This morning, I kicked a 10" horizontal tear in the middle of my cloth heavy bag. Has anyone had success in mending such a tear, perhaps with duct tape? I really don't have the cash to buy a nicer bag right now .
Take it to a leather shop or a sail shop if you have one near by. They can sew a patch in there for under $20. Have them patch it all the way around the middle or where ever it ripped. Cloth, nylon or leather all make great patches. www.SSFgear.com
I tore the bottom out of on before, and I just duct taped it. It worked fine and lasted for a long time. When it gets weak, you just add more.
SSF gear has the best advice yet. I took mine to a leather bridle shop that does horse saddles and shit. They might have you empty the bag first but ask them.