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Crochet and Knit News: This Week’s Links in Yarncraft Art, Fashion, Creativity, and Events

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It's been so fun perusing the Internet each week to bring you the latest crochet and knit news. So much happens in the craft world each week. From fashion to art, politics to events, there are just so many things going on in knitting and crochet. In case you missed out on any of that goodness, here are this week's crochet and knit news links.

crochet and knitting news

Crochet and Knit News: Fashion

Vogue did an article about Diotoma, a New York fashion brand working with artisans on Jamaica. There's a great back story about how designer Rachel Scott learned of a craft group in Jamaica, where she's originally from, and made it a point to visit and seek them out. She learned new techniques and started working with them to bring embroidery, crochet and knitting her designs. The Diotoma Summer '21 lookbook is beautiful.

Other crochet and knit fashion news:

  • GQ did an article on the trend of crochet hats. Some of it is a bit derogatory to the craft which is unfortunate but there are some good parts. Like this line: “People care about practicality and are thinking more than ever about where their clothing comes from and how it was made.”
  • “London -Portuguese knitter Fatextil has played a key role in the production of  the world's first carbon negative hoodie.”

Crochet and Knit News: Art

Crafty World Records

There are actually a number of knit and crochet Guinness World Records that people attempt to break. Right now a team is trying to make the longest knitted or crocheted chain.

People Who Knit and Crochet

Sadly there were a few articles this week about crafters who died due to COVID-19. Margaret Rossi's obituary shares a sweet story about how she met her husband when he asked her what she was crocheting. Gloria Jean Board enjoyed crocheting blankets as gifts for people. During the pandemic some nurses started giving matching crocheted hearts to patients and their family members who couldn't visit them in the hospital due to the new restrictions.

Other news stories about regular people who knit and crochet, often for good causes:

And NPR did a piece on how to find a hobby. They spoke to a knitter, among others, and came up with suggestions for people who just aren't sure what their next hobby should be.

And Don't Miss Out:

In addition to all of the crochet and knit news from around the web, make sure that you didn't miss out on any of this week's Marly Bird blog posts:

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Double-Stranded Seed Stitch Crochet Purse Free Pattern

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I've been looking through some of my old patterns, finding those goodies that some of you might have forgotten (or never even seen before!) One of the best ones that I came across was the Crochet Marly Bag Purse. This is a free Annie's pattern originally created for Knit and Crochet Now! It's a double-stranded, striped, seed stitch crochet purse with a button detail. Dress up your wardrobe with this fun new accessory.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I receive a percentage of sales from those links. Your price doesn't go up. Thank you for this support.

Marly Bird crochet purse free pattern

Knit and Crochet Now! is an Emmy-nominated television craft show. There are eleven seasons of terrific craft projects featured in the video archives. You can also access many of the show's patterns for free through the Annie's website. The Crochet Marly Bag was one of the early projects for Knit and Crochet Now! It was in Season One, Episode 10. Yet, looking at it now, I think it really stands the test of time. The style and colors continue to feel chic and contemporary.

Double-Stranded Crochet Purse

There are many different ways to make a crochet purse more durable. And, of course, you do want that durability. You want a functional accessory that you can load up with yarn, books, your cell phone and other daily necessities. You can use chunky yarn, tight stitches, and bag linings to make sure your purse functions right. In this case, you'll use the double-stranded crochet technique. In other words, you'll hold two strands of yarn together throughout the project to create the strength and durability that you want in the purse.

Crochet Seed Stitch for Texture and Strength

The stitches that you choose for a crochet purse also make a big difference in the durability of the design. After all, if a crochet purse has an openwork design with no lining, then your items will just fall right out of it. On the other hand, a highly textured closed crochet stitch is perfect. That's why I've made this a seed stitch crochet purse pattern. This tight stitch has beautiful texture and keeps all of your items carefully contained.

Extra Details on This Purse

Here are a few of the other things you might want to know about this seed stitch crochet purse free pattern:

  • You'll use a leather belt to create a unique and durable handle for this purse.
  • The striped design is rich in color but doesn't overwhelm your wardrobe.
  • You'll select a large button detail that really accents the bag and gives it that finished look.
  • You'll work mostly with simple stitches but will use some advanced beginner techniques such as working in one loop only.

