One of my favourite designers for children's fabrics is Stacey Iest Hsu, and last year I saw this super pre-printed panel designed by her, for the Stomp Stomp Roar Dino Backpack. I managed to source a panel from the Wool Warehouse website - all I needed to add was some fusible fleece (I used Vliseline H630) some matching threads and a zipper. I couldn't resist using this bright orange one from my stash! Threads are 40wt Aurifil threads, as they give a nice definition for the top-stitching that accents the bag. The panel itself is really easy to use - all the pattern pieces are outlined with a cutting line, with tabs to cut out to label your pieces, and easy to read illustrated instructions...
...I didn't get any "in progress" photographs, but it really was very easy to make. The instructions are all on the pre-printed panel, and very easy to follow. I did change the way the box-corners were made as I prefer the method of cutting out a square from each corner, and I was very pleased with how my seams matched up. The back of the backpack has a carryhandle which I reinforced with a small piece of Vlieseline H630 to make it softer for small hands to carry. The spines on the back are so cute!...
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...the front of the backpack has a wide zippered pocket - I used a piece of zipper-by-the metre for this. I buy zipper by the metre from Zipper Station as they have a great range of sizes and colours. This was nuber 5 weight, and has a nice chunky zipper pull, perfect for little hands. And when you open up the zipper, you can see inside the dino's mouth...
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...as well as a carry handle, there is also 2 drawstring carry-straps, that are threaded through a casing. The bag opens up to reveal a smart lining, of dinosaurs footprints - very cute for a special little dino-loving boy...
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...and here it is, hiding in between Mr F's tomato plants - this really was such a simple project to make, and I loved how all the fabrics were included on the panel - the front, back, lining, tabs, handle, drawsrings and even the pocket lining. I loved making it so much I've also ordered one for my other grandson too, so watch this space for another one being made soon!
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