How to Sew Backpacks
Make your essentials-carrying a simple and elegant bag by sewing it! Although the foldover top resembles a traditional knapsack, the total design also functions as a purse.
The bag’s front may accommodate a key clip, and the padded straps are simple to adjust.
Although making your backpack may seem overwhelming, this is a simple project to get you started.
Additionally, you can pick your fabric to make a unique bag just for you!
What You’ll Need on How to Sew Backpacks
- Equipment / Tools
- Rotary cutter and mat
- Ruler
- Scissors
- Sewing machine
- Pins
- Iron
- Hammer
- Materials
- 2/3 yard mid- to heavy-weight fabric
- 1/2 yard lining fabric
- 1-yard fusible midweight interfacing
- 1/2 yard lightweight batting
- Thread
- 1 1/8 yard 1-inch-wide cotton webbing
- 6 1-inch D-rings
- 1 1-inch swivel clasp
- 2 heavy snaps (and a tool for installing)
Instructions on How to Sew Backpacks
1. Cut the Bag Pieces
The batting, lining, interfacing, and outside fabric should all be cut into two 15 x 18-inch pieces.
The reverse of the outer fabric should be fused to the interfacing. Baste the layers together after placing the batting between the outer cloth. Diagonal lines are quilted on the outer panels.
From the bottom corner of the outer and lining pieces, cut a 2 1/2-inch square.
2. Build the straps
From the batting and outer fabric, cut two pieces measuring 5 x 17 inches.
The long edges of the cloth and batting should be right sides together when you pin and sew.
Cut two cotton webbing pieces measuring 12 inches.
Fold one end under twice on each piece, then sew across to finish the end. Place aside.
To make the strap lay flat, centre it and widen the seam.
Cut two pieces of cotton webbing measuring 3 inches. The strap should be folded in half and attached with two D-rings.
The ends of the webbing should line up with the end of the strap as you insert the D-rings into the tube. Cross-stitch the strap’s end. Continue by using the second strap.
Also, Read How to Pack Clothes in a Backpack
3. The straps should be reversed.
Starting at the open end, top stitch the straps up the second side, across the end with the rings, and down the first side.
4. Make the Pieces for Holding the Straps
Cut two lining fabric pieces measuring 2 1/2 x 5 inches and one interfacing piece measuring 2 1/2 x 5 inches. One piece of lining fabric should be fused to the interfacing.
Using the right sides of the two rectangles facing each other, sew them together using a 1/4-inch seam allowance. Give yourself room to turn. Press the patch while it is right side out.
Cut a cotton webbing length of 6 inches. Fold the end under twice before attaching the swivel clasp to one end. Close to the clasp, stitch over the folded piece, backstitching several times to secure it.
The clasp strap, two padding straps, and one of the outer pieces should be pinned to the top of the other so that they extend over the top edge of the back.
The raw edge of the clasp should be 4 1/2 inches from the top edge and should be centred. The rough sides of the cushioned straps should be in line with the other strap as you place them side by side, the wrong side up.
Over the strap ends, secure the patch with a pin.
To completely fasten the straps, sew inside the concentric rectangles after sewing around the patch’s edge.
5. Attach D-Rings to the Front
Cut a cotton webbing length of 5 inches. Attach the strap with two D-rings, then fold the ends together so the rings are in the folds.
Place the folded strap on the second outer piece so that the top fold is 6 3/4 inches from the top edge and the raw edges are facing down.
Close to the first D-ring, sew across the strap along the edge, across, and along the final side. For complete security, sew once more around the strap.
6. The Main Backpack Pieces Must Be Sewn
Right sides together, tack the two outside pieces. The two 12-inch webbing straps from Step 2 should be positioned between the layers so that they are 1 inch from the corners of the cut-outs.
To strengthen the seams, sew the sides and bottom two times. The seam can be zigzagged, although it’s not required.
On the two sides and the bottom, sew the lining pieces. Use a seam allowance of 1/2 inch.
Fold the cut corners to join the side and bottom seams to create the boxed corners. To strengthen the seam, pin the exposed edges and stitch across two times.
Likewise for the lining.
7. Join the lining and outside bag.
The outer bag should be placed inside the lining with the right sides facing each other.
The top of the bag should be pinned and sewn, leaving a 5-inch opening. Push the liner inside the backpack after turning the bag right side out.
To line the seam allowance, press the opening in. 1/8 inch from the seam, topstitch the top of the backpack.
Install Snaps Measure two snaps and install them. Place them 1 inch from the opening edge, 4 1/2 inches from each side. Install them such that the buttons are visible when the bag is folded over. Use the side with the smooth buttons.
Also, Read How to Pack a Tent in a Backpack
8. The straps in a loop
To fasten and modify the padded straps, pass the two side straps through the D-rings on the padding, then fold the straps back and between the two rings.
Simply snap the top of your bag closed, fold it down, and clip it in place while you use it.
The bottom ring lets you clip on additional objects like your keys or a coin bag while the top ring holds the clip.
This backpack has enough room for a few books, a few notebooks, a pencil case, and other essentials. It’s an excellent size to use as a project bag or a purse for crafts.
9. Advice on Customization
The basic parts can be made into a larger backpack by adding a few inches while maintaining the original cut-out corners. Think about making the side straps longer.
Installing a zipper in place of the snaps at the top opening will increase security.
Make a patchwork out of the outside portions of your bag or add a little something more to give it some personality.
Conclusion
And voila! You’ve just sewn your very own backpack. It’s not just a bag; it’s a piece of you, showcasing your creativity and skills. Plus, you’ve got a unique accessory that stands out from the crowd. Remember, practice makes perfect, so don’t worry if your first attempt isn’t flawless. With each project, you’ll get better and more confident.
So, grab your supplies, unleash your creativity, and start sewing! Who knows? This might be the start of a new hobby or even a small business.
