This crochet bag is more than just an accessory—it’s practical, stylish, and a perfect option for carrying your essentials day to day. Its standout feature is its neat and elegant texture, giving it a premium look while being entirely handmade. Whether you’re heading to the market, hanging out with friends, or dressing up for a casual outing, this bag fits right in. The addition of a handy front pocket and sturdy handles makes it even more versatile and useful.
The construction of this bag highlights simplicity and detail. Using macramé cotton thread for strength and a rich finish, it combines durability with design. Beginners can enjoy learning the step-by-step techniques, like adding a decorative front pocket or changing colors seamlessly, while seasoned crocheters can appreciate the professional flair. The handles are made to last and can be customized to suit your preference for length or color combinations.
Create something stylish and functional that can be your everyday companion or even a thoughtful handmade gift!
Credit Tayla Handmade Crochet
Materials & Tools Needed
- Thread: Macrame cotton, 2 mm size
- Hook: Crochet hook, 3.50 mm
- Thread Quantity: Approximately 680 grams
- Optional: Stitch markers (recommended for beginners)
Finished Size
- Length: 23 cm (for the body of the bag)
- Handle Length: 51 cm
- Number of Rows: 42 rows for the main body, plus additional rows for the handle and outer pocket.
Customization Ideas
- Colors: You can alternate colors as demonstrated in the tutorial. Use more vibrant or neutral tones based on your preferences.
- Size: You can adjust the number of rows to make the bag taller or shorter, or modify the base chain length for a wider bag.
- Pocket: Customize the size or divide it into multiple compartments.
- Strap Length: Adjust the handle to suit your preferred length.
Pattern Abbreviations & Terminology
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single Crochet
- dc: Double Crochet
- sl st: Slip Stitch
- bp: Back Post Stitch
- fp: Front Post Stitch
- ( ) Used to group repeated stitches in patterns.
Terminology: This pattern uses US crochet terms.
Crochet Instructions
1. Bag Body
- Start by creating 11 chains. This will be the width of your base. The initial chain length measures approximately 6 cm.
- In the second chain from the hook, make a single crochet (sc).
- Continue to work 1 sc into each chain across the row. You should have 10 sc stitches at the end of Row 1.
- Turn your work, chain 1, and make 1 sc into the first stitch of the new row. Then, make 1 sc in each stitch across.
- Repeat Step 4 until the fabric is 23 cm in length (approximately 42 rows).
2. Base and Rounding
- At the end of the body rows, work 2 single crochet stitches in the corner to create the curvature for the base.
- Continue working sc along the edge of the body and add 2 sc at each corner to create smooth rounded edges.
- Close the base with a slip stitch in the first stitch of the row.
3. Adding Color Changes
- To change the color professionally, do not cut the thread. Insert your hook under the two loops of the last sc stitch.
- Pull the new color up (e.g., white thread) and make a slip stitch in the front loop of the last stitch.
- Chain 1 and begin working with the new color. Make sure to crochet over the loose ends to secure them.
4. Outer Pