We are offering a pattern for a satchel bag to carry your journal in while on the trek. The journal should be with you at all times. The pocket in camel packs, or big pockets on clothing are a couple of other options for carrying the journal. Remember that we will be crossing rivers and that the journals may need to be stored in buckets at that time.
We suggest that you use a water-resistant fabric for your satchel. We used plastic tablecloth fabric. When using a plastic or leather type fabric, there is no need to finish the edges by turning the fabric under. It won’t fray. This pattern is for that type of fabric. Seam allowances will have to be added if you use a fabric that frays. The satchel needs to be able to hold a 5½ x 8½ inch journal, as well as a pencil and pen.
The body of your satchel will measure 7 x 26½ inches of fabric.
The strap of the satchel will require a strip of fabric as seen below or a 43” length of pre-made strap fabric found at fabric stores. It is easy to adjust the size of the strap to your individual needs.
To make the "bag" part of the satchel, turn one of the ends ½” down and sew. (See picture below.)
Make the flap of the satchel by turning down 2 inches at the other end and sewing. Fold right sides of the fabric together so that the body of your bag measures 10 inches. Then sew down the sides of the bag about a ¼ inch on both sides and turn right side out.
The finished body of the bag should look like this.
Turn the edges of the flap in ¼ inch and sew. (See picture below).
Measure where you would like the bag to hang to determine the length of the strap. Then attach the strap by using a box “X” stitch so that it will be secure, as seen below.
Attach the adhesive Velcro. The adhesive Velcro must stand for over 24 hours before it is secure. Do not pull Velcro on and off until then. The finished project should look something like this. Please call Cathy Monson (801-221-9833) with any questions.
