Retro Rucksack

Monday, July 14, 2014

Retro Rucksack Inspiration Tour | Radiant Home Studio
When Sara of Radiant Home Studio contacted me to join her Retro Rucksack tour, I was a bit caught off guard. Me??? I don’t really have a history with sewing bags, but okay. I’m game for just about anything. Remember, I like challenges!?!?

Retro Rucksack

Turns out, the trickiest part was deciding on the hardware. (Oh, and sewing the straps on the right side, but who’s counting that.) The pattern calls for two different strap and hardware sizes, but since I opted to use 1 1/2” cotton webbing throughout for my straps, I purchased all 1 1/2” hardware. Sara gives a few suggestions on where to buy the hardware, but I also suggest checking your local hardware store. I came very close to using some cool clips I found at Home Depot.

Retro Rucksack

The pattern calls for two exterior fabric options, but I liked the idea of using ticking stripes in two different directions.

Retro Rucksack

The back straps really make this bag unique; a bit more on that in a second.

Retro Rucksack

A recessed zipper keeps everything where you want it.

Retro Rucksack

The interior of the bag has a zipper pocket on one side and a large patch pocket on the other side.

retro rucksack carried
Back to those unique straps. The design gives you two carry options, backpack style or tote. Don’t you love my handsome model?!? I cheated in my photo styling a bit, but it comes together here. I’ve actually made this for my sister-in-law to use as a diaper bag. She was thrilled with the backpack option since she’s having twins!! From the looks of this, my brother-in-law won’t feel uncomfortable carrying it either.
Here’s a few pattern tips I noted along the way:
  • If you use decorator weight fabric, I recommend adding interfacing to stiffen things up a bit. I only added it to the bottom accent piece and it seemed like enough
  • It helps to use a zipper foot when sewing on your hardware.
  • After my husbands brilliant suggestion, I added a velcro closure to the large interior patch pocket to keep it from flopping open. (Boy, did he come in handy for this project!)
  • Again, check your local hardware stores for the closures and clips. You might find something out of the box to use!
  • If I sew the pattern again, I will try to find a way to conceal the zipper and fabric edges inside the lining. I zig-zagged the unfinished edge, but it’s not as clean as I would like it.
There is more inspiration to come, so follow along the rest of the tour! I can’t wait to see what these talented folks came up with!

Retro Rucksack Inspiration Tour:

Monday, July 14th Radiant Home Studio || Sweeter Than Cupcakes Tuesday, July 15th Quarter Incher || Dandelion Drift Wednesday, July 16th Glitter + Wit || EmmylouBeeDoo Thursday, July 17th Casa Crafty || Behind the Hedgerow Friday, July 18th SewVery || Raspberry Sunshine Saturday, July 19th Mia's Creations || Made By Sara
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