Who doesn’t love a custom backpack? Nod if you are with me! Sometimes it is the simple things that inspire our kids to get back into the school groove!
How to create a custom backpack in 3 easy steps.
Frankly, I’ve always enjoyed seeing my name on things. My mom use to buy my sister and I personalized pencils or monogram sweaters to start school. Secretly, I’m still wanting to see my name in lights but that is a totally different story.
But seriously, I need to quote Charlie Brown who is famous for saying, “I can’t stand it”! Most stores have items out for Halloween already but I am in full summer vacation mode (for a few more weeks).
I caved and bought the backpack!
I did break down and buy backpacks for my kids. Any smart mom would before they were gone from the shelf at Walmart.
My oldest son wanted a “big boy” backpack with his name on it. While I fought the urge to wait, I decided that a custom backpack would be useful for trips to the pool as well as school books in a few weeks. This was a win-win situation.
Watching his eyes light up when he saw the custom backpack was priceless. He immediately filled it with his favorite items and has toted it around everyday. We also know which bag is his because his name is on it for all to see.
Yes, I had to make one for the younger brother as well. Even though pre-school doesn’t require books, he was all about having his own bag too. He needed inspiration as well to start the school year out with a new bag in tow.
Here is the quick and simple way to create a custom backpack for you or your little people.
First
Select a backpack that has a space on the surface to put your name. I selected a backpack without a pattern so the name would pop. This backpack was $4.95 at Walmart.
Second
I used my Silhouette Cameo to design my boys names. I measured the height and width of the open area on the backpack to make sure the letters would fill the space available. Then I selected an iron-on vinyl that would match the backpack but also stand out on the canvas. If you don’t know what a silhouette cameo is then check out our first article about it Silhouette Cameo Lights, Camera, Action or Three Silhouette Projects for Beginners.
You can be creative with the fonts that you use. My son wanted something simple but nice.
You can purchase individual letters at Joann or Michaels but be careful to space them correctly. This is the bonus of having the Silhouette machine that will do it for you so all you need to do is iron it on a surface.
Third
Lay the backpack flat on an ironing board. Make sure that the vinyl is lined up straight and iron on your custom design or name. You want to cover the surface of the vinyl with a towel but iron on the surface about 30-45 seconds.
Tip: Since backpacks are canvas which is porous, you want to make sure that your vinyl is secure.
If you want a custom backpack, I’d love to help. You can order your name by clicking here. I will mail your design to you with instructions on how to apply it to your backpack.
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I’d love to see the backpacks that you have purchased for back to school. How did you customize your backpacks? We love to hear from you so comment below or send pictures to sandy@pinktoolgirl.com so we can pin them to our Pinterest Board.
Now Featuring
I always love to see what projects other creative souls are working on. Here are some of my favorite ideas to get ready for the school year to begin. These are my features from our link party that are sure to inspire you as you prepare for the start of school.
I love globes and this project by Lolly Jane was awesome. It inspires the inner super hero in your student to do just about anything. The globe adds great decor mojo to a room and it fuels the imagination.
Theres Just One Mommy created a Soda Pop Geyser which excites my boys like no business. This tutorial is fun for the whole family and it gets your little learners inspired about science. The best part for parents is that they don’t even know it is school. I love it!!!
Crafts Unleashed offers a tutorial on how to burn a design into wood. I liked this idea for back to school because my boys love to “collect” items. This custom box could serve as their special treasure box where they store precious items throughout the school year.
My sons love puzzles, shapes, and art. I thought this tutorial by The Practical Mom was amazing. Again, I’m all about making school projects seem like play and this was a great idea that I plan to use this school year.
Last, I’m not sure about you but I need cute places to store, display, or remind myself of the school year events that are soon going to be in full swing. This felt board designed by Lindi at Love, Create, Celebrate is a beautiful way to blend home decor with practical function and purpose.
I hope that you have been inspired today! Let us know what you are doing to start getting ready to go back to school. We love to hear from you.
Party time!
A Little Bird Told Me that you’ve been doing some amazing things! I’d love for you to share! Link up a recipe, craft, home decor project, home school post, activity/craft for kids, or any other post you’re proud of! Your post will be shown on each host’s blog where we will individually pick features each week. We’re teaming up to bring you an even bigger and better party!
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