This pattern is a variation of my 2012 pattern Pouch for Tarot Cards. In that pattern the start is crochet, then change to knitting and finally change back to crochet for the drawstring. It seems that the top does not need as much support as the bottom and that it can be a bit of a struggle to get the cards into the pouch. To fix these issues I have redesigned the top so that it stays with knitting and flares.

I usually use a fine linen, cotton and/or silk blend and a slightly smaller needle and crochet hook than recommended to make the fabric tighter. You should check your guage to make sure it is the same in the crochet and knitting as you may need different sizes.