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How to Make a Canvas Backpack

Drawstring backpacks are so convenient for users because they can be adjusted as desired. Zippers have the tendency to pull apart and break, rendering your backpack useless before the end of the first semester. Consider making your own drawstring backpack instead. Using canvas material is a great idea because it is a strong and durable fabric that provides a lot of different color options. The best news is that once it gets dirty, you can simply throw it in the wash.

Things You'll Need

1/2-yard canvas material
Scissors
Sewing machine
Grommet pliers
Grommets
2 yards cord

Instructions

- 1
  Fold your canvas fabric in half, print side in. Orient the fold so it is on the bottom with the open ends facing up.
- 2
  From the fold, measure up 15 to 18 inches depending on how large you want your backpack to be. Then, measure across about 12.5 inches. Add about 1 inch seam allowance on all sides.
- 3
  Cut out your fabric according to your measurements.
- 4
  Sew along the left and right sides of your material, leaving the top open.
- 5
  Create a pocket for your drawstring cord along the top edge of your fabric. To do this, fold the top of your canvas fabric and sew it to the bag, leaving the sides open for the cord to be inserted through. Be careful not to sew your pocket too narrow so your cord can still be inserted and then moved to loosen and tighten your backpack.
- 6
  Turn the bag right side out and iron the seams.
- 7
  Insert your drawstring through the pocket you created along the top edge.
- 8
  Use your grommet pliers to punch holes 3/4 inch in each corner of your bag. Install your grommets.
- 9
  String the cord from the top to the bottom on each side of your bag. Position your backpack on your shoulders to find the comfortable length for you before cutting the cord to size and sewing it closed.

Sewing