Beginner-Friendly Crochet Tote Bag Pattern
Pattern Overview
This crochet tote bag pattern is perfect for beginners and creates a stylish, functional accessory for everyday use. It works up quickly and can be customized in size, color, and handle length.
Materials Needed
| Item | Specifications | Purchase Link |
|---|---|---|
| Yarn | Medium (weight 4) cotton yarn – 300g (choose your favorite color or mix two for a striped look) | Buy Cotton Yarn |
| Crochet Hook | 5.0mm (H/8) crochet hook | Buy Crochet Hook |
| Notions | Scissors, yarn needle, stitch markers (optional) | Buy Crochet Notions Kit |
| Optional | Button or snap for closure | Buy Buttons/Snaps |
Stitches & Abbreviations
- Ch: Chain
- Sc: Single crochet
- Hdc: Half double crochet
- Sl st: Slip stitch
- St(s): Stitch(es)
Pattern Instructions
Base of the Bag
- Foundation Row: Ch 41.
- Row 1: Starting in the 2nd ch from the hook, sc across (40 sc). Turn.
- Rows 2–6: Ch 1, sc across in every st. Turn.
Tip: This forms the sturdy bottom of your bag. You can add more rows here to make a deeper bag base.
Body of the Bag
- Row 7 (Setup for Rounds): Ch 1, sc around the entire rectangle, placing 3 sc in each corner to keep it flat. Sl st to the first sc to join.
Stitch Count: 96 sts (40 sts for each long side, 8 for the short sides).
- Round 1: Ch 2 (counts as hdc), hdc in every st around. Sl st to the first hdc to join.
- Rounds 2–20: Repeat Round 1.
Tip: Adjust the number of rounds depending on how tall you want your bag. Add stripes by switching yarn colors every few rounds.
Handles
- Placement: Lay the bag flat and mark two points on each side for the handle placement, approximately 4 inches from the edges.
- Round 21 (Handle Setup): Ch 1, sc to the first marker, ch 30 (or desired handle length), skip the marked stitches, and sc to the next marker. Repeat for the other handle. Sl st to the first sc.
- Round 22: Ch 1, sc in every st and ch across, including the handle chains. Sl st to join.
- Round 23 (Optional for Reinforcement): Repeat Round 22 for sturdier handles.
Finishing
- Closure: Attach a button or snap at the center top if you want a closure.
- Weaving Ends: Use a yarn needle to weave in all loose ends securely.
Customization Ideas
- Stripes: Add contrasting colors for stripes or a fun pattern.
- Appliqué: Crochet small flowers or hearts and sew them onto the bag.
- Lining: Add a fabric lining for extra durability and style.
Care Instructions
Hand wash or machine wash on a gentle cycle. Lay flat to dry to maintain shape.
Final Notes
This bag is lightweight, easy to make, and perfect for carrying groceries, books, or personal items. Have fun crocheting, and don’t forget to make it uniquely yours! 😊
