I use the fold and stitch method too. It is bulky but gives a nice result. My dinky Brother mechanical seems to sew through anything with no problems.

I never need to turn the straps for a tote bag. I cut the strip whatever length you want it, for a 2.5 inch strip, cut the strip 5 inches wide. Make a mock bias tape )fold in half, press then turn under raw edges, press then sew on raw edge side the length of the strip, the on the folded side of the strip, then sew down the middle of the strip. Always use a light weight fusible batting the length of the strip minus 1/2 inch. I also use this method for a braded handle. That takes 3 time as much fabric, but very pretty and seems to last longer. No need to use batting in this method.

Hey, that is a very clever idea! My DH could make something similar out of wood. Thanks! :-D

Rettie V Grama:
Thanks for the tip on the braided handles lasting longer.

Diaper safety pin

I use batting inside the straps, cut a little less than half the width. Press together down the center-right side up. Press 1/4 inch in on both sides or leave the selvage edge on one side and press the other side. Now bring the selvage edge over, then the other side lapped over that. Pin. Sew narrowly along each side of the strap and sometimes down the middle. The batting gives them firmness and softness all at the same time. I have never minded the look of stitched straps. So much easier.

I do it this way and add a stiff batting strip before sewing

Stitch with small gauge cord inside, slightly longer than strip. baste stitch to one end, then pull through. Remove basting

thanks Alikat110-

what a great idea. :-D

Also, I've seen Eleanor Burns use a hemostat-

Ditto for me except I don't usde the webbing. I place fusible batting inside.

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