Cumberland Backpack Pattern *

The Cumberland Backpack by Sara Lawson of Sew Sweetness has detailing that makes it special, including a 3-dimensional shape, zippered front pocket, and twist lock flap. The pattern has instructions for two different sizes: size small is great for a small purse and size large is great for anytime (or make it masculine by swapping the twist lock for a magnetic snap!).

There are two different finishing options in the instructions: Option 1 is for finishing the lining with bias binding, and Option 2 is for finishing without binding (sewing the main parts right-sides together).
Sizes are:
small – 10” long x 12” high x 5” deep (25.4cm x 30.5cm x 12.7cm)
large – 11” long x 14” high x 8” deep (28cm x 35.5cm x 20.3cm)

Materials Needed:

• 1 yard (0.9 metre) of Exterior Fabric for small or 1-1/4 yard (1.1 metre) of Exterior Fabric for large
• 1 yard of Lining Fabric (0.9 metre)
• 1/2 yard of foam interfacing (0.5 metre) (By Annie’s Soft and Stable, Pellon Flex Foam, Bosal In-R-Form, or automotive headliner; if using Flex Foam, it is only 20” wide so please purchase double the amount)
• 3 yards (2.7 metre) of 20” wide Pellon SF-101 Shape Flex fusible woven interfacing (or medium-weight fusible interfacing)
• 1-1/8 yard (1 metre) of 1” (2.5cm) wide nylon strapping
• 2 black plastic Strap Adjusters (with 1” (2.5cm) wide opening for strapping – I used Dritz brand)
• 1” (2.5cm) twist lock -OR- 1/2” (1.3cm) magnetic snap
• One 2” (5cm) square of Peltex or other stiff interfacing
• Two 30” (76cm) handbag zippers
• 12” (30cm) zipper
• 10” x 5” piece of mesh for small and 11” x 6-3/4” piece of mesh for large (25.4cm x 12.7cm and 28cm x 17.1cm)