DIY Messenger Bag - Recycle Cargo Pants

I love sewing but I am still very much new at it. I am constantly looking for projects that will challenge me but not frustrate me. Tote bags are a good way to practice and still keep it simple. I keep looking for friends and family who would want a bag and make it with them in mind. This time I decided to make a messenger bag for my little brother. He is a college student so I thought a messenger bag would be a good fit. 

I had a pair of army pants that a friend from Israel gave me. I could not throw them out because it reminded me of my days in Israel but they were too big to wear. I thought this would be a good way of giving them a new life and keeping them in the family.

Thankfully I found this great tutorial. You need to sign up to download the free PDF. I think this is a great project for someone who has done at least a couple of totes and I am sure it would be a breeze for an expert. The measurements are in centimeters, I want to mention that because it can be confusing. 

This is my final product:

(Sorry for the lack of contrast in my pictures)

The trickiest part for me was cutting the pieces. I understand not that that is really the key to great bags. If you cut right and the fabrics align then you will get better results.  

I also broke not one but TWO machine needles in the making of this bag. I had to run to get needles number 18 which are the ones used for denim. When the fabric is stronger you better get a stronger needle. Now I know.

I loved making this bag. Yesterday we tested it and it holds even the big Mac Book Pro which is pretty big so it should hold any laptop and notebooks. 

Let me know if you make it too. I would love to hear about your adventures!