DIY Canvas Book Bag & Tag

Mae Armstrong takes her twin boys Ryan and Will to the library often to check out new books.  Your public library is a GREAT place for kids, and such a wonderful habit to get into when you are young. Keeping books fresh for kids is important so they are constantly exploring new subjects and topics, and developing new interests.   Reading the same books over and over again is also good for vocabulary and speech development – so when I find a book at the library Molly is really interested in, I always head to the bookstore to add it to our collection.

Mae created a canvas bag and tag for Ryan and Will to carry their books back and forth.    Today she’s sharing this awesome tutorial!

Mae used an old promotional canvas bag from an event she attended years ago.  First, fold bag lengthwise and start using the bag as your pattern. Don't worry about the weird bottom. Eyeball the length of the bottom and cut the fabric. Prepare four sets of fabric. This is a reversible bag so you just need matching fabrics.

Line the right side of the fabric and sew along the side. Fabric design facing each other.

Sew the top seem of the bag.

Sew all sides after finishing the top seam and measure 3' for the bag fold. 

Trim the extra triangle end pieces.

Prepare two sets of the body. Turn the 2nd body inside out. This will be the interior of the bag. Line up the top openings and insert cotton belting handles in between the top portion of the bag. Pin all edges and sew bottom first and sew around at the top.

Now you will want to create a great tag to go with the bag.    Measure 3"x5" for the printed fabric and use a plain fabric for the top of the plastic cover.

Iron the fabric, fold and sew the plastic cover in between the bias tape.  Mae used an old plastic folder and cut it down to size.

Prepare an extra strip of fabric for the strap and sew it down to 1/2". Insert the straps inside the printed fabric and add the plastic cover on top. Align the bottom of the plastic to line up against the printed fabric. Sew all three sides and trim extra fabric or plastic.   Mae didn't sew the fabric inside out. The plastic cover is sturdy and if you try to turn the fabric right side out, the plastic won't stay flat.  Don’t mind the rustic edge. I think it brings a little character. If you're concerned about fraying you can buy Dritz Fray Check at any craft supply store.

For the card stock insert, Mae decorated the paper with PSA Essentials Peel and Stick stamp using the UBU Beach set.  She also stamped the names on the card. The extra two lines will be dedicated for the home address.

Here's the finished bag with the fabric tag.

Here is Mae’s latest stash nicely tucked inside our lovely bag.

Happy crafting and reading!