Two-Tone foldover backpack project

This two-tone foldover backpack project combines the fun take on simple improv patchwork piecing, and the functionality of a back pack.
The finished measurements are : Approx. 13" x 14" x 3" (33 x 35.5 x 7.5 cm) - the height can be extended up to 16" (40.5 cm).

Features : 
1x external zipper pocket
Front buckle closure
Zipper closure
1x internal zipper pocket
​2x internal slip pockets

Download the pattern here

Watch the video tutorial

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​WHAT YOU NEED TO MAKE THIS BACKPACK

FABRIC
For this project I use the cotton quilting fabric for both the external and the interior fabric. As a quilter, I always have a wide range of collection of these fabrics, thus I tend to use them in my bag projects. With proper interfacing and care, you can make your bag looking fabulous, and last for a while.
You can play around with different kind of fabrics such as canvas, linen, home decor fabric etc. Depending on the weight of the fabric, you may or may not leave out the interfacing. When in doubt, do a little bit of testing and see how you like it.


INTERFACING
Fusible Fleece is the main interfacing I use to add structure to this bag. My favorite kind of Fusible Fleece is the Thermolam kind (Pellon TP971F), it is thicker and denser than the regular fusible fleece.
Fusible woven interfacing (pellon sf 101) is used to add the enough stability, without too much thickness, thus easier to install the zipper pockets.
Ultra Lightweight interfacing - Pellon PLF36 just to add a bit of extra body to the outer zipper pocket panel.


1” WEBBING STRAP
I use nylon webbing, since that’s what I have on hand. You may also use cotton webbing, or make your own strap. If you prefer to have wider shoulder straps, use 1 1/2" wide strap instead.
2x connecting rings (d-rings or rectangular rings) + 2x Adjustable strap slider

1x set of parachute buckle for 1" strap
Make sure that the male buckle has the slider bar to make the strap adjustable 

Zipper
14" (35.5cm) purse size (#4.5) zipper for the closure
8" (20 cm) purse size (#4.5) zipper for the exterior zipper pocket
8" (20cm) all purpose zipper (#3) zipper for the interior zipper pocket 

Basic sewing notions
Walking Foot 
24" Quilting ruler
Polyester Thread

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WHAT IS IMPROV PATCHWORK PIECING?
The improv patchwork is a freestyle kind of patchwork method, where we cut and piece the fabrics without any proper measurements, creating a unique, one-of-a-kind fabric panel.

My approach to this technique is to bring the freestyle in order, thus making it much more doable, and less overwhelming. In this tutorial we will start off with 2x identical rectangles 16” x 21”, then trim off the finished fabric to 15” x 20”.
I have created many videos and tutorials that incorporated the improv patchwork in different kind methods check them out here.

Can I skip the improv patchwork and us solid panels instead?
Sure you can. Simply cut your exterior panels 15” x 20”, then follow the rest of the steps.

Can I keep my laptop in this backpack?
Yes, a smaller size laptop (13” or so) will fit in this backpack

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After you download the pattern, please watch the full video tutorial on my Youtube channel. Don't forget to subscribe so you won't miss any future upload.