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?
If you love free knitting patterns, why not check out my pattern database?
Table of Contents
| At A Glance: The Molfetta Tote Intermediate Knitter | |
|---|---|
| Materials & Tools |
|
| Specifications |
Style: Knitting (Worked in the round) Finished Size: Approx. 27 cm × 25 cm (11″ × 10″) Gauge: 12 sts × 12 rounds = 10 cm / 4″ |
| Key Features | Flowing wave texture, breezy mesh structure, custom size |
| Needle & Seam Tip This bag uses large 8.0 mm circulars to achieve its open, airy beach-net aesthetic. When finishing the body, use a 4 mm crochet hook for a quick, extra-sturdy slipped-stitch bottom seam before picking up your straps. | |
| Pattern Overview: Molfetta Bag | |
|---|---|
| Specifications |
Size: 27 cm × 25 cm (11″ × 10″) | Gauge: 12 sts × 12 rounds = 10 cm (4″) Skills: Knitting in the round, increases/decreases, invisible join |
| Materials | 350 m DK/light yarn (held double), 8.0 mm & 6.0 mm circular needles, stitch marker, yarn needle, scissors, (optional: 4 mm crochet hook). |
| Abbreviations | CO, BO, K, P, YO, K2TOG, PM, RD |
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.
Molfetta Bag · Knitting Pattern
Bag Body
Using 8.0 mm needles, CO 71 sts. Join invisibly in the round, decreasing 1 st (70 sts total). PM to mark the start of the round.
- Rounds 1–3: Knit.
- Round 4: YO, K2TOG around.
- Rounds 5–6: Knit.
- Round 7: YO, K2TOG around.
- Rounds 8–9: Knit.
- Round 10: YO, K2TOG around.
- Rounds 11–40: Repeat the established pattern (2 rounds Knit, 1 round YO, K2TOG).
Top Edging
- Rounds 41–43: Knit.
- Round 44: Switch to 6.0 mm needles, Purl.
- Round 45: Knit.
- Round 46: Purl.
- Round 47: Knit.
- Round 48: Purl.
- Round 49: Knit.
- Round 50: K1, K2TOG, [K2TOG, K1] 21 times, K2TOG twice (46 sts remaining).
- Round 51: Purl.
- Finish: Bind off loosely.
Finishing & Assembly
The Base
Turn the bag inside out. Seam the base closed using a mattress stitch or by joining with a slip stitch using your 4 mm crochet hook. Turn the bag right side out.
The Strap
Using 6.0 mm needles, CO 50 sts (or adjust to your preferred length).
- Rows 1–3: Knit all stitches.
- Finish: Bind off.
Assembly
Lay the bag flat with the base seam centered at the bottom. Position the strap ends on the inside edges of the bag opening and sew them securely in place.
Final Touches
Block your bag gently to even out the stitches and define the wave texture.
Maker’s Note: If you want a more substantial strap, consider working a few more rows in stockinette or increasing the number of stitches for a wider look. Always ensure your strap is sewn with a reinforced stitch to handle the weight of your items.
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!
Leave a Reply