🎒 Sew a sling backpack – step by step
Sporty, durable and beginner-friendly
A sling backpack is the perfect everyday bag – easy to carry over one shoulder, with a stylish design and just the right size for the essentials. Here we show you how to sew one yourself using our ready-made kit and recycled fabric. A fun and useful project – even for those of you who haven't sewn much before!
🧵 You need:
✅ Our kit:
• YKK hidden zipper 20 cm, color 918 (blue)
• Black sewing thread, Amann Aspo 100 m
• Bag strap + D-ring from SunCoccoh
• Carabiner 25 mm from SunCoccoh
💚 + Recycled fabric:
Approximately 40 x 70 cm. Use, for example, an old denim jacket, sports jacket, cloth bag or similar.
🧰 + Sewing machine, scissors, measuring tape, needles/clips and possibly iron
✂️ Step 1: Cut out the parts
You need:
• 2 rectangles: 40 x 30 cm (front + back)
• 1 extra piece of fabric approx. 5 x 10 cm (for loop for D-ring)
• Optional lining in the same dimensions if you want an inner lining
💡 Tip: If your fabric is thin, feel free to reinforce the back with double layers.
🧵 Step 2: Sew the zipper
1. Place the right side of the zipper against the right side of the front, along one short side.
2. Sew close to the edge.
3. Unfold and press.
4. Repeat with the back – so that the zipper now ties both parts together.
💡 The zipper is hidden – it gives a clean, stylish look that suits streetwear.
🧵 Step 3: Create the loop for the D-ring
1. Fold the small piece of fabric in half lengthwise (wrong side to wrong side).
2. Fold the edges towards the middle and fold again → you get a "ribbon piece".
3. Sew along the long side.
4. Thread through the D-ring and fold into a loop.
🧵 Step 4: Attach the loop and sew the bag together
1. Pin the loop with D-ring to one corner (bottom edge on the back of the bag).
2. Place the front and back right sides together.
3. Sew around the edges – leave an opening at the bottom if you have lining.
4. Cut corners, turn inside out and sew the opening closed.
🧵 Step 5: Attach the strap
1. Take the bag strap and sew one end to the top of the front of the bag.
2. Thread the other end through the D-ring.
3. Thread the carabiner and sew the other end to the back of the bag, at the top or on the side – depending on how you want to carry it.
💡 The carabiner makes it easy to take the bag on and off - while also enhancing the sporty feel.
✅ Done!
You have now sewn your own sling backpack – functional, personal and durable. Use it for everyday use, training, festivals or just to feel a little more street.
📦 Do you also want to sew one?
👉 Buy the whole kit here »
📸 Feel free to share your finished bag with us!
Tag @knappnalen.se on Instagram or email us your picture.
📌 Save this guide on Pinterest to find your way back!
