Not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

Sizes 2-20

Sizes 18-34

The Field Trip Backpack measures approximately 8½ inches (in) (21.6 cm) in width, 4½ in (11.4 cm) in depth, and 10½ in (26.7 cm) in height. To adjust the size of the backpack, print your pattern pieces at a larger or smaller scale and adjust the size of the strap slider rings and buckles. Due to the many layers of fabric, underlining, interfacing, and lining, a smaller bag will be more difficult to sew.

Recommended Fabrics

For the outer fabric, we recommend medium-weight wovens: cottons like canvas, denim, corduroy, sateen, and twill; wool suitings, flannel, and tweed; brocade; or silk/wool blends.

For the underlining, we recommend waterproof canvas.

For the lining, we recommend lining fabrics like rayon bemberg, acetate, or silky polyester; or lightweight cotton lawn or broadcloth.

For the interfacing, we recommend mediumweight woven fusible interfacing such as Pellon SF101.

Stretch wovens are possible, but knit fabrics are not recommended.

Notions & Supplies

• Fabric for the backpack
• Waterproof canvas for underlining
• Lining fabric
• Thread to match
• Medium-weight fusible interfacing
• 3/4-inch (19 mm) magnetic button snap
• Two 1-inch (2.5 cm) strap slider buckles
• Two 1-inch (2.5 cm) rectangular rings
• Two decorative buckles (optional)
• Fabric glue stick or washable adhesive

Coming soon!

Gertie is wearing her pink wool tweed Field Trip Backpack with a black Rosie Top and a pink pleated Pep Rally Skirt.

Measure yourself around your upper bust (under your armpits and above your breasts, without a bra on), the fullest part of your bust (while wearing your preferred bra), the smallest part of your waist, and the fullest part of your hips (this is likely around the fullest part of your butt). Make sure to hold the measuring tape snugly and parallel to the ground. Compare your body measurements to the size chart.

Find your upper bust measurement on the size chart to find your garment size, and then scan down the cup sizes in that garment size column to find your cup size. For instance, a 37-inch upper bust will make you a size 10, and a 39-inch full bust means you need a B cup. Don’t worry if your waist doesn’t match the size 10 column’s measurement of 32 inches; you can grade the waist in or out as needed. It is most important to choose a size to fit your upper bust and cup size, as the waist is easier to adjust up or down.

Sewing pattern sizes are very different from ready-to-wear garments and bra sizes, so be sure to work with your measurements when choosing a size.

Charm’s 2-20 size range is designed for a body with an hourglass shape. Our 18-34 size range is designed for a body with less waist definition.

Still not sure which size range to choose? Learn more about our two size ranges here.

If you have never used a PDF pattern before, this short video is full of tips: How to Use A PDF Pattern.

It will show you how to choose which PDF format to use, how to print just your size(s), and how to easily assemble and cut out your pattern pieces.

We offer digital patterns in two formats: letter-sized PDFs to print at home and A0 sized PDFs to print at a copy shop. In the US, we highly recommend printing A0 files with The Plotted Pattern. Outside of the US, these printers have been recommended.

When you join us as a Glamour Circle member, you will receive one vintage-inspired sewing pattern (with a companion sew-along video) on the first of the month, plus a second sewing pattern or Vintage by Gertie magazine issue every single month around the 15th. And you join the most creative and fun sewing community around!

Specific benefits at the Glamour Circle tier include:

• A vintage-inspired sewing pattern on the first day of every month
• A companion sew-along tutorial video for that pattern
• In addition to the monthly pattern, you’ll receive 8 additional patterns or digital projects throughout the year
• Four issues of Vintage by Gertie, our fashion, sewing, and lifestyle magazine
• Access to the entire archive of Glamour Circle patterns and videos!
• A monthly live Crowdcast with Gertie where she shares the history and inspiration behind that month’s pattern
• Access to our community hub on Discord to post your projects, ask for advice, and chat with other members
• One Charm Pattern for free randomly every calendar year (Gertie’s choice)

To view all of the patterns in the Glamour Circle archive, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability = All Glamour Circle Patterns.”

Yes, absolutely! Unlike other monthly sewing memberships, when you are a Charm patron, you get access to the entire archive of sewing patterns available to your tier.

To view all of the membership patterns available at each tier, click here and filter for “Pattern Availability.”

Click here to join the membership on Patreon. There is no long term commitment required, and you can cancel at any time.