A445 Large Japanese Knot Bag

A445 Large Japanese Knot Bag

Download this guide to make Large Japanese Knot Bag.

How to Knit a Large Japanese Knot Bag

Create a stylish knitted Japanese knot bag using Lincraft Cakes yarn. This unique bag design features a rounded body, an integrated loop closure and a longer handle that passes through the loop to secure the bag closed.

The bag is knitted in the round using circular needles, with separate sections worked for the loop closure and handle before finishing and assembling the bag.

Project: Large Japanese Knot Bag

Pattern: A445

Craft type: Knitting

Difficulty: Intermediate

Measurements

  • Circumference: 64cm
  • Height (excluding handle): 32cm

Yarn Required

  • Lincraft Cakes: 200g balls – 1

Difficulty

Intermediate

Needles

  • A 4.00mm circular knitting needle, 60cm long.
  • A pair of 4.00mm knitting needles.
  • Wool needle for grafting and sewing up.

Tension

18.5 sts and 26 rows to 10cm over stocking st, using 4.00mm needles.

This bag is worked on smaller needles and at a firmer tension than usually recommended.

Note

When casting on we recommend leaving a 100cm tail of yarn so when sewing the bottom seam, the yarn colour will match your knitting.

Bag

  1. Using a 4.00mm circular needle, cast on: 120 sts.
  2. Join into the round being careful not to twist cast on edge.
  3. Knit every round until work measures: 32cm from beg.

Loop Closure

  1. Next round: K30, turn.
  2. Using a pair of 4.00mm needles, cont on these: 30 sts for Loop Closure.
  3. 1st row (wrong side): K3, P24, K3.
  4. 2nd row: K30.
  5. Rep last 2 rows until Loop Closure measures: 35cm, ending with a 1st row.
  6. Graft these: 30 sts to the next 30 sts still on the circular needle.

Handle

  1. With right side facing and using a pair of 4.00mm needles, knit next: 30 sts, turn.
  2. Cont on these: 30 sts for Handle.
  3. 1st row (wrong side): K3, P24, K3.
  4. 2nd row: K30.
  5. Rep last 2 rows until Handle measures: 60cm (or almost out of yarn), ending with a 1st row.
  6. Graft these: 30 sts to the remaining 30 sts still on the circular needle.

Finishing

  1. Lie the Bag flat with the Loop Closure in front of the Handle.
  2. Join the bottom seam.
  3. Sew in all ends.
  4. Pass the Loop Closure over the Handle to close the Bag.

Alternative Yarns

This bag is designed using Lincraft Cakes yarn. When selecting an alternative yarn, choose a yarn with a similar weight, strength and stitch definition to maintain the structure of the bag.

Because this project is a functional accessory, yarn choice will affect the firmness, durability and shape retention of the finished bag.

  • 8ply Wool Blend Yarn
    Provides structure, warmth and excellent stitch definition.
  • Cotton Blend Yarn
    Creates a durable bag with a smooth finish and good stitch definition.
  • Acrylic Yarn
    Offers an affordable, lightweight and easy-care option.
  • Merino Blend Yarn
    Provides a soft premium finish while maintaining good structure.
  • Recycled Fibre Yarn
    A sustainable option that can create a unique textured finish.
Yarn substitution tip: Avoid using a yarn that is significantly thinner or softer than recommended, as the bag may lose its shape and the handle may stretch with use.

Customisation Ideas

The Japanese knot bag design is ideal for experimenting with colour, texture and finishing details.

  • Colour blocking
    Use different colours for the body, loop closure and handle to create a bold statement accessory.
  • Striped design
    Change yarn colours throughout the body to create horizontal stripes.
  • Solid colour style
    Use one colour for a classic minimalist everyday bag.
  • Add a lining
    Sew a fabric lining inside the bag for additional strength and to prevent small items from catching between stitches.
  • Add an internal pocket
    Include a small fabric pocket for keys, cards or other small essentials.
  • Decorative details
    Add embroidery, appliqué, buttons or handmade embellishments to personalise your bag.
  • Adjust the size
    Increase or decrease the number of rounds worked for a smaller or larger bag. Always consider yarn quantity and handle proportions when adjusting the size.
  • Create matching accessories
    Use leftover yarn to make a matching purse, pouch or scarf.

Care Instructions

Care instructions will depend on the yarn selected. Always follow the yarn manufacturer's recommendations.

  • Washing: Gently wash according to the yarn care instructions. Avoid harsh washing methods that may stretch the knitted fabric.
  • Drying: Reshape the bag and dry flat to help maintain its structure.
  • Storage: Store flat when not in use to help preserve the shape of the knitted fabric and handle.
  • Maintaining shape: Avoid overloading the bag, as knitted handles can stretch under heavy weight.
  • Cleaning: Spot clean where possible to help maintain the appearance and shape of the bag.
Helpful hint: Adding a fabric lining can improve durability and help the bag hold its shape, especially when carrying heavier items.
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