3D paper backpack SVG tutorial—all the back-to-school vibes, zero pop quizzes. DIY paper craft with stickers, brads, and bold colors. See how easy it is.
How fun is it that you can make something like this entirely out of paper? It still amazes me every single time. For today’s project, I’m using the Back to the Books SVG kit by SVGCuts to create a 3D paper backpack that’s perfect for teachers, students, or just because.
Materials I Used
- Silhouette Cameo
- Xyron Creative Station
- Paper and stickers from the Smarty Pants Collection Pack by Simple Stories
- Brads, buttons, and twine (see how I store my twine)
Cutting & Assembly Tips
I cut out all the pieces using my Silhouette Cameo. The Xyron 5″ Creative Station made adhering the cursive panels a breeze (even though I cut one of them out upside down). Doh!
These are all the pieces that create the backpack. Not too tough after all! See how easily the backpack straps line up to the back of the pack? Just use a few brads to hold them in place. Easy!
Decorating With Stickers
I’m trying something new: decorating with stickers. Usually, when I get a paper pack with stickers, I give them away. Not this time!
Pro tip: Dust stickers with baby powder or cornstarch to remove the stickiness. I added powder from this powder tool to some of mine and then popped them up with foam dots for extra dimension. The powder keeps them from sticking where they shouldn’t.
Yo Brad! I’m thrilled that I finally got to use those cute brads on something. They’ve been in my stash for years. I LOVE the ruler stickers on the backpack straps.
Everything you see is stickers, except for the ruler washi tape on this front panel. I added two buttons tied on with black and white bakers twine.
Custom Touches
That ribbon sticker originally said “star student,” but I layered it with an “I heart school” sticker using a foam dot. It adds height and pulls the black accents upward into the design.
Gift Ideas for Your Paper Backpack
This little 3D backpack makes a great container for:
- A thoughtful teacher gift
- Fun-shaped erasers
- Scented hand sanitizers
- Smarties candies
Why This Project Works All Year
Paper crafts like this aren’t just for back-to-school season. Swap out the papers and stickers to match any theme like holidays, birthdays, or even party favors.
You Might Also Like:
- Back to School with BIC 3D Cardstock Pencil Holder – Another clever back?to?school 3D cardstock project—this one holds pencils and doubles as a teacher gift or desk decor.
- Back to School Note Holder Teacher Gift with Epiphany Crafts – A cute note?holder project using the same SVG kit and Smarty Pants supplies—perfect for organizing or gifting.
- Need Teacher’s Gifts? See These Projects! – A roundup of fun, handmade gift ideas that go beyond the obvious—great spark for inspiration.
Happy Back to School”ing”!
WOW!! This is AWESOME and so COOL!!! Love it!!
Have a wonderful day,
Migdalia
*Crafting With Creative M*
Thank you so much, Migdalia!! 😀
Joy,
That is simply awesome. SVG has some really neat cut files don’t they? And I’m sure you were trying to save paper when you cut it upside down…done that, then there’s the STU-PID. We try to be so frugal. About the powder…you can also use baking soda, and if you have one of those embossing buddies, that works too. I just keep some baking soda in an old medicine bottle, and use an old makeup brush when needed. I think you did a fantastic job, and I give an A. 😉
Thanks, Blue Rose! Yes, that’s exactly it! I was trying to save paper and flipped it to fit better on the sheet. Sad! The worst part is that I had plenty of room and didn’t even need to flip it. Ack! Oh well. I still love the way it turned out. Thanks for the baking soda tip! 🙂
Joy wow it is wonderful I am going to try and make this. Also can you use the 6×6 pack for the back to school on the pack? Or do you need to buy the 12×12 Pack. Just wonderful….Love SVG cut…Maile
Such a cute little backpack .
Get out! That is soooooo cute and creative!
Thank you so much, Gretchen!! 😀
Joy,
I am new to Make the Cut, and have been reading about how to import files from silhouette into the MTC software. The only help I have found refers to Silhouette V. 1 & 2; I have the designer’s edition V.3. Can you please refer me to a good tutorial. I’m stuck…. Thanks in advance, Angela.