If your camera is starting to look a bit drab, making a DIY camera strap for it may be in order. Whether you are only a shutterbug or photography is your main source of income, I am certain that you will love the cool camera straps we have listed here. And just like other creative DIY projects I have written here, most of these projects are very easy. Some need sewing, but trust me, you can make a homemade camera strap in under an hour. Customizing your gear is one of the best ways to express your personal style while shooting!
Here are a few quick materials you might want to gather before diving into a camera strap DIY project:
- Sturdy fabric, webbing, or vintage scarves
- Heavy-duty swivel snap hooks or leather split rings
- Fabric scissors, strong thread, or leather adhesive
1. Basic
This tutorial will give you a chance to make a cuter version of your camera's old strap. Basically, you will make a similar strap but instead of the standard thick grosgrain with label, you will be using cute fabric. Fun! It is an ideal starting project if you want fun camera straps without a complicated construction process.
Tutorial
2. Slipcover with Pockets
Now you don't have to replace your old camera strap altogether to amp up your photography gear's cuteness factor. You can also just make a slipcover for the strap that you have now. This particular tutorial is fantastic because it comes with pockets for your lens caps, saving you from misplacing small accessories while out on a shoot.
Tutorial
3. Blinged up
If you love all things shiny, you will enjoy this DIY camera strap. I love this because you can play with colors. How about a black strap with silver sequins? Design variation: use lace instead of sequins for a softer vintage look. If you prefer a bolder aesthetic like zipped and chained hardware, you can customize the trim accordingly.
Tutorial
| Strap Style | Primary Material | Skill Level | | --- | --- | --- | | Fabric Slipcover | Cotton / Canvas | Beginner | | Leather Braided | Leather Cord | Intermediate | | Scarf Strap | Vintage Silk Scarf | Beginner |4. Overalls
Those are clips that you can find in overalls. And clever Tacie used them to make this rainbow-licious DIY camera strap. Of course, you have a choice when it comes to the color of the webbing. I suggest you choose something colorful, though, because black can be too boring sometimes when crafting funky camera straps.
Tutorial
5. Painted
I love these! This DIY camera strap idea may be my favorite from this list. I may also make something similar for my Diana Mini since I happen to have all the materials needed to make these straps. Acrylic leather paint works wonders for long-lasting color designs.
Tutorial
6. Chained
Chains as camera straps? Why didn't I think of that? Check out the link below to see how Geneva made her nifty DIY camera straps. Combining sturdy metallic links with soft leather pads keeps it both stylish and comfortable to carry.
Tutorial
7. Braided
If you have a toy camera, a great project is this lightweight braided strap. These leather cords come in a wide variety of colors so you will have lots of fun making your DIY camera strap. You can even combine three colors in one strap! For more camera styling ideas, check out our guide on fun photography tips.
Tutorial
8. Studded
This DIY camera strap is inspired by an Alexander McQueen purse. Isn't it neat? You can use any fabric you like to make this strap but I think leather is the best material for this particular craft project, giving it an edgy designer finish.
Tutorial
9. Scarfed
Take a scarf, add metal rings to the ends, and hook to your camera. Easy! I had to include this in this list of DIY camera straps because it gives you endless possibilities as far as general aesthetics go. You can easily switch scarves to match your outfit of the day!
Tutorial
10. Zipped and Chained
Here is a chained strap that also happens to be inspired by a designer piece. The inspiration this time is Alexander Wang. Check out the link to know how to make this super cool camera strap that adds instant personality to any photoshoot.
Tutorial
Hope you enjoyed this list of DIY camera straps as much as I loved making it! If you decide to make something out of this list, please show off your straps here or on our FB page. Happy crafting!