The Woven Tides Crossbody Bag Free Pattern

The Woven Tides Crossbody Bag: A Modern Knitting Project

Elevate your accessory game with the Woven Tides Crossbody Bag—a modern, sculptural piece that combines sophisticated design with everyday functionality. This pattern introduces you to the beautiful two-tone linen stitch, creating a dense, textured fabric that forms a unique crescent shape. The handcrafted wooden bead strap adds a touch of artisanal charm, making this bag a standout accessory for any season. Perfect for intermediate beginners, this project is both rewarding and stylish.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials to ensure a smooth knitting experience:

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or cotton blend yarn (approx 250 yards in Color A, 200 yards in Color B). Sample uses Knit Picks Dishie in 'Whale' (Color A) and 'Cream' (Color B).
• Needles: US 7 (4.5mm) knitting needles for the bag body, US 6 (4mm) for the strap.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, and 1 large wooden bead (approx 1 inch diameter).
• Gauge: 20 stitches and 28 rows = 4 inches in linen stitch on US 7 needles, after blocking. Adjust needle size if necessary to match gauge.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bag Body (Worked Flat, Then Seamed)

The bag body is knitted flat in linen stitch, then folded and seamed to create the crescent shape. Follow these detailed steps:

1. Cast On: With Color A and US 7 needles, cast on 45 stitches.
2. Row 1 (RS): Knit all stitches. This is the right side of the work.
3. Row 2 (WS): Knit all stitches. This is the wrong side.
4. Row 3 (RS): Switch to Color B. *K1, sl1 wyif (slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in front)* repeat from * to last stitch, K1.
5. Row 4 (WS): With Color B, *P1, sl1 wyib (slip 1 stitch purlwise with yarn in back)* repeat from * to last stitch, P1.
6. Row 5 (RS): Switch to Color A. *K1, sl1 wyif* repeat from * to last stitch, K1.
7. Row 6 (WS): With Color A, *P1, sl1 wyib* repeat from * to last stitch, P1.
8. Repeat: Continue repeating Rows 3-6 until the piece measures 12 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row. Bind off loosely in pattern (maintaining the linen stitch rhythm).

Shaping the Crescent

This step transforms the rectangle into the bag's signature curved shape:

1. Fold the rectangle in half widthwise, with right sides together. The cast-on edge and bind-off edge will meet at the top.
2. Using mattress stitch and Color A, sew the bottom edge closed for 3 inches from the fold. This creates the flat base of the bag.
3. The remaining open edges will form the top opening and the crescent curve. Do not sew these—they will naturally curve upward.

Strap (Worked in the Round on Smaller Needles)

The I-cord strap is sturdy and elegant, with a wooden bead accent:

1. With Color A and US 6 needles, cast on 6 stitches.
2. Work in I-cord for 40 inches. To do this: Knit 6 stitches, then slide the stitches to the other end of the needle without turning. Pull the yarn tightly across the back and knit again. Repeat until the cord measures 40 inches.
3. Bind off all stitches.
4. Thread the I-cord through the large wooden bead, centering it.
5. Fold the I-cord in half, so the bead is at the midpoint. Sew the ends securely to the inside of the bag at the top corners of the crescent shape (the points where the bag curves up). Ensure the strap is evenly attached.

Finishing

Complete your bag with these final touches:

1. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle. Be thorough to ensure durability.
2. Block the bag gently to shape, focusing on the crescent curve. Wet block by soaking in lukewarm water, gently squeeze out excess, and lay flat on a towel. Shape the crescent and allow to dry completely.
3. The linen stitch will relax and create a beautiful, dense fabric. Your Woven Tides Crossbody Bag is now ready to wear!

Enjoy your handcrafted accessory—a perfect blend of modern design and timeless knitting technique. Share your creation with the crafting community and inspire others to weave their own tides.