Trellis Stitch Bag

Trellis Stitch Bag by Sian Brown

Project Overview

The Trellis Stitch Bag is an intermediate-level knitted accessory designed by Sian Brown. This downloadable knitting pattern creates a structured bag measuring 30 cm wide by 25 cm deep, featuring a distinctive trellis stitch pattern created through a combination of slip stitches and decorative loop techniques. The finished bag is both functional and visually striking, making it suitable for everyday use or as a handmade gift.

What Is Being Made

This pattern produces a two-piece knitted bag constructed from separate panels that are joined together. The bag features a classic rectangular silhouette with depth, and includes a press stud closure for securing the opening. The design allows for optional lining, which can be added to provide structure and durability to the finished piece. The trellis pattern creates an open, lattice-like texture across the surface of the bag.

Knitting Techniques Used

• Double Yarn Knitting: The yarn is used doubled throughout the entire project, which creates a thicker, more substantial fabric suitable for a structured bag
• Slip Stitch Colorwork: A two-color slip stitch technique is employed to create the trellis pattern without the complexity of traditional stranded colorwork, making it more accessible for intermediate knitters
• Pull Up Loop Technique: A specialized stitch where the right needle is inserted under strands of the contrasting color yarn, then knitted together while slipping those strands to the back of the work, creating the decorative lattice effect
• Yarn Positioning: Strategic placement of yarn at the front or back of the work during slip stitches creates the dimensional trellis appearance

Stitches Used

• Knit Stitch (k): The fundamental stitch used throughout the pattern for creating stockinette sections and structural rows
• Purl Stitch (p): Used in combination with knit stitches to create texture and in the colorwork rows
• Slip Stitch Purlwise (sl purlwise): Stitches are slipped as if to purl, with yarn held at either front or back to create the trellis effect
• Pull Up Loop: A custom stitch unique to this pattern that creates the raised, decorative lattice elements by incorporating strands of contrasting yarn into new stitches

Materials and Yarn

The Trellis Stitch Bag is designed to be worked in Rowan Handknit Cotton, a DK weight yarn. The pattern calls for 4 balls of 50 gm in Gooseberry (color 219) and 2 balls of 50 gm in Celery (color 309), providing a two-tone color scheme that enhances the trellis pattern visibility. A pair of 5mm needles is required for working with the doubled yarn at the specified tension of approximately 16 stitches per 10 cm. The pattern notes that tension is not critical for this project, offering flexibility for different knitting styles. Additional materials include a press stud for closure and optional lining fabric to finish the interior.

Pattern Structure

The pattern involves casting on 49 stitches and working two identical pieces. The stitch pattern repeats across rows, alternating between the two yarn colors to build the trellis design. The pattern combines plain stockinette sections with the decorative slip stitch and pull-up loop rows, creating a balanced visual composition. The straightforward cast-on and initial rows make this project accessible for intermediate knitters, while the specialized techniques add visual interest and skill development.