Absolutely timeless, designed for the long haul, and YOU can make it! Use this straightforward PDF pattern and build-along video to craft this heirloom satchel that will only get better as the decades roll by. If you've been dreaming of making a bag like this, now is a great time to start. I designed this pattern to be as frustration-free as possible so that you will love every minute of the project.
Bold lines, subtle curves, strong construction, with easy access to the main compartment via tuck locks and a handy newspaper pocket out back. Interior storage compartments for a laptop, pens, a phone, and a notebook. Multiple exterior D-ring attachments and an adjustable shoulder strap allow you to easily personalize the ergonomics for a comfortable carry. Every stress point is thoughtfully reinforced so that durability will never be a concern.
Dimensions
- Outside (width/height/depth): 16 x 11.5 x 4.5" (40.5 x 30cm x 11.5cm)
- Inside capacity: 15 x 10.5 x 4" (38 x 27.7 x 10cm) wide; can be expanded vertically using straps
- Built to hold a "medium" size laptop in the inside pocket: 9 x 13 x 0.75" (23 x 33 x 1.9cm)
- Can fit larger devices, but not much larger: 10 x 14 x 0.6" (25.4 x 35.5 x 1.5cm) is a very snug fit.
Check out the full build-along video below!
The PDF pattern includes a list of all the hardware you'll need as well as leather recommendations, pattern printing tips, and a full-scale, easy-to-follow pattern. (Best to print the pattern on a 36" large format printer at your local print shop.)
This is not a physical product. It is a PDF pattern that you may download when your order is complete. You will receive an email with a link to download it.
While the pattern is designed to be as simple to follow as possible, this is an intermediate to advanced level project. Below are a few skills I would say are essential for this project:
- Stitching, either by hand or using a sewing machine (learn to hand stitch here)
- Setting rivets (learn here)
- Edge finishing (learn here)
In this project you will learn to:
- Install a tuck lock
- Install and adjust a Conway buckle
From one creator to another: Please feel free to use this pattern for personal use (make it for your friends and family, etc). If you use it as inspiration for something you sell, I would challenge you to make it "yours" by altering the design to make it fit your own creative style.
Can you sell the satchel as-is? Yes, you have my permission to use this copyrighted design to sell it from individual to individual (not mass-produced). But then go make your own design too! I promise it will be well worth it in the end. Have fun!
-Tanner