Avant-Garde Chunky Vintage Tote with Stripes - Free Pattern

Avant-Garde Chunky Vintage Tote with Stripes - Free Pattern

Introduction

Dive into the world of avant-garde fashion with this chunky, soft muted vintage tote featuring bold stripes. Perfect for making a statement, this bag combines texture and colorwork in a unique design. Whether you're heading to the market or just want a stylish accessory, this tote is both practical and fashionable. Let’s get started on creating your very own vintage-inspired tote!

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Bulky weight yarn in soft muted vintage colors:
• A: Dusty Rose
• B: Sage Green
• C: Faded Mustard
• Needles: US 11 (8.0 mm) knitting needles
• Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch
• Other: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Step-by-Step Instructions

Base

1. Using color A (Dusty Rose), cast on 40 stitches.
2. Work in garter stitch (knit every row) for 10 rows. This creates a textured foundation for your tote.

Body

1. Switch to stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl one row) and begin colorwork stripes.
2. For the first four rows, knit with color B (Sage Green):
• Row 1: Knit
• Row 2: Purl
• Row 3: Knit
• Row 4: Purl
3. Next, for the following four rows, knit with color C (Faded Mustard):
• Row 5: Knit
• Row 6: Purl
• Row 7: Knit
• Row 8: Purl
4. Repeat Rows 1-8 until the piece measures 18 inches from the cast-on edge, ensuring to end with a color B stripe.

Handles

1. Bind off 10 stitches at the beginning of the next two rows. You will have 20 stitches remaining.
2. Continue in stockinette stitch for 6 inches to form the handles.
3. Bind off all stitches to complete the handles.

Finishing

1. Fold the piece in half with the right sides facing each other.
2. Using a tapestry needle and color A (Dusty Rose), seam the sides of the tote together.
3. Turn the bag right side out to reveal your beautiful work.
4. Weave in all ends using the tapestry needle to ensure a clean finish.

Optional

Add a lining for extra durability and a polished look. This can be done by cutting a fabric piece to the same dimensions as your tote and sewing it in place before seaming the sides.

Now you have your very own Avant-Garde Chunky Vintage Tote! Enjoy showcasing your handmade creation and making a bold fashion statement.