mat carrier is a practical, creative project that adds a personal touch to your practice setup while providing essential utility.
Conclusion
Creating your own yoga mat carrier is a rewarding way to support your practice. Whether you choose a simple no-sew rope method or a custom-sewn fabric sling, the goal is the same: to make getting to your mat as easy and mindful as the practice itself. At Hugger Mugger, we believe the right tools should support you reliably, whether they are made in a professional facility or crafted with care at your kitchen table. We have spent nearly 40 years focusing on the details that matter to teachers and students alike. If you find that you need more than just a strap, you can explore our full range of mat bags and carriers designed for every type of practitioner. For help finding the perfect mat to go inside your new carrier, try our Yoga Mat Guide to match your practice style with the ideal surface.
FAQ
What is the best length for a yoga mat carrying strap?
Most practitioners find that a total length of 60 to 70 inches works best. This provides enough length to create loops for each end of the mat while leaving a comfortable 30-inch shoulder strap in the middle.
Can I use a regular yoga strap as a carrier?
Yes, most standard 6-foot or 8-foot yoga straps can be converted into a carrier by looping the ends through the buckle to create cinching circles. This is a great way to minimize the amount of gear you need to bring to class.
See the yoga strap collection for different lengths and buckle styles.
How do I make the strap more comfortable on my shoulder?
If you have a heavy mat, you can sew a "shoulder pad" by wrapping a small rectangle of padded fabric or fleece around the center of the strap. This prevents the narrow webbing or rope from digging into your skin during long walks.
What fabric is best for a DIY yoga mat sling?
Canvas, denim, and heavy-weight cotton are the best choices because they are durable and don't stretch excessively. Avoid thin quilting cotton unless you plan to use a heavy-duty interfacing to provide extra strength.
