Sew a Toddler Messenger Bag

 

The messenger bag is the perfect size for a snack and drink or just a few toys or small book.

 

I have been wanting to make Eli his own little bag for at least a year now.  I finally got around to it last week.  This was such a fun easy project!  One that will definitely grow with Eli as he gets older.  I can just picture him putting all sorts of backyard treasures in it for years to come. 🙂 

Supplies:

• 27″ X 10″ piece of fabric for the outside
• 27′ X 10″ piece of fabric for lining
• 11″ X 10″ scrap of fabric for pocket
• 2 strips cut: 2″ X 27″ for the strap. 

 

Place your 2 strips right sides together. Sew along both long sides and 1 short side. Turn inside out and press. Fold selvage ends under and sew across remaining edge.

 

 

Serge edges of pocket. Fold in all seams 1/2" and sew. Fold up bottom pocket 3". Sew along side edges.

 

Beginning 1.5" inches from the edge sew a straight line from the top of the pouch to the bottom. Then sew 6 more at 1" intervals.

 

View of the pocket with crayons inserted.

 

View with the flap down. I added the flap so the crayons would not mark everything that got placed in the bag.

 

Next take your piece of lining fabric and place it so that it is vertical.  Measure up 12″ and place the bottom of your pocket here.  Pin pocket in place.  Sew the two short sides and bottom sides.  Leave the flap part free.  (You can easily forget the crayon pocket if you wish or make it a regular pocket.) 

Take your fabric (27X10) and fold up like so at 9". Sew along the top and bottom seams as shown in picture above. Do the same for the lining fabric.

 

At the corners pull the fabric out to make a triangle. Then sew across 1" from the edge. This will give the bag more shape and help it to look more like a messenger bag than a purse.

 

Lay bag and lining right sides together. Round the top edges using a bowl, lid, or cup as a guide. Sew around the edges leaving 4" open so that you will be able to turn it.

 

Serge or finish edges. Turn right side out. Press. Sew the 4" opening closed. Topstitch around bag.

 

Attach strap at sides. Sew a rectangle and then an x inside for added support.

 

Attach sentimental mom label and you are finished!

 

All done!

 

Finished inside view with crayon flap up.

 

Final verdict: Eli loves his bag! We took it with us to a Revolutionary Kids battle day and it was perfect!

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