Knitted Seed Stitch Tote Bag

Instructions

Tap a section when you finish it.

1. 1Cast on and top bandCast on 60 sts. Work 6 rows of garter stitch (knit every row). This band will be the top edge of the front of the bag and keeps it from curling.
2. 2Seed stitch bodyRow 1: *k1, p1* to end. Row 2: *p1, k1* to end. Repeat these 2 rows until the piece measures 74 cm from the cast-on edge (about 220 rows). In seed stitch you work each stitch opposite to how it appears: purl the knits and knit the purls.
3. 3Bottom band and bind-offWork 6 rows of garter stitch and bind off loosely. This band is the top edge of the back of the bag. The piece measures about 35 x 76 cm.
4. 4HandlesCast on 8 sts. Alternate *k1, p1* and *p1, k1* rows to work seed stitch for 55 cm and bind off. Make a second handle the same way. Seed stitch doesn't curl at the edges, so the handles stay flat.
5. 5AssemblyFold the piece in half so the two garter bands lie on top of each other. Join the two side edges from the bottom up with the tapestry needle using mattress stitch through the edge stitches. Sew the ends of the handles firmly to the inside of the band, 8 cm in from the side seams, overlapping them by 4 cm.
6. 6FinishingWeave the ends into the seams. Wet the bag in lukewarm water, shape it to size on a flat surface and let it dry. If you plan to carry heavy loads, sew in a fabric lining; it stops the cotton from stretching.