a toddler backpack for my favorite kiddo

Toddler BackpackIt’s no secret that my nephew is the inspiration for many of the things I make. I made him a quilt last year for his first Christmas (one that I take great joy in seeing him sleep with and drag around now), and I knew I wanted to continue the tradition and make him something special this year.

Toddler BackpackI’ve had my eye on the toddler backpack pattern from made by rae and this was the perfect opportunity to try it! The pattern was easy to follow, and it all came together without too much trouble (which is good, because as with most projects, I waited until the last minute to get started).

I made a few additions, including a flat front pocket and gathered side pocket.

Toddler BackpackI also added zipper tabs. I love this detail, and I predict they’ll be helpful for little hands to hold on to when learning to use the zipper.

Toddler BackpackTwo inside pockets (the lower one is divided in two).

*I turned the backpack inside-out to give you a better look at interior :)

*I turned the backpack inside-out to give you a better look at interior :)

Fabrics: I used Retro Crosshatch, Pezzy Print and a black cotton bottom-weight, all from my stash. Feels great to finally put these fabrics to good use!

I added interfacing to the exterior and lining fabrics to help hold its shape. I’m glad I did this, it was worth the extra effort for sure.

Toddler BackpackConfession: I have never used piping, so I decided not to risk it this time. I love how it looks even without it, but I’ll definitely have to try it next time.

Toddler BackpackAt 19 months, he’s just big enough for this, and it will be a great size for him for some time. It can easily hold everything he needs for school/daycare, a trip to the park, or a night at the grandparents’ house.

Toddler BackpackI didn’t actually get a good picture of him wearing the backpack. The minute he opened it, it was on and he was running around the living room quite happily. That is, after he was done playing with the box!

Toddler BackpackSeriously, how cute is he?!?!

xoxo

flax seed comfort pack

I’ve been wanting to make a heat/cold pack for a while. Once I realized how fast and easy it was, I wish I would have done it sooner! These are perfect for soothing aching muscles, cooling relief for fevers or keeping warm on a chilly night… And they make great gifts!

comfort pack 1

These look so much nicer than any store-bought heat/cold packs I’ve seen. The other great thing is you can customize the size depending on intended use.

comfort pack 3

There are a number of various tutorials out there for heat packs. I used the one I found on fellow fellow as a starting reference.

Materials:

  • cotton fabric
  • thread
  • flax seeds (I used about 4 cups)
  • funnel
  • basic sewing materials (machine, pins, scissors, etc.)

comfort pack materials

Step 1:  cut your fabric to your desired size. I cut mine into two 18” x 7.5” strips (finished size is approximately 15.75″ x 5.75″ x .75″). Place right sides together, and pin. Sew around using a 5/8” seam allowance, leaving a small opening at one end for turning and filling. Don’t forget to back stitch at the beginning and end.

comfort pack step1

Step 2:  trim your corners and turn right side out. Iron flat.

comfort pack step2

Step 3:  mark your sections. I started from the center and worked my way out, making 6 sections that are approximately 2 3/4” each.

comfort pack step3

Step 4:  sew your dividing lines. Be sure to stop each line at least 1” from the sides. You’ll need these gaps to move the flax seeds from section to section. The smaller the gap, the harder it will be to fill.

comfort pack step4a

optional:  you can run a top stitch around the edge to give it a nice finished look. Just make sure to leave your gap open for filling.

comfort pack step4b

Step 5:  use a funnel to fill your bag with flax seeds. Pour in a little at a time and work it down to the bottom section, then the next one and so on, until it’s as full as you’d like.

comfort pack step5

Step 6:  stitch your opening closed and then complete the top stitching. Trim your threads and you’re all done!

comfort pack step6

Keep your comfort pack in the freezer for cooling relief, or microwave it for warm relief.

Warming instructions:  warm in microwave for 45 seconds to 1 minute. Shake and microwave another 20 to 30 seconds until desired temperature is reached. (Depending on your microwave, you may need to adjust these times). Take care removing your pack from the microwave as it may be hot.

*Do not leave your comfort pack in the microwave unattended! And do not overheat your comfort pack, as this could cause the flax seeds to scorch.

comfort pack 2

Looks pretty cozy, huh? Enjoy!

xoxo