Berroco Bag Knitting Pattern

Berroco Deiva Knit Bag

What is Being Made

The Deiva is a structured knit bag designed by Åsa Buchta. This intermediate-level project creates a square-bottomed tote with finished measurements of approximately 9 inches (23 cm) square at the base and 12 inches (30.5 cm) in height. The bag features a practical drawstring closure and dual handles, making it a functional accessory suitable for everyday use.

Construction Technique

The Deiva bag is constructed using a flat knitting method rather than working in the round. The pattern begins with a bottom panel that is worked flat in Garter stitch, establishing the base foundation of the bag. Additional stitches are strategically cast on at each side during subsequent rows to create the body walls. Once all pieces are knitted separately, they are seamed together to assemble the three-dimensional bag structure. The straps are worked as separate rectangular pieces and sewn onto the body, while a braided drawstring is added as the final finishing element.

Stitches Used

• Garter Stitch: The primary stitch throughout the entire project. Garter stitch is created by knitting every row, whether working flat or in the round, producing a textured, reversible fabric with horizontal ridges. This stitch is ideal for bags as it creates a sturdy, durable fabric that holds its shape well.

Pattern Details

Bottom Panel: Cast on 40 stitches and work in Garter stitch for 90 rows (45 garter ridges), which measures approximately 9 inches from the cast-on edge. This rectangular panel forms the foundation of the bag.

Body: Additional stitches are cast on at the beginning of the next two rows to expand the width and create the body walls of the bag.

Straps (Make 2): Each strap is created by casting on 100 stitches and working even in Garter stitch until the piece measures 2 inches in height, then binding off. The two straps are sewn onto the bag body, positioned on either side of the center back seam just below the drawstring holes.

Assembly: The body sides are seamed together, with this seam becoming the center back of the finished bag. The bottom panel is then sewn to the body, and the strap ends are attached to the outer bottom back corners to ensure they are not twisted. A braided drawstring completes the closure.

Materials

Yarn: Berroco Vernazza, a yarn from Berroco, Inc. The pattern calls for 6 balls of Berroco Vernazza in color #10650 Findon, with each ball weighing 50 grams.

Needles: Knitting needles in size 6 (4 mm) or the size needed to obtain the correct gauge.

Gauge

The pattern specifies a gauge of 20 stitches and 40 rows measured over 4 inches (10 cm) in Garter stitch. Gauge is measured after blocking. Taking time to check gauge before beginning the project is essential to ensure accurate finished measurements and proper bag construction.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty. While Garter stitch is a fundamental technique suitable for beginners, the Deiva project requires intermediate skills due to the multi-part construction process, including casting on additional stitches mid-project, seaming multiple panels together, and attaching handles and drawstring components.