The idea for this bag was dreamt up – literally – a few months before I was due to fly off to Italy for a family holiday. I absolutely adore bags, but I realised that didn’t have a handy carry-all tote to take around with me. I wanted to make a smaller-sized tote that was airy enough to be light and one that was stretchy enough to keep all my holiday bits and peces in without losing its shape. So, inspired my one of the most beautiful places in Italy, the Molfetta Tote is the perfect light summer bag, and one you’ll definitely make more of. The colour and texture of this bag reminds me of those colourful beach nets you find in seaside villages, what do you think?
Molfetta Bag Knitting Pattern
US Terminology
Level: Intermediate
Pattern Overview
Inspired by the movement of water and the beaches of Southern Italy, the Molfetta Bag is a relaxed, textural knit designed for summer days. The simple, rhythmic stitch pattern creates a flowing wave effect, while the finished fabric holds just enough structure to make this bag both practical and beautiful. Perfect for beach trips, market days, and everyday use.
Measurements
Approx. 27 cm x 25 cm (11” x 10”)
Size is easily customisable.
Gauge
12 sts x 12 rounds = 10 cm / 4”
Gauge is not overly important for this pattern.
Yarn and Materials
Approx. 350 m / 382 yds of DK or light yarn
I used 100g of Hobbii Woody Tweed, but you can find alternatives here.
Yarn is held double throughout
8.0 mm circular needles (32” or longer)
6.0 mm circular needles
Stitch marker
Yarn needle
Scissors
Optional: 4 mm crochet hook for seaming
Skills Required
Knitting in the round
Invisible join in the round
Basic increases and decreases
Abbreviations
CO – cast on
BO – bind off
K – knit
P – purl
YO – yarn over
K2TOG – knit two stitches together
PM – place marker
RD – round
Hints and Tips
Work with yarn held double by pulling one strand from the centre of the ball and one from the outside. Hold them together and knit as one strand.
Natural fibres such as cotton, wool, or blends will give the best stitch definition.
To customise size, adjust your cast on in multiples of 2. Strap length can also be adjusted easily.
Pattern
Bag Body
Using 8.0 mm needles, CO 71 sts. Join invisibly in the round, decreasing 1 st (70 sts). PM.
RD 1–3: K
RD 4: YO, K2TOG
RD 5–6: K
RD 7: YO, K2TOG
RD 8–9: K
RD 10: YO, K2TOG
Continue in this pattern (2 rounds knit, 1 round YO, K2TOG) until RD 40.
RD 41–43: K
RD 44: Change to 6.0 mm needles, P
RD 45: K
RD 46: P
RD 47: K
RD 48: P
RD 49: K
RD 50: K1, K2TOG, (K2TOG, K1) 21 times. When 4 sts remain, K2TOG twice (46 sts).
RD 51: P
BO.
Finishing the Base
Turn the bag inside out and upside down. Seam the base using mattress stitch or slip stitch with a crochet hook. Turn right side out.
Strap
Using 6.0 mm needles, CO 50 sts (or adjust for preferred length).
Row 1–3: K
BO.
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Assembly
Lay the bag flat with the seam at the bottom. Sew the strap securely to each side of the bag.
Block gently if desired.
Copyright
This pattern, including all text and images, may not be copied, shared, or resold in whole or in part without permission. Items made using this pattern may not be sold without prior approval. All content © Emma Munn, 2023.
Is this knitting pattern suitable for beginners?
This pattern is best suited for intermediate knitters, as it involves working in the round and simple increases and decreases. However, confident beginners could absolutely give it a try.
What yarn works best for this bag?
DK weight yarn held double works best. Natural fibres like cotton or wool blends will give the nicest texture and structure.
Can I make the bag bigger or smaller?
Yes, you can easily adjust the size by casting on more stitches in multiples of two. The strap length can also be customised.
If you loved this free pattern, consider donating to me on Ko-Fi or purchasing one of my patterns on Ravelry – thank you so much for your support! Don’t forget to share your makes on Instagram by tagging me – I’d love to share your gorgeous work.
Happy crocheting!
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