Now all we need are the books.

The first sign that back to school is really here is getting your backpack. And all the stuff to fill it.

Last week I bought the stuff to fill it. Today I completed the backpack. I still need to complete the pencil pouch. I won't forget to make it- I must get asked 5 bazillion times a day if it's ready yet. You would think the fate of the free world depends on that pencil pouch.

shown here from the front and back

I used Butterick 5346 pattern and made zero modifications. I liked it how it was. The zippers are chunky black plastic so they won't rust and the coconut slides are recycled from another backpack that has seen better days and isn't reusable or donate-able. The top has a huge and heavy duty hanging loop that can easily handle those extra thick metal knobs in the school coat room.

It has three main sections: the main section which I lined with a coordinating blue fabric and has two inside pockets, an outside front zipper pocket, and a side pocket with a Velcro flap that is intended for iPods or Cell phones. I answered "over my dead body" when she asked if she could have one or the other (or maybe both, please?) and take them to school, seeing as how the pocket was already there. I quickly reassigned its use for storing the faddish trading-cards-de-jour. Or gel pens.

Yes, it took longer than popping over to the shops and buying one. I prefer homemade anyway. It was worth every one of the 11 pin-stabs in my fingers and the broken needle to see how excited and happy she was when she tried it on for size. She loves it. She says it is great having a unique backpack in cool material and a non-girly color ("ugh, mom, I am soooo sick of pink, pink, pink").

Now I just need to finish that pencil pouch.