How to Make Your Own Backpack Chair

Cut the straps off an old backpack as close to the ends as possible to leave plenty of strap room when the straps are attached to the back of the chair. Cut the thin, adjustable section of the straps off the padded section, leaving enough strap with the padded section for an arm to fit through it easily.

Lay two foam pads that will make the seat and rear of the chair next to each other on top of fabric with 1 inch between them. Wrap fabric around them so that it completely covers the pads evenly and smoothly and the extra fabric hangs off the side. Cut off any fabric that hangs over the side of the pads. Sew a line right between the two foam pads to keep them separate from each other. Sew around the perimeter of each pad, as close to the pad as possible, securing the pads in place. Cut off any excess fabric.

Position the straps on the back of the pad that will be the rear of the chair in the same position as regular backpack straps. Sew the straps to the edges of the backpack along the previously sewn edge.

Fold the pad that will be the rear of the chair upright at a 90-degree angle. Hold the adjustable strap sections against the corner of the two pads, running from the bottom section that will be the seat of the chair to the upright section at a 45-degree angle, with each end about six inches from the corner. Mark the position and angle of each strap attachment spot so that the strap will be able to hold the rear pad of the chair forward by using the weight of the bottom pad.

Separate the adjustable straps or simply lengthen them as far as possible and sew each end onto its pad. Reconnect the straps and pull them tighter for additional back support, or completely tight for storage.