Purses-3 Styles in Plymouth Encore Worsted - F171

Purses-3 Styles in Plymouth Encore Worsted

What is Being Made

This free knitting pattern from Plymouth Yarn Design Studio provides instructions for creating three distinct drawstring purses using Plymouth Encore Worsted yarn. Each purse is available in two size options: a smaller 5" diameter by 7" tall version, or a larger 6" diameter by 8" tall version. The three styles showcase different colorways of the same fundamental construction technique, allowing crafters to choose between color 1233, color 1203, or color 515 from the Encore Worsted line.

Techniques Used

These purses are constructed using fundamental circular knitting techniques that create a seamless, three-dimensional form. The pattern begins with a small cast-on worked on double pointed needles, then transitions to a 16-inch circular needle as the stitch count increases. The construction method relies on strategic increases worked at regular intervals to shape the purse body from a flat circular base into a cylindrical form. This approach eliminates the need for seaming and creates a polished, professional finish.

Stitches Used

• Stockinette Stitch (stst): The primary stitch pattern forming the main fabric of the purse, created by alternating knit and purl rounds in circular knitting
• Knit Front and Back (KFB): An increase technique used throughout the pattern to gradually expand the stitch count and shape the purse
• Purl Rounds: Worked on all odd-numbered rounds to create the stockinette texture in the round
• Knit Rounds: Worked on even-numbered rounds, with increases distributed strategically to maintain shaping

Pattern Shaping Sequence

The purse begins with 6 stitches cast on and divided evenly across three double pointed needles. Increases are worked every other round in a progressive pattern: Round 2 doubles all stitches to 12, Round 4 increases to 18 stitches, Round 6 reaches 24 stitches, and Round 8 achieves 30 stitches. This established increase pattern continues every other round until the smaller size reaches 72 stitches or the larger size reaches 96 stitches. The regular spacing of increases ensures even expansion and a symmetrical purse shape.

Materials and Gauge

Each purse requires 2 balls of 100-gram Plymouth Encore Worsted yarn. The recommended needle sizes are US 7 or whatever size is needed to achieve the specified gauge of 5 stitches equals 1 inch in stockinette stitch. The pattern calls for both a 16-inch circular needle and a set of double pointed needles in the same size. Plymouth Encore Worsted is a worsted weight yarn that provides excellent stitch definition and durability for a functional accessory like a purse.