Learn to sew a maxi size fabric backpack with flaps 🎒 Step by step video-tutorial with free pattern

Accessories like bags, bum-bags, laptop covers or backpacks are a must in our daily life. Today, thanks to the video and free pattern created by MJ from Sew Bonico, you are going to learn how to sew a backpack with maxi flap. It is a perfect accessory for work, university or your trips thanks to its generous sizing. It is extremely versatile and has a retro touch that you are going to fall in love with. Furthermore, it is an easy bag to make and is suitable for all sewing levels. Canvas fabric, that provides resistance and durability, is without a doubt the best material for making a fabric bag with these characteristics.

The tutorial that we are proposing has been created by MJ from Sew Bonico, a passionate lover of cats, her daughter and impossible fabric combinations.

I’m MJ, the person behind Sew Bonico. I’m a teacher by training and profession. Do you want to know what “Bonico” means? It means, funny, amusing, nice, with a spark…

Sewing and running are the two things that brighten up my day and that is why they are both a constant in my life. They are my way of taking care of myself inside and out.

How to sew a backpack with maxi flap from @sewbonico

The backpack consists of a main part and a large flap. It´s an easy accessory to make and is perfect for all sewing levels.

Materials:

The main canvas fabric and the cotton lining fabric are poplin or Rustic Cotton type fabrics.

• 2 pieces of fabric measuring 18 7/8” x 15 3/8” (48 x 39 cm) (= main body of the backpack)
• 1 piece of fabric measuring 13 3/4″ x 5 7/8” (35 x 15 cm) (= flap)
• 1 piece of fabric measuring 13 3/4″ x 21 5/8” (35 x 55 cm) (= flap)
• 1 zipper: 17 3/4″ (45 cm)
• 1 zipper: 13 3/4″ (35 cm)
• Backpack tape.

Tools

• Scissors
• Measuring tape
• Fabric marker
• Pins
• Matching sewing thread
• Sewing machine
• Iron

Step-by-step instructions for the maxi backpack with flap

Making Up

We start by sewing the flap. To do this, the first thing you have to do is sew the 13 3/4″ (35 cm) zipper to the upper and lower part of the flap (main fabric and lining). Then, close the flap by folding the main fabric and the lining over themselves and sew the sides. Leave the main part of the flap open.

Sew the main body of the backpack. Start by sewing the zipper to both sides of the main part and the lining. Don´t forget to flatten the seams.

Place the flap over the main body of the backpack. Fold the upper part of the flap (opening) 3/8” (1 cm) inwards and make a hem. Place the flap 1 5/8” (4 cm) from the zipper on the main body of the backpack (only in the main fabric). Stitch 3/8” (1 cm) and 1 5/8” (4 cm) from the zipper.

Attaching the straps

Before sewing, position the small strap (with a separation of 1 1/8” / 3 cm) and the long straps of the backpack with the required length (approximately 23 5/8” – 25 5/8” / 60 – 65 cm). Place the sewn straps at the sides of the main body of the backpack (= 5 7/8” / 15 cm from the lower edge) and diagonally.

Finishing the backpack

Sew the sides of the backpack, joining the two parts of the main fabric and the lining. You have to leave an unsewn gap at the base of the lining and the zipper open to turn the backpack out to the right side.

Next, sew the four corners to make the base of the backpack (=corners at 2” / 5 cm).

Turn the backpack out to the right side. Close the base of the lining and your backpack is now ready to enjoy.