The Karen Bag by AxelKnit is a clean and modern knitted bag worked top-down in double-stranded Cotton Light.Using 5 mm needles and a simple seed stitch pattern, it forms a compact, durable structure. The bag includes two drawstring casings worked on 3 mm needles, finished with leather cords for a minimal and functional look. Available in two practical sizes, it’s ideal for everyday use.
The Karen Bag is a minimalist and functional design by AxelKnit, created for knitters who appreciate clean lines and practical everyday accessories. Worked top-down in seed stitch, the structure is dense, modern, and durable. The bag comes in two sizes—small and large, measuring 19 × 19 cm and 21 × 21 cm—and is ideal as a lightweight shoulder bag for daily use, city outings, or festivals.
The bag is knitted using Cotton Light by Drops, held double for extra stability and texture. You will need 100 g for the small size and 150 g for the large. With a yardage of 105 m per 50 g, the yarn creates a beautifully soft yet sturdy fabric. The gauge is 17 stitches × 32 rows = 10 × 10 cm in seed stitch using 5 mm needles, as noted on page 1 of the pattern .
Worked in the round, the body is knitted first and then bound off together on the inside for a clean, seamless bottom. Stitches are later picked up along each side to form drawstring casings, which are worked on 3 mm needles. Two sections are knitted separately and joined using Kitchener stitch, giving the casing an even and durable finish.
The bag is completed with two leather cords, approximately 1 meter each, threaded through the casings from both sides so the ends meet at the bottom and are tied into knots. This gives the Karen Bag its signature minimalist look and makes it easy to open and close.
Simple, quick to knit, and stylish, the Karen Bag is suitable for beginners as well as experienced knitters. The seed-stitch texture highlights the yarn beautifully, while the compact size makes it a perfect accessory for any wardrobe. AxelKnit’s signature design language—clean, Nordic and functional—is evident in every thoughtful detail of this bag.
My name is Anna, and I began my yarn journey with Axelknit as a way to find calm and create something tangible. I draw inspiration from Nordic nature and simplicity, and my focus is always on functional, timeless designs that feel personal and easy to love.
