Piggy Pouch

Piggy Pouch by Carmen Nuland

What Is Being Made

The Piggy Pouch is a whimsical knitted bag designed by Carmen Nuland that combines functionality with playful aesthetics. This project bag or purse features a unique pig-shaped construction that is both practical and eye-catching. The design includes a distinctive zippered nose feature that serves as a secure compartment for storing small objects such as stitch markers, lip balm, chocolate, or other treasured items.

Construction Technique

The Piggy Pouch employs an innovative construction method that begins with a single stitch. The knitter works back-and-forth across this initial stitch, gradually increasing the stitch count until there are enough stitches to transition into knitting in the round. This technique creates a seamless foundation for the bag's three-dimensional pig shape.

A key design feature involves carefully planned increases using the knit front and back method (kfb). Rather than creating a visible line of increases in the finished project, the pattern adjusts the placement of these increases for each round. This thoughtful approach ensures that the increases blend seamlessly into the overall fabric, maintaining the visual integrity of the finished piece.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – The fundamental stitch used throughout the project
• Knit Front and Back (kfb) – Used for strategic increases that shape the bag
• Bind Off (bo) – Used to secure stitches at the completion of the project
• Cast On (co) – Used to create the initial stitch from which the entire project grows

Materials and Tools

This intermediate-level knitting project is designed to be worked with chunky weight yarn, which creates a quick-to-knit, substantial fabric. The pattern requires double-point needles (dpn) for working in the round once the initial stitch count is established. Additionally, a zipper is needed to construct the functional nose compartment that gives this bag its distinctive character and practical purpose.

Skill Level

The Piggy Pouch is classified as an intermediate difficulty project. While the basic stitches involved are fundamental, the unique construction method of starting from a single stitch and the strategic placement of increases require attention to detail and some knitting experience. This makes it an ideal project for knitters who have mastered basic techniques and are ready to explore more creative shaping methods.