Slabtown vs Naito Leather + Hardware Kit: Which to Pick
By Klum House: Bag making kits, bag sewing patterns, waxed | Published: 2026-11-03
Category: Vergelijkingen
Compare the Slabtown rolltop backpack kit and the Naito convertible bucket bag kit on structure, hardware, and skill fit so you can choose the right leather bag kit.
Quick answer
Choose the Slabtown kit if you want a heavy-duty rolltop backpack with adjustable leather straps and multiple zipper pockets. Choose the Naito kit if you prefer a convertible bucket bag that switches from tote to crossbody sling and relies on a cinching strap closure rather than zippers.
Structure and carry style set them apart
The Slabtown is built as a rolltop backpack with adjustable leather backpack straps, so it carries weight on both shoulders and leaves your hands free. The Naito is a cylindrical bucket bag with a sit-flat base that converts from tote to crossbody sling, giving you two carry options in one bag. Neither kit includes the sewing pattern or main fabric unless stated, so check the product page for what else you need before starting.
Pockets and closures change the making experience
Slabtown includes a quick-access zipper on the main compartment, a front zipper pocket, and side pockets for water bottles. Naito offers 360 degrees of interior and exterior pockets plus a magnetic snap rivet and a strap-pull closure that cinches into pleats. If you prefer zippers and predictable openings, Slabtown is more straightforward; if you want a distinctive cinch closure and abundant pocket access, Naito delivers that but asks you to manage pleating and a magnetic snap.
Hardware options and skill considerations
The Slabtown kit lets you choose zipper and hardware options, while the Naito kit offers hardware options only. Both are leather and hardware kits, so you supply the pattern and main fabric. The Slabtown's heavy-duty build and adjustable straps may suit makers comfortable with backpack assembly and strap attachment. The Naito's convertible design and pleated closure may appeal to makers who enjoy learning a clever closure mechanism. Neither kit lists a difficulty rating, so use the feature list as your guide: more zippers and straps generally mean more steps.
Trade-offs to weigh before you buy
- Carry style vs. convertibility: Slabtown gives you a dedicated backpack carry with two adjustable straps. Naito gives you a tote that converts to a crossbody sling. Pick the carry you will actually use most. If you need hands-free carrying for commuting or hiking, Slabtown is the more direct choice.
- Zippers vs. cinch closure: Slabtown relies on zippers for the main compartment and front pocket, which are familiar and secure. Naito uses a magnetic snap rivet and a strap-pull cinch that pleats the top. Zippers are more predictable to install; the cinch is more distinctive but may take practice. Choose Naito only if you are comfortable experimenting with a non-zipper closure.
- Hardware options and extras: Slabtown lets you select zipper and hardware options, while Naito offers hardware options only. Both kits include the leather and hardware needed for the bag, but you still need the pattern and main fabric. Check the product page for the full list of included hardware before you buy.
Product facts at a glance
- Naito - Chestnut Leather + Hardware Kit: Cylindrical bucket bag that converts from tote to crossbody sling with a sit-flat base. You get two carry styles and a stable base that helps the bag stand when set down.
Naito - Chestnut Leather + Hardware Kit - Slabtown - Chestnut Leather + Hardware Kit: Heavy-duty rolltop backpack with adjustable leather backpack straps, a quick-access main zipper, front zipper pocket, and side water bottle pockets. This kit suits makers who want a hands-free carry with organized storage and adjustable fit.
Slabtown - Chestnut Leather + Hardware Kit
Which kit fits you?
Best for
- Makers who want a heavy-duty rolltop backpack with adjustable leather straps and multiple zipper pockets.
- Sewists comfortable with backpack assembly and strap attachment who prefer zippered closures.
Not for
- Makers who want a convertible tote-to-sling bag rather than a backpack.
- Sewists who prefer to avoid zipper installation and want a cinch closure instead.
