Two Color Slouchy Tote Bag

Two-Color Slouchy Tote Bag by Woolfans

What Is Being Made

The Two-Color Slouchy Tote Bag is a knitted carryall designed with a relaxed, slouchy silhouette that expands under the weight of contents. This beginner-friendly project creates a functional everyday bag with finished dimensions of 41 cm (16 inches) in length, 39 cm (15.4 inches) in width, and 25 cm (9.8 inches) handle drop. The bag features a two-color construction that adds visual interest through strategic color blocking.

Techniques Used

This project employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. The bag is worked flat on circular needles, beginning with a cast-on base before progressing through the body. Garter stitch forms the primary fabric structure, creating a dense, textured surface that works beautifully with super bulky materials. Edge stitches are slipped purlwise at the beginning of rows and knitted through the back loop at row ends to create neat, finished edges. The pattern incorporates yarn overs for decorative elements and uses standard bind-off techniques to finish edges securely.

Stitches Used

• Garter stitch: The foundation stitch throughout the project, created by knitting every row when working flat, producing a reversible, textured fabric
• Slipped stitches: Used at edges for a polished finish
• Yarn overs: Incorporated for decorative detail and texture variation
• Knit through back loop: Applied to edge stitches for structural integrity
• Bind off: Standard finishing technique to secure the final row

Materials and Tools

The Two-Color Slouchy Tote Bag is constructed using super bulky yarn weight materials (category 6), with options including cotton cord (5 mm braided with polyester core), super bulky yarn, t-shirt yarn, or tape yarn. Color A requires 100 meters (110 yards), approximately 450 grams (16 ounces), while Color B needs 50 meters (55 yards). Knitting is worked on 12 mm (US 17) circular knitting needles measuring at least 80 cm (31.5 inches) long to accommodate the flat construction method. Additional materials include a stitch marker, scissors, and sewing thread with needle for joining cord ends. The gauge is 7 stitches by 12 rows over 10 cm (4 inches) in garter stitch, which is important to verify for proper finished dimensions.

Design Characteristics

The slouchy construction allows the bag to expand and mold to its contents when filled, making it practical for variable carrying needs. The two-color design creates visual contrast and interest, with Color B used in smaller quantities for accent elements. The generous handle length of 25 cm (9.8 inches) accommodates comfortable shoulder or hand carrying. The dense garter stitch fabric combined with super bulky materials creates a sturdy, durable bag suitable for everyday use.