Lilliput Backpack Sewing Pattern by Ujamaa Bagettes
If you love a well-designed, compact backpack that carries everything you need without the bulk, the Lilliput Backpack sewing pattern by Ujamaa Bagettes is about to become your new favourite project. A charming mini version of the beloved Retreat Backpack, Lilliput packs serious bag-making features into a smaller, more versatile silhouette — perfect for everyday carry, day trips, or gifting.
And here’s the bonus: every pattern sold through the Ujamaa Bagettes collection directly supports the Grandmothers Campaign, a movement raising funds for grandmothers in sub-Saharan Africa caring for children orphaned by AIDS. That’s a bag you can feel good about making.
Why We Love It
- Two looks in one — choose an 8″ (20 cm) or a 6″ (15 cm) internal frame for a structured or slightly softer silhouette.
- Feature-packed interior — includes a false-piped divided slip pocket (perfect for phone and pen), a secure zippered pocket, and a key tether so nothing gets lost.
- Thoughtful exterior details — front vertical zippered pocket, top handle on front and back, adjustable shoulder straps with ring tabs, and optional decorative cover strips for the straps and handles.
- Sewist-friendly design — all construction is suited to a domestic sewing machine. No industrial equipment needed.
- Lots of optional extras — optional zippered strap, contrasting base, bag feet, and decorative handle/strap cover strips mean you can make it uniquely yours.
Size & Skill Level
The Lilliput Backpack is a mini backpack — a scaled-down version of the full Retreat Backpack — sized for everyday essentials. The finished size varies slightly depending on whether you use the 8″ or 6″ internal frame. Skill level: beginner to intermediate. The pattern includes detailed instructions with lots of guidance for beginning bag makers, making this an excellent first backpack project.
What’s Included
- Cutting chart for measured pattern pieces and detailed placement diagrams
- Pattern pieces for main body and stabilizer
- Step-by-step instructions with plenty of detail for beginning bag makers
- Suggestions for dressing up the webbing to go less casual
- Directions for optional zippered strap assembly
- Directions and pattern piece for optional contrasting base
Perfect For
- Sewists looking for a feature-rich backpack without overwhelming complexity
- Anyone who wants a compact, stylish everyday carry bag
- Gift-makers — a mini backpack is a thoughtful, personal handmade gift
- Beginning bag makers ready to level up beyond totes and pouches
- Bag makers who love optional extras and customization opportunities
Tips for Success
- Choose your frame size intentionally. The 8″ frame gives a more structured, upright look; the 6″ frame creates a softer, more relaxed silhouette. Decide before cutting so your piece dimensions align.
- Use quality webbing. The pattern calls for 3/4″ (19 mm) webbing for straps and handles. Opt for a firm, non-stretchy webbing — nylon or polypropylene — for durability and a clean finish, especially if you’re adding the decorative cover strip option.
- Interface your main fabric. While the pattern includes a stabilizer piece, adding a light to medium fusible interfacing to your outer fabric before cutting will help the bag hold its shape and give the finished backpack a more polished, professional look.
About the Designer
Ujamaa Bagettes is a social enterprise pattern label created in partnership with the Grandmothers Campaign — a global movement supporting grandmothers in sub-Saharan Africa who are raising children orphaned by AIDS. All profits from Ujamaa Bagettes pattern sales go directly to the Grandmothers Campaign, meaning every bag you sew contributes to a powerful cause. The patterns themselves are sold through Emmaline Bags, designed with both beauty and purpose in mind.
When you sew a Lilliput Backpack, you’re not just making a bag — you’re part of something bigger.
