Totes, knapsacks, ruck sacks, and other bags that can be used as backpacks. Updated 4/4/23
To get the knitting patterns, scroll down the page to the individual pattern you want and click on the link to that pattern.
These patterns are not my designs but links to other designers who have generously shared their patterns. If you have questions about how to knit a specific pattern, please contact the designer directly.
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Free Patterns
Marble & Bricks Backpack
The bag is knit bottom up and makes an adorable mini back pack that doubles as a purse. Super Bulky weight yarn. Designed byRachel Carson Hill. Web version is free. PDF available for purchase.
Lace Backpack
Backpack with flap knit with a 2 row repeat of what looks like bamboo stitch. Worsted weight yarn. Designed by Brooke Bischoff
Easy Straw Look Backpack
Knapsack with flap over a drawstring closure knit mostly in the round with just knit stitches. 15” wide x 15.5” tall x 5” deep. Designed by Jessica Potasz (Mama in A Stitch). A kit is also available.
- Get the free knitting pattern
- Get the printable pdf of the pattern on Etsy
- Get the kit at Lion Brand for under $25
Adventure Backpacks
Cabled rucksacks with roomy pockets, cinched by drawstrings. Two sizes. Designed by Cassidy Clark
Easy Garter Stitch Backpack
Drawstring backpack with flap is rated easy by the designer and Ravelrers. 24 in. diameter x 11 in. tall (61 x 28 cm). Designed by Lion Brand Yarn. Pictured projects by snaphappee, Sara-dL, and phdaisy1
Kitty Backpack
Cat shaped tote. The bag is about 8in x 8in, with a top opening of about 12in in circumference when open. Designed by Dale Hwang
A Day in the Park Backpack
Drawstring backpack tote with bobble flowers and lace. Designed by Karen Fournier. Pictured project by Cardabelle
More Free Patterns
Mesh Backpack
This cotton Super Summer Backpack features a 4 row repeat lace pattern that makes the backpack light and cool, an i-cord that forms the drawstring closure and the backpack strap. About 10 x 12 in. (25.5 x 30.5 cm). Designed by Lion Brand.
- Get the free knitting pattern
- See Ravelry page
- Get the recommended Lion Brand Cotton-Ease yarn on Amazon
Birdie Backpack
This bird themed backpack contains secret pockets in each of the wings for special treasures. 14 inches high and 12 inches wide. Designed by Alison Stewart-Guinee
- Get the free knitting pattern at the Web Archive
- See the Ravelry page
Get Fairy Tale Knits : 32 Projects to Knit Happily Ever After by Alison on Amazon- See more Bird Knitting Patterns
Teensy Treasures Bag
This drawstring backpack with honeycomb cables comes in sizes from child to adult. Small (Medium; Large; Extra-Large). Designed by Gretchen Tracy
Ayla Backpack
Felted striped backpack with flower motif. Size after felting is 13 inches high and 10 inches wide. Designed by Jordana Paige
Domino Backpack
This bag is knit with modular diamond shapes. Designed by Marie-Chrisitne Mahe
Natalie Backpack
Striped backpack with flap and knit straps. Designed by c v e t u l k a knits
Felted Backpack
This easy backpack features a drawstring closure under the flap, i-cord decorative toggle loop and blanket stitch edging in contrast color.. Designed by Patons. Pictured project by loveswildflowers
- Get the free knitting pattern
- See Ravelry page
- Get the recommended Patons Classic Wool Worsted yarn on Amazon
Transformers Backpack
Felted backpack with large flap and autobot motif. 10 X 11 inches.Designed by LesFousDArt
Katia Backpack
Drawstring backpack with pocket. Small (Medium; Large; Extra-Large). Size: height 36 cm (14″). width 50 cm (20″) Designed by Elaine Phillips
Patterns for Purchase
Market Back Pack
Openwork backpack with adjustable straps is a perfect hands-free option for your next trip to the farmers market, beach, and more. Size About 12 in [30.5cms] width x 15 in [38cms] length. Designed by Uma Padu. Worsted weight yarn.
Commuter Knapsack
This lace and mesh back with leaf motifs and cable straps features a drawstring opening and a flap with a button closure. Designed by Deborah Newton, this one of the 22 patterns in Knitting Green: Conversations and Planet Friendly Projects
Aztec Tile Backpack
Knapsack tote with geometric colorwork based on Aztec fabric. Designed by Wendy Kippax. Great for stashbusting.
Owl Backpack
Orla Owl knapsack is knit in chunky yarn and felted in the washing machine. The pattern contains detailed instructions for all knitting and felting techniques used, you need only to know how to cast on, knit, purl and cast off. Designed by The Yarn Genie.
Fox Backpack or Messenger Bag
This fox tote is knit in chunky yarn and felted in the washing machine.
Dog Backpack
This cute dog bag rucksack has a draw string opening. His legs dangle when you walk and he sits down when you put him down.
Ladybug Backpack
Also includes a pattern for Bumblebee Backpack. SIZE : 34cm (length) x 32cm (width at widest point). Quick knit inChunky weight yarn
