Aztec Backpack in Deramores Studio Aran Acrylic - Downloadable PDF

Aztec Backpack in Deramores Studio Aran Acrylic – Advanced Knitting Pattern by Wendy Kippax

This downloadable PDF knitting pattern by designer Wendy Kippax guides you through creating a bold, eye-catching Aztec Backpack using Deramores Studio Aran Acrylic yarn. Inspired by the rich geometry of Aztec fabric and textile traditions, this fully lined backpack is both a functional everyday carry and a striking statement piece. The pattern is rated advanced, making it an ideal project for experienced knitters looking to expand their colourwork and construction skills.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces a structured, fully lined knitted backpack with the following finished dimensions:

• Height: 38cm
• Width: 35cm
• Side depth: 9cm

The backpack features a shaped top flap, a zip closure, and an attached purse or pouch — a small coordinating accessory included within the same pattern. The bag is finished with a cotton lining and a keyring clasp, giving it a professional, boutique quality. A small button (1.5cm–2cm) is also incorporated as a fastening detail.

Design Inspiration

Designer Wendy Kippax, a Designer of the Year award winner, draws her creative inspiration from history, travel, texture, and vibrant colour. The Aztec Backpack reflects this philosophy beautifully, translating the geometric boldness of Aztec-inspired motifs into a wearable, knitted form. The five-colour palette gives the finished piece a vivid, multi-tonal appearance that stands out as a true craft achievement.

Yarn and Materials

The pattern uses Deramores Studio Aran Acrylic yarn in five distinct colourways, each in a 100g skein:

• Yarn A: Persian Blue
• Yarn B: Espresso
• Yarn C: Watermelon
• Yarn D: Pewter
• Yarn E: Cinnamon

Additional materials required include:

• Cotton lining fabric for the bag: 90cm x 40cm (or two pieces of 45cm x 45cm)
• Lining fabric for the purse/pouch: 22cm x 22cm
• A 22cm zip
• A keyring clasp
• A button: 1.5cm–2cm

Needles Required

Three types of 4.5mm needles are needed to complete this project:

• 4.5mm straight needles – used for flat sections such as the top flap
• 4.5mm circular needle (80cm in length) – used for knitting the main body in the round
• 4.5mm double-pointed needles (DPNs) – used for smaller circumference sections such as straps or joins

Tension

Achieving the correct tension is especially important for a structured bag project. The pattern specifies:

• 15.5 stitches x 23 rows = 10cm x 10cm, measured over pattern rows

Because stranded colourwork can tighten gauge, knitters are encouraged to swatch carefully before beginning and to adjust needle size if necessary to match tension.

Techniques Used

This is an advanced knitting pattern that employs a range of techniques suited to confident knitters:

• Knitting in the round – the main body of the backpack is worked in the round on a circular needle, creating seamless fabric
• Stranded colourwork – multiple yarn colours are carried across rows simultaneously to