DIY Sling Bag for m4/3 (10 photos)
Dec 7, 2015
3
Cross-posted in Micro Four Thirds Talk
In my quest to find the perfect camera bag for my small m4/3 system, here is a recent DIY project I completed. I converted an old waist pack to a sling bag. The waist pack had padded flaps on each side of the waist belt. I removed the 1.5" wide strap from the waist flap on one side, hand sewed a short 1.5" wide strap vertically to the back of the bag, then folded and sewed the waist flap over the back of the bag. For the inside I used thin foam and neoprene bottle holders cut and shaped to line the inside of the bag. Plus two neoprene bottle holders sewn to the inside for lenses.
The finished bag holds my small m4/3 system:
- OM-D E-M1 with Lumix 7-14 f4 lens attached
- Olympus 45 f1.8 with hood attached
- Lumix 20 f1.7
- Lumix 14 f2.5
- spare batteries, small LED light, small E-M1 Flash + a few small items
This camera bag solution works very well for this particular kit. It could hold another small lens but not much more.

Bag loaded + water bottle in holder secured by clip.

Flap folded over and sewn to the back of the bag. Short strap sewn vertically with clip from original strap.

Side and back view.

Top edge of flap not sewn to make a small pouch with velcro closure.
Inside of bag. Large area for camera with lens attached made from thin foam and neoprene. Two lens pouches made from neoprene bottle holders.

Inside of bag, loaded. OM-D E-M1 with Lumix 7-14 f4 lens attached and neoprene lens cap, Lumix 20 f1.7 on top of small E-M1 flash, Olympus 45 f1.8 with hood attached and neoprene lens cap stacked on Lumix 14 f2.5.

When wearing bag in front of the body bag stays stable, can be adjusted higher or lower, arms not impeded.

Access to inside is easy and bag does not fall forward.
Bag slings around easily to wear secure on back.

Water bottle rests in holder and is secured by clip.
Pros and Cons
Pros
custom made for my use
light weight
flap sewn to the back makes extra padding
heavy duty zipper durable, doesn't snag
sling style bag comfortable to carry and convenient to access inside
doesn't look like a camera bag
Cons
limited capacity - but fine for this kit
I bought the bag several years ago for about $40. When I did an internet search recently I learned it had been discontinued but found this info: Black Diamond Equipment Lumbar Pack - L7 Prowler:
- Durable and water resistant
- Front zip pocket
- Padded waist belt
- Size, exterior (HxWxD): approx. 9x12x4-¼”
- Capacity: 466 cu.in. (7L)
- Weight: 12 oz.
- Fabric: Silicone and polyurethane-coated nylon
Everything was hand sewn and as I have almost no sewing experience it took a few hours to complete - with changes along the way. Not difficult but time consuming. I hope this can help others looking for DIY project ideas.