How to Attach Webbing Straps to a Bag Without Sewing

By Sallie Tomato | Published: 2026-10-31

Category: How-to Guides

No sewing machine? No problem. Learn how to attach webbing straps to a bag using hardware rings and simple no-sew methods, plus placement tips for a secure, professional finish.

Quick answer

You can attach webbing straps to a bag without a sewing machine by using metal or plastic hardware rings as anchor points and securing the webbing with a no-sew fastener such as rivets or Chicago screws. This method keeps the strap load-bearing and gives a clean, professional look, provided you choose the right ring size and place the anchors correctly.

Why hardware rings work for no-sew straps

Hardware rings (D-rings, O-rings, or rectangle rings) act as the connection between the bag body and the webbing strap. Instead of stitching the webbing directly to the bag, you loop the webbing through the ring and secure it with a mechanical fastener. This spreads the load across the ring and the fastener, reducing stress on any single point.

The key is matching the ring's inner width to your webbing width. A ring that is too narrow will pinch the webbing and cause wear; too wide and the strap will slide around. For 1-1/2" webbing, choose rings with an inner width of at least 1-1/2" to allow the webbing to pass through easily.

No-sew fasteners: rivets vs. Chicago screws

Rivets are permanent and require a setting tool, but they create a very strong bond that won't loosen over time. Chicago screws (also called binding posts) are removable and need only a screwdriver, making them ideal if you might want to change straps later. Both work well for attaching webbing to rings, but consider the trade-off: rivets are more secure for heavy loads, while Chicago screws offer flexibility.

Placement tips for balanced, comfortable straps

Strap placement affects how the bag hangs and feels. For a tote or shoulder bag, position the strap anchors so the bag sits comfortably under your arm or at your hip. A good rule of thumb is to place the anchors about 1/3 of the way in from each side edge, but test with the bag loaded to confirm balance.

Also consider the direction of pull: the webbing should run straight from the anchor point to the ring without twisting. If the bag body is soft, reinforce the back of the anchor point with a small piece of interfacing or a patch of fabric to prevent the fastener from pulling through.

Step-by-step: no-sew webbing strap attachment

Choose and mark anchor points: Decide where the straps will attach on the bag body. Mark the spots with a fabric marker or chalk, ensuring they are symmetrical and positioned for comfortable carrying. Common mistake: placing anchors too close to the top edge, which can cause tearing. Checkpoint: measure twice from the bag's center to ensure even placement.
Select and install hardware rings: Pick rings that match your webbing width (e.g., 1-1/2" webbing needs rings with at least 1-1/2" inner width). If using D-rings, you may need to create a small tab from webbing or fabric to hold the ring, then secure the tab to the bag with rivets or Chicago screws. Mistake: using rings that are too small, which can abrade the webbing. Checkpoint: the ring should move freely without pinching.
Cut webbing to length and seal ends: Cut your webbing to the desired strap length, adding a few inches for adjustment. Melt the cut ends with a lighter to prevent fraying (if synthetic). Mistake: cutting too short; always err on the longer side. Checkpoint: hold the strap up to the bag to confirm length before fastening.
Loop webbing through the ring and secure with fastener: Thread the webbing through the ring, fold it back onto itself, and secure with rivets or Chicago screws. Place fasteners at least 1/2" from the webbing end and use two fasteners per connection for strength. Mistake: placing a single fastener too close to the edge, which can tear out. Checkpoint: tug firmly on the strap to test security before moving on.
Reinforce the bag attachment point: If the bag fabric is lightweight, add a small patch of interfacing or a square of webbing on the inside of the bag behind the anchor point before installing the fastener. This distributes stress. Mistake: skipping reinforcement on thin fabrics, leading to pull-through. Checkpoint: the anchor should feel stiff and stable when you pull the strap.
Test and adjust: Load the bag with typical items and try it on. Check that the straps hang evenly and the bag doesn't sag. If needed, adjust strap length by moving fasteners (if using Chicago screws) or adding new holes. Mistake: not testing with weight, which can reveal balance issues. Checkpoint: the bag should sit level and feel comfortable on your shoulder.

Product facts

1-1/2" Striped Neutral Webbing: Sallie Tomato Premium Webbing has finished edges and requires no turning, pressing, or interfacing. This saves time and ensures a clean look, especially important when you're not sewing because raw edges would fray.
1-1/2" Striped Neutral Webbing