How to Make Incredibly Strong Yoga Mat Straps Using I-Cord

Updated at: 05/06/2025

Tired of flimsy yoga mat straps that snap under pressure or lack the durability to withstand regular use? Investing in a high-quality strap is crucial for safely transporting your mat and ensuring its longevity. Instead of settling for mass-produced options, why not craft your own incredibly strong and stylish yoga mat strap using the surprisingly robust technique of i-cord? This simple yet effective method creates a remarkably strong and flexible strap that's perfectly tailored to your needs. You'll be impressed by how much sturdier and more reliable your homemade strap will be compared to store-bought alternatives.

I-cord, a tightly woven three-dimensional cord, provides exceptional strength and a pleasing texture, making it ideal for this project. This tutorial will guide you through each step, from choosing the right yarn to finishing touches, ensuring you create a long-lasting and aesthetically pleasing yoga mat strap. Let's dive into the detailed, step-by-step instructions to begin crafting your own incredibly strong i-cord yoga mat strap.

Preparation and Safety Guidelines

Tools Needed
  • knitting spool (or elucd)
  • crochet hook (or knitting needle)
  • yarn
Safety Guidelines
  • Use high-quality, strong i-cord: The strength of your strap directly depends on the yarn. Choose a durable, tightly twisted yarn suitable for carrying weight.
  • Secure knots are essential: Employ reliable knots like a surgeon's knot or a double overhand knot to prevent unraveling and ensure the strap can withstand the load.
  • Test your strap's strength before heavy use: Gently test the strap's carrying capacity before relying on it to transport a heavy yoga mat. A gradual weight increase is recommended.

Step-by-Step Instructions

  1. Prepare the Knitting Spool

    • Thread the yarn through the knitting spool using a crochet hook or knitting needle.

  2. Start the I-Cord

    • Hold the yarn with your pinky finger to begin. Make small clockwise circles around the pins, while simultaneously going counterclockwise around the spool.

  3. Knit the I-Cord

    • Bring the yarn in front of the first pin and underneath the stitch already there. Use your hook or needle to pick up the first stitch and pull it over the pin.
    • go under both stitches, pick up the top one, and move it over. Repeat.
    • Periodically pull on the bottom strand to tighten and make it easier to continue.
    Periodically pull on the bottom strand to tighten and make it easier to continue.Periodically pull on the bottom strand to tighten and make it easier to continue.
    Knit the I-Cord

  4. Cast Off the I-Cord

    • To cast off, take a stitch, bring it off the needle onto the next. Bring the bottom stitch over and pick up the next, repeating until only one stitch remains.
    • Cut the yarn, thread it through the last stitch.
    Cut the yarn, thread it through the last stitch.Cut the yarn, thread it through the last stitch.
    Cast Off the I-Cord
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Tips

  • The hole size in the knitting spool determines the yarn thickness you can use. Smaller holes are suitable for thinner yarns.
  • I-cord is much stronger than a single strand of yarn, making it ideal for items like yoga mat straps, bags, belts, etc.
  • You can integrate the i-cord into other knitting projects at any time.

Common Mistakes to Avoid

1. Inconsistent I-cord tension

Reason: Uneven tension while creating the i-cord leads to a strap that's twisted, bumpy, or weak in certain areas.
Solution: Maintain consistent tension throughout the i-cord creation process by using a consistent knitting or crocheting technique and paying attention to the tightness of your stitches.

2. Using the wrong yarn weight

Reason: Too thin yarn will create a weak and flimsy strap, while too thick yarn will result in a stiff, uncomfortable, and bulky strap.
Solution: Choose a medium-weight yarn that provides a balance of strength and flexibility.

3. Insufficient finishing/securing of the ends

Reason: Loosely finished ends can unravel easily, compromising the strap's durability.
Solution: Secure the ends of the i-cord thoroughly with weaving in the ends or using a knotting technique to ensure durability.

FAQs

What type of yarn is best for making a durable i-cord yoga mat strap?
A sturdy yarn like cotton, hemp, or a blend with nylon or polyester will provide the best strength and durability. Avoid overly soft or delicate yarns.
How long should I make my i-cord for the strap?
The ideal length depends on your yoga mat's size and how you prefer to carry it. Measure your mat's length and add extra for tying knots, generally 12-18 inches longer than your mat is a good starting point.
Making your own yoga mat strap offers a level of customization and durability that store-bought options often lack. While you might have explored some pre-made options—perhaps checking out our selection of men's yoga mat straps—this guide shows you how to craft incredibly strong and stylish straps yourself using the i-cord technique. This method allows you to create a strap perfectly tailored to your needs, ensuring years of reliable use.