We have knitted many of these for gifts! These work up so fast, and are so fashionable, all ages love it. Especially the teens! We used Lion Brand Thick and Quick, a very chunky type yarn. Knitting needles, US # 10. Knit up the 2 sides, with a very easy center cable pattern. Sew sides together, then add a zipper (9 inch length ) to top of purse. Really now, zippers are “not” that hard to sew in! It is worth the little bit of effort to have this great purse. We used “D” rings on each side of handle too, as we can loop the handle through. This way, you can cinch up the handle for a regular bag, or allow handle to hand loose through D rings for a shoulder bag. Finished bag is 8 ½” by 8 ½”.