The Sardina Bag is worked seamlessly from the top down. It begins with a scalloped garter stitch edging, after which the body is worked in the round using a modified version of the classic “Fish Scales” stitch pattern.

Along each side, slipped stitches create sturdy channels that hold the leather handles in place. The handles not only provide support for carrying the bag but also help maintain its shape. The bottom is closed using a hard-wearing three-needle bind-off.

SIZES
1 (2)
Width (flat): 25 (30) cm.
Height (flat): 16 (20) cm.

YARN
50 (75) gr of Ito Gima 8.5 (100% Cotton) 25 g 212 m / 231 yds. Yarn is held triple throughout.
Sample is knit in Gima 8.5 Ito Yarn in size 1 in color Cream.
The yarn I picked for this project is 100% cotton and very comfortable to knit. If picking a substitute, make sure it’s a washable and easy-on-the-hands yarn for the project.

GAUGE
24 sts x 32 rounds = 10 x 10 cm / 4 x 4” in the round, in pattern stitch, on larger needle, after blocking.

NEEDLES
— 3.5 mm circular needle for the main section body (or needle size to obtain gauge).
— 3.25 circular needle for the scallop edge.
Note: you will need an additional needle to work the three-needle bind-off. I like to use DPNs for it!

NOTIONS
Blocking tools, stitch markers, a darning needle, scissors, and a tape measure.
For the handles, I used two leather cords, each 3 mm thick and 1.75 mm long. You can substitute these with i-cord handles if you prefer.