DIY Journal Bandolier // Book Strap // Band Holder for Pens and Glasses

The Fabric Journal Bandolier: Keep Your Inspiration Within Reach

Stop hunting for a pen when a great idea strikes. Originally designed for my own use, this Journal Bandolier became a must-have after constant requests from fellow writers and artists. It’s the ultimate solution for anyone tired of losing their favorite pens or finding broken pencil leads at the bottom of their bag.

Each bandolier is handmade using high-quality fabric and a sturdy 2-inch wide elastic base, ensuring a secure, non-slip fit for your favorite notebook.

The Vital Stats:

Design: 2″ (5cm) wide elastic strap for maximum stability.
Capacity: 7 individual slots (approx. 1″ (2.5cm) wide each).
Tool Fit: Holds everything from slim pencils to standard Sharpies.
Book Fit: Tailored for 5.25″ wide journals (like the standard Moleskine), but stretches to fit books with a circumference up to 13.5″.
Dimensions: 5.75″ long when laid flat.

Below you will find my step by step written tutorial with VIDEO instructions for all the visual learners.

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How to make the Journal Bandolier

Supplies and tools

fabric – home decor fabric, quilting cotton
2″ (5cm) wide elastic
matching thread
scissors (or rotary cutter and a cutting mat)
measuring tape
iron and ironing board
sewing clips or pins

DOWNLOAD: … [Free pdf file]

How to Sew a Journal Bandolier

Watch the diy fabric book strap video first and then follow the written step by step instructions below.
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Journal Bandolier VIDEO TUTORIAL

INSTRUCTIONS:

STEP 1:

Download and print the journal bandolier pattern at 100% (no scaling). Trim the excess paper.

STEP 2:

Measure your book or jornal to make sure the bandolier will fit. It is designed to fit circumference between 11.5 and 13.5 inches (29 to 34cm). If your journal/book is slightly larger or smaller you can adjust the length of the elastic.

STEP 3:

Take the paper pattern and pre-fold it- fold it in half along the central long line and then prefold the dotted lines for the pen slots.

STEP 4:

Cut your fabric accoring to the pattern

STEP 5:

Fold the fabric in half lengthwise and pin the long raw edge

STEP 6:

Stitch around the raw edges using a 6mm (1/4″) seam allowance, leaving a small gap for turning on the right short edge

STEP 7:

Take the short edge with the gap and fold along the seam allowance

STEP 8:

Clip the corners and turn the fabric right side out. You can use a blunt object like the top part of a pen or a pencil to turn it around more easily.

STEP 9:

Push out the corners and roll the seam allowance between your finger to help pull out the edge. Iron the fabric.

STEP 10:

Center your folded pattern, with the slot lines facing up, over the fabric. Use a heat erase fabric marker to mark down the 6 slot lines. Place aside.

STEP 11:

Cut a 33cm (13″) long piece of your 5cm (2″) wide elastic

STEP 12:

Fold in half and mark the middle.

STEP 13:

Take your fabric rectangle, fold it in half and mark the middle.

STEP 14:

Place the fabric rectangle over the elastic, matching the middle marks. Make sure it is centered and pin in place.

STEP 15:

Stitch along all 6 slot lines, as well as along both short sides, through both the fabric and elastic.

STEP 16:

Fold the journal bandolier in half, wrong sides out, matching the raw edges of the elastic.

STEP 17:

Stitch the elastic ends together 6mm (1/4″) from the edge

STEP 18:

Open up and finger press the seam allowance then turn the elastic with the right side up. Stitch down the open seam allowance about 3mm (1/8″) from the central seam. Clip all the loose thread and the fabric band is ready!

Now all that is left to do is to slip it over your journal and insert some pens/pencils/highlighters. This DIY journal bandolier is versatile and super useful organization tool that everyone should have!

Do, what are you waiting for. Sew this journal bandolier and upgrade your stationery game. This sleek fabric bandolier wraps around your journal to provide instant access to seven of your most-used tools. Built with a 2-inch wide elastic strap, it provides a firm grip on your book while keeping your pens protected and ready.

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