The Vispa Clutch is a charming and functional small bag, perfect for use as a clutch, make-up pouch, or storage for knitting accessories. It is worked from the bottom up starting with a seed stitch base and features a textured beehive pattern on both sides. The finished size is approximately 20 x 13 x 5 cm, and the clutch is knitted with Arwetta from Filcolana (50 g = 210 m) held together with silk mohair (25 g = 210 m). It requires 50 g Arwetta and 25 g silk mohair. The gauge is 21 stitches = 10 cm on 4.5 mm needles. A 20 cm zipper can be sewn into the top for a stylish closure. A fun and elegant accessory for any wardrobe or gift.
The Vispa Clutch is a beautiful and versatile accessory, perfect as a stylish clutch, a handy make-up pouch, or a practical little storage bag for your knitting notions. The clutch is constructed beginning with a seed stitch base, from which the rest of the bag is worked upwards. It features a striking beehive pattern on both front and back, and a flat top designed for easy zipper installation.
The bag is knitted using Arwetta from Filcolana (50 g = 210 m) held together with a strand of silk mohair (25 g = 210 m). The total yardage per 50 g is approximately 210 meters. You will need 50 g of Arwetta and 25 g of silk mohair to complete the project. The finished dimensions of the clutch are approximately 20 x 13 x 5 cm before blocking. After washing and blocking, it may grow by 1–2 cm.
The recommended needle size is 4.5 mm, using a circular needle (40 cm) or DPNs for easier handling during the initial rounds. The gauge is 21 stitches = 10 cm in stockinette stitch on 4.5 mm needles, measured after blocking.
The beehive pattern, which gives the clutch its unique and elegant texture, is both engaging and rhythmic to knit. The name “Vispa” means “wasp” in the Bornholm dialect, inspired by the honeycomb-like structure of the pattern, and it reflects the designer's fondness for quirky dialect expressions from her heritage.
The top of the bag is bound off and finished with an optional sewn-in fabric lining and a 20 cm zipper, which completes the clutch with a polished look. Adjust zipper length slightly if you block the clutch and it stretches.
The Vispa Clutch is ideal for advanced beginners or intermediate knitters looking to create a practical yet stylish project. It also makes a thoughtful handmade gift.
Dorte Bak Knitting was founded in 2018 and has since published patterns in a classic style with "whimsical" details. I grew up among creative women; all the women in my family have sewn, knitted, and created with their hands. Therefore, it felt entirely natural that, at the age of six, I was given my first knitting needles. Even so, it was only later in life that knitting truly captured me—and since then I haven’t been able to let it go.
