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Inspired by the textures and colour contrasts of a peach kernel, I created a bag with a soft but interesting shape and a pattern featuring simple stripes of bold contrast colour and added texture.

The visual effect of stripes running in different directions plus intersecting i-cord is eye-catching and the interesting construction is functional, with seams, cast off edges and decorative features supporting the shape of the soft, knitted fabric.

Combining interesting construction and simple stitches equals an enjoyable project that can be worked with focus and delight in the process and also fits into a meditative, relaxing craft session.

Sizes: a handbag sized bag

Tension: 20 sts x 34 rows = 10cm x 10cm / 4” x 4” measured over main patt rep after blocking.

Working method: Bag is knitted as two triangular end pieces back and forth from centre, with increases at either end and in the centre. Centre panel is made in the same way but without increases. I-cord is made and seamed on to use as a handle and decorative detail.

Finished measurements
Laid flat, bag is 42cm/16 ½” wide and 21cm/8 ¼” high excluding straps. Strap length is: 40cm/15 ¾”

Requirements
King Cole Finesse Cotton Silk DK; 120m per 50g ball; 77% cotton, 23% silk or similar yarn Sample uses: Soft Pink 2812 (MC) and Fondant 2825 (CC1)
120m in Main Colour (MC)
150m in Contrast Colour (CC)
3.5mm straight needles*
3.5mm double pointed needles or any type of i-cord making device you prefer to using needles
4 stitch markers, yarn needle and scissors

The materials mention straight needles to show it’s possible to use them for the pattern however it can be fun to work the end pieces flat on a circular needle or split between 2 DPNs, knitting with a third DPN to see the piece take shape.

I recommend that you read through the pattern before starting. I sometimes add extra resources for my patterns, e.g. yarn substitutions, adaptations, styling suggestions or helpful video clips as updates on my original blog post for the release, so consider checking it out on my blog.