Imperial Yarn Raindrop Bag Knitting Pattern

Imperial Yarn Raindrop Bag: Seamless Knit Wool Shoulder Bag

Project Overview

The Imperial Yarn Raindrop Bag is a sophisticated knitted shoulder bag designed by Anna Cohen and technically interpreted by Simona Merchant-Dest. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a practical yet stylish accessory measuring approximately 20 inches wide and 16 inches long (not including the shoulder strap). The finished bag features a lined interior for enhanced stability and durability, making it both beautiful and functional for everyday use.

Construction Method and Techniques

This bag employs a seamless, bottom-up construction method that begins with the base and strap piece. Stitches are strategically picked up from this foundation, then the front and back panels are worked toward the center. This approach eliminates seaming and creates a cohesive, professional finish. The seamless construction is complemented by the use of cables and lace patterning, which add visual interest and texture throughout the design.

The bag is worked flat using circular needles, allowing for the precise shaping and patterning required for this intermediate project. The combination of seamless construction with cable and lace techniques demonstrates advanced knitting skill while remaining accessible to experienced knitters.

Stitches and Stitch Patterns

The Raindrop Bag features multiple stitch patterns that work together to create its distinctive appearance. The main pattern is a 27-stitch repeat (plus 8 additional stitches on Row 1) that incorporates lace elements through yarn overs and decreases. Key stitches include:

• Yarn overs (yo) and purl two together (p2tog) for lace shaping
• Knit through back loop (k1b) for twisted stitches that add definition
• 1x1 Ribbing used in gauge swatches and structural elements
• Diagonal Pattern for additional textural variation

The pattern repeats from Rows 2 through 13, creating a consistent, intricate design that develops as the knitter progresses through the bag.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Imperial Yarn Raindrop Bag is crafted from Imperial Yarn Columbia 2-Ply, a premium 100% wool yarn sourced from Imperial Stock Ranch near Shaniko, Oregon, USA. This historic ranch produces some of the finest wool available, ensuring exceptional quality and durability. The yarn is supplied in 113-gram (4-ounce) skeins, with each skein providing approximately 220 yards (201 meters). The project requires 3 hanks of yarn, providing ample yardage for the complete bag including the shoulder strap.

The pattern is shown in color #116 Black Cherry, a rich, sophisticated shade that demonstrates the beautiful depth achievable with quality wool yarn.

Needles and Gauge

This project requires multiple needle sizes to achieve proper gauge and construction:

• US Size 2 (2.75 mm) needles for ribbed sections, achieving a gauge of 21 stitches and 28 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in 1x1 Rib
• US Size 6 (4.0 mm) circular needle, 29 inches long or longer for the main body, achieving a gauge of 16 stitches and 24 rows over 4 inches (10 cm) in the Diagonal Pattern
• US Size 6 (4.0 mm) circular needle, 16 inches long or longer (optional) for smaller circumference sections

Proper gauge is essential for achieving the finished measurements and ensuring the bag maintains its intended structure and drape.

Skill Level and Design Details

Rated as an Intermediate skill level project, the Raindrop Bag is suitable for knitters with solid foundational skills who are ready to tackle seamless construction, cable work, and lace patterning. The design's complexity lies in managing multiple stitch patterns simultaneously while maintaining consistent tension and shaping.

This pattern is part of the Imperial Knits Collection and carries the thematic designation ~Water is Life~, reflecting the design's inspiration and the importance of water in the production of fine wool. The pattern was revised in December 2012 and is authorized for non-commercial use only, protecting the intellectual property of Imperial Stock Ranch.