What back-to-school accessories should you sew?
Back-to-school means back-to-school supplies. In the summer, we buy a schoolbag, a pencil case, a diary… Why not sew some things ourselves?
It’s a great way to get kids involved by letting them choose certain fabrics or patterns.
Here are a few sewing ideas to get you started on the right foot!
A backpack for the little ones
Kindergarten is the perfect time to swap the drawstring backpack of the nursery for a real grown-up bag. This is an important change for children, so don’t hesitate to ask them what they want from this essential back-to-school accessory. An animal shape, planet patches, a special color…
To sew this project, it’s best to start with a simple shape like the Patronnes’ Pompom backpack, and personalize it with printed fabric, animal ears or iron-on patches… Its shape is ideal for carrying everything kindergarteners need.
For maximum strength, choose a fairly thick upholstery fabric or coated cotton.
A binder for middle school
If your child is starting secondary school and also wants a 100% handmade bag, head to Jane Emilie’s store, which offers a schoolbag pattern.
To complete this project, you’ll need lots of supplies: zippers, rectangular rings, binder clips, straps, glue, rivets and several types of fabric(linen, imitation leather, cotton…), especially to stiffen the front flap.
So weigh up the pros and cons carefully before embarking on this rather technical and demanding accessory!
A shoulder bag for bigger kids
For teens who have outgrown the satchel, you can sew a satchel inspired by the famous US bag, originally issued to American servicemen in the 1930s.
It’s a timeless bag that’s been passed down from generation to generation. The shape is very practical for holding books, notebooks, a pencil case… Like the satchel, it’s a project that requires an investment in supplies (a strap, a magnetic clasp, an adjustment buckle…) and a bit of technique.
But it also allows you to completely personalize your look by opting for canvas, velvet, denim… and adding lettering or appliqué motifs.
You can also sew it in a neutral or muted color and use a more original print for the lining.
A kit for all ages
No matter how old your children are, they’ll always need a pencil case to hold pens, markers, compasses… If you’ve sewn them a schoolbag or bag, this is the perfect opportunity to use fabric scraps to make the two accessories a perfect match.
Alternatively, you can use cotton, upholstery fabric or more original materials like imitation leather, suede or even faux fur, wool or bouclette fabric. An opportunity to let your child’s personality shine through! If you choose a thicker fabric, you’ll just have to be careful with the zipper.
The Etcetera pattern from Miss Cactus comes in three sizes, depending on what your children like to carry with them.
Be sure to measure what they’ll be storing before you start cutting the fabric.
A book cover, diary or textbook
Whether your child uses a diary, a textbook or loves to read on the bus to school, you can sew this super-practical cover for him. It’s perfect for keeping your child’s belongings clean and personalized with printed fabric.
The pattern is available in eight sizes! And it easily adapts to the shape and size you need.
And as this book cover is so quick to make, you can use it for a variety of purposes (diary, book, notebook…).
Many fabrics are suitable for this sewing project: all types of cotton. Your fabric scraps can be re-used for some of the details (handle, closure…). It’s the perfect opportunity to clean out your closets!
Do you sew your children’s bags or satchels yourself?
