DIY Laptop Bag: How to Sew One at Home

My work is entirely online. I recently developed the habit of working from cafes (it makes the day more productive, work gets done faster, and I don't get distracted by trifles). But carrying a laptop in a plastic bag isn't the best option. Especially since I have a workout and a bunch of other things after work. It's very inconvenient.

I went to the store, and honestly, my eyes popped out of my head at the prices I saw. They want a thousand hryvnias for the simplest laptop bag (and that's a basic one without extra compartments for a cord, mouse, and other small items). And 1000 UAH, mind you, is the cost of winter sneakers. In short, after being left speechless by the shock, I concluded that sewing a laptop bag myself would cost me 10 times less. I'm sharing a quick and simple laptop bag option with you.

To ensure the bag holds its shape, it is essential to use:

• heavy-duty fabric;
• insulation/batting;
• stiff cardboard.

In my case, I used old jeans (my husband doesn't wear them, but they're useful for me), thin quilted polyester batting, and simple cardboard from a box.

Step-by-step instructions: Cut out each piece from all materials. You should end up with:

• 2 base pieces from fabric, 2 from insulation, 2 from cardboard.
• 2 side pieces from fabric, 2 from insulation, 2 from cardboard.
• 1 bottom piece from fabric, 1 from insulation, 1 from cardboard.

Important! You can make 1 bottom and 1 top part if you are going to use other fasteners instead of a zipper, or cut the fabric + insulation for a "flap".

Now all the elements need to be joined together. Each piece consists of 3 layers of material. This is necessary so that our bag is sturdy, holds its shape well, and easily supports the laptop.

Sew them securely with several strong stitches; an overlock machine is best, but a regular sewing machine will also work. The main thing is to use a large needle and thick thread. Sew on pockets on the outside if desired. Add insulation for extra padding.

I have suggested the most primitive version of a laptop bag. Of course, it's not the most perfect one, but if you, like me, need to go to a cafe (5 minutes away) and back every day, this method is ideal.