PROJECTS WITH PATTERNS
Canvas backpack
The project, its pattern and the fabrics to make it.
Flap drawcord backpack
A classic canvas rucksack: drawcord top under a broad buckled flap, faux-leather base, zipped box pocket on the front, snap-flap side pockets and padded adjustable straps.
- Skill
- Intermediate
- Estimated time
- 7-9 hours over two sessions
- Pattern
- 12 printable pages
Choose your finished size
12 in wide x 14 1/2 in high x 5 in deep (30 x 37 x 13 cm); flap 12 x 11 in
What you’ll learn
- a drawcord casing with side openings
- a zipped box pocket with a gusset
- boxed corners through a contrast base
- padded shoulder straps with slide adjusters
Fabrics for this project
Technical Nylon Wovens
Denim
The pattern explains how each fabric is used. Check the actual cloth before cutting.
Materials for the project
These quantities are for the pattern’s example size. Follow its calculations for a different size.
| Material | Length | Width |
|---|---|---|
| Main fabric | 1.5 yd | 44 in |
| Contrast | 0.375 yd | 54 in |
| Padding | 0.125 yd | 45 in |
Supplies
- strong polyester thread
- 90/14 or 100/16 denim needle for the canvas; 90/14 Microtex or leather needle for the faux leather
- walking foot or roller foot
- zipper foot
- clips (no pins in the faux leather)
- fabric marker and ruler
- bodkin or large safety pin
- hole punch or awl
- hammer or mallet for flattening the boxed corners
- snap setting tool for the side-pocket snaps (usually sold with them)
Before you start
- For lightweight everyday contents. This handmade backpack has no tested load rating and is not climbing or child-carrying equipment. Inspect every strap and handle attachment before use.
- This drawcord design is for teens and adults. Do not adapt it for a young child by shortening the cords alone; use a child-specific pattern with an appropriate closure instead.
- Faux leather, foam and coated hardware: keep the hot iron away from the finished bag.
Preview the pattern
The complete 12-page pattern is included with Sew Certain Pro.