From the article:
Upstairs and Downstairs Bags for Needlework and Sewing

See also:
Downstairs Bag for Needlework and Sewing

Upstairs Bag for Needlework and Sewing Pattern
Interweave SKU: EP11481

Finished Size: About 7 inches (18 cm) in diameter, closed

Yarn: Lucky Cat Craft Mulberry Silk, 100% silk, DK weight, 275 yards (251.5 m)/100 gram (3.5 oz) skein, 2 skeins of Natural

Yarn Weight: #3 - Light

Needles: HiyaHiya, set of 5 double pointed and circular 16, 24, and 32 inches (40, 60, and 80 cm) size 0 (2 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge

Notions: Stitch markers (8); crochet hook for CO; tapestry needle; fabric and batting for the lining and pincushion in the bottom, at least 2 large-hole beads for the drawstring cords

Gauge: 30 sts and 42 rnds = 4 inches (10.2 cm) in St st

Originally Published: Unofficial Downton Abbey Knits 2014

Knitting Daily Article Sep 5, 2014

Bags to hold and carry sewing implements have been around for centuries. Although the contents and construction of the bags may have differed according to class or station, the purpose remained the same: to hold sewing accessories or needlework supplies for transport and convenient use.

The “upstairs” bag is knitted of silk to hold skeins of embroidery threads for fancywork; it would accompany the needleworker on social occasions. As fashions in the new twentieth century became close-fitting and slim, needlework tools could no longer be carried in the capacious pockets of a previous era.

The cotton “downstairs bag,” although knitted in the same style, might have been made at home before the owner went into service and filled with treasured tools from a far-off family. It carries utilitarian needles and thread for mending, sewing on buttons, and making or repairing garments. Domestic servants were expected to do their own mending, and keep their respective uniforms up to the standards of the house.