Bryony Gardner
A Japanese knot bag is a self-closing bag that can be worn on the wrist or the crook of your arm. The bag features one handle that is longer than the other so that the longer handle can be put through the shorter one to close the bag. The bag is designed to be worn over the wrist for easy carrying. The bag can be made using a variety of stitches, such as the moss stitch, and different types of yarn, including cotton, acrylic, or wool. It is a versatile and functional bag that can be customised to suit individual preferences.
| Characteristics | Values |
|---|---|
| Length | 14.1 inches (36 cm) |
| Width | 12.5 inches (32 cm) |
| Level of Difficulty | Beginner/Easy |
| Stitches Used | sl st, sc |
| Yarn Type | Non-stretchy, medium weight yarn |
| Yarn Weight | 4.50 mm |
| Hook Size | 5.5 mm |
What You'll Learn
Knot bag crochet design
A crochet knot bag is a self-closing bag that can be worn on the wrist or the crook of your arm. It features two handles of differing lengths, with the longer handle going through the shorter one to close the bag. The bag is worked in the round, with the handles made in rows.
To make a crochet knot bag, you will need:
- Worsted weight yarn in 4 colours (approx. 20-25 yards of each colour)
- A 5.5mm hook, or a size needed to obtain the gauge
- Scissors
- A yarn needle
- A tape measure
- Optional: a small amount of fabric with matching thread for lining the bag
The bag is created by crocheting two motifs that are then sewn together in a specific fashion. Each motif should measure close to 7" after completing rounds 1-5. The finished bag should measure approx. 11 x 7.25 inches when empty and laying flat, with the handles measuring approx. 6 inches and 3 inches in length.
The stitch used for the bag can vary depending on the desired look and feel. The moss stitch, also known as the linen stitch, is a popular choice for its simplicity and minimalist aesthetic. However, single crochet or other stitches can also be used.
When designing the bag, it is important to consider the purpose of the bag and the type of stitch that would be most suitable. For example, a tote bag for personal items should be made with tighter stitches so that items cannot fall through, while a market tote can have more open stitches to allow for stretch.
The size of the bag can also be customised by adjusting the number of chains in the starting chain. Additionally, you can experiment with different yarn weights, hook sizes, and colour combinations to create a unique design.
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Knot bag crochet pattern
A Japanese knot bag is a tote bag with two asymmetrical handles, one longer than the other, which is passed through the shorter handle to close the bag. This bag can be worn over the wrist and is perfect for quick outings when you don't need to carry much.
Materials
- A 4.50 mm crochet hook
- #4 Worsted Wt. Yarn 12.9 oz or 685 yards total
- Universal Yarn Yashi (100% raffia; 40g/99 yds)
- Non-stretchy (e.g. 100% cotton) medium weight yarn or fine yarn held doubled
- Worsted weight yarn in 4 colours, approx. 20-25 yds of each colour
- 5.5 mm hook, or size needed to obtain gauge
- Scissors, yarn needle, tape measure
Steps
First, you will need to create the base of the bag. The number of chains you crochet will determine the length of your bag. The base is created by crocheting a series of single crochet stitches (sc) and increasing stitches in certain rounds.
Next, you will work on the height of the bag, using the moss stitch or linen stitch. This stitch is simple and creates a beautiful, minimal texture. You will continue to crochet in rounds, using a combination of single crochet stitches, chains, and skipped stitches. The height of the bag can be adjusted to your desired length.
Finally, you will create the straps of the bag, which will be worked in turned rows rather than continuous rounds. The longer strap is typically 30 cm long, while the shorter strap is around 12 cm. The straps are then sewn to the other side of the bag, and you can add a cloth lining for extra durability.
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Knot bag crochet stitch
The knot bag is a type of crocheted bag that typically features a unique closure system, consisting of two handles of differing lengths. The shorter handle is designed to be threaded through the longer one, creating a secure closure for the bag. This style of bag is often referred to as a Japanese knot bag.
When crocheting a knot bag, it is essential to use a sturdy and dense stitch to ensure that the bag can withstand everyday use and carry items without them falling through the stitches. The specific stitch used can vary depending on the desired look and functionality of the bag. Here are some common stitches used in creating knot bags:
Single Crochet (sc)
The single crochet stitch is a basic crochet stitch that creates a dense and sturdy fabric. It is a common choice for crocheted bags as it provides structure and durability. In a single crochet stitch, the hook is inserted into the stitch, yarn is pulled up a loop, and then yarn is pulled through both loops on the hook to complete the stitch.
