How to Turn a Backpack into a Sling Bag | 10 Easy Steps
Sling bags are the perfect way to travel with your laptop, tablet, and other electronics. They’re light, easy to carry, and can be quickly transformed from a backpack to a sling bag in seconds.
They’re also great for storing and protecting your electronics. But there are several things that you need to know about sling bags before you get started.
This article will walk you through the process of How to Turn a Backpack into a Sling Bag and explain some of the key points to keep in mind when doing so.
What is a Sling Bag?
A sling bag is a handbag, usually with a shoulder strap, that can be slung across the body. They are often considered to be fashion accessories or fashion statements rather than practical items.
A sling bag is also known as a shoulder bag, sling bag, backpack, duffel bag, briefcase, carry-on bag, laptop bag, messenger bag, tote bag, or purse.

Types of Sling Bags
There are several different types of sling bags available on the market. The first type is a general-purpose, versatile bag that can be used for everything from carrying your laptop to your camera gear.
This is also known as a carry-on bag. There are two different sizes of this type of bag, one being a carry-on size and the other being a small personal item size.
Step by Step Guide on How to Turn a Backpack into a Sling Bag?
Get The Right Sling Bag
You’re not going to use a regular old backpack like a sling bag, so it’s time to get a dedicated sling bag that can handle the abuse you intend to put it through.
You’ll also want to make sure your sling bag has a good quality zipper and is big enough to carry all your gear. I suggest looking at sling bags from Osprey, Kelty, or Minaire.
Choose the Right Material
The sling bag you choose should be made of tough, durable material that can stand up to wear and tear. I’ve seen some pretty flimsy bags in my day, and they don’t last long.
I personally like the look of a leather sling bag, but if you prefer something more rugged, then you can get one made out of Cordura nylon.

Find the Right Size
You want your sling bag to be just right for your body type. If you are a petite woman, then you might want a sling bag that is about half the size of a full-sized bag.
This way you can carry your laptop or purse comfortably without having to worry about it getting in the way of your movement.
On the other hand, if you are a larger woman, then you might want to get a bag that’s closer to the size of a full-sized bag. This way you don’t have to struggle with carrying around a bulky bag, and you can still get all of your stuff in there.
Sew the Slings
- Hot Bag Sewing: A slings bag is not as hard as it sounds. Most people just need to practice their sewing skills on a piece of fabric before they attempt to sew one for themselves. It’s actually easier than you think!
- Choose the Right Fabric: When choosing fabric for your slings bag, make sure that it is both durable and washable. The material should be made from either leather or canvas. These materials are easy to clean and durable, which makes them ideal for a slings bag.
- Sew Your Slings Bag: It’s important to make sure that your bag is sturdy when you are done sewing it. You might want to use a sewing machine that has a serger attachment, which will give your bag a more professional look. If you don’t have access to a sewing machine, then you might want to try using a sewing machine by hand. Either way, it is important to make sure that the stitches are strong and neat.
- Add a Locking Mechanism: The locking mechanism of your slings bag should be adjustable so that it can fit on any size of sling. It should also be able to lock securely without damaging your bag. Some slings bags have a snap lock that works just fine.
Adjust the Length
Adjust the length of the Slings Bag: The length of your slings bag is determined by the length of the straps. The straps can be adjusted in length by Loosely adjusting the straps with the strap adjusters on the top of the bag Adjusting the length of the straps by removing and then re-inserting the slings bag into the pouch
The Size of the Slings Bag: The size of your slings bag is determined by the width of the bag, which in turn determines how much weight you can carry. You may need a larger or smaller sling bag depending on how much you plan to carry.
Attach the Shoulder Straps
Your shoulder straps are sewn into the bag and they attach to your belt. Attaching the straps is easy; you just put the strap over the end of the bag, then through the buckle, and pull it tight.
I like to use the same buckle for all my bags. It’s not necessary, but it does make it easier to attach and remove the straps from the bag.
Tip: When you’re using a small sewing machine, be sure that the needle goes through the fabric and not into the metal part of the machine.

Add the Belt
The belt goes on the back of your waist. Attach the belt by wrapping it around your body and tying it in a bow at the back.
You’ll want to keep the loop in the front of your waist low enough that you can get your hands inside it, but high enough that it doesn’t fall off your waist.
You can find belt bags in a variety of colors and designs. You can also add a buckle or two if you’d like. If you don’t want to add a buckle, just make sure you tie it securely so that it won’t come undone.
Add the Pockets
The pockets are attached to the top of the bag. You’ll need to cut them out of fabric or leather. It’s important that you use a pattern for this part. Use your scissors or knife to cut the pocket.
Sew the Pockets Once you have your pockets cut out, you’ll want to sew them on. You can do this by hand or with a sewing machine. If you’re doing it by hand, you can make the pockets out of leather or canvas.
Leather is a little harder to work with. If you choose leather, you’ll want to use a sewing needle and heavy thread.
If you’re using a sewing machine, you’ll want to use a sewing machine. Most people use a standard sewing machine for this step.
Add the Handle
The handle goes on the top of the bag. You’ll need to cut out the handle. You can either use fabric or leather for this part.
Leather is easier to work with because it’s thicker and more durable than fabric. Make sure that you have enough leather so that you can fold it over the edges of the bag. Sew the Handle Once you have your handle cut out, you’ll want to sew it on.

Add the Tether
Hooks When you’ve sewn your handle onto the bag, you’ll need to add the tether hooks to the sides of the bag. This is what holds the bag closed. It also keeps the bag from rolling around.
To make the tether hooks, cut the wire to the size that you want them to be. Sew the wire to the inside of the bag where you want the tether hook to go.
Sew the Tether Hooks Into Place Once you have your tether hooks in place, you can use a safety pin to hold them in place.
Then, you can sew the ends of the tether hook into the back of the bag. You can do this by folding the top part of the bag down and stitching it closed.
Try-On Your Sling Bag
Now you have sewed your sling bag, once you completed the above step now it’s time to put it all together! You can carry a sling bag wherever you want.
FAQs Related How to Turn a Backpack into a Sling Bag?
Do I need to be a trained expert to turn a backpack into a sling bag?
Yes, you do. You need to know how to sew and how to tie knots.
Is there a right way to put a sling bag on?
There is no right way to put a sling bag on. It’s up to you.
How long does it take to make a sling bag?
It takes anywhere from two hours to three days, depending on the size of the bag and the type of fabric you use.
Can I make a sling bag out of a backpack?
You can’t make a sling bag out of a backpack.
What kind of fabrics should I use for my sling bag?
You can use any kind of fabric that you like. The more pockets that you have, the better.
What is the best way to carry my sling bag?
I prefer to carry my sling bag in front of me. It’s easier to see what’s inside your bag.
What is the most important thing to remember when carrying a sling bag?
When you’re carrying a sling bag, you want to be aware of where your bag is at all times.
Is it true that a sling bag is more secure than a backpack?
Yes, a sling bag is more secure because it keeps your bag from falling off your shoulder.
Conclusion
In conclusion, the key to creating a sling bag is to find a sturdy and attractive bag that will hold your laptop, books, and other small items.
The bag should be large enough for you to carry it comfortably, but not so large that you can’t easily carry it around with you.
Also, you want to make sure the bag is easy to clean and that it won’t get too dirty. The above steps definitely help you out in turning a backpack into a sling bag.