The aesthetic of these bags is retro and chic: they are reminiscent of the sleek lines found in antique Chinese porcelains or silk brocades.

Begin with a stockinette bottom, stitches are then picked up around to knit the body of the bag. The flowers and vines are knit separately and attached to the bag after felting.

skill level: intermediate

All Noni patterns call for Cascade 220, a skein of 100% wool, 220 yards. We like Galway (210 yards each) for these projects, especially because they are center-pull balls! Your stitches will disappear beautifully once felted.

You will need:

Large Cherry Blossom Bag (blue, as shown in main photo)
17.5"W x 5"D x 7"H
4 skeins Cascade 220 (or 5 balls Galway) for main color
1 ball for the vines
1 ball each of 3 flower colors
1 ball Crystal Palace Fizz 7305 for center of flowers

-a 15" large-toothed zipper
-two 8" wide bamboo handles
-six 25mm bag feet

click here for the purse hardware kit!

needles: US 11 circular 32" long
US 5 straight and US 7 double pointed
and size F or G crochet hook



Small Cherry Blossom Bag
13"W x 5"D x 5.5"H
3 skeins Cascade 220 (or 4 balls Galway) for main color
1 ball for the vines
1 ball each of 3 flower colors
1 ball Crystal Palace Fizz 7305 for center of flowers

-a 10 to 12" large-toothed zipper
-two 6" wide bamboo handles
-six 25mm bag feet

needles: US 11 circular 24" long
US 5 straight and US 7 double pointed
and size F or G crochet hook