If you’ve been to a stadium lately, you know you can’t take in your bag unless it is clear. This can be a pain, especially if you have to walk back to your car and leave your bag behind. But there is a solution! Stadium Clear Bags are perfect for taking into stadiums and other events where clear bags are required.
Stadiums have implemented clear bag policies to increase security and prevent fans from bringing in banned items. However, this has created a problem for fans who want to show their team pride with their belongings. Clear bags are necessary, but they don’t have to be boring! There are now a variety of clear bags available that are stylish and functional. Some feature team logos or colors, while others have fun patterns or designs. No matter your style, there’s a clear bag perfect for you.
Making your own clear plastic stadium bag is easy and can be a fun project for the whole family. With the rules for what you can take into the stadium, it’s essential to follow the guidelines. Bags are clear plastic, vinyl, or PVC and do not exceed 12” x 6” x 12.”
What is Gauge?
Before we get started, let’s talk about Gauge! Gauge is a measure of the thickness of vinyl, and you’ll see it as a number like “4 Gauge” or “60 Gauge”. The higher the gauge number, the thicker the vinyl. When sewing with clear vinyl, you’ll want to use a lower Gauge number like 4 or 8. This is because Gauge 4 and 8 vinyl is still very durable, easy to sew, and not so thick that it interferes with the finished look of your project.
These Gauges are outstanding if you’re using clear vinyl as part of the lining for a bag because they don’t add a lot of bulk. However, if you’re looking for something to use as a standalone product, you’ll want to use a 16 Gauge or higher. This is because anything lower will be too flimsy and could rip easily. Ultimately, it’s up to you what Gauge you use for your project.
Supplies
- 16 Gauge Clear Plastic
- Rotary Cutter and Cutting Mat
- 1/4 Yard Fabric
- Webbing for Handles
- Ruler or measuring tape
- Clover Heat Ruler
- Clips
- Vinyl Needle
- Thread
- Sewing Machine
- Iron
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Excited to get started on this project? Check out the video tutorial below or follow the step-by-step instructions! You choose how you want to learn to do this project! The video tutorial is excellent for those who want to see the project come together, and the step-by-step instructions are perfect for those who want a more detailed look at each component. Either way, you’ll be able to create this project with ease! So what are you waiting for? Let’s get started!
Step #1 Cut Supplies
- One piece of vinyl 12” x 29”
- Two webbing for staps 32”
- Two pieces of fabric 6 “x12”
- Two pieces of fabric 3” x 13”
Step #2 Create Bottom Fold
First, fold the vinyl in half to create a 12” x 14 1/2” rectangle. Measure up 2 1/4” on both sides on one side of the fold and mark with a pen. Fold back on the 2 1/4’ lines on each side. This will create a folded base that will allow your clear bag to sit upright. Clip the folds in place. Your vinyl should measure 12” x 12” now.
Step #3 Top Border
Now let’s add the top border to the bag. Take the pieces of fabric that are 3” x 12”. Start by folding the fabric in half lengthwise, wrong sides together, and pressing. Then fold each raw edge in 1/2” to create a hem and press again.
Clip each piece of fabric to the top of each side of the clear bag.
Step #4 Add Handles
To add the strap, start by finding the middle point of the top border fabric. Then measure out 3 inches on either side and insert the strap under the folded edge on the outside of each side. Clip them in place.
Next, secure the border with a 1/4” inch seam. Then flip up the strap and clip it in place. Topstitch along the top edge. Then stitch the strap using an X or square pattern to ensure it is securely attached.
Step #5 Add Side Trim
Next, we use the two strips of fabric that are 3” x 13”. It’s time to start folding and pressing it into bias tape. To do this, simply fold the strip in half lengthwise and press.
Then, open up the fold and press each side towards the middle, creasing the fabric along the length of the strip.
Fold over one end 1/4” and press. Finally, fold the strip in half again and press.
Now you have bias tape for our stadium bag. Simply open up the bias take and clip the bias tape to each side of the bag.
Sew a 1/4” seam along each side.
Then fold the bias tape around the side of the bag and sew a 1/4” seam along each side of the clear bag.
Tips for sewing with vinyl
- Use a presser foot designed for sewing with vinyl.
- Use tissue paper to help guide the vinyl.
- Set your stitch length longer than normal, so the stitches don’t break the vinyl. I set mine at 3.5
- Use a new needle designed for sewing with vinyl.
- If you don’t have one, use a sharp needle designed for sewing denim.
There you have it! Your very own Clear Plastic Stadium Bag. This project is easy to follow and can be a fun activity for anyone that likes to sew. With vinyl, fabric, and webbing, you can create a stylish and functional bag that will show your team pride. So next time you head to the stadium, bring your Clear Plastic Stadium Bag with you.
If this project inspired you, check out some of my other projects for more inspiration!
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