When I was younger, I always wanted a new backpack every school year. Some years we couldn’t afford it, but I always found a way to use something to make a new backpack.
Whether you’re still in school or know someone who is, this is a great way to have a new backpack for no money at all– and it’s super cute!
This is one of those ways. If you have an old pair of jeans, don’t throw them away or donate them. Make a backpack! Here’s how.
You will need:
- Old jeans
- Measuring tape
- Fabric chalk/markers
- Scissors
- Thread & needle/sewing machine
- Shoe lace
- Velcro (optional)
- Bag buckle (optional)
- Patch or design (optional)
Take any old pair of jeans and flip them inside out. Cut along the inner seam toward the crotch, all the way up the front of the jeans.
Measure a 15″ x 12″ rectangle. Mark with the chalk or markers, then fold it over another piece of fabric so you can cut two of the same measurement at the same time. Leave at least a 1cm margin for sewing.
Using the same sewing margin, cut a 12″ x 3.5″ rectangle, two 32″ x 1.5″ strips, a 10″ x 8.5″ “U” shaped piece, a 7.5″ x 3″ rectangle, and a 7.5″ x 5″ rectangle, out of the jeans.
Sew the body pieces (15″ x 12″) right sides together, leaving an opening at the bottom to attach the base (12″ x 3.5″). Sew all three together, then flip right side out.
To make a loop for a drawstring, fold the upper part of the body and sew. Pass the shoelace through the loop. Attach the pocket (7.5″ x 5″) and the flap of the pocket (7.5 x 3″) to the front of the bag.
Attach the strips to the back and side to make straps, and the “U” to the front to make a flap. Attach velcro to the pocket so the pocket’s little flap stays put. Sew on the bag buckle to the “U” flap if you’d like.
You can add a design to the pocket too for a little pizazz, and you’re done!
How are you going to design yours?