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How to Make an 8 Panel Footbag | DIY Footbag Template Guide

Learn how to make an 8 panel footbag with a simple DIY template using basic tools like ruler and protractor. Step-by-step beginner guide.

How to Make an 8 Panel Footbag: Free DIY Footbag Template Guide 

Learn how to create a precise 8 panel footbag DIY template using simple tools like a ruler, protractor, pencil, and paper. This beginner-friendly guide will help you design a professional DIY footbag pattern for sewing your own handmade footbag (also known as a hacky sack) at home.

This 8 panel footbag pattern is designed to help you make a finished footbag with a diameter of about 5.5 cm / 2.2 inches.

The 8 panel footbag is widely used in freestyle footbag circles because it offers a softer and smoother feel compared to 12 panel designs. Whether you call it a footbag or hacky sack, this project is a great starting point for anyone interested in freestyle tricks, handmade sports gear, and DIY sewing.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, prepare the following items:

  • Ruler (with centimeter markings)
  • Protractor
  • Pencil
  • Paper
  • Thick cardstock or transparent plastic sheet (for making the template)

Step 1: Draw the Basic Geometry

An 8 panel footbag is typically made from 8 identical modified pentagon panels, which are stitched together to form a spherical shape.

In this tutorial, we use an “equilateral triangle construction method,” which is one of the simplest approaches for DIY template creation.

Recommended Dimensions:

  • Side length: 6.5–7 cm (example uses 7 cm)
  • Interior angle: 60° 

DIY footbag pattern for handmade footbag

Step 2: Adjust for the 8 Panel Structure

To convert the base triangle structure into an 8 panel footbag template, make slight adjustments:

  • Measure 0.5 cm inward from each corner
  • Trim the sharp tips slightly
  • Form a modified pentagon shape

8 panel footbag pattern

This step helps improve roundness when using fewer panels, resulting in a more balanced and stable handmade footbag.

Step 3: Transfer to Durable Material

Once your template is complete, transfer it onto a sturdier material:

  • Transparent plastic sheet (recommended)
  • Thick cardstock
  • Template plastic

A durable template prevents deformation when tracing multiple panels and ensures consistency across all pieces.

Step 4: Cut 8 Identical Panels

Use the template to trace and cut 8 identical panels from your fabric.

How to Make a Smaller Footbag

Method 1: Reduce Template Size

Adjust the side length to:

  • 6.5 cm
  • 6.0 cm
  • Or smaller sizes

Smaller panels will naturally result in a smaller finished footbag.

Method 2: Tighten Stitching

Pull your stitches tighter during sewing to create a more compact and stable structure, reducing overall size.

Method 3: Increase Seam Allowance

Start your stitches slightly farther from the edge of each panel. This hides more fabric inside and reduces the final diameter.

Small Errors Are Normal

Minor variations during hand cutting are completely normal. Differences of 1–2 mm usually won’t affect performance. The key is to keep all 8 panels as consistent as possible. With practice, your handmade footbags will become more symmetrical and refined.

Final Thoughts

Creating an 8 panel footbag template is a great way to get started in freestyle footbag design and handmade crafting.

With just a few basic tools, you can produce custom handmade footbags that match your personal style.

If you'd rather start playing immediately, check out our handmade 32 panel footbags made from premium microfiber suede.

SIICCAR Footbag Store
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