Make the Backpack from Monster High's Draculaura with This Easy to Follow Tutorial
It makes sense to use our faux leather / vinyl fabric for Draculaura's backpack. Keep it vegan, just like her, and follow along with Blue Clarice as she walks you through the process of making this awesome cosplay accessory.
Before you get started, keep in mind these super helpful tips directly from Blue herself!
- Use a longer stitch on your machine because if the stitch is too small it’s going to cut the fabric
- Lower the tension of your stitch due to the thickness of the material
- If you don’t have the proper sewing foot, put some scotch tape on your presser foot to help it glide over the vinyl
- Don’t use pins because that will leave marks in the fabric, instead use clips
Blue used the following fabric from our store to make this backpack.
- Solid Soft Vinyl - https://bigzfabric.com/collections/solid-soft-faux-fake-leather-vinyl-fabric
- Chrome Mirror Reflective Vinyl - https://bigzfabric.com/collections/durolast-holographic-multi-color-chrome-vinyl-fabric
We've written out the steps highlighted in the video to help you follow along
Gather Materials:
- You will need pink and black fabric, scissors, hot glue gun, sewing needle and thread, a zipper, and some decorative elements like ribbons and buttons.
- Make sure you have a template for the backpack pieces.
Cutting the Fabric:
- Using the template, cut out two main pieces from the pink fabric for the front and back of the backpack.
- Cut out two side pieces and a bottom piece from the black fabric.
- Also, cut out smaller pieces for pockets and straps as per the template dimensions.
Sewing the Main Body:
- Start by sewing the two main pieces together along the sides and bottom, leaving the top open.
- Attach the side pieces to the main body, ensuring the seams are aligned and secure.
- Sew the bottom piece to complete the main compartment of the backpack.
Adding the Zipper:
- Sew the zipper onto the top opening of the backpack. This might require pinning the zipper in place first to ensure it is straight and evenly spaced.
- Ensure the zipper is functional and securely attached to the fabric.
Creating and Attaching Straps:
- Cut two long pieces of fabric for the straps. Fold each piece in half lengthwise and sew along the edge, then turn them inside out to hide the seam.
- Attach the straps to the back of the backpack by sewing them securely at the top and bottom.
Decorating the Backpack:
- Use ribbons, buttons, or other decorative elements to embellish the backpack. You can refer to Draculaura’s design for inspiration, such as adding bat wings or heart-shaped patches.
- Ensure all decorations are securely attached using either a hot glue gun or sewing them on.
Final Adjustments:
- Check all seams and attachments for durability.
- Trim any excess threads and make sure the backpack looks neat and finished.
Let us know if you take this project on yourself and how it turned out! And, importantly, give Blue a shoutout and follow! We're sure you'll see more of her at your next favorite cosplay convention!
- YouTube - https://www.youtube.com/@blueclarice
- Instagram - https://www.instagram.com/blueclarice