Messenger Bag Project
 

Hey all,

I handmade this messenger/commuter bag for an industrial design project, let me know what you think!

http://s1116.photobucket.com/albums/k577/TechnePacks/

some features:
Fabric: 1000 Denier Coated Cordura Shell and a Waterproof Vinyl Coated Polyester liner

Flat Dimensions: 22'' wide, 16.5'' high, 8'' deep (expands to 28'' high)

Features:
- Weatherproof 1000D Cordura Exterior
- Waterproof 18oz Vinyl Coated Polyester liner
- Signature 3 Closure Design
- Built in Drawstring lining/closure
- Organizing pockets and waterproof laptop sleeve
- All metal hardware and water resistant YKK zippers
- Adjustable & removable stabilizer strap
- Super comfortable 3'' shoulder pad with quick release buckle and accessories strap
- 2 large 3D external pockets
- 2 quick access side pockets

3 closure design allows the bag to be closed 3 different ways.
- For smaller loads and a super tight seal, you can close it the traditional way.
- For larger loads and quick access, you can close it with a single fold at the top that seals with velcro.
- For maximum carrying capacity, you can use the built in drawstring liner that closes up tightly and provides protection against the weather. Stows away when you don't want to use it.

Thanks guys!

p.s. If youre interested in purchasing visit http://www.etsy.com/listing/79086322...at?ref=pr_shop

Send me one for free! Thanks man.

haha if i could, i'd send everyone on this site a free bag.

i like it, it's like a seagull crossed with a mission workshop but with army surplus looks and hardware.

That's pretty boss man.

whats the price dude!?

Nice bag. I like all the smaller pockets.
What would be the purpose of the drawstring lining/closure?
Got any pics of the strap?
Good work.

drawstring liner expands what you can carry i suppose.

Looks great! You sir might have potential buyers on your hands.

they kind of look like mission workshop messenger bags. if it's cheaper than missions then im interested :o

What do you guys think is better, mission workshop bags or seagulls? What do you prefer and why?

Mission workshops look a lot more durable and looks like they use better material :o

Thanks for the great replies!

I've put the bag on etsy so u can purchase it if you'd like. and if u live in the chicago land area i'll personally deliver it to you!

http://www.etsy.com/listing/78254480...-messenger-bag

Thanks again!

What kind of sewing machine did you use? Where did you get the materials? I'm kind of interested in making my own bag one day.

This. I have a sewing machine, but it isn't industrial so I'm afraid it won't handle the material. But I'm planning on trying at some point anyway.

Yes. I need a stronger machine; and materials like this. /Sigh.

as my mission workshop vandal's zipper broke from the sealed liners I am a bit hesitant about zippers nowadays. for all the claims about durability and toughness, its a real bummer when a work bag breaks half way into a day. at this point I think all future messenger inspired bags need to be tested more rigorously. mission workshop's design is beautiful but could not hold up to daily legal box hauls.

What are you currently using? I have a Singer Promise, which is pretty heavy and has a steel frame, but it's still only a $100 sewing machine, so I'm not confident it could handle heavy stuff.

EDIT: That was meant to quote AaronAnderson.

Before designing the bag I had actually thought about that as I have learned that zippers are a weak point on bags today. That is why the zippers I used were heavy #8 YKK zippers and placed on places of low stress (organization pockets and laptop sleeve) I avoided zipper use in place of high stress like the main compartment. Thanks for the input!

To make this bag I used a singer heavy duty machine (model 4423). I got the materials online from sites like rockywoods, strapworks, etc.

You should just try it, you'd be surprised as to what your machine is capable of. FYI i used the singer 4423 which was about 150 at joann fabrics. It punches through the vinyl liner and cordura with ease. I even bought a walking foot attachment which made it easier to sew the material.

Yeah, I'm considering trying it, but maybe with a material that isn't as heavy as standard bags, but still waterproof. Any chance of finding appropriate material at a fabric store or will I have to order online?

Chances are you wont be finding Cordura or VCP liner at your local fabric store. Unless you have an outdoor fabric store that happens to be by you. But youre probably going to have to buy online. Rockywoods has cordura for only 7 bucks a yard, limited colors of course, but cheap enough for you to prototype with.

About how many yards would you need for a small simple bucket style messenger?

About 1.5 yards should do it.