Learn how to knit a 17th-century style knitted pocket bag in the likeness of Maine’s First Ship Virginia. The instructor is Vivian Bolt, head of the MFS clothing crewe.

What you will learn

• The history of 17th-century pocket bags and their use
• The knitting techniques to knit your own 5×8 inch 17th-century style bag
• How to knit the black and white color chevron motif in the likeness of  Virginia
• How to do a “jog less” color join in your knitting
• Learn the finishing needed to complete the bag
• Learn to make tassels

Cost – The workshop is $95 and includes the pattern and detailed instructions, along with the yarn needed to complete the project. A maximum of 10 participants. You must register using the form below.

Skill level – Advanced beginner or intermediate knitter. Know how to cast on, knit, purl, and knit in the round. Knowledge of two-color knitting is helpful but not required. The ability to do basic crocheting is also helpful.

Background – Pocket bags were knit with fingering weight yarn. The MFS pocket bag is knit in the round on size 3 needles. You can use a 9-inch size 3 needle or a set of size 3 double-point needles. For the class, feel free to use a different weight yarn for practicing with the appropriate needles.

During the Workshop – We will work on a swatch or mini bag to demonstrate the techniques needed to make your bag.

What to bring

• Practice yarn in 3 colors with appropriate size needles
• Your knitting toolkit with scissors, tapestry needle, paper, pencil
• Your homework
• Lunch
• Humor and persistence

Homework – Using your practice yarn and needles cast-on 80 stitches and join for knitting in the round. K1, P1 for 3 rounds.

What you will leave with 

• Enough yarn in the colors needed to make your bag
• The pattern for the project
• Detailed handouts on techniques
• Knowledge of Maine’s First Ship
• New friends!