Transform ordinary parcel string into this tough bag. Working in the round makes the bag very strong, and the simple mesh stitch expands and stretches to hold masses of stuff.
ESTIMATED TIME TO COMPLETE
The bag took 2½ hours to make.
SIZE
Width: 15¾ in. (40 cm); length: 14 in. (35.5 cm).
YOU WILL NEED
• 2 x 128g spools (approx. 9 oz.) of medium-weight jute string
• 32-in. (81-cm)- long size US 19 (15 mm) circular needle
• size M/N or 13 (9 mm) crochet hook (optional)
GAUGE
6 sts and 5½ rounds to 4 in. (10 cm) over mesh patt, when stretched, using size US 19 (15 mm) circular needle. Change needle size, if necessary, to obtain this gauge.
ABBREVIATIONS
dec = decrease; patt = pattern; p = purl; st(s) = stitch(es); tog = together; yo = yarn over needle to make a stitch; [ ] = work instructions in square brackets as directed.
BAG
Cast on 48 sts.
Round 1 [Yo, p2tog] to end.
This round forms mesh patt.
Work 16 more rounds.
Shape base. Dec round [P2tog] to end. 24 sts. P 1 round. Work dec round again. 12 sts.
Leaving a long end, cut the string. Thread end of string twice around through stitches; then knot the end of the string between each stitch, thread end under knots, and trim off.
TO FINISH
Handles. Thread string through cast-on edge of bag, then through again, about 5 in. (13 cm) farther along, to make a doubled loop 14 in. (35.5 cm) long as a base for first handle. Use crochet hook or your fingers to chain loops of string over base to make a firm handle. Leaving a short end, cut string and thread end under handle loops to secure it. Make second handle opposite first handle.
ABOUT THE YARN
The bag was made from medium-weight jute string with around 51 yds. (46 m) to a 128 g (approx. 4½ oz.) spool.
TIPS
• Take care not to miss out the first yarn-over at the beginning of rounds. You’ll spot it quickly if you do, because the pattern will change.
• To join in more string, simply knot the ends. Use a square knot (that’s right over left and under, left over right and under) so it will be flat. Pull the knot tight, and trim the ends short.
• Leave a long end when casting on, and use it as the base for the first handle.
This string shopping bag is ideal for fruit and vegetables.