5 Best Bags to Sew for Back to School
Back-to-school season isn’t just about stocking up on notebooks and pencils. It’s also the perfect excuse to sew something practical, stylish and uniquely your own. Whether you’re headed to school, college, the office or simply organizing your everyday essentials, handmade bags are fun to make and even more rewarding to use.
From roomy backpacks to handy pouches and clear organizers, these five bag projects are sure to become your new favorites. Best of all, each one showcases quality materials and techniques that make sewing enjoyable. Plus, the finished projects are durable enough for everyday use.
1. Boulder Backpack by Sassafras Lane Designs
If you’re looking for a backpack that’s equal parts functional and fashionable, the Boulder Backpack is a standout choice. This modern backpack features multiple pockets, comfortable straps and plenty of room for books, tablets, supplies or even a change of clothes. My daughter uses this bag as her sleepover backpack and won’t leave home without it!
My favorite way to elevate this pattern is by binding all of the interior seams rather than leaving them exposed. Using coordinating binding creates a polished, professional finish that’s as beautiful inside as it is outside.
Another great tip? Use seam sealant, like Fray Check®, when installing all hardware on woven fabric to ensure frayed edges are sealed throughout washings and wear.
Perfect for:
- High school and college students
- Commuters
- Travel and day trips
- Everyday carry
Sulky favorites:
- 40 wt. Poly Deco™ Thread for construction
- Soft ‘n Sheer™ Stabilizer for structured pockets
- Sulky KK 2000XT™ Temporary Spray Adhesive and Double-Sided Basting Tape for securing accent fabrics
2. Explore More Daypack
Looking for a beginner-friendly backpack with endless customization options? The Explore More Daypack is designed by Sulky and offers a clean, modern design that’s ideal for sewists of many skill levels.
Customize the interior to suit your needs by choosing a traditional quilting cotton lining or step it up with a laminated cotton lining. Laminated cotton makes the inside easy to wipe clean. It’s the perfect choice for lunch containers, gym clothes, water bottles or school supplies.
With roomy pockets, comfortable straps, and a versatile size, this backpack is ready for everything from the classroom to weekend adventures.
Perfect for:
- Students of all ages
- Hiking and travel
- Diaper bag alternative
- Everyday adventures
3. Spring Roll Pouch by Love You Sew
Sometimes the smallest projects make the biggest impact! The Spring Roll Pouch opens wide to reveal all of your supplies at a glance, then rolls up into a compact zippered pouch that’s easy to toss into a backpack or tote.
Use it for:
- Pens and pencils
- Markers and colored pencils
- Sewing notions
- Crochet hooks
- Makeup brushes
- Chargers and cables
Even better, you can learn to make one during our new Sulky Summer Sewing Session, now open for registration. During this online class, you’ll learn construction tips, zipper techniques, and finishing methods that make this project both fun and satisfying to sew.
REGISTER NOW (pattern included!)>
4. Clear Carryall Case Sets
Organization has never looked so good.
Our Clear Carryall Case Sets combine colorful fabrics with clear vinyl windows, making it easy to see exactly what’s inside each case. With 15 different sizes included, you’ll find a pouch for virtually everything.
Use the cases for:
- School supplies
- Art materials
- Sewing notions
- Travel toiletries
- Electronics and chargers
- First-aid supplies
- Cosmetics
If you’ve been wanting to sew with vinyl but aren’t sure where to begin, our Sulky Session walks you through every step, from cutting to stitching, while sharing tips for sewing with clear vinyl confidently.
Once you make one set, you’ll want to sew more for gifts, travel, and home organization. REGISTER NOW & GET THE PATTERNS & DESIGNS>
5. All the Things Tote by Knot + Thread Design
Need one bag that truly carries it all? Meet the All the Things Tote.
This roomy tote is perfect for hauling books, laptops, notebooks, lunch, quilting supplies, or everything you need for a busy day on the go. Sturdy handles, generous pockets, and a spacious interior make it an everyday essential.
Whether you’re heading to class, the office, or your favorite sewing retreat, this tote is designed to keep everything organized without sacrificing style. (Try taking it to the movies to hold your blanket, keys and stashed snacks!)
Best of all, the pattern is available right here on sulky.com, making it easy to start your next sewing project today.
Sew Your Best School Year Yet
Handmade bags aren’t just practical. They’re a chance to express your creativity while making something you’ll use every day. Choose fabrics that reflect your personality, add machine embroidery or decorative stitching with your favorite Sulky threads, and customize pockets and hardware to fit your lifestyle.
Whether you need a backpack for class, a tote for work, or organizers to keep everything in its place, these projects are sure to inspire your next sew.
So thread your machine, pick your favorite fabrics, and get ready to head back to school in handmade style!
