oilcloth panniers

So I decided I needed orange panniers to go with the orange handlebar tape on my gray surly cross check. After a cursory search of the typical bike sites, plus a basil bags search, I decided I could whip something up out of some fun funky oilcloth. That led me on a new search (I've been sucked in to the internets!!!) "Oilcloth" and then I searched "oilcloth panniers" to see if anyone else has done it, and looky here! http://www.vivalafrida.co.uk/largecyclebags.html What fun!

I'm still gonna try to make my own. I want two separate bags, with long shoulder straps that will clip on to a rear rack. I think I can do it.... maybe. Have any of you sewn your own panniers or bike bags?

Oh WOW!
I LOVE those!

Those are lovely bags! We should move this to the commuter section- as I'm sure more people will see it there who might be interested in them.
When you make your bags, be sure to post some pictures. :)

If you scroll nearly to bottom of this page here, there's a pattern for panniers..which could be easily modified ...

http://www.seattlefabrics.com/green.html

Oilcloth is actually pretty cheap if you know where to go.

Pretty! I like those.

Oops. I meant to post this in "Gear and Accessories." Is there a way I can move it there or to the Commuting thread? Or should I just double post?

I ordered some oilcloth last night, still need to order reflective piping and tape from seattle fabrics! Excited!

This project sounds so cool! You must post pics when they're done :)

You HAVE to post pictures when you get them made. I can't wait to see how they turn out!!!!

The pattern for the panniers looks pretty good, but I'm such a novice seamstress I don't think I have the "skillz" necessary to complete such a project.

Oh, I like those! Let us see yours when you get them finished!

I don't know if I have the skills or the patience to make proper panniers. I'm thinking I'll do a hybrid, make a messenger-type bag with detachable long strap that can hook to the rear rack. Very basic, no zippers, maybe pockets. I'll post photos for sure!

Here are some small front panniers I made a long time ago. The fabric is old now and the waterproof coating has peeled off. There is a hole in one of them. And they are 2 different shades of green. But I did commute with these little panniers for many years. I used plastic sheets to stiffen the backs, hence 2 fabric layers on the back to hide the plastic. I believe the plastic sheet was a boot tray I cut up. Also two pieces of aluminum stock inside each bag to attach the hardware (hooks and d-rings) to.

I was thinking of making a simple pair out of canvas. I have never sown with an awl before (nor do I own one...)