Half Double Crochet (hdc)
The half double crochet stitch is similar to the single crochet but creates a slightly taller stitch. It is formed by wrapping the yarn around the hook, inserting the hook into the stitch, pulling up a loop, and then pulling through all three loops on the hook. This stitch adds a bit of height and texture to the fabric.
Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc) and Back Post Double Crochet (BPdc)
The front post double crochet and back post double crochet stitches are used to create a raised ridge on the fabric. For the FPdc, the hook is inserted from front to back to front around the post of the stitch in the row below. The BPdc is worked in the opposite direction, going from back to front to back. These stitches add texture and dimension to the bag.
Foundation Double Crochet (Fdc)
The foundation double crochet is a technique used to create a starting chain and the first row of stitches at the same time. It eliminates the need for a separate foundation chain, providing a more seamless and stretchy edge. This stitch is useful when working in the round, as in the case of creating the base of a knot bag.
Moss Stitch or Linen Stitch
The moss stitch, also known as the linen stitch, is a simple stitch pattern that creates a beautiful texture. It is worked by alternating single crochet and chain stitches to form a dense and slightly textured fabric. The moss stitch is easy to master and is perfect for creating a minimalist look.
Alpine Stitch
The alpine stitch is a combination of double crochet, front post double crochet, and single crochet stitches, creating an alternating diamond-like texture. This stitch pattern adds depth and visual interest to the bag. It is worked in rows, building up a pattern of double crochet and single crochet stitches before adding the front post double crochet to create the diamond shape.
When crocheting a knot bag, it is important to pay attention to the stitch count and follow the pattern closely. Increasing and decreasing stitches at the right places will ensure that the bag takes on the desired shape. Additionally, joining the panels or motifs together with a mattress stitch can help to create a seamless finish.
In terms of yarn selection, it is recommended to use a light but sturdy yarn, such as cotton, to ensure that the bag holds its shape. The yarn weight and hook size can be adjusted to create different sizes of knot bags.
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Knot bag crochet size
The size of a knot bag crochet is customisable and can be adjusted by adding or decreasing rounds/rows. The size of the bag will also depend on the type of yarn, hook size, and yarn weight used.
For example, the Mosu Bag, a Japanese knot bag crochet pattern, has a length of 7.75" (20 cm) and a width of 8.75" (22 cm) without the handles. The bag is designed to be made in one piece to minimise sewing. The pattern also includes instructions for customising the length of the handles, with the shorter strap measuring about 12 cm and the longer strap measuring 30 cm.
Another example is the Sunburst Motif Knot Bag, which has a finished bag size of approximately 11 x 7.25 inches when empty and laid flat. The longer handle measures about 6 inches, while the shorter handle measures about 3 inches.
The Japanese Knot Bag Crochet Pattern by Life and Yarn has a bag size of 14 inches at the widest point and a depth of 12.5 inches. The strap is 11 inches long with a 4-inch closure.
It is important to note that the size of the bag may vary depending on the tension and the type of yarn used. The size can also be adjusted by adding or omitting rows or rounds, as mentioned earlier.
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Knot bag crochet handle
The handle of a knot bag is what makes it unique. It is a self-closing bag with two handles of differing lengths. The longer handle is looped through the shorter one to close the bag, which is then worn over the wrist. This design means there is no need for clasps, zippers, or other traditional closures.
To make the handles, you will be working in rows, not in continuous rounds. The longer strap is made first, followed by the shorter one. The longer strap is usually made up of more rows than the shorter one. For example, one source suggests that the longer strap should be 30 cm, while the shorter strap should be 12 cm.
The number of stitches in each row will depend on the size of your bag. For example, if your bag is 8x9 inches, you will need to single crochet 12 stitches in each row for the straps. You will also need to leave a long tail at the end of each strap for sewing.
When both straps are complete, sew the ends of the two straps to the other side of the bag. Weave in all ends.
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Frequently asked questions
A Japanese knot bag is a tote bag with one handle longer than the other. The longer handle is pulled through the shorter one to close the bag, which is then worn over the wrist.
Crochet bags are very practical as they can be customised to your needs. There are many free crochet bag patterns available, and you can make them in any way you like.
The best stitch for a crochet bag is a light but dense and sturdy stitch. The type of stitch will depend on the purpose of the bag. For example, a bag for personal items should be made so that things cannot fall through the stitches, whereas a market tote can be made with more open stitches.
To make a crochet sunburst knot bag, you will need worsted weight yarn in four colours, a 5.5 mm hook, scissors, a yarn needle, and a tape measure. You will need to create two sunburst motifs and add handles of different lengths.
