Free Pattern + Video Tutorial: The Adventurer Drawstring Backpack (3 Sizes)

I'm Michaela - and this backpack is one of my favorite things I've ever designed. It comes in three sizes: The Little Adventurer, The Bunny Adventurer, and The Big Adventurer - so there's a version for a preschooler, a bunny-lover, and a teen or adult, all from one pattern. It's the pattern that started it all for me: a project small enough to finish in one sitting, but with real techniques inside it, like a fully lined interior, so you actually learn something while you sew.

I made mine because I wanted something my own daughter could carry every day - for daycare, for Easter treats, for her favorite stuffed animals. And whichever size you sew, I wanted to show every single step on video, so you never have to stop and wonder "wait, which piece goes where?"

Three sizes, one PDF, a full video tutorial included. It's completely free - my gift to you.

Get Your Free Pattern + Video Tutorial

I've put together a complete starter kit for you:

  • printable full-size pattern pieces for all three versions
  • a detailed step-by-step photo guide
  • a beginner's sewing glossary
  • a full 40-minute video tutorial where I walk you through every single stitch

What's Included in Your Free Download

When you sign up, here's exactly what you'll receive:

✅ Full-size printable pattern pieces for The Little Adventurer, The Bunny Adventurer (combined in one PDF file), and The Big Adventurer (separate PDF file). Just print at 100% scale and cut - no enlarging, no tricky math. Seam allowance is already included.

✅ A complete step-by-step photo guide with clear instructions and detailed photos for every step. I've also included a beginner's sewing glossary so you'll never feel lost with unfamiliar terms, a pre-sewing checklist, and fabric requirements for each version.

✅ A full 40-minute video tutorial where I show you every single step slowly and clearly. Whenever you feel stuck, just press play - I'm right there with you.

What You'll Need

You probably already have most of these supplies at home! This is a wonderful scrap-friendly project if- you have leftover fabric from other projects, this is the perfect way to use it up.

  • Main fabric (I recommend cotton canvas) - 1/2 yard / 50 cm
  • Lining fabric (cotton canvas) - 1/2 yard / 50 cm
  • Thread in a matching color
  • Cord - about 2.8 yards / 255 cm for the small version, 3⅓ yards / 300 cm for the large
  • Fabric scissors or rotary cutter
  • Pins or clips
  • Safety pin (for threading the cord)
  • Iron and sewing machine

"But What About the Lining? That Sounds Scary..."

I hear this all the time - and I completely understand. Sewing a lining sounds intimidating when you've never done it before.

But here's the truth: this backpack is designed so that the lining practically sews itself. You layer the pieces, stitch one seam, press it open, and suddenly you have a beautifully lined backpack. No hand-stitching, no fiddly bits.

Many of my followers who were terrified of lining told me this was the project that finally made it "click" for them. And if you watch the lining section in my video tutorial once before you start, I promise it will make so much more sense.

You've got this.

Watch the Full Video Tutorial

I know that reading instructions can sometimes feel confusing, especially if you're new to sewing. That's exactly why I created a detailed 40-minute video tutorial where I walk you through every step.

Grab a cup of coffee, press play, and sew along with me at your own pace.

A Quick Look at How It Comes Together

Don't worry if sewing a lined backpack sounds complicated it-'s not! Here's a simplified overview of the whole process:

Step 1: Cut your pieces. Print the pattern, lay it on your fabric in a double layer, and cut. The seam allowance is already included, so you just cut on the line.

Step 2: Sew the loops and drawstring channel. These small pieces are what make the drawstring work. Simple folding and straight stitching - that's it.

Step 3: Assemble the first half. You'll layer the main fabric, channel, and lining together. One straight seam along the top edge, press, and topstitch.

Step 4 (Bunny version only): Sew the ears. Stitch the ear pieces together, clip the curves, turn them right side out, and pin them in place. This adds maybe 15 extra minutes.

Step 5: Assemble the second half. Same process as the first half - with or without ears.

Step 6: Final assembly. Place both halves right sides together, pin around the edges, stitch the perimeter, clip the corners, turn right side out through the lining opening, and close the gap.

Step 7: Thread the cord. Use a safety pin to guide the cord through the channels, tie the ends, and you're done!

The whole project takes about 2 hours - perfect for a relaxed weekend sew.

Three Backpacks, Endless Possibilities

What I love about this pattern is how versatile it is. Here are just a few ideas:

For Easter: Sew the Bunny Adventurer, fill it with treats (or with handmade fabric Easter eggs!), and you have the most adorable Easter gift. Speaking of which — I also designed fillable fabric Easter eggs that are the perfect companion to this backpack. Check them out here!

For school and daycare: The Little Adventurer is the ideal size for preschoolers. My daughter uses hers every day for her extra clothes and snacks.

For older kids, teens, and adults: The Big Adventurer works beautifully as a gym bag, library bag, or travel bag. Choose a bold geometric print for teens or a simple natural linen for adults.

As a handmade gift: There's something incredibly special about giving a child a bag you made yourself. Pick their favorite fabric, sew it up in an afternoon, and watch their face light up.

Ready to Start Sewing?

Grab your free pattern and video tutorial right now. Just enter your email and I'll send you everything you need to sew your first (or tenth!) backpack.

Your first seam doesn't have to be perfect. What matters is that you start. And I'll be right there with you, every step of the way.

Happy sewing!
Michaela

P.S. Already finished your backpack? I would absolutely love to see it! Tag me on Instagram @sew_with_michaela - nothing makes my day more than seeing your creations.