How to Make a Roll-Top Backpack

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If you love the rugged look of waxed canvas and the satisfaction of crafting your own gear, the Sailrite® Waxed Canvas Roll-Top Backpack Kit is perfect for you! Designed for durability and style, this backpack is a must-have for DIYers who want to create a high-quality, functional bag they can customize themselves. Available in six waxed canvas colors, order your backpack kit today, then watch the how-to video to see how to make this gorgeous, vintage-inspired rucksack.

Video Chapters:

Overview — 0:00 min.
Template — 1:25 min.
Cut Out Panels — 5:12 min.
Cut Out Leather — 8:37 min.
Making the Straps — 15:38 min.
Attach Straps to Panels — 22:18 min.
Finishing the Panels — 24:50 min.
Turning Panels Right Side Out — 29:02 min.
Final Panel Attachments — 32:27 min.
Creating the Front Pocket — 34:20 min.
Attaching the Pocket — 37:00 min.
Adding the Zipper — 41:11 min.
Installing the Top Snaps — 46:22 min.
Leather Bag Bottom — 48:17 min.
Sewing Bag Closed — 52:33 min.

Materials List:

Sailrite® Waxed Canvas Roll-Top Backpack Kit Colors:

Saddle #126887
Tan #126888
Sage #126889
Steel Blue #126890
Black #126891
Blue #126892

Sailrite® Waxed Canvas Roll-Top Backpack Pattern #126886

Tools List:

Required Tools (not included in kit):

Scratch awl
Rivet installation tool
Snap fastener installation tool
Hole cutter 1/8"
Mallet
Cutting mat
Measuring tool
Cutting tool
Industrial sewing machine

Optional Tools (not included in kit):

Sailrite® Adjustable Leather Wing Divider #124919
Leather Weight 2 lbs. Stainless Steel #126412
Sailrite® Stainless Steel Folder/Creaser #123329
Sailrite® Oblong Punch 1" #126502
Sailrite® Battery Operated Thread Burner #122432
Sewing pins or fabric clips
Glue stick
Hole cutter 5/8"
Corner radius punches
Round strap end punches

This DIY kit includes all the materials you need to sew a durable, water-resistant backpack that’s built to last. With rugged waxed canvas, sturdy cotton webbing and heavy-duty hardware, this roll-top bag is ready for all your adventures.

The shape and design of this roll-top backpack offers more storage capacity than a standard zipper-closure backpack. The rolled top allows you to expand or compress the bag depending on how much you need to carry. The unique rolled and buckled closure and waxed canvas material also provide added weatherproofing, keeping your goods dry and secure.

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This is an intermediate-level DIY kit. If you're a confident sewer who's ready for a challenge and eager to learn some new sewing skills, this kit is a great choice. Here are a few of the skills you'll learn while making your bag:

How to sew a bag lining.
How to create a bag pocket.
How to sew a zipper.
How to install bag fastener hardware.
How to set rivets.
How to sew webbing, leather and more.

Get Started Today!

Making your own backpack is a rewarding experience, and with the Sailrite Waxed Canvas Roll-Top Backpack Kit, you get premium materials and expert guidance. Order your kit today and start sewing your way to a durable, stylish backpack you’ll be proud to carry!

More Kits at Sailrite

Did you enjoy making this roll-top backpack kit? We have even more to explore in our DIY Bag Kits category. Make a tool roll, utility tote, duffle bag and more. Sailrite DIY kits are the easiest way to learn new skills and create quality, better-than-store-bought bags and accessories.