Bikepacking Top Tube Bags

Trail-Proven Gear, Made by You.

Gearing up for bikepacking shouldn’t mean breaking the bank or settling for low-quality gear. This pattern set includes two unique Top Tube Bags—ideal for crafting durable, custom-fit bags with less than a yard of X-Pac or similar fabric!

Features

Bag Highlights

  • Confident beginner-friendly patterns for two versatile bike bags—no specialized tools required.
  • Front Top Tube Bag offers easy access to essentials like your phone, snacks, and compact gear.
  • Rear Top Tube Bag is perfect for tools, pumps, or an emergency spare—everything you need in a pinch.

Designed for Bikepackers by Avid Cyclists

  • Foam-lined for sturdy structure and added frame protection—no sagging or flimsy fit.
  • Brightly colored, lined interiors for quick access and visibility, plus easy cleaning.
  • Edge-bound seams for rugged durability and a clean, professional look that lasts.
  • Flexible mounting options to accommodate a range of bike frames, making these bags the ultimate DIY upgrade to store-bought options.

Pattern

Downloadable PDF sewing pattern includes

  • Print at home pattern suitable for both Letter and A4 sized paper.
  • Detailed step-by-step, illustrated sewing instructions.
  • Precisely crafted patterns for inserting foam for rigid, free-standing bags.
  • Complete list of materials for high-quality builds at any budget.
$10

All LearnMYOG patterns are for personal, non-commercial use only.

Pattern Difficulty

This project is ideal for sewists who have basic sewing skills and are ready to tackle a bit more complexity. The primary challenge lies in assembling the small foam-lined bag, which requires precise handling to ensure a clean finish. A zipper foot is necessary for sewing the zippers effectively, and using seam binding is recommended for added durability and a polished look. With careful attention and a willingness to learn, you'll be able to successfully create these bikepacking bags!

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    Sewalong Tips & Tricks

Materials

These small bags require a modest yet thoughtfully selected material list, suitable for any high-quality pack fabric. To dive deeper into choosing the best materials for durable gear, check out our Fabrics Guide

  • Less than a yard of sturdy body fabric: Choose materials like Cordura 500D or X-PAC for durability and weather resistance.
  • Lightweight lining fabric: Opt for bright, waterproof options like Silnylon or PU Coated Ripstop to enhance visibility and keep contents dry.
  • 2-3mm EVA foam: Easily sourced from Amazon or local craft stores, this foam adds structure and cushioning to your bags.
  • YKK #5 coil zipper or Uretek for added water-resistance
  • Velcro for secure attachment: Use non-adhesive hook-and-loop tape to attach the bags to your bike frame, as adhesive backing can gunk up your needles during sewing. For convenience, consider options like VELCRO ONE-WRAP®, OMNI-TAPE®, or other self-gripping hook-and-loop straps.

With these materials, you'll be well on your way to creating functional and stylish bikepacking bags!