So you’ve been bitten by the crafting bug and have your sights set on creating a one-of-a-kind shoulder bag? Look no further than the humble round loom! This versatile tool allows you to whip up stylish and functional bags in a fraction of the time compared to traditional knitting or crocheting.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through everything you need to know about making a shoulder bag on a round loom, from choosing the right materials to adding finishing touches. We’ll explore different design options, provide step-by-step instructions, and troubleshoot common challenges.

Now, let’s dive into the wonderful world of round loom shoulder bags!

Gathering Your Supplies

Before you loom your way to a fabulous bag, it’s essential to gather the necessary supplies. Here’s what you’ll need:

• Round Loom: Select a loom size that suits your desired bag dimensions. A medium-sized loom (around 40 pegs) is a great starting point for shoulder bags.
• Loom Hook: This handy tool helps you manipulate the yarn on the loom.
• Yarn: Choose a bulky or medium weight yarn that creates a nice drape and structure for your bag. Consider acrylic or wool blends for durability and ease of care.
• Yarn Needle: This helps weave in loose ends after finishing your project.
• Tapestry Needle (Optional): Useful for sewing on embellishments or a lining.
• Scissors: Snip yarn with ease.
• Optional Extras: Consider adding a fabric lining for a professional finish, buttons or clasps for closure, and decorative elements like pom-poms or tassels.

Loom Knitting Basics

For those new to loom knitting, here’s a quick introduction to the basic technique:

1. Casting On: Wrap the yarn around each peg on the loom in the desired direction (clockwise or counter-clockwise). This creates the foundation row for your project.
2. Knitting Stitches: Using the loom hook, grab the bottom loop on a peg and pull it over the top loop, creating a new stitch on that peg. Repeat this process for all pegs around the loom to complete one round.
3. Continuing Rows: Knit subsequent rows by grabbing the bottom loop of each stitch and pulling it over the top loop, creating a new layer.

Designing Your Round Loom Shoulder Bag

The beauty of loom knitting lies in its versatility. Here are some design considerations for your shoulder bag:

• Bag Size: Decide on the size you need – a small, compact bag for essentials or a larger tote?
• Shape: Do you want a classic rectangular bag, a cylindrical shape, or something more unique?
• Color Scheme: Will you use a single bold color, a mix of colors, or create a patterned design?
• Strap Options: Consider a simple loop strap made from yarn, a woven strap, or even repurposed leather straps.

There are many resources available online and in craft books to help you find inspiration for your bag design. Look for loom knitting patterns specifically designed for shoulder bags.

Loom Knitting the Shoulder Bag Body

Now that you’ve gathered your supplies and finalized your design, let’s get looming! Here’s a basic approach to knitting the body of your bag:

1. Cast On: Wrap your chosen yarn around all the pegs on your loom in the designated direction for your stitch pattern (e.g., clockwise for knit stitch).
2. Knitting the Body: Begin knitting rows using the basic loom knitting technique described earlier. The number of rows you knit will determine the height of your bag.
3. Shaping the Top (Optional): For a tapered top, gradually decrease the number of stitches knitted in each round towards the end. This creates a more defined shape.

Tip: Maintain consistent tension throughout your knitting to create an even and professional-looking bag.

Finishing Touches and Assembly

Once you’ve finished knitting the bag body, it’s time to add those finishing touches that transform your creation into a functional masterpiece!

1. Binding Off: This technique secures the final row of stitches and prevents unraveling. There are different bind-off methods; consult your chosen pattern or search online for tutorials specific to round loom knitting bind-off techniques.
2. Weaving in Ends: Use your yarn needle to neatly weave in any loose yarn ends on the inside and outside of your bag.
3. Adding a Lining (Optional): Lining your bag with fabric provides structure, hides imperfections, and offers additional pockets for organization.

Creating the Shoulder Strap

A comfortable and stylish shoulder strap is essential for your bag. Here are two popular options to consider:

Option 1: Loomed Strap

1. Cast On: Using a smaller loom (around 20 pegs) or a long knitting needle, cast on enough stitches for your desired strap width.
2. Knitting the Strap: Knit rows using the basic loom knitting technique until the strap reaches the desired length. You can adjust the length for a crossbody bag or a shorter shoulder strap.
3. Binding Off: Secure the final row of stitches using your chosen bind-off method.
4. Attaching the Strap: Sew the ends of the finished strap securely to the top corners of your bag body. You can use a tapestry needle and yarn or stitch the straps in place while sewing the bag closed (see next step).

Option 2: Repurposed Strap

For a quicker and potentially more robust option, consider repurposing a leather or fabric strap from a bag you no longer use.

1. Preparing the Strap: If using a salvaged strap, ensure it’s the desired length and remove any old hardware.
2. Attaching the Strap: Sew the ends of the strap securely to the top corners of your bag body.

Closing the Shoulder Bag and Adding Embellishments

1. Sewing the Bag Closed: With the right side of your bag facing outwards, use a yarn needle and yarn to sew the vertical side seams of the bag body closed. You can also incorporate the strap attachment step into this process for a seamless finish.
2. Adding a Clasp or Button Closure (Optional): For additional security, sew a clasp or button closure onto the top flap of your bag.

Embellishment Inspiration:

• Buttons or Braids: Add decorative buttons or braid details along the strap or front flap for a touch of personality.
• Pom-Poms or Tassels: Attach playful pom-poms or tassels for a whimsical touch.
• Woven Details: Incorporate woven yarn designs on the front flap or strap for a unique pattern.

Flaunt Your Creation!

Congratulations, you’ve crafted a one-of-a-kind round loom shoulder bag! Now it’s time to show it off and enjoy using your creation.

Here are some additional tips to get the most out of your round loom shoulder bag:

• Block your finished bag to even out the stitches and achieve a polished look.
• Spot clean any spills or stains promptly.
• Line dry your bag to prevent shrinkage or warping.

With proper care, your round loom shoulder bag will be a treasured accessory for years to come.

Unleash Your Inner Designer

The world of round loom knitting offers endless possibilities for creating unique and functional bags. So, grab your loom, unleash your creativity, and get started on your next masterpiece! Explore different stitch patterns, yarn combinations, and embellishments to craft a bag that reflects your personal style.