Simple Knitted Shopper Handbag

Create a sturdy, medium-sized shopper handbag perfect for grocery trips using solid-colored cotton yarn. This beginner-friendly knitting project avoids complicated features, focusing on basic stitches and construction for an easy, practical bag.

Beginner 6 hours $15
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Cast on 60 stitches using your preferred method.
2. Knit every row in garter stitch (knit all stitches) until the piece measures about 15 inches (this forms the base and body of the bag).
3. Bind off all stitches loosely.
4. Fold the knitted piece in half widthwise, aligning the cast-on and bind-off edges.
5. Using the yarn needle and a length of yarn, sew the two side edges together with a whip stitch or mattress stitch, leaving the top open.
6. For the handles, pick up 12 stitches evenly along one top edge with knitting needles.
7. Knit in garter stitch back and forth until the handle measures about 18 inches long.
8. Bind off stitches loosely.
9. Attach the other end of the handle to the opposite side of the bag’s opening by sewing it securely.
10. Repeat steps 6–9 to create the second handle.
11. Weave in all loose ends using the yarn needle.
12. Gently block the bag by wetting and shaping it flat, then let it dry to even out stitches and improve appearance.
Materials
1. Medium-weight cotton yarn (approx. 200 grams / 400 yards)
2. Size US 8 (5mm) knitting needles, circular or straight
3. Yarn needle for weaving in ends
4. Scissors
5. Stitch markers (optional)
More Projects You Might Like
Handmade Soy Candles
Create a Magical Miniature Garden Terrarium
Automated Plant Watering System
Boho Cancer Zodiac Sign Painting
Gear-shaped Aluminum Sheet Carving
Glowing Ghost Jars
Spooky Pumpkin Planters
Spooky Spiderweb Living Room
Spooky Spider Web Garden Decor
Tiny Dragons Socks Knitting Pattern
Homemade Bath Bombs and Soaps for a Spa-like Experience
Build a Birdhouse
Intricate Paper Quilling Art
Succulent Terrarium with Decorative Stones