Why we love knitting bags

Hands up if you agree with the following statement: You can never have enough bags.

Looks like that's all of you, then...

In fact we all love them so much that Handbag Day was set up a couple of years ago to allow fashion fans to celebrate their own collections.

Here at The Knitting Network HQ we've got plenty of high street bargains and even a few statement designer ones among us.

But we all find knitting bags so much more fun than buying them. Here are just a couple of reasons why…

1. Have you ever fallen in head over heels in love with a clutch or tote and stopped yourself buying it because the colour wasn't quite right? This never happens when you're knitting bags because you can pick any shade of wool or yarn that you like.

2. From Fair Isle to floral and cable to intarsia, the design possibilities endless. You'll have the chance to brush up on your technical skills too.

3. Are you getting fed up of seeing ever other person on the Tube with 'that' striped shopper? You'll certainly stand out from the crowd if you make your own.

4. You'll feel smug when a stranger stops you in the street to ask you where your super-stylish holdall with smart leather straps is from.

5. Got a friend's birthday coming but are feeling strapped for cash ahead of payday? We're sure you'll already have enough yarn in your stash to make your mate a knitted number.

If we've inspired you to start knitting bags, our expert Freddie Patmore has a couple of handy hints for you.

'Leather handles or a shimmering ribbon will give knitted bags a professional finish,' she advises.

'And stick a fabric lining on the inside to help your bag keep its shape. A satin lining will add a touch of luxury to an evening bag.'

Browse our selection of the best bag and accessory knitting patterns now...