Join the Knitting Craze! Learn to Make a Stylish French Market Bag

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. The Inspiration Behind the French Market Bag
3. Materials and Yarn Choice
4. Knitting Technique: Provisional Cast-On
5. Creating the Main Panel
6. Shaping the Bag
7. Transitioning to the Linen Stitch
8. Knitting the Handles
9. Joining and Working in the Round
10. Finishing Touches
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Are you looking for a fun summer knitting project? Look no further! In this tutorial, we will be knitting a beautiful French Market Bag together. This bag is not only functional but also makes a perfect Mother's Day gift. As an advanced knitter, you will enjoy the challenge of creating this unique piece. Even if you consider yourself a beginner, you can still follow along and learn some new techniques. So grab your knitting needles and let's get started!

2. The Inspiration Behind the French Market Bag

The French Market Bag is a popular accessory known for its versatility and style. However, most patterns available are designed for crochet. In this tutorial, we will be using a knitting pattern instead, making it accessible to knitters who prefer not to crochet. The bag is constructed using a rectangular main panel, with tightly gathered top and bottom edges. The sides are loosely gathered to create the bag's unique shape.

3. Materials and Yarn Choice

Before we begin, let's gather all the materials we will need. For this project, you will need:

• Worsted weight cotton or linen yarn
• Size I (5.5mm) knitting needles
• Size 13 (9mm) straight or circular knitting needles
• Size 7 (4.5mm) 24-inch circular knitting needle
• Waist yarn
• Crochet hook

When selecting your yarn, choose a similar weight yarn to the recommended worsted weight cotton or linen yarn. It is important to avoid using elastic thick yarn, as the lace panel of the bag stretches quite a bit. In this tutorial, we will be using the "Creme Brulee" colorway, a bright and sunny yellow perfect for summer.

4. Knitting Technique: Provisional Cast-On

One of the techniques used in this pattern is the provisional cast-on. This allows us to easily pick up stitches later on when we need to gather the edges and create the handles. If you are unfamiliar with this technique, don't worry! There are separate tutorials available for you to learn and practice. You can find the links in the info card above. Once you are comfortable with the provisional cast-on, we can move on to the next step.

5. Creating the Main Panel

To start, we will cast on using the provisional cast-on method. Make a note on the waist yarn so you can easily identify the beginning. After making a slip knot, insert the crochet hook into the loop and make a few chain stitches. Then, start making stitches on the larger knitting needle. In this pattern, we will be casting on 44 stitches. Once the cast-on is complete, join the working yarn and knit through the entire row.

Next, we will begin working on the main panel. Slip the first stitch, then knit one. Repeat the sequence of yarn over and knit two together until there are two stitches remaining. Knit the last stitches to complete the row. For the next row, slip the first stitch and purl all the way to the end. By slipping the first stitches on every row, we create neat edges, making it easier to pick up stitches later on.

Continue alternating between knitting and purling rows until the main panel reaches the desired length. In this tutorial, we will be using the linen stitch to prevent the panel from stretching too much. The garter stitch was initially used but proved to be too stretchy. The linen stitch helps ensure the bag can hold heavy items without stretching excessively.

6. Shaping the Bag

Once the main panel is complete, it's time to gather the top and bottom edges. Switch to smaller needles and with the right side facing, work on the decreasing row. Follow the instructions carefully to ensure the proper shaping of the bag. After completing the decrease row, we will work on the linen stitches for the first row, followed by the second row. Repeat this pattern four more times, then end with another row one. Finally, bind off the stitches to secure the shape.

7. Transitioning to the Linen Stitch

At this point, one end of the bag is complete. Now we need to work on the other end by picking up the stitches from the provisional cast-on. Carefully undo the waist yarn, making sure to start from the end without the knot. Using the smaller needle, undo the chain stitches made with the waist yarn. Pick up the stitches by following the loop where the waste yarn is going through. Once all the stitches are picked up, you should have a total of 44 stitches on your needle. Repeat the same process at the other end.

8. Knitting the Handles

Now it's time to create the handles of the French Market Bag. Cast on 56 stitches for each handle using the simple cast-on method. Ensure that the right side is facing when joining the working yarn. Continue knitting the required number of stitches for each handle, then proceed to pick up and knit stitches from the lace panel and the linen stitch rows. Repeat this process for the second handle, and you should have a total of 233 stitches on your needle.

9. Joining and Working in the Round

To join and start working in the round, ensure that the stitches are not twisted before joining. Place a marker to indicate the beginning of the round, then follow the pattern instructions to knit and decrease stitches for the handles. After completing the necessary rows, switch to the linen stitch to knit one and slip one with yarn in front. Continue knitting in the round for eight more rounds, maintaining the linen stitch pattern.

10. Finishing Touches

After completing the designated number of rounds, it's time to bind off the stitches. Use the same method demonstrated earlier to ensure a secure finish. Weave in any loose ends, and your French Market Bag is complete! Admire your beautiful creation and enjoy using it for your summer adventures.

Conclusion

Congratulations on knitting your very own French Market Bag! We hope you enjoyed this tutorial and found it helpful in creating this unique accessory. Remember, this pattern is adaptable, so feel free to experiment with different yarn colors and stitch combinations. Happy knitting!

Highlights

• Learn how to knit a beautiful French Market Bag for the summer
• Unique knitting pattern instead of the traditional crochet pattern
• Use a provisional cast-on to easily pick up stitches for shaping
• Transition to the linen stitch to prevent excessive stretching
• Create handles using a simple cast-on method
• Join and work in the round for a seamless finish
• Bind off and weave in ends for a completed French Market Bag
• Customize your bag with different yarn colors and stitch combinations

FAQ

Q: Is this pattern suitable for beginners? A: While this pattern is designed for advanced knitters, beginners can still follow along and learn new techniques. Separate tutorials are available for certain stitches and techniques to assist beginners.

Q: Can I use a different yarn thickness for this pattern? A: It is recommended to use a similar weight yarn to the recommended worsted weight cotton or linen yarn. Elastic thick yarn should be avoided, as the lace panel stretches quite a bit.

Q: How long does it take to complete this project? A: The time required to complete this project depends on your knitting speed and experience. It is a relatively small project, so it can be completed in a few days or even within a week for more experienced knitters.

Q: Can I adjust the size of the bag? A: The size of the bag is determined by the number of stitches and rows. If you wish to adjust the size, you can modify the number of stitches and rows accordingly. Keep in mind that this may affect the overall shape and proportions of the bag.