Bangkok Backpack
In this sewing class, we’ll make a basic, easy-to-sew backpack for school or any occasion. With the step-by-step video tutorial, you’ll have no trouble following along. Patterns included!
Project preview
This video is for members
Join Lulu Ferris to watch the complete class and sew along at your own pace.
What you’ll make
Sew the Bangkok Backpack, a classic unlined backpack with a rounded top, roomy main compartment and deep front zippered pocket for smaller essentials.
The design includes padded shoulder straps, adjustable webbing sections and a top hanging loop. Its unlined construction keeps it approachable while introducing useful bag-making skills.
What you’ll learn in this class
- Stabilize and quilt the back panel before joining its layers.
- Build padded shoulder straps and reinforce the webbing attachments.
- Assemble a dimensional front pocket around a zipper.
- Sew a long zipper around the backpack’s curved upper edge.
- Match notches and center marks while joining shaped sections.
- Attach the base panel and finish the adjustable strap system.
Fabric and materials
Use durable regular or waterproof canvas. Waterproof outdoor canvas gives a firmer result, while standard canvas produces a softer backpack.
The back and shoulder straps use batting, foam or another suitable stabilizer. Backpack webbing, strap adjusters and zippers complete the structure.
If woven canvas frays or stretches along curves, finish the raw edges and stabilize those areas before assembly. A coated fabric may need less edge treatment if its weave remains secure.
Make it your own
Quilt the back in straight lines, diagonals, a grid or another manageable design. Decorative zipper pulls can add color and make the sliders easier to find.
Continuous zipper tape may be fitted with two sliders if you want the main opening to meet in the middle.
Compare the Barcelona Backpack, Levi Backpack, flap kids’ backpack and zip-up kids’ backpack.
Finished size
The finished Bangkok Backpack measures approximately 38 cm long, 30 cm wide and 12 cm deep.
The video class includes printable A4 and A0 pattern files plus a pattern-information sheet.
Pattern & materials
Patterns are included with membership
Active members can download every available PDF and materials list.
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