Our next sewing pattern is well under way. We asked our mailing list what type of bag they’d like to see us design next and a full size backpack was the most popular by far! So this is our unisex backpack, as designed by Adam.
The Sedron backpack sewing pattern will be ready for release in early February. Until then we’re continuing to finalise the design as we use the bag and work through the prototypes. Then it will go to the pattern testers for a couple of weeks, and finally we’ll film the video tutorial.
The finished design will be slightly different to the one shown but it gives you an idea of the overall concept and size. In particular, the final design will not have a tongue closure but will instead have one central zip, as we discovered the tongue closure was impractical for daily use.
We’ve added the materials list at the bottom so those of you who are eager can get your supplies organised early.
For this backpack, we recommend using 10-12oz (320-400gsm) waxed canvas (aka oilskin), cork, or waterproof canvas for the exterior. These fabrics are perfect for the rustic style of the bag and wear well under heavy use. In the UK, I get my oilskin from Merchant & Mills. In the USA, I hear that AL Frances Textiles has amazing waxed canvas, though they’re currently closed for a move and are re-opening this month.
For the lining, we recommend 18oz (600gsm) waterproof canvas (WPC). The WPC adds loads of structure to the bag and means it needs no interfacing and only minimal stabiliser. It’s also very affordable in most locations. For example, in the UK you can grab a metre of WPC for just £7.48 including delivery from AE Market Store on Etsy. In the USA, you can get a yard for $7.99 plus shipping from Fabric Wholesale Direct. Factor in that it’s 60″ (1.5m) wide and doesn’t require interfacing, and you’ve got a real deal.
Shortly after the pattern release, we’ll be hosting a live session on YouTube where we’ll discuss the fabrics and stabilisers used in the pattern, recommend suppliers in various locations, and answer your questions in preparation for making the bag. You can subscribe to our YouTube channel or mailing list to make sure you don’t miss it!
Materials List:
No.5 Zip tape & four pulls – 42″
10-12oz (320-400gsm) Waxed canvas, cork or waterproof canvas (WPC) – 1 yard (54″ wide)
18oz (600gsm) Waterproof canvas (WPC) – 1 yard (54″ wide)
Peltex stabiliser (fusible or non-fusible) – 1/2 yard (35″ wide)
Foam (fusible or non-fusible) – 7″ (35″ wide)
2 x Magnetic snaps OR 2 x Side release buckles (you’ll need rivets too if you’re using buckles)
2 x 1 1/2″ Strap sliders
1/2″ Bias binding – 3 1/4 yards
*Optional Extras*
1 1/2″ Webbing (if you’d rather not make the straps) – 2 1/2 yards
Two-way stretchy mesh fabric (for the optional bottle pocket) – 9″ x 9″
1/2″ Fold-over elastic (for the optional bottle pocket) – 7″
Velcro (for the optional laptop strap) – 4″ x 3/4″
Double cap rivets – 8mm
