Project: Turn a Duffel Bag Into a Messenger Bag/Bicycle Pannier

I love to ride my bicycle, but I do not love to wear a backpack while doing so. So I decided to make a laptop bag to attach to my bike.

I wanted the bag to be waterproof, cheap, and durable. Consequently, I used an old duffel bag from the Army, paired with some buttons left over from the BDU tool roll project, and some small clips.

The duffel bag was totally free. Or was it?

Step 1: Take out the seams of your duffel bag. There are only two, so it doesn't take very long.
Step 2: Cut out two pieces. One should be about 1.5 inches longer than your laptop on three sides (as shown above), the other should be the same width, and long enough to create a flap on the front. I highly recommend placing the pocket on this front flap.

If you want a larger, multi-purpose pannier, simply adjust the size to your needs and attach a firm board to the back (on the inside) to prevent the bag from getting into your spokes.

Step 3: Sew the clips onto the back of the bag. Make sure they are even and close enough to attach to your bike rack.
Step 4: Face the outsides together and sew both pieces together. Straight sewing is fine, I also used a zigzag stitch along the edges to prevent future raveling.

Step 5: Beg and plead for your wife to make the buttonholes. If that doesn't work, make some button holes and attach the buttons.
Step 6: Remove the pads from the shoulder straps, which are made from one piece of fabric. They will become your new shoulder strap. It may be handily stored in the duffel bag pocket.

You may then integrate the bag into your bicycle storage system...

or carry it by the shoulder strap...

or even by the carrying handle.

Most importantly, enjoy your new super-manly messenger bag/bicycle pannier!

Total time was about 2 and a half hours.
Total cost was zero.