Roll Top Canvas Backpack, front

This backpack is roughly the same dimensions as the first pack I posted earlier this summer, but I changed the pattern and construction to allow for some different options for pockets and shape.

  • Simple roll top design
  • Made from heavy cotton duck canvas
  • Bottom portion brushed with latex for durability
  • Cotton webbing, with snap hook closures
  • Billow style front pockets are slightly expandable
  • Added side pockets
  • Fully lined, with removable back foam insert (for more or less padding/structure)
  • Carry-on size, fits in overhead bin storage, and under the seat on airplanes.

Roll Top Canvas Backpack, back

I am really happy with the way this turned out. Before sewing a single stitch, I tried to think through the entire construction process. My goal was to keep the construction as simple as possible: no button holes, no basting, no pinning, no changing sewing machine feet, and no pressing. I wanted simple, efficient, no nonsense sewing, and I was able to do just that.

Obviously that approach won’t work for every project, and I’m certainly not knocking basting or pressing when they are necessary, but I tried to factor the need for those practices into the design to eliminate their necessity from the beginning.

I want to get back to making clothing soon, but right now I’m having too much fun with backpacks!

Roll Top Canvas Backpack, side