Variegated pocket bag

Step out this weekend with a simple bag enhanced with an array of gorgeous pastel shades.

VARIEGATED POCKET BAG SIDES (MAKE 2)

Cast on 50 sts using 5mm needles.

Beg with a knit row, work in st st from until piece meas 15cm, ending with a WS row.

Next row (RS) K2tog, K to last 2 sts, k2tog.

Next row Purl.

Rep these 2 rows until 38 sts remain, ending with a WS row.

Cont in st st as set for 7 rows, ending with a RS row.

Knit 2 rows (to form a garter-stitch ridge).

Work another 7 rows in st st, starting with a WS row (a purl row). Cast off all sts.

HANDLES (MAKE 2)

Cast on 7 sts using 5mm needles.

Work in pattern as follows:

Row 1 (RS) Knit.

Row 2 P1, K to last st, P1.

Rep these 2 rows until work measures 56cm, ending with a WS row.

Cast off.

MAKING UP

Sew the two sides together using your preferred method. Use backstitch to sew the bottom seam together. Turn the top of the Bag over so that the garter stitch ridge is at the top of the Bag and sew the cast-off edge to the inside of the Bag. Measure approx 2.5cm in from each side edge and place the handles in from this point. Sew in place.

ROSE

Cast on 137 sts using 5mm needles.

Row 1 (RS) K1, (skpo) across row. [69 sts]

Row 2 P1, (p2tog) across row. [35 sts]

Row 3 Knit.

Cut yarn and thread through these 35 sts. Pull together to form Rose. Secure and sew to the front of the Bag, using image as a guide.

LOOP FASTENING

Using the 4mm crochet hook, make a chain of 28 (see page 94), enough to go from the top of the opposite side of the Bag, round the Rose and back to the starting point. Work in single crochet back along the chain and join to the start point. Attach to the top of the Bag on the side opposite to the flower.