DIY Knitted Barn Bag — Easy Pattern & Step‑by‑Step Tutorial

The Knitted Barn Bag is a compact, structured tote knit in kitchen cotton that adds a touch of rustic charm to everyday carry. This easy-to-follow pattern uses garter stitch for the base, stockinette for the body, and a short i-cord handle. The bag sits up on its garter base, making it handy for holding small projects, market finds, or everyday essentials.

Finished Knitted Barn Bag made with Lily Sugar & Cream Summer Splash Ombre kitchen cotton, showing the garter base, ribbed sides and i-cord handle.

Materials

• 16" size 8 circular needle
• Size 8 double-pointed needles (dpn's)
• Tapestry needle
• One ball of kitchen cotton — I used Lily Sugar & Cream Summer Splash Ombre

Directions

1. Cast on 16 stitches. Knit back and forth in garter stitch for 24 rows (12 garter ridges).

2. Turn work clockwise and pick up and knit 12 stitches from the short side (one stitch from each garter ridge). Turn work clockwise again and pick up and knit 16 stitches along the next side. Turn work clockwise once more and pick up and knit the final 12 stitches (one stitch from each garter ridge). You should now have 56 stitches on your circular needle.

3. Knit in the round (stockinette) for approximately 4" or to your desired bag height.

4. Begin decreases: K6, K2tog around for one round (you will now have 48 stitches on your needle).

5. Switch to K2P2 rib and work 6 rounds.

6. Next round, decrease one stitch in each purl rib column by working K2, P2tog around. If needed, transfer to dpn's to continue comfortably.

7. Knit one more round in K2P1 rib, then bind off loosely following the K2P1 rib pattern. Weave in ends.

Handle

Pick up 4 stitches at the base of one rib column and work a 4-stitch i-cord to desired length (the cord pictured is 10"). When the i-cord reaches the length you want, attach it to the opposite side by picking up 4 stitches at the base of a rib column and using a 3-needle bind-off. Pull any loose ends to the inside and weave them in securely.

Finishing & Uses

Weave in all ends and block lightly if desired to even out stitches. This little barn bag is great for toting small knitting projects (socks or hats), carrying reusable shopping bags, storing game pieces like Scrabble tiles, or using as a compact everyday tote. Its structured garter base helps it stand up so you can reach inside easily.

Tips: Adjust the body length before decreases to make the bag taller or shorter. Use sturdy cotton yarn for durability and easy care.