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The best knitting project bag sewing pattern

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Introducing, the Stitch-along tote! I sewed this knitting project bag sewing pattern from Betz White’s shop (I initially posted this as a part of her sewing collective, so I received the pattern for free and was paid for the post on her site). I haven’t knitted in years (and only got as far as scarves, in high school, when I did) but my Mom was working on my daughter’s Christmas stocking last time she visited. When she dug everything out of the bottom of her big tote bag, I made a mental note to find a solution! I chose to sew the small version, which measures 15″ W x 12″ H x 4″ D, there is a larger one as well, and gave it to her as a Christmas present.

Knitting project bag

You can find the Stitch-along tote pattern on Craftsy*; I haven’t sewn a ton of bags (the Sew Liberated carpet bag is really my only “real” bag sewn) but had no issues following the pattern. I like that there were provided pattern pieces (except for the straps) instead of measurements or instructions for creating the shapes, it made it easier to use up fabric I had on hand instead of buying new yardage. I used coordinating prints for the interior pockets & bottom, and the same solid for part of the lining and straps, squeezing out the whole bag from my stash.

Interior bag pockets

As mentioned, there are two interior pockets in the pattern. The purse closes with a magnetic snap, which I found much easier to insert than I anticipated, I will definitely try those again. I used Peltex 72F (a double-sided fusible) for the base and just used muslin fused to the ‘wrong side’, since I had a scrap that fit.

bag interior

The bag stands up really well on its own, using a combination of fusible interfacing and batting. I did baste the batting to the purse sides instead of pinning like the pattern said– I hate pins! It calls for interfacing in the seam allowance that I thought was clever, I had never seen that detail in a pattern before. The cuff is designed so it flips down easily, holding its shape and providing easier access to projects inside. When sewing, I used my tailor’s ham to really press the seams well while still preserving the curves.

grommet corner

I did add one detail – a grommet! I saw (on Pinterest) a knitting project bag with a hole to pull the yarn out and thought it was so cute. Hopefully it will be useful too, I know my Mom’s cats love to fiddle with her yarn so maybe it will foil their shenanigans. It was a little tricky inserting the grommet once the bag was assembled, but using some washi tape to hold each side in place while I hammered worked out well. If you haven’t used grommets before, they are super easy, I have a round-up of project ideas using them here or check out this photo tutorial for inserting one, in another bag that I sewed.bag topstitching detail

The construction details on this knitting project bag sewing pattern are so fun! The shaping and construction really take it up a notch so it looks and feels like something special.

stitch along tote

I am really proud of the bag – the only thing I struggled with was some bubbling on the green cuff. I can’t ever seem to get fusible interfacing perfect, and prefer to use it on prints where it isn’t as obvious. If you have any tips on interfacing, I’d love to hear them!

Pin this knitting project bag sewing pattern post for later using this link or collage image:

Fun PDF pattern for a knitter's project bag - click through to see how the sides fold down and the special yarn opening. Great gift idea to sew for a knitter!

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Brenda

Wednesday 12th of September 2018

The grommet is an awesome idea! I will have to try that. As for interfacing, I have read on a Facebook page for making wallets, to use shape flex first then ass the stiffer Peltex to keep it from wrinkling. Bosal and Annie's Soft and Stable works great too! Fusible fleece is nice as well if you don't need it to stand up really firmly.

Stephanie - Swoodson Says

Wednesday 12th of September 2018

Thanks for the stabilizer tips Brenda!

Cassy Gobin

Thursday 31st of March 2016

I'm not a bag lady myself, but I recently stitched up a wallet and found it very rewarding. I love that I can show it off every time I check out at a store. :) I don't knit or crochet, but the grommet is a great feature for someone who does. I wonder if you could also put one in to shake the kids snack crumbs out of the bag bottom. I trash opening so to speak. I personally have an issue with this. :)

Stephanie - Swoodson Says

Sunday 3rd of April 2016

Um, you are a genius!! We have crumbs a plenty here too :)

Denise/DIY Crush

Tuesday 29th of March 2016

It's beautiful! Looks like a great all day tote that holds a lot.

Jonie

Monday 28th of March 2016

Super cute Stephanie! I love that grommet idea! I know what I am adding to the craft bag I am working on.

Stephanie - Swoodson Says

Monday 28th of March 2016

Thanks Jonie! You won't regret it - I find myself wanting to grommet all the things now :)

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