Laptop Cosy

1. From Tilda Folklore cotton, cut two 30cm x 38cm rectangles. Arrange for a line of motifs to sit centrally within the shape. This will help the bag to look more symmetrical when it’s time to fit the straps and snaps. To make a different size bag, cut the rectangles 9cm wider and 4cm deeper than the dimensions of your laptop.

2. Place the rectangles right sides together, lining up the central column of motifs and ensuring the print is the same way up on both pieces. Machine stitch down both sides and along the bottom edge. Cut two pieces of lightweight wadding the same size as the fabric layers. Tack these to either side of the layers, following the line of existing stitches so that the wadding is held in place.

3. Flatten the bottom corners. With right sides facing, fold the stitched bag so that one side seam lays over the bottom seam and creates a point where they join. Sew across this point approximately 3cm up from the edge to shape the bottom corner of the bag. Repeat for the opposite side. Do not trim away the excess fabric; this is useful as extra padding.

4. Cut a piece of wool felt to the same width as your original rectangle, making it twice as deep, plus an extra 20cm to accommodate the flap of the bag – this will be the lining. Use the template on this website to shape the flap edge of the lining, making sure the flap is 1.5cm shorter than the lining on each side. If adapting the bag to fit a narrower laptop, adjust the template, decreasing the gap between the two straps.

5. Use the template on this website to cut a shape from gingham fabric. Pin this to the top of the lining, right sides together, and machine stitch around all sides and the shaped edge with a 5mm seam allowance. Clip the curves and turn out the flap. There is no need to add wadding to this part of the bag.

6. Fold the re