Subway Shoulder or Crossbody Bag Sewing Pattern by Imazz Patterns
Looking for a practical, stylish bag you can sew yourself? The Subway Shoulder or Crossbody Bag pattern by Imazz Patterns gives you two functional sizes in one PDF download: a roomy shoulder bag perfect for students and commuters, and a scaled-down crossbody version for hands-free days. Both are designed with real life in mind — a 12-inch zippered top closure, dual front pocket system, and adjustable strap make this one of the most functional intermediate bag patterns you can add to your collection.
If you are searching for a crossbody bag sewing pattern that works for everyday errands, weekend trips, or commuting, the Subway Bag delivers. Sew it in quilting cotton, canvas, or linen — whatever fits your style.
Why We Love This Pattern
The Subway Bag was designed for young working women navigating busy city life, but it works for anyone who wants a well-organized, structured bag they can sew themselves. The design is clean, practical, and endlessly customizable based on your fabric choices. The 2-in-1 front pocket (zippered plus flap closure) is a standout feature that keeps your phone, keys, and cards accessible without digging through the main compartment.
- Two sizes in one pattern: shoulder bag and crossbody
- Zippered top closure for security
- Dual front pocket: zipper plus magnetic snap flap
- Adjustable crossbody strap with D-rings, swivel clasp, and slider
- 41 pages of step-by-step instructions with full-size pattern pieces
- Seam allowances included
Finished Size
Shoulder Bag: 12 inches tall x 10 inches wide x 3 inches deep
Crossbody Bag: 10 inches tall x 8 inches wide x 2.5 inches deep
Skill Level
Intermediate / Confident Beginner. You should be comfortable with basic bag construction and have completed a few simple bag projects. If you can sew a zippered pocket, you are ready for this pattern.
What Is Included
- Full-size pattern pieces (actual size, no resizing needed)
- 41-page illustrated step-by-step tutorial
- Both Shoulder Bag and Crossbody Bag sizes
- PDF digital download: instant access after purchase
Materials Needed
Here is what you will need to sew the Subway Bag:
Fabric (based on 44-inch wide fabric)
- 1 yard quilting cotton, light canvas, or linen (exterior)
- Half yard coordinating or contrast fabric
- Three-quarter yard medium-weight cotton or light canvas (lining)
Stabilizer and Interfacing
- 1 yard By Annies Soft and Stable foam stabilizer, fusible fleece, or batting (exterior)
- Half yard medium fusible interfacing (lining, optional)
- Quarter yard lightweight fusible interfacing (for pieces A and B)
Hardware
- 1 x 12-inch zipper (top closure)
- 1 x 9-inch zipper (front pocket)
- Two 1.25-inch D-rings or square rings
- One swivel clasp
- One 1.25-inch slider
- One magnetic snap set
Get the full supply kit for this pattern here.
Perfect For
- Commuters and students who need a structured, organized bag
- Makers who want a versatile pattern with two usable sizes
- Anyone stepping up from beginner bags to real hardware construction
- Gift sewing for a friend who carries everything
- City-ready makers who want something chic and functional
Tips Before You Start
- Pre-wash and press all fabrics before cutting: structured bag fabrics can shrink
- Apply interfacing and stabilizer to exterior panels first, then cut to size for cleaner edges
- Test your zipper pull direction before attaching: the Subway Bag has two zippers, and getting orientation right early saves frustration
- Use a zipper foot for both the top closure and front pocket zippers
- A magnetic snap setter tool makes installing the flap closure much cleaner
About the Designer: Imazz Patterns
Imazz Patterns creates practical, well-documented bag patterns inspired by everyday urban life. The Subway Bag is a fan favourite for its clean construction and real-world functionality. Discover more patterns by Imazz on the Sew Modern Bags marketplace.