Get The Crochet Marly Bag Purse Free Pattern

You can get the Crochet Marly Bird Bag purse free pattern over at the Annie's website. Note that you'll need to sign up for an account in order to download the PDF. However, it's free to sign up.

crocheted Marly Bird bag

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Frequently Asked Questions

How do I make this purse sturdy?

Honestly… you’ll use the double-stranded crochet technique, holding two strands of yarn together the whole time. This really gives it the strength and durability you want for a functional purse.

What stitch is used here and why?

So here's the thing… this pattern uses the seed stitch for a super lovely texture that’s also nice and tight. That means your stuff will stay put inside and not fall out!

Can I get the pattern for free?

Yes! You can grab the free pattern right over on the Annie’s website. Just a heads up, you’ll need to create a free account to download the PDF.

What makes the handle special on this bag?

Well, instead of yarn, this purse uses a leather belt for the handle! It’s a really unique and durable way to finish off the bag and add a little something extra.

Is this a difficult project to make?

It’s mostly simple stitches… but you will use some advanced beginner techniques like working into just one loop. It’s a fun challenge that makes the finished bag extra special!

Textured Granny Square Crochet Purse Free Pattern

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One of the best things about crochet is that you can take a classic design and reinvent it into something new. That's what I did with this textured granny square crochet purse free pattern. You'll combine four granny squares to make one panel. Then you'll repeat that on the other side. Using visible seams and long double crochet stitches, you'll create rich texture. The result is a good-sized handbag with that you can use in a variety of different settings.

Marly Bird granny square purse crochet pattern

Granny Squares Are Great for Beginners

This granny square crochet purse pattern is an easy pattern for beginners to tackle. The granny square is one of the first motifs that beginners often learn. Of course, you might have started off crocheting in rows. But as soon as you feel ready to crochet in the round granny squares are a go-to choice. And I've written this pattern with extra detailed instructions to make every step easy along the way.

This variation on the classic granny square uses the long double crochet for extra texture and visual appeal. If you can double crochet then you can long double crochet. Don't stress about it. All of the information that you need is right there in the pattern. And all of the other (few) stitches are simple: slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet. You've got this. It's easy to make a really pretty design with just some basic crochet knowledge. This purse demonstrates that so well.

Simple Panels Make The Granny Square Crochet Purse Roomier

You'll make two panels of four granny squares each to create the body of the crochet purse. However, if you just seamed those two panels together, then you'd have a slim purse. Of course, there's nothing wrong with that. But if you're looking for a tote that can carry a wide range of items, then you'll want to make it roomier. That's why you'll add side panels and a bottom strip to the body of this granny square crochet purse.

These are made as simple single crochet rectangles. Therefore, they're easy to craft. Moreover, they're dense which keeps all of your purse's items well-contained. Although you will add lining to this purse, the single crochet panels definitely add to the durability of the design.

Finishing Touches

There are a few key finishing touches that turn this crochet purse into a complete accessory:

  • Seaming on the outside to create extra texture. Yes, you want visible seams on this one. It's part of the design.
  • Handles. There are so many great purse handles to choose from. Shop around and find something you love.
  • Lining. Learn how to line this crochet purse so that you have a durable accessory to take anywhere you wish to go.

Get the Granny Square Crochet Purse Free Pattern

Are you ready to work on this crochet purse pattern? If so, then click the image below to get it for free:

Granny Square Puckered Purse free crochet pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

Is this purse pattern really beginner-friendly?

Yes! Honestly, this pattern is totally made for beginners. The granny square is usually one of the first things folks learn when they start crocheting. I've also written it with super detailed instructions to make every step easy peasy.

What makes this granny square purse textured?

So here's the thing… I used long double crochet stitches and visible seams to give this purse a really lovely texture. Don't worry if you haven't done a long double crochet before, all the info you need is right in the pattern. You've got this!

How do I make the purse bigger or roomier?

Honestly, if you just seamed the two main panels together, you'd have a slim purse… which is totally fine! But if you want to carry more stuff, you'll add on simple single crochet rectangles for the sides and bottom. They're easy peasy and make the purse way roomier.

What are the essential finishing touches for this purse?

You'll definitely want to do the visible seams on the outside, as that's part of the design. Then, find some handles you love – there are so many cute options out there! And lastly, adding a lining makes it super durable. It turns your crochet piece into a totally functional accessory.

Can I use just basic crochet stitches for this pattern?

Yes! You really only need to know a few basic stitches like slip stitch, single crochet, and double crochet. The special textured stitch is just a variation of the double crochet, and I've included all the instructions for it right in the pattern. Easy peasy!

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Carry All Crochet Tote Bag Pattern

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Making your own tote is a great way to always have a bag with you and to eliminate the use of plastic. Work with your favorite stitch and colors to make something personal to you. Check out my Carry All Crochet Tote Bag Pattern for your next project. It's your go-to bag for all types of things: market bag, project bag, day bag, and more.

*This post contains affiliate links. By clicking one of these links and making a purchase a small portion comes back to the blog. The price that you pay will not change. Thank you for your support of the blog.*

Marly Bird crochet tote

Crochet Tote Bag Construction

Crochet and bag designs don't always mix. If you ever find that you're having trouble designing crochet bag, then most likely the construction isn't right. If you are making a crochet (or knit) tote, then you really need to think about what you are going to be putting inside of it. If it's going to be a market bag, library bag, or project bag then you want to make sure that it's strong enough to carry your groceries, books, or craft supplies.

The more weight you put inside the bag the more reinforcement you will need to make sure that the item is durable. Therefore, you might want to consider lining your tote and / or the strap to make it stronger. Another great way to make your strap more durable is to add a ribbon to the back side. Using the ribbon is a great way to keep the strap from stretching. That way they don't get longer and longer and longer over time, dragging your tote bag down to the floor. (This is a tip that can also be used for button hole and shoulder seams as well.)

Crochet Tote Bag Stitch Patterns

Before starting a tote project also consider the stitch pattern that is being used. The tighter the stitch, the stronger the tote will be. In this crochet tote bag pattern, you get the opportunity to use a really creative stitch pattern of repeating circles across a row. Moreover, you'll alternate two colors. Therefore, you'll really showcase the beautiful shapes of those stitches.

It's not a common, basic stitch pattern. Therefore, you'll end up with a crochet tote that looks special. It's also fun to crochet. You might find that you want to make a few of them in different color combinations. It's truly a great every-day bag so it wouldn't hurt to have more than one.

Close It With a Button

You don't ever want the items in your tote to fall out. Therefore, it's important to have a closure on your pattern. In this case, you'll use a very simple button closure. It doesn't require a lot of skill but it does the trick. Additionally, if you choose a really cool button then it can serve as a design detail.

Get the Carry All Crochet Tote Pattern:

Are you ready to get this crochet tote bag pattern? If so then click the image below to make the purchase on Ravelry:

Carry All Tote crochet purse pattern-2

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Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make this tote bag stronger?

Honestly…, yes! If you're planning on carrying heavier items like groceries or lots of books, you might want to think about lining the tote and the strap for extra reinforcement. You can also add a ribbon to the back of the strap to help prevent stretching over time.

What kind of stitch is used in this pattern?

So here's the thing… this pattern uses a really neat stitch that creates repeating circles. It's not your everyday basic stitch, which means your finished tote will look super special and unique! Plus, alternating two colors really makes those stitch shapes pop.

Does the bag have a closure?

Yes! You'll be happy to know it has a closure to keep everything inside. This pattern uses a simple button closure, which is easy to do and can even add a fun design element if you pick out a really cool button.

Is this pattern suitable for beginners?

Well, it's listed as Advanced Beginner. While it uses a creative stitch pattern, it's still approachable. Just make sure you're comfortable with basic crochet stitches before diving in!

Where can I get the pattern?

You're in luck! You can get the Carry All Crochet Tote Bag Pattern by clicking on the image of the tote bag on the Ravelry link provided in the post. It's a great project for making your own reusable bag!

How to Knit Double Moss Stitch in the Round (Knitting…

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Can you believe that we're eight weeks in to BiCrafty Bootcamp: Knitting Lessons for Crocheters?! You've learned so much so far. This month you've been knitting in the round, working on a cowl as you continue to build your skills. We're going to learn a new stitch pattern this week to add to this stitch sampler cowl pattern. So, it's to time to learn how to knit double moss stitch.

BiCrafty Boot Camp double moss stitch

BiCrafty Bootcamp Recap: Knitting Lessons for Crocheters To Date

This month we've already started learning how to knit a cowl in the round. You began by learning how to knit K1, P1 ribbing in the round. Then you learned how to knit seed stitch in the round. You're going to continue the body today with a new stitch pattern; you'll learn how to knit double moss stitch in the round.

Before we delved into this cowl, you learned how to knit in rows, of course. You might want to go back to some of those early lessons. At the bottom of each post you'll find free patterns that you can use to continue practicing these foundational skills. To recap, those early lessons were:

Pat yourself on the back knitter, you've come a long way!!! And if you're a little bit further back than the rest of the group, that's totally okay, too. It's okay to take this at your own pace. You CAN do this. Wherever you are in the journey is perfectly fine.

How to Knit Double Moss Stitch in the Round

There are many different ways to combine your knits and purls to create different texture. Last week, we worked on seed stitch, in which you knit your purls and purl your knits. As we discussed, seed stitch may be called by many other names in knit and crochet including granite stitch and moss stitch. However, these aren't standard names. In other ones, moss stitch may or may not be the same as seed stitch. That's important to note because today we're learning a variation of moss stitch called the knit double moss stitch. Of course, we're continuing to work on our cowl, so we're knitting it in the round.

What You Already Know That Helps With Double Moss Stitch

Learning how to knit double moss stitch is a natural extension of the things that you learned so far. Remember that you learned K2, P2. Then you learned K1, P1 in the round. Then you learned seed stitch, which is similar to K1, P1 except that you place your knits in purls and purls in knits instead of placing knits in knits and purls and purls. Well, when you learn how to knit double moss stitch, you'll discover that you're going back to that K2, P2 repeat but with a placement concept that's similar to the seed stitch!

Moss Stitch vs Double Moss Stitch in Knitting

Regular knit moss stitch, which is also sometimes called Irish Moss Stitch, is a four row repeat. So is double moss stitch. The only difference is that regular knit moss stitch uses K1, P1 whereas double moss stitch uses K2, P2. You'll do the same thing for two rows then the opposite thing for two rows, completing the four row repeat.

Regular Moss Stitch in the Round

  • Alternate K1, P1 across entire round.
  • Repeat K1, P1 across entire round
  • Alternate P1, K1 across entire round.
  • Repeat P1, K1 across entire round

How to Knit Double Moss Stitch in the Round

Working double moss stitch in the round is very similar:

  • Alternate K2, P2 across entire round.
  • Repeat K2, P2 across entire round.
  • Alternate P2, K2 across entire round.
  • Repeat P2, K2 across entire round.

Knit double moss stitch is sometimes also called checkerboard stitch, knit double seed stitch, or two stitch check. Always read the instructions for any pattern to make sure that what the designer is asking you to do is the stitch that you're familiar with.

That said, it's really pretty simple know that you've got your knitting legs under you a bit. You'll K2, P2 for an entire round and repeat it for a second round. Then you'll switch and P2, K2 for the next two rounds. And so on and so forth.

Crocheter's Edge

Crocheters Tips to Learn Knitting

Truth be told, you're a knitter now, not only a crocheter. Therefore, you might not even need crocheter-specific tips to help you continue to build your knitting skills! But, of course, this is BiCrafty Bootcamp: Knitting Lessons for Crocheters. Therefore, we want to continue to emphasize how your experience as a crocheter makes learning to knit easier. This week what helps most is:

  • You understand working with different textured stitches to create different fabric types. You've been learning this in knitting with ribbing and seed stitch, so now you'll learn it with moss stitch.
  • If you've worked moss stitch, granite stitch, checkerboard stitches in crochet then you'll have a sense of what the fabric should feel like.
  • You understand working in the round, changing the order of your stitches from one round to the next.
  • Many of the BiCrafty Bootcampers have noticed that they know enough now to begin reading knitting patterns. Since you know how to read crochet patterns and you know a few knit stitches now, this might be something that you're ready to try.

Knitters Tips for Crocheters

knitters tip for crocheters

Just remember that although seed stitch and moss stitch are crochet stitches as well as knit stitches, they're created differently. What you know in crochet helps you in knitting but don't let it define your knitting. Don't doubt yourself as a knitter. You've got this!

BiCrafty Bootcamp Knit Cowl Pattern, Part 3, Double Moss Stitch

Pick up where you left off after you completed the seed stitch on last week's cowl.

  • Round 1: *K2, P2; repeat from * to end of round.
  • Round 2: *K2, P2; repeat from * to end of round.
  • Round 3: *P2, K2; repeat from * to end of round.
  • Round 4: *P2, K2; repeat from * to end of round.

Repeat in rounds of four as above until you have 1″ – 1.5″ of double knit moss stitch added to your cowl. This is a flexible cowl design so feel free to make this section more or less wide depending on your preferences.

Extra Credit

As we were working on this cowl, Marly realized that a crochet stitch pattern she was using in a Michaels class on a market bag pattern was perfect to add to this cowl. It also uses knits and purls just like the ribbing, seed stitch and double moss stitch. But it also uses a slip stitch. So we get to learn a new stitch, building our skills. This part of the cowl is optional but if want the extra credit, then go for it!

The video live about shows you how to knit slip stitch. And you'll learn the difference between knit slip stitch and crochet slip stitch.

The pattern for this part of the cowl is:

  • Round one: knit
  • Round two: knit
  • Round three: *purl 4, slip one purlwise with yarn in back; repeat from *that around the row NOTE: If you want to start learning knit stitch abbreviations, that's covered in the video as well. One way that this might read is Sl1Pyb.
  • Round four: repeat round three

TIP: Purlwise and Knitwise simply mean the angle at which you insert the hook into the stitch. So now you know something new that will help you when reading patterns!

Repeat those four rounds four as many times as you want to get the length you want for this section of the cowl. Then add two more rounds of just knit stitch.

Additional Videos and Patterns You're Ready For

At this stage of BiCrafty Bootcamp, you might want to check out these patterns:

  • Fiesole Throw uses double moss stitch for the border and a K7, P7 repeat for the body.
  • Milano Throw uses garter stitch, stockinette stitch, and double moss stitch. You know all of these now!
  • Carry Along Cuddle Blanket is a moss stitch knit pattern with a crochet border. Fun!

Frequently Asked Questions

What is the double moss stitch in knitting?

Double moss stitch (also called double seed stitch or rice stitch in some traditions) creates a more pronounced ridged texture than regular moss/seed stitch by working two stitches of the same type in pairs before alternating. Instead of K1, P1, K1, P1, you work K2, P2, K2, P2… but stagger the columns on alternating rows to create the characteristic raised pebble texture. The result is a chunkier, more architectural version of the classic seed stitch texture. Beautiful for blankets, bags, and any project where you want bold, substantial texture.

This is Lesson 8 for crocheters learning to knit… what's the progression?

Marly's BiCrafty Bootcamp knitting lessons build systematically! By Lesson 8, you've learned basic knit and purl, working in the round, ribbing, seed stitch… and now double moss stitch adds another textural technique. The progression from simple alternating stitches (seed stitch) to paired alternating stitches (double moss) builds your understanding of how stitch patterns are constructed and varied. Each lesson's project gives you a completed, useful item to show for the skill learned. Working through the series gives a crocheter a solid foundation for knitting garments and textured accessories.

Is double moss stitch harder than regular seed stitch?

Slightly! With seed stitch you're alternating every stitch, which creates a very specific check… once you know to “knit the purls and purl the knits” it almost self-corrects. With double moss, you're tracking pairs (K2, P2) and staggering them every other row, which requires a bit more attention to pattern position. Stitch markers between the K2 and P2 pairs can help while you're learning. After a few rows, the visual pattern becomes clear and guides you… but double moss requires more conscious attention to the stitch pattern than single seed stitch.

What projects look great in double moss stitch?

Blankets are stunning in double moss… the raised texture creates beautiful warmth and visual depth. Hat bodies in double moss have a bold, architectural quality. Bag panels show off the texture beautifully. Cowls in double moss feel wonderfully substantial. Garment texture panels (the body of a cardigan, cuffs and hem of a sweater) benefit from double moss for visual interest. Any project where you want more prominent texture than stockinette but more structure than cables is a great candidate. Double moss also works as a beautiful non-rolling border for projects where the edges will show.

Can I use double moss stitch in crochet too?

Yes! Crochet has its own version of the double moss stitch using a different method. Post stitches (front and back post double crochet) in pairs create a similar raised texture effect in crochet fabric. The BiCrafty perspective here is interesting… you can explore the same textural concept in both crafts and observe how each craft achieves it differently while arriving at a similar visual result. That kind of comparative understanding deepens your appreciation of both crafts and your versatility as a BiCrafty maker.

Wooden Handled Crochet Purse Free Pattern

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If you're looking for a good purse that will make a statement then you definitely want to check out my wooden handled crochet purse free pattern. I chose the handles first, because they are really bold and beautiful. Then I designed the rest of the crochet purse to work with those handles. Therefore, the handles stay the star of the show, even though the crochet is important as well. This makes a great year-round accessory but is particularly perfect for a summer look.

Note: This post contains affiliate links. I receive a percentage of sales made from this links. Your price doesn't change. Thank you for all of your support.

free crochet purse pattern

Unique Wooden Handles For Crochet Purses

The Wooden Handled Crochet Purse Free Pattern were originally designed for very special handles. These handles featured a cutout design of yarn with a crochet hook tucked inside. Unfortunately, they no longer seem to be available from the original eBay seller. That said, though, you can easily find a variety of different wooden purse handles for sale through sites like Etsy. Here are just a few examples:

Have fun choosing your wooden handles for this purse pattern. The style can help set the tone for your summer wardrobe. Generally speaking, this wooden handled crochet purse free pattern gives a boho flair to your warm weather style.

wooden handled purse crochet pattern

How to Crochet Griddle Stitch

The Wooden Handled Crochet Purse Free Pattern uses griddle stitch. It's a very simple stitch pattern. However, it creates terrific texture. Essentially, you'll alternate single crochet and double crochet stitches across an entire round. Then on the next round, you'll alternate double crochet and single crochet stitches. In other words, you'll work single crochets into your double crochets from the round below. And of course you'll work double crochets into your single crochets. You'll repeat this round upon round. The result is an easy-to-make crochet purse with great texture.

Note that you might also see this same pattern called crochet seed stitch, moss stitch, or granite stitch. There are established names for these stitch patterns so just make sure that you always follow the directions in the pattern given to get the correct texture that the designer intends.

Striped Crochet Purse Pattern, With or Without Lining

When working the Wooden Handled Crochet Purse Free Pattern, you'll use four colors of yarn to create stripes of different widths. This is a great scrapbusting project. You don't need large amounts of any of the yarn colors. Of course, you could use a solid color, a self-striping yarn, or more/fewer colors for this purse pattern instead. However, if you want it to look as close to the original pattern as possible then stick with four colors. Follow the instructions in the pattern for color placement.

Get the Pattern Here

Are you ready to make this crochet purse pattern? Get it here or click the image below.

wooden handled purse free crochet pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

Where can I find handles for this purse pattern?

So here's the thing… the original handles I used aren't available anymore. But don't you worry! You can totally find other awesome wooden purse handles on places like Etsy. There are so many neat styles out there to choose from!

What stitch is used for this purse?

Honestly… this pattern uses the griddle stitch! It's a super simple stitch where you alternate single crochet and double crochet stitches. It creates such a cool texture, and you might also hear it called seed stitch, moss stitch, or granite stitch.

Can I make this purse with just one color of yarn?

Yes! While the pattern uses four colors for stripes, you can absolutely use a solid color, a self-striping yarn, or even more or fewer colors if you like. It’s your purse, make it your own!

What's the best season for this crochet purse?

This purse is great year-round, but it's especially perfect for a summer look! It gives such a lovely boho vibe to your warm-weather outfits.

Is this a beginner-friendly pattern?

Yes! It's listed as a beginner pattern, and the griddle stitch is really easy to learn. You'll have a fabulous new purse in no time!