Plaid Owl Toddler Backpack

Seems like I'm always making things for my shop but this backpack was a "pleasure" sew.  I made it for my cousin in-law's daughter for her 1st birthday.  I think our kids are second cousins?? 

I am such a big fan of plaid.  I hope she will be too.   She's still little so hopefully she will use it as she becomes more independent.

I made this while I was sewing Molly's Pink Owl toddler backpack.  As you can see, I used a bluer (is that a word?) dark denim.

I like that the plaid gives it the appearance of having more texture.  Don't ask me why I made it cross eyed.  I must've been sewing late at night!

I did a flat side pocket and an A initial.  I used a beige colour for the piping and webbing that I don't normally use for the shop.  

Another point to note is that I now close off the piping so that it's more seamless looking.  Previously, I followed Rae's pattern instructions but I think this looks much better. 

I'm no longer doing it the old way.  

Here's the back view

I lined it with an owl print and inserted a large flat inner pocket.  So great for keeping diapers separate from other things.  Yes Mamas, your little one can carry his or her own diapers and a small pack of wipes.  This means you can wear a normal purse again.  Yessss!!!!

I added a green bias tape to finish it up. 

And here's another shot

If you would like more information on my toddler backpacks, please view my 2014 Toddler Backpack FAQs.  However, if you know how to sew and would like to tackle this project, visit Made by Rae's website to purchase a PDF copy of the pattern.

Happy Sewing!

Pink Owl Toddler Backpack

At the end of last year, I made a tan train toddler backpack for Christy's son.   She liked it so much, that she decided to order another one, this time for her daughter.   It was a pleasure to work with her again.

She decided on a pink owl backpack.  (Excellent choice!! :o))

Here's a pic of us figuring out eye colour and beak/feet colours.  I love it when Moms like to work with me on the design.   Even when it's something small like figuring out eye colour or tiny details like the beak colour, I love it when they give me input!

The tan beak won out over yellow or dark brown. 

There's an elasticized pocket on one side and a big "M" on the other.  The "M" was done using "Cooper Black" font.

Here's a pic of the back.   I used a dark brown piping, bias tape, zipper and webbing.  If only the backpack connectors came in dark brown...

The quilted bottom

Here's the lining trimmed with navy bias tape.

I would have loved to do some outdoor pictures but we have so much snow and ice everywhere.   I am so ready for spring!

If you would like more information on my toddler backpacks, please view my 2014 Toddler Backpack FAQs.  However, if you know how to sew and would like to tackle this project, visit Made by Rae's website to purchase a PDF copy of the pattern.

Happy Sewing!

Frequently Asked Questions about my Josh & Teo Toddler Backpacks - 2014 Edition

Please email me directly at joshandteo@hotmail.com if you have a specific request, or to place an order.  Currently the waiting list starts as of April.
Why a Toddler Backpack?
This toddler backpack is the perfect first bag for your little one. It’s also a great birthday gift. I made a garbage truck backpack for my son when he turned 2 years old.  It was time for him to pull his own weight and carry his own toys and for me to shed my diaper bag. 

My son loves garbage trucks and was so happy to see his new backpack. This backpack is a conversation piece every time he uses it. It’s just the right size for daycare, preschool, or an overnight at the grandparents. 

Most of the bags available in stores are too big for tiny bodies.  The pediatric society does not recommend that children carry heavy items.  So the smaller the backpack, the less they carry.

What Materials do you Use?
♥ Outer: 100% cotton dark denim.  Depending on fabric supply, the colour may vary from what you see in my sample pictures. 
♥ Inner Lining: 100% cotton or 65% cotton/35% poly broadcloth
♥ Applique: 100% cotton jersey
♥ Pre-washed to minimize any shrinkage

How Many Sizes do you Offer?
At the moment, I offer one size as most of my customers have given feedback that this size works beste for their preschoolers.  The backpack is approximately 11 3/8” Tall x 10” Wide x 4 ¼” Deep.   Note:  this backpack is rounded at the top.  If you need the backpack to fit an 8.5" x 11" folder, you "might" able to do this if you fold in the sides of the folder. 

The Train Backpack is size L and the Dump Truck Backpack is size S (only available upon request)

 
Why don't you Make a School Age Backpack?
I find that the little ones are much more enjoyable to make!

What Designs do you Offer?
I specialize in transportation designs (train, bus, car, trucks, etc) but have also made animals (owl, bird, shark, dinosaur, lion, etc).  If you have a design in mind, please let me know and I will send you a sketch for your approval.

Here are some samples of backpacks I have made.

Did you Create this Pattern?
I base the construction of the backpack on a pattern designed by Rae Hoekstra of made-by-rae.com.  The applique designs are created by me.

Construction Details?
♥ Appliqued design at the front of the backpack (your choice - see samples above)
♥ FULLY LINED on the inside with no exposed seams
♥ Piping helps to hold the backpack’s shape
♥ Zipper colour matches the piping
♥ Medium interfacing is applied to give the bag shape without stiffness
♥ Quilted bottom
♥ Loop to hang bag when not in use
♥ Padded shoulder straps with real backpack connectors
♥ Versatile enough to use for several years
♥ Buttons are optional and may vary in size and colour
♥ All of my products are made in my clean, smoke-free and pet-free home based shop.
♥ Truly one of a kind

What are the Lining Options? 
The patterned prints are 100% cotton, the solid print is 65% cotton/35% polyester.

What is the Price of the Toddler Backpack? (Prices subject to change)
$85 USD – plus shipping

What Type of Add-Ons are Available?
+$5 USD for 1 outer side pocket for sunglasses or a water bottle
+$5 USD for 1 flat inner pocket
+$5 USD for 1 initial appliqued on top of the main applique or side of backpack

What is the Timeframe to Sew/Design a Toddler Backpack?
Once we have agreed on the design and details, I will send you an invoice via PayPal.  From there, it takes 5-6 weeks to build and then additional shipping time.  

How should I Care for My Backpack?
Simply wash on delicate in the cold cycle of your washing machine (use a laundry bag to protect the applique) and hang to dry. 

Where can I see More Pictures?
I blog about each bag I make and if you'd like to read about each bag, please see my blog here . Or if you just want to see pictures, please see my Flickr Page here

What are your Shop Policies?
I accept payment via PayPal.  Upon completion and verification of payment, products will be shipped to the address listed in Paypal.  All of my packages are shipped from Toronto, Canada in bubble envelopes.  A tracking number will be provided.  If you require expedited delivery, please contact me. 

Customers are responsible for any fees, taxes, or duty charges that may be incurred at customs.  All sales are final.

Thanks for stopping by and please email me at joshandteo@hotmail.com if you have any other questions!