Backpack or Rolltop Workshop

Join an immersive four day workshop designed to give you a true, hands on introduction to industrial sewing and professional bag making. Over 24 hours (10am–5pm daily), you’ll build two complete projects: a Market Tote and your choice of a Backpack or Rolltop Backpack.

Choose your bag at checkout:
ConcealBack Backpack: 19L or 21L
Rolltop Backpack: one size

Why Small Groups Matter

This workshop is limited to 3–4 students by design. Smaller groups allow for focused instruction, real time feedback, and meaningful one on one guidance throughout the build process leading to stronger skill retention and better finished work.

About the Instruction & Investment

There are countless tutorials, websites, and videos available today and many of them are helpful. What this workshop offers is something fundamentally different: direct, in person mentorship grounded in real-world professional practice.

I bring over 26 years of professional experience designing backpacks, travel goods, and accessories, with hands on involvement across product design, development, and global manufacturing. Throughout my career, I’ve worked with many of the world’s leading brands, as well as a wide range of athletes and public figures. I’ve also taught at ArtCenter College of Design.

Based on my experience, it’s rare to find a workshop that offers this level of hands on, end to end industrial sewing and bag construction instruction in a small group setting.

This class isn’t about shortcuts or surface level techniques. It’s about learning professional standards, understanding why things are done a certain way, and building skills that last. This experience is best suited for individuals who are genuinely passionate about making, learning, and craftsmanship.

Class Details

Duration: 24 Hours | 4 Days | 10am – 5pm
Class Size: 3–4 Students
Location: Costa Mesa, CA 92626
All tools and materials are provided (please note: color options may vary based on availability).

What You’ll Do

Work in a small, supportive group under the guidance of an experienced instructor. You’ll learn industrial sewing fundamentals through patterning, construction, and step by step assembly balancing focused build time with group discussion so you gain both technical skills and a deeper understanding of the craft.

What You’ll Gain
  • A finished Market Tote and a finished Backpack (19L or 21L) or Rolltop Backpack
  • 24 hours of hands-on experience in industrial sewing and bag making
  • A strong foundation in professional construction techniques and a genuine appreciation for the craft

This workshop is designed for all skill levels from beginners with no prior sewing experience to those with intermediate skills looking to deepen their process and understanding.

Prerequisites
  • Participants must be at least 16 years of age.
  • Students under 18 must have a signed parental waiver.
  • No sewing experience required.
Policies
  • Workshop registration is nonrefundable.
  • Classes may be rescheduled as credit toward a future class, based on availability.
  • This policy also applies to private classes.

Questions?
For general FAQs.
For changes to your reservation or additional questions, please email hello@canvasworker.com.

WHAT YOU'LL DO

Work alongside an instructor and small group of students to focus on sewing techniques, patterning, construction, and machines with a balance of group discussion.

WHAT YOU’LL GAIN

By the end of the class you'll have gained 32 hours of bag making experience, a backpack, and a good balance of bag verbal dialogue.

PREREQUISITES

No prior sewing experience is necessary. Beginner to intermediate level, it’s fun for everyone!