When to DIY vs. Buy
DIY makes sense when:
- Your bag has an unusual window shape (hexagon, star, custom shape) and ready-made inserts don’t fit
- You want a specific fabric pattern or color that isn’t commercially available
- You need multiple inserts for the same bag (different themes to swap)
- You enjoy crafting and want full control over the result
Buying makes sense when:
- Your bag has a standard window size (most YourItBag bags come with a compatible insert)
- You don’t have the time or materials
- You want guaranteed compatibility
→ Shop ready-made inserts — if your bag takes a standard size, this is faster.
What You Need
No-Sew Method
- Dense foam sheet (2-3cm thick) — craft foam, EVA foam, or upholstery foam
- Fabric (felt, cotton, denim) — enough to wrap the foam piece
- Fabric glue or hot glue gun
- Scissors
- Ruler and marker
Sewing Method (adds to no-sew list)
- Sewing machine or needle + thread
- Straight pins
- Iron (for pressing seams)
- Optional: velcro or snap closure for removable panel
Method 1: No-Sew Insert (20-30 minutes)
Step 1: Measure your window
Measure the interior dimensions of your bag’s window compartment (not the window glass — the interior space the insert sits in). Subtract 1cm from each side for wiggle room.
Step 2: Cut the foam
Cut your foam to the measured dimensions. Use a sharp craft knife for clean edges — scissors compress foam and leave jagged edges.
Step 3: Cut the fabric
Cut fabric 3-4cm larger than the foam on each side. This gives you wrap-around material.
Step 4: Wrap and glue
Place the foam in the center of the fabric (wrong side up). Fold one side of the fabric over the foam edge and glue to the back. Repeat for opposite side. Then fold corners in (like wrapping a gift) and glue both remaining sides. Let dry completely.
Step 5: Test fit
Slide the insert into your bag’s window compartment before adding any pins. It should fit snugly without bowing.
Step 6: Add your display
Push pins directly through the fabric into the foam. Standard enamel pins grip well in dense foam.
Method 2: Fabric Channel Insert with Removable Core (60-90 minutes)
This method creates a proper sewn insert with a foam core that can be removed for washing.
Step 1: Measure and cut
Measure window interior as above. Cut two fabric rectangles at those dimensions plus 2cm seam allowance on each side.
Step 2: Sew three sides
Place the two fabric pieces right sides together. Sew three sides with a 1cm seam allowance. Leave one short side open (this is where the foam core slides in).
Step 3: Turn right side out
Pull the fabric through the opening so the right sides face out. Press flat with an iron.
Step 4: Insert the foam core
Cut a foam piece slightly smaller than the fabric pouch. Slide it inside through the open end.
Step 5: Close the opening
Fold the open edges in 1cm and either hand-stitch closed (for a clean finish) or sew a velcro closure if you want the core to be removable.
Step 6: Optional — topstitch
Topstitch around the perimeter 0.5cm from the edge for a cleaner look and to prevent the foam from shifting inside.
Step 7: Pin and display
Push pins through the fabric into the foam. The fabric layer gives pins something to grip and distributes the pin pressure across the foam.
Tips for a Better DIY Insert
Fabric choice:
- Felt: easiest to work with, no fraying, good pin grip
- Cotton: clean look, more color options, frays at edges (needs hemming)
- Denim: durable, pins grip well, heavier weight
Foam density:
- Too soft (craft foam, thin foam sheets): pins don’t grip — they fall through
- Too hard (rigid plastic foam): pins can’t be pushed in
- Target: dense upholstery foam or thick EVA foam — gives firm resistance without being unpinnable
Decorating the insert:
Many collectors decorate the insert fabric with washi tape borders, fabric paint, stickers, or iron-on patches before adding their pin display. This adds character to the background and fills negative space.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q: What is the best material for a DIY ita bag insert?
Dense EVA foam (2-3cm thick) wrapped in felt or cotton is the most popular combination. Felt is easiest for beginners — no fraying, excellent pin grip, available in many colors.
Q: How do I know what size insert to make?
Measure the interior dimensions of your bag’s window compartment (not the glass — the inside space). Subtract 1cm from each side to allow for easy insertion and removal.
Q: Is a DIY insert as good as a store-bought one?
A well-made DIY insert is comparable to a store-bought one. The main advantage of store-bought is guaranteed compatibility with the bag’s window dimensions. The main advantage of DIY is custom shapes, fabrics, and colors. For standard rectangular windows, either works well.
Q: Can I make an insert for a heart-shaped window?
Yes. Trace the window shape onto your foam, cut carefully with a craft knife, then wrap with fabric. For curves, cut small notches in the fabric wrap allowance to reduce bunching at curves.
Get Started
→ Shop Ita Bag Inserts — if you’d rather buy
→ Ita Bag Accessories Guide — all accessories explained
→ How to Set Up Your Ita Bag
→ Ita Bag Starter Kit — bag + insert in one