Homemade Dora Backpack : Domestic Cents

Backpack-001

A couple weeks ago I shared the Map I made as part of a Christmas gift for Chloe. I had originally planned to give you step-by-step instructions for the Backpack but I ended up assembling it in more of a trial-and-error sort of way so it didn’t work out. I still want to share the final product with you though. It’s far from professional-looking but I don’t think she’ll care.

Here’s some basic info about it~

I used fleece for the outer part (remember this fleece?). The lining is a light-purple cotton.
There is an elasticized pocket on each side.
The straps in the back were purchased (by the yard) for $1.25.
The facial features are made from craft felt, just like the Map.
The top flap stays closed with Velcro.
What I wish I’d done: attached interfacing to stiffen it up.

Why I do what I do ~ I’ve found myself feeling sentimental lately. As I unpacked our Christmas decorations and began pulling out ornaments my eyes got misty. I pulled out “Our First Christmas 2002,” “Parents-to-be” and an ornament that Chloe ‘made’ with a picture of her at 18 months old. My Christmas tree is like a timeline of our little family. As I sit on the couch and look at the mismatched ornaments I can’t help but think it’s all going by too fast and feel overwhelmed by how blessed I am. I haven’t been posting as much lately – it’s because I’m soaking in every moment of this season. I hope you’re doing the same.