Felted Handbag Pattern

Summary- This is a tote bag pattern that I modified to have a strap instead of two handles on either side of bag. This is a pattern that I always adjust to suit the yarn I’m working with, or the mood I’m in, so I will try to convey options as I go along.









It’s such an easy project but making it your own takes a bit of forward planning.

** The main body of the bag is knit from the bottom up on circular needles and then strap is work on dpns and ends are woven together. The very bottom is worked separately in garter on straight needles and then sewn onto the bottom of the body with yarn. I think working these separate and then attaching gives strength and a squarer finish.

Yarn- Heavy worsted to bulky yarn works well and also carrying two lighter weight yarns works and can have stellar effects like making tweed. Usually 240-300 yards.

Needles and notions- #11 or #15, 24” circular needles, (depends on the yarn you’re working with and which needles you have. It won’t make that much of a difference) set of dpns of the same size, tapestry needle.

For felting….washer with extra agitation setting, like heavy wash, hot wash and cold rinse setting, set on lowest h2O level, and detergent, pillow case, and pair of jeans. I just let it go the entire cycle even spin and right after remove from machine and shape while it’s damp. Repeat until desired size or density.

CO 86 stitches in any method.

Next round ….. *knit 14, p 1, k 1, p1, knit 23, p 1, k 1, p 1* Repeat ** 2x each round.

Repeat rounds the same way for 12-14 inches. Bags usually shrink more with widthwise than lengthwise.

Start straps….knit 14, BO 29, knit 14, BO 29. When back to first 14 stitches begin working on dpns. I usually leave second group of 14 stitches right on the circular needles to work later.

For both sides of strap work this way…..

Row 1and all odd rows: knit

Row 2: purl 14

Row 4: purl 2tog, knit 10, p2 tog. (12 sts)

Row 6: p2tog, k 8, p2tog. (10 sts)

Row 8: p2tog, k 6, p2tog. (8 sts) @ 8 stitches work in stockinette until desired length.

Weave ends together with kitchner stitch.

Bottom or base:

CO 16 stitches (or whatever amount you used for short side and add two)

Work in garter stitch until it is the length of a long side and then BO.

Whip stitch to body of bag with tapestry needle and yarn.

In addition……if you’d like a knit or crocheted closure it is best to add it before washing. Just pick up stitches in middle of one side and make a tap with no hole, five sts is usually a good size. After washing, choose button and snip a hole to fit. I won’t fray because it’s felted fiber. Snaps are a great option for after felting and are practically invisible.