Free Pattern: The Alchemist's Elixir Felted Reader Purse
Free Pattern: The Alchemist's Elixir Felted Reader Purse
Introduction
Dive into the world of alchemy with this enchanting felted reader purse, featuring mystical stripes and a secret pocket for your treasured tomes. Perfect for those who seek to carry their literary magic with style, this purse combines functionality with a touch of whimsy. Whether you're heading to a book club or just want to keep your favorite reads close, this purse is the ideal accessory for any book lover.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: 100% wool yarn in deep emerald, midnight blue, and silver
- Needles: US 10.5 (6.5 mm) knitting needles
- Gauge: 12 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in stockinette stitch before felting
- Button: A decorative button with an intricate, alchemical symbol
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle for seaming and weaving in ends
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Cast On
Using the deep emerald yarn, cast on 60 stitches onto your US 10.5 knitting needles. Make sure your stitches are not too tight to allow for easy knitting.
Step 2: Knit the Body
Work in stockinette stitch (knit one row, purl the next) for 10 rows. This will create the first section of your purse.
Step 3: Change Yarn Color
After completing the first 10 rows, switch to the midnight blue yarn. Continue in stockinette stitch for another 10 rows.
Step 4: Repeat Stripe Pattern
Continue alternating colors every 10 rows, repeating the deep emerald and midnight blue stripes until the piece measures 40 inches in length. This will give your purse its enchanting striped appearance.
Step 5: Bind Off
Once you reach the desired length, bind off all stitches. To bind off, knit the first two stitches, then use the left needle to lift the first stitch over the second and off the needle. Continue this process until all stitches are bound off.
Step 6: Seam the Sides
Fold the knitted piece in half lengthwise. Using a mattress stitch, seam the sides together. To do this, thread your tapestry needle with the yarn and insert it into the edge of the fabric, picking up a small stitch from each side. Continue this until you reach the top, ensuring a neat and invisible seam.
Step 7: Create the Flap
To create the flap, pick up 30 stitches along one open edge of the purse using the silver yarn. Knit 20 rows in stockinette stitch. Once completed, bind off.
Step 8: Felt the Purse
Felt your purse by washing it in hot water. You can do this by placing it in a washing machine on a hot cycle or hand washing it in hot water. Shape the purse while it is damp to ensure it retains its form. Allow it to dry completely.
Step 9: Add Closure
Once the purse is felted and dry, create a buttonhole in the flap. You can do this by making a small slit in the fabric. Attach the decorative button with a tapestry needle, ensuring it is securely fastened for closure.
Step 10: Create and Attach Pocket
For added storage, knit a small pocket measuring 20 stitches by 20 rows in silver yarn. Felt this pocket in the same manner as the purse. Once felted, sew it inside the purse using your tapestry needle, positioning it where it is most convenient for you.
Conclusion
Congratulations! You have now created your very own Alchemist's Elixir Felted Reader Purse. This beautiful and functional accessory is perfect for carrying your favorite books and treasures. Enjoy your crafting journey and the magic of knitting!
