For my upcycling project, I will be repurposing some old fabric to create a chalk bag for climbing. About a year ago I bought curtains that were too long, so I hemmed off a couple feet of fabric and I’ve been saving it to find something to reuse it for. The fabric is a beige color with some white textured accents that look like sun rays. The fabric is a fairly thick linen material.

I go bouldering at my local climbing gym nearly every day. I am currently using a chalk bag that my sister made for me. She crocheted the outer shell then sewed a fleece lining into it, and attached a drawstring closure which is typically seen on chalk bags.

I have realized during my frequent climbing over the past several months, that I often don’t close my chalk bag. Not even consciously, I just grab some chalk and then plop my bag down on the floor and out spills a cloud of chalk. Apparently I am too lazy to deal with the clasp mechanism to open and close the bag. I had this grand idea (that I thought I invented) to implement a magnetic closure into the chalk bag so I don’t have to worry about my chalk spilling when I drop the bag. After a quick Google search I discovered that I am not the first person to think of this idea, but I am still excited to make it my own. I am currently considering two potential magnet configurations. My initial research shows that the magnet configuration shown on the right tends to work better. I am hoping to get my hands on some magnet strips soon so I can start prototyping the closure mechanism.

Along with the curtain fabric scraps, I am looking to source some magnets for the closure, thread, fabric for the trim, and some fleece for the interior of the bag. I am aware I can find many of these items for free on campus, but it would be nice to upcycle old items if possible. I am still deciding whether I will add a belt for carrying and wearing the bag, as I rarely use this feature on my current chalk bag. If I have the fabric for it, I plan to add at least one or two loops so I could at least attach a carabiner if I’d like.
The aesthetic I am going for is earthy neutrals. Although I rarely climb outdoors, bouldering inside still makes me appreciate and feel connected to nature. I think the earthy neutral aesthetic will tie in well with the purpose of the bag, and the aesthetic of the fabric I already own. I am hoping to find some green fleece for the interior, or add green and brown accents on the trim or with the thread I will use to sew it. I have some sewing experience, but I am by no means an expert. I often struggle to keep the fabric going straight through the sewing machine. Due to my shoddy sewing skills, I am expecting and embracing a “homemade” look to this chalk bag. Much like nature, it will not be perfect or symmetrical. I plan to use the sewing machines in the Idea Forge, which I have used before. I am looking forward to getting this project started, and I would love any suggestions for where I may be able to source more materials.
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I’m obsessed with the magnet clasps! I agree with Tyler that the dual flap configuration seems like the way to go. Of course, prototyping will help provide some clarity. If you’re looking for additional scrap fabric, I’d direct you to Art Parts on Valmont and 30th. They always have a good selection of random materials for cheap. Also, do you plan on implementing loops for a carabiner in your chalk bag? Another thing that may be of interest to you is one of the Idea Forge’s sewing classes. I’m not sure if you plan on hand sewing your bag or using a machine, but I’d imagine using a machine would save you a lot of time and make your lines cleaner. I’m looking forward to seeing how this chalk bag turns out!
I was really impressed with the concept of this project! I think that your goals are very achievable and will turn out great! I believe that you may have success in the dual flap configuration versus the four flap, most of the styles I have seen online with good reviews tend to be the two flap variety. I believe there are magnets in the project depot or the supply closet at the ITLL, and there are sewing machines in the Idea Forge.