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Radiant Home Studio | Sewing Patterns & Surface Design

Radiant Home Studio

April 22, 2014 ·

The Retro Rucksack is here!

Sewing Patterns

I’m so excited to release my new pattern today–the Retro Rucksack!

UPDATE: This pattern has been fully updated and redesigned in 2020!

Retro Rucksack Sewing Pattern | Radiant Home Studio

I’ve been testing and tweaking this bag for many weeks. My pattern testers were amazingly patient and helpful. I am very grateful for all of their questions and feedback. Nearly every question and suggestion they had made it into the final pattern, which will now benefit all of you!

As a mom, I find the convertible straps on this bag to be extremely practical. I can carry two kids and my bag across a parking lot without worrying about dropping my bag or the kids! It’s also big enough to fit a few essentials, like diapers and wipes, without looking like a diaper bag.

Retro Rucksack Front | Radiant Home Studio

I carried my (faux) leather version on a trip to Europe and loved the different carrying options while navigating airports and train stations. With a recessed zipper and buckle closures, I knew my things were safe when I carried it on my back, even though it was out of my sight.

IMG_3142_edited-1

For students and business women, I designed the bag to accommodate a 3-ring binder or folders filled with letter-sized paper. You can also fit your tablet in the reinforced interior patch pocket!

Rucksack Testers | Radiant Home Studio

Retro Car Rucksack by Amanda | Purple Rucksack by Jacqueline

I have labeled this pattern as “intermediate”, mostly due to the zippers and the number of layers that must be sewn through. However, I have provided thorough instructions and extra tips for beginners. A couple of my testers that did not consider themselves intermediate sewists yet, still produced lovely and functional bags! Confidence and persistence go a long way, so I encourage you to try it!

Rucksack Testers | Radiant Home Studio

Upcycled Overalls Rucksack by Anne

Retro Rucksack | Radiant Home Studio

Buy the Retro Rucksack pattern here.

And when you finish your bag, share it and tag me in IG @radianthomestudio and #radianthomestudiopatterns.

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Reader Interactions

Comments

  1. eva says

    April 22, 2014 at 9:13 am

    Great pattern- All the different versions showcase it is a very versatile bag for office, college or casual looks. Congratulations!

    • Sara Curtis says

      April 22, 2014 at 9:25 am

      Thank you Eva!

  2. Stephanie says

    April 22, 2014 at 10:33 am

    Congratulations on finishing your pattern. I will be purchasing it and making one of my own. Very excited. Again Congrats!!

    Stephanie

    • Sara Curtis says

      April 22, 2014 at 10:39 am

      Thanks Stephanie! Can’t wait to see how it turns out!

  3. Dayna says

    December 29, 2014 at 5:57 pm

    Do you have the finished measurements? I am wondering if it would fit a 13 inch macbook air?

    • Sara Curtis says

      December 29, 2014 at 6:06 pm

      Hi Dayna! Yes, the finished measurements are 13 x 13 x 3. The macbook will not fit inside the pocket (it’s better for an ipad), but it will fit horizontally inside the bag. I just put my regular macbook inside my bag to test it for you and it still closed nicely.

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Welcome! I’m Sara. I share modern home & accessory sewing patterns, and I create surface designs for licensing. I hope you are encouraged to see beauty in small things and are inspired to try new creative projects!

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Sara Curtis | Stationery & Pattern Design
Favorite place to add stickers? My kids have them Favorite place to add stickers? My kids have them on their water bottles and laptops. My husband adds them to his bullet journal cover to document his travels each year.

A few months ago, I added some inspirational stickers to the shop, but I don’t think I’ve shared them here! 

#stickershop #wholesalestickers #fairewholesale #fairewintermarket #fairewintermarket2023 #stationerylove #loveyourneighbor #practicekindness
Here’s another new pattern! This periwinkle colo Here’s another new pattern! This periwinkle color has been inspiring some new color palettes and combinations recently. 

Faire Winter Market is open for wholesale orders! I’m looking forward to connecting with more community-focused boutiques. 🙋‍♀️

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Washi tape is stocked and ready to ship! I started Washi tape is stocked and ready to ship! I started a fresh bullet journal a couple of weeks ago and I love using washi to mark sections. What do you use it for?

Today is insider access to Faire Winter Market! If you are a retailer, my Faire store is linked. And if you know a shop owner that sells stationery or accessories, please share! ☺️

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My cozy, fresh cards and gifts are designed to promote connection and provide support. I value building community and finding beauty in the everyday! I love to partner with local shops that share these values. 🛍️

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It has been months since I had the creative drive It has been months since I had the creative drive to make a new pattern! I had other things to do today, but when you feel the energy return you have to go with it. 

I have several unfinished collections that just needed a pattern or two to complete the set. I’ve finished one today! I’m not sure where this will land in the world, but it feels good to be designing again. 🙌

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