We have knitted many of these for gifts! These work up so fast, and are so fashionable, all ages love it. Especially the teens! We used Lion Brand Thick and Quick, a very chunky type yarn. Knitting needles, US # 10. Knit up the 2 sides, with a very easy center cable pattern. Sew sides together, then add a zipper (9 inch length ) to top of purse. Really now, zippers are not that hard to sew in! It is worth the little bit of effort to have this great purse. We used D rings on each side of handle too, as we can loop the handle through. This way, you can cinch up the handle for a regular bag, or allow handle to hand loose through D rings for a shoulder bag. Finished bag is 8 ½ by 8 ½.