Turn a Pillowcase into a Stylish DIY Backpack: Easy Sewing Tutorial

Small backpacks are definitely having a moment, and I couldn’t be happier! I’m a huge fan of backpacks because they keep my hands free and my belongings secure. Tiny backpacks are especially great for quick errands, spontaneous outings, or even bike rides. Drawstring backpacks are particularly simple to make, and today, I’m excited to share a tutorial on how to transform a simple pillowcase into a fabulous DIY backpack complete with a secret hidden pocket!

In this tutorial, I’m actually using a pillow sham, but the same method works perfectly well with a regular pillowcase. The only difference is that you’ll miss out on the built-in zipper pocket. But don’t worry, you can easily add a regular pocket instead! This project is a fantastic way to upcycle old pillowcases and create a unique and functional accessory. Let’s dive in and learn how to create your very own DIY pillowcase backpack. Whether you’re a seasoned sewer or a complete beginner, this tutorial will guide you through each step with clear instructions and helpful visuals. Get ready to unleash your creativity and transform an ordinary pillowcase into a stylish and practical backpack!

Materials You’ll Need to Make Your Pillowcase Backpack

Before we get started, let’s gather all the necessary materials. Having everything prepared beforehand will make the process smoother and more enjoyable. Here’s a list of what you’ll need to create your own DIY pillowcase backpack:

• Standard-sized pillow sham with zipper closure: (Like this one from Target). The zipper will become the hidden pocket!
• 4 yards of cording or strap material: Choose a sturdy material that will be comfortable to wear as backpack straps. Consider using cotton rope, nylon webbing, or even repurposed fabric strips.
• Sewing machine, matching thread, and basic sewing notions: You’ll need a sewing machine to create secure seams. Make sure to use a thread color that matches your pillowcase. Also, have scissors, pins, and a seam ripper handy.
• A large safety pin or bodkin: This tool will help you thread the cording through the casing.
• Two grommets and grommet kit: Grommets will reinforce the holes where the drawstring exits the bag.
• A pen or pencil: For marking measurements and placement.
• Fray Check: This sealant will prevent the fabric from fraying at the cut edges.

Step-by-Step Guide to Creating Your DIY Backpack

Now that you have all your materials, let’s get started! Follow these simple steps to create your own unique pillowcase backpack.

Step 1: Transforming the Zipper into a Hidden Pocket (Optional)

The first step is to turn the zipper closure on the pillow sham into a convenient hidden pocket. This step is entirely optional, but I highly recommend it! It adds a unique and functional element to your backpack. It’s surprisingly easy, requiring only three simple lines of stitching.

Locate the zipper on the back of the pillowcase. With the zipper closed, identify the side closest to the zipper as the “top.” This is important for the pocket placement. Next, use pins to outline a rectangular shape that will define the boundaries of your pocket. Ensure this rectangle crosses over the zipper, preventing it from fully opening. Remember to leave at least an inch of fabric above the rectangle for the drawstring casing. This might require sewing over the zipper at the top and bottom edges of your pocket, but don’t worry, it’s perfectly manageable! Before you start sewing, double-check that the zipper pull tab is positioned within the pinned rectangle.

Head over to your sewing machine and carefully stitch along the three pinned sides of the rectangle. Since this pocket will be on the inside of the backpack, any imperfections in your stitching will be hidden. When sewing across the zipper, take your time and sew slowly, going back and forth a few times to ensure a secure seam and prevent breaking your needle. Now, you have a functional hidden pocket! The zipper should only open within the confines of the stitched rectangle, keeping your items secure and organized inside the pocket rather than letting them roam freely within the entire pillowcase. This hidden pocket is perfect for storing small essentials like your phone, wallet, or keys, keeping them safe and easily accessible.

Step 2: Creating the Drawstring Casing

Now, let’s create the casing that will hold the drawstring at the top of the bag. This casing will allow you to cinch the backpack closed and keep your belongings secure.

To create the casing, simply sew a straight line across the pillowcase from one side to the other. This seam should align with the top edge of the pocket you created in Step 1. This straight line will form a channel through which the drawstring will be threaded, creating the drawstring closure for your backpack.

Step 3: Sewing the Backpack Body

It’s time to shape the pillowcase into a backpack! This step involves folding and sewing the sides and bottom of the pillowcase to create the main body of the bag.

Fold the pillowcase in half, with the wrong side facing out. Then, carefully pin the bottom and side edges together, leaving the top open. Take the pillowcase to your sewing machine and stitch along the pinned bottom and side edges using a straight stitch. Once you’ve sewn the seams, turn the pillowcase right side out. You now have the basic shape of your backpack!

Step 4: Cutting Openings for the Drawstring

Now, we need to create openings in the casing for the drawstring to pass through. These openings will allow you to thread the drawstring and create the cinch closure for your backpack.

You’ll need to create a total of four openings – two on the front of the backpack and two on the back. These cuts should be made within the casing you created in Step 2 and should not extend beyond the stitched line. It’s crucial to only cut through the top layer of fabric, avoiding the back layer.

The drawstring openings on the front of the DIY backpack should be approximately 1/2 inch from each edge. The same applies to the back of the bag. This means the back and front openings will be spaced about an inch apart from each other. Here’s how to make the cuts:

Gently separate the back fabric from the front fabric along the casing. Use sharp scissors to carefully snip a small opening, making sure not to cut into the seam. Now you have an opening to thread your drawstring through! To prevent the fabric from fraying, apply a small amount of Fray Check to the edges of the cut holes. This will help to seal the fabric and prevent it from unraveling over time.

Step 5: Attaching Grommets

Adding grommets to the bottom corners of the backpack will reinforce the holes where the drawstring exits the bag, adding durability and preventing the fabric from tearing.

Near the bottom corners of the bag, use a pen or pencil to mark the placement for the grommets. Make sure the marks are close to the edge but not directly on it. Use scissors to carefully cut a small opening for each grommet. Follow the instructions included in your grommet kit to secure the grommets in place at each of the bottom corners using a hammer.

Step 6: Preparing the Drawstring Straps

Now it’s time to prepare the cording or strap material that will serve as the backpack’s drawstrings.

Cut the 4 yards of cording or strap material in half, resulting in two 2-yard pieces. Attach a safety pin or a bodkin (also known as a “threader”) to one end of each strap. This will make it much easier to thread the cord through the casing.

Step 7: Threading the Drawstring

This is the final step – threading the drawstring straps through the casing and grommets to create the backpack’s closure system.

Start by inserting one end of a strap through one of the bottom grommets. Then, thread it through the closest hole in the casing on the front of the bag. Continue feeding the cord through the front casing and out the other opening in the front. Next, guide it into the back casing and out the back opening on the opposite side. Finally, bring it back down to the grommet on the same side.

Repeat this process with the second piece of cording on the opposite side of the bag, making sure to thread it through the casing on the opposite side from the first cord.

You can choose to leave the tied ends of the drawstring as they are, or you can fray them out for a more rustic look. For a neater and more finished appearance, apply a small amount of Fray Check to the ends to prevent the weave of the strap from unraveling.

Congratulations! Your DIY pillowcase backpack is now complete!

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This secret pocket is definitely my favorite feature of this DIY backpack. It’s incredibly useful for keeping track of essentials like my sunglasses and wallet!