How to Throw a Fun Belt Bag Decorating Party

Ready to throw a party that’s part fashion, part crafting, and all kinds of fun? A belt bag decorating party is the perfect hands-on activity for kids’ birthdays, or a girls’ night. Guests go home with a custom accessory they actually want to wear. It’s a way to celebrate with a built-in craft activity.

Whether you’re hosting indoors, in your backyard, or even at a park, here’s everything you need. With this list, you can throw the ultimate belt bag decorating party.

What is a Belt Bag Decorating Party?

Each guest gets their own plain belt bag (also known as a fanny pack), and the supplies to decorate it however they like — think chenille patches and iron-on patches. It is creative, personalized, and gives kids or teens something fun (and functional!) to take home.

What You’ll Need

Belt Bags

Buy plain, solid-color belt bags — you can find these on Amazon for a good price. Black, white, or pastel colors work best for decorating.

Patches

A variety of Iron-on patches. You want lots so there is something for everyone! Chenille Patches look really cute on these bags. They usually come with an adhesive back but I like to glue them on so they’re extra secure using fabric glue or another strong glue.

mouse shaped chenille iron on patches

Tools & Extras

Iron or mini heat presses, fabric glue, Cardboard inserts (to put inside bags while decorating), Design templates.

Party Setup Tips

1. Prep the Belt Bags

You can pre-insert cardboard pieces to protect the interior fabric while decorating.

2. Set Up The decorating bar

Set up a central table with organized bins of patches. Use wooden trays, little boxes, plates, bowls – anything to organize the patches. Digging through all those fun, pretty patches and finding your favourites is the best part!

3. Design Templates

Lay out Belt bag design templates for each guest so they can play with patch design. This allows your guests to find their perfect layout. Once they have decided on the design, they are ready to secure their design onto their bag!

4. Create a Heat Press/ Glue Station

Set-up a separate, adult-only area with an iron or mini heat press. Help each guest secure their design once they’re done placing their patches.

Party Favors

The belt bag is the party favor! But you can go a step further:

Send your guests home with some candy and little gifts they can put in their belt bag! Think chapstick, scrunchies and some treats!

belt bag decorating party

Final Tips

Play fun, upbeat music while crafting. Let guests showcase their bags with a mini fashion walk or runway moment!

This party idea is equal parts crafty and cool. It’s a great way to let kids express their creativity. They can make something they’ll actually use. If you try this party idea, I’d love to see your belt bag creations! Tag me on Instagram @handmadejoydesigns or use the hashtag #handmadejoyblog.

FAQ – Belt Bag Decorating Party

How do you attach the patches to the belt bags?

Most patches are iron-on so you can iron them with a regular iron or use a small heat press. You could also glue them on with permanent fabric glue.

How many Patches do I need for a belt bag decorating party?

It is good to have lots of options for your party guests to choose from. I think 10 assorted patches/guest should leave lots of room for choice!

How do I set up for a belt bag decorating party?

Set up a central table with organized bins of patches. Use wooden trays, little boxes, plates, bowls – anything to organize the patches. You can add printable design templates to the table to allow your guests to play with patch placement.

Happy Crafting!

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