70s Style Retro Backpack Knitting Pattern

Difficulty

Intermediate
Yarn Type

Aran / Worsted
Designer

Lucinda Ganderton
Needle Size

US 6 / 4.0mm, US 7 / 4.5mm
Needle Type

Straight
Techniques

Basketweave, Garter , Stocking Stitch

Safety Notice: Handmade items made from this pattern may contain small parts or long cords that pose choking or strangulation risks. Not suitable for children under 3 years. Please see the full safety disclaimer at letsknit.co.uk/safety.

What you need to know

Download and knit this vintage-style accessory designed by Lucinda Ganderton.

Featuring sand-coloured stripes and exuding summer sunshine, this knit is all about the vintage vibes! Much of the body is worked in stocking and garter stitch, making for an easy knit, but the base and flap are where things get interesting; you’ll be working some intricate rows to achieve this brilliant basketweave pattern. There are also handy eyelets so that you can secure your bag with ties as well as a button, to make sure all your belongings stay safely tucked inside.

What do I need?

Yarn: Scheepjes Cahlista, shades 383 Ginger Gold, two 50g balls, 411 Sweet Orange, 403 Lemonade, one 50g ball of each
Needles: 4mm, 4.5mm
Tapestry needle
Button: 3cm, one

Sizing

Width: 25cm
Height: 30cm

Top knit tip

Each time you change your colour in this pattern, you should cut your working yarn rather than carrying it up the side. This is because your project can get very bulky if you have more than one colour to carry, so this technique works best for two-colour patterns. Cutting your yarn each time you change will keep your wrong side nice and light, but don’t forget to weave in your ends afterwards.

Meet the designer

Lucinda Ganderton is a designer and writer with extensive experience in needlework and other traditional crafts. If you enjoyed making her backpack, we think you'll love making Lucinda's patchwork tote bag next. You can see more projects from Lucinda here.

How to access this pattern

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