How to Make a Drawstring Backpack

Introduction

In this tutorial, you will learn how to make a versatile drawstring backpack, also known as a sackpack or cinch sack. This bag is perfect for carrying everyday essentials, serving as a gym bag, overnight bag, or travel carry-on. With a cinched closure using a 1/4-inch rope and a zippered front pocket, this bag is both functional and stylish. Let’s get started!

Step 1: Cutting Out Fabric Panels

• Gather your materials:
  • DuraWax™ Light Waxed Canvas
  • Cotton Duck 12 oz.
  • Nylon 200D fabric
• Use a clear acrylic ruler and rotary cutter to cut the following pieces:
  • Main body panels: Cut two panels from the waxed canvas.
  • Lining panels: Cut two panels from the cotton duck.
  • Pocket panels: Cut one panel for the zippered pocket from the nylon fabric.

Step 2: Sewing Zippered Pocket

• Place the nylon pocket panel on top of the canvas.
• Use a YKK® continuous zipper chain and a zipper slider to sew the zippered pocket.
• Pin the zipper in place using wonder clips.
• Use a sewing machine to sew along the edge of the zipper, ensuring it is secure.

Step 3: Adding Bag Top, Tabs and Back

• Cut two fabric tabs from the leftover canvas.
• Attach the tabs at the top of the main body panels, ensuring they are evenly spaced.
• Sew the top edge of the bag, leaving space for the drawstring opening.
• Attach the back panel to the main body, securing it with pins.

Step 4: Cutting and Sewing Lining

• Cut the lining fabric to match the main body panels.
• Sew the lining pieces together, leaving an opening at the bottom for turning.
• Attach the lining to the main body of the bag, ensuring the right sides are facing each other.

Step 5: Adding Drawstring Sleeve

• Fold the top edge of the bag down to create a sleeve for the drawstring.
• Sew along the folded edge, leaving a gap to thread the drawstring through.
• Ensure the sleeve is wide enough to accommodate the 1/4-inch rope.

Step 6: Sewing Inside Lining

• Insert the lining into the bag, aligning the seams.
• Sew around the top edge of the bag to secure the lining in place.
• Make sure the lining fits snugly inside without any bunching.

Step 7: Adding Drawstrings

• Cut two lengths of New England Sta-Set double braid rope to your desired length.
• Thread the rope through the drawstring sleeve using a safety pin or a bodkin.
• Adjust the length of the drawstrings to ensure the bag cinches properly.

Materials List

• DuraWax™ Light Waxed Canvas
• Cotton Duck 12 oz.
• Nylon 200D fabric
• YKK® Continuous Zipper Chain #5
• YKK® Zipper Slider #5
• New England Sta-Set Double Braid Rope 1/4"
• V-92 White UV Bonded Polyester Thread
• Seamstick 1/4" Basting Tape for Canvas

Tools List

• Clear Acrylic Ruler 6" x 24"
• Comfort Grip Rotary Cutter 60mm
• 3-in-1 Mark and Trace
• Self Healing Rotary Cutting Mat 24" x 36"
• Sailrite® Deluxe Fabricator® Sewing Machine
• Wonder Clips Assorted Colors
• Deluxe 5 1/2" Magnetic Sewing Guide

Conclusion

You have now completed your drawstring backpack! This bag is perfect for daily use, gym trips, or travel. Feel free to personalize it further by adding patches or embellishments. Enjoy your new creation and consider making more in different colors or sizes!