Things You'll Need
Tape measure
1/2-inch-wide elastic
Scissors
1-inch-wide ribbon or trim or 2-inch-wide fabric strip
Dressmakers’ pins
Sewing machine
Hook-and-loop tape (optional)
Tube sock (optional)
Whether you need an armband for a costume, to hold your phone or identification and cash on a jog or to make a political statement, there's no need to spend a lot of money. With a little elastic and some ribbon, trim or fabric, you can craft a strap for your arm, or you can turn an old sock into an armband pocket.
Stretchy Band Styling
Step 1
Measure around your arm at the point where you plan to wear the armband. Add 1/4 inch to the measurement.
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Step 2
Cut a piece of elastic to match the measurement.
Step 3
Cut two pieces of ribbon or trim 1/2 inch longer than the elastic.
Step 4
Pin the elastic to the back side of one of the ribbons or trim pieces.
Step 5
Stitch across the ends of the ribbon and elastic to secure them together.
Step 6
Pin the second piece of ribbon or trim to the first, right sides together.
Step 7
Stitch the long sides together, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Step 8
Turn the band right side out.
Step 9
Match the ends together and pin.
Step 10
Stitch the ends together with a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Step 11
Turn the band so that the seam is on the inside of the circle formed.
Fabric Band Removable Flair
Step 1
Measure your arm's circumference and add 2 inches.
Step 2
Cut the fabric strip to match the measurement.
Step 3
Fold the fabric in half with the right sides together.
Step 4
Pin the edges to hold them in place.
Step 5
Stitch along the long side and one end of the fabric strip, using a 1/4-inch seam allowance.
Step 6
Turn the strip right side out.
Step 7
Fold 1/4 inch of fabric at the open end into the opening. Hand-stitch the end closed.
Step 8
Position one side of a hook-and-loop tape tab on the end of the fabric band. Stitch it into place.
Step 9
Place the other side of the tape tab on the stitched piece.
Step 10
Wrap the band into a circle until the other end overlaps above the tab. Stitch the second side into place.
Sock-It-Away Styled Valuables Storage
Step 1
Cut the foot portion of a tube sock away to leave an 8-inch tube.
Step 2
Turn the tube inside out.
Step 3
Fold up the bottom of the tube to about 1 inch from the top, or until the pocket formed is the right size for your phone or other electronic device or for your id card or wallet.
Step 4
Stitch along the fold, using a 1/8-inch to 1/4-inch seam allowance.
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