Dragon Scale Mini Bags

Dragon Scale Mini Bags by Colette Smith

What is Being Made

The Dragon Scale Mini Bags are small drawstring pouches designed for multiple purposes including gift wrapping, cosplay accessories, and dice bags for gaming enthusiasts. Each finished bag measures 5 inches tall with a 3½ inch diameter, making them perfectly sized for storing small items. The bags feature a distinctive decorative element: aluminum dragon scales that create an eye-catching textured surface. When the drawstring is pulled closed, the picot edge folds into an attractive flower shape when viewed from above, adding visual appeal to these functional accessories.

Construction and Design Features

These mini bags are constructed using a flat knitting method on straight needles, with a single seam sewn together at the completion of the project. The design incorporates several thoughtful construction details. A solid bottom is created by inserting a 3-inch diameter paper mache hat box inside the finished bag, providing structure and durability. The closure system uses an I-cord strap that is woven through a row of yarn-over eyelets, creating both a functional and decorative closure mechanism. The picot edging at the top of the bag is a key design feature that creates the charming flower effect when the drawstring is pulled.

Knitting Techniques and Stitches

This intermediate-level knitting pattern employs several classic knitting techniques. The main body of the bag is worked using standard stockinette stitch on size 8 needles. The pattern incorporates yarn-over eyelets to create the openings through which the I-cord drawstring passes. The picot edge is a decorative technique that creates small loops along the top edge of the bag, which fold inward to form a flower-like appearance. The I-cord (also called cord knitting) is created on size 5 double-pointed needles and serves as both the drawstring closure and a decorative element. The bottom of the bag is also worked on size 5 double-pointed needles, ensuring proper tension and structure for this critical area.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

• Yarn: Less than 50 yards of worsted weight yarn required. The pattern is shown worked in Cascade 220 Scales in a color of your choice
• Needles: Size 8 needles for the sides and top of the bag; size 5 double-pointed needles for the I-cord and bottom
• Aluminum Scales: Small-sized decorative scales measuring 9/16 inch by 7/8 inch with a hole size of 0.22 inch. These scales are available in packages of 100 and can be sourced from the designer's website or Etsy shop
• Additional Materials: A 3-inch diameter paper mache hat box (optional) to create a solid bottom; yarn needle for finishing and seaming

Pattern Details

This downloadable PDF pattern is designed as an intermediate-level project, making it suitable for knitters with some experience beyond basic techniques. The pattern number is 921 and is created by independent designer Colette Smith. The relatively small yardage requirement (under 50 yards) makes this an excellent project for using up yarn scraps or trying new colors. The finished dimensions of 5 inches tall by 3½ inches in diameter create a practical size for the intended uses of gift bags, cosplay accessories, and gaming dice storage.