Market Bag Knitting Pattern (and Free Video Tutorial) – Sheep and Stitch

Knit Your Own Stylish Market Bag: Free Pattern and Video Tutorial by Sheep and Stitch

Quaint and environmentally friendly, the handmade market bag is making a strong comeback. Its versatility transcends its primary function, transforming it from a grocery accessory to a daily essential. At Sheep and Stitch, we believe in the joy of creating with yarn, especially when the result is both beautiful and practical. Today, we’re excited to share our Market Bag knitting pattern for free, complete with a step-by-step video tutorial. Whether you’re a beginner eager to try your hands on your first big project or a seasoned knitter in search of a quick and functional knit, this pattern is tailored for you.

Why Knit a Market Bag?

Before we jump into the pattern, let’s explore why knitting a market bag might be the perfect project for you:

1. Eco-Friendly Alternative: By crafting your market bag, you contribute to minimizing plastic waste. These bags are reusable, durable, and an ideal substitute for single-use plastics.

2. Functional Fashion: Not only does a knitted market bag serve practical purposes, but it also adds a touch of personal style to your daily routine. Customize your bag with your choice of yarn colors and patterns to create something uniquely yours.

3. Skill Expansion: Market bags are a wonderful challenge for knitters looking to expand their skills beyond basic projects. Learning to knit flat and in the round, handle yarnovers, and manage simple lace patterns are just a few of the skills you’ll master with this project.

4. Thoughtful Gift: Giving a handmade market bag can be a thoughtful and sustainable gift. Anyone who appreciates craftsmanship will love the effort and creativity poured into making such a useful item.

Materials You’ll Need

Before getting started, ensure you have the following materials:

• Yarn: A DK or worsted weight yarn is ideal, as it offers durability and structure. Consider using natural fibers like cotton, which provide both sturdiness and a lovely texture.

• Needles: Circular needles in a size corresponding to your yarn weight. Many knitters use size US 7 (4.5 mm) or US 8 (5 mm) needles for this kind of project.

• Stitch Markers: These are handy for marking sections and ensuring accuracy, especially since we’ll be working in the round.

• Tapestry Needle: Useful for weaving in ends and adding finishing touches.

• Scissors: A reliable pair of scissors for cutting yarn.

• Measuring Tape: For ensuring accurate dimensions.

The Pattern

Gauge

While gauge can be flexible for a market bag, since fit isn’t as critical as with garments, aim for approximately 18 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in stockinette stitch. Adjust needle size if necessary to meet the gauge.

Instructions

Bottom of the Bag

1. Cast On: Begin by casting on 30 stitches using a provisional cast-on method to facilitate an easy finish later.

2. Knit Flat: Knit in garter stitch (knit every row) for approximately 10 inches or until you achieve your desired base width. This rectangle will form the bottom of your bag.

3. Join in the Round: Pick up stitches along each edge and join to knit in the round. Place a stitch marker to denote the beginning of your round.

Body of the Bag

1. Mesh Pattern: Work in a simple lace or mesh pattern. A common choice is the lace mesh stitch:

   • Round 1: (K2tog, yarn over) repeat from , end with k2.
   • Round 2: Purl all stitches.

   Repeat Rounds 1 and 2 until the body reaches about 14 inches from the base or your desired length.

2. Body Shape: Feel free to introduce stripes or a different pattern midway for added visual interest.

Handles

1. Divide Stitches: Divide the stitches on your circular needle into two equal sections. Bind off half of the stitches for the first handle opening.

2. Work the Handle:

   • On remaining stitches, work in stockinette stitch, or your chosen pattern, back and forth (not in the round) until the handle measures approximately 18 inches.

   • Bind off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

3. Repeat: Reattach yarn and repeat the process for the other half of stitches to create the second handle.

Finishing

1. Sew Handles: Using the tapestry needle and remaining yarn tail, sew the ends of each handle to the opposite edge of the bag opening.

2. Join the Bottom: Use Kitchener stitch or a simple grafting method to close the provisional cast-on edge, maintaining a seamless appearance.

3. Weave in Ends: Securely weave in all yarn tails for a polished finish.

4. Blocking: Gently wash and shape the bag, laying it flat to dry to set your stitches beautifully.

Video Tutorial

For a more detailed guide, follow along with our free video tutorial on the Sheep and Stitch channel. As visual learners, many knitters find it helpful to watch techniques demonstrated in real time. This video walks you through each step of the process, offering tips, tricks, and encouragement to ensure your knitting adventure is successful.

Customization Ideas

Feel free to add personal touches to your bag. Consider these ideas:

• Color Blocking: Incorporate different colored yarns at sections to add vibrant patches of color.
• Appliqué or Embroidery: Add small embroidered images or appliqué letters for initials or fun designs.
• Adjustable Handles: Instead of sewn handles, create button or tie-up closures that adjust in length.

Caring for Your Market Bag

A knitted market bag requires special care to extend its life:

• Hand Wash: Whenever possible, hand wash your bag in cool water with mild detergent, especially if using natural fibers.
• Dry Flat: Reshape the bag and let it dry flat to prevent stretching. Avoid hanging it up when wet, which can distort the shape.
• Storage: Store out of direct sunlight to prevent uneven fading if the bag isn’t being used regularly.

A Personal Touch to Every Knit

A hand-knitted market bag not only replaces plastic bags but also embodies personal pride and care in its creation. This bag project serves as a constant reminder of the joys of knitting and the positive impact we can have through sustainable, mindful choices.

With this pattern, we invite you to embrace knitting as a creative outlet. Each stitch is an investment in learning and adding beauty to daily life. We hope you enjoy making this market bag as much as we’ve enjoyed crafting the pattern for you. For inspiration and additional resources, subscribe to the Sheep and Stitch community and take the next step in your knitting journey.

Happy knitting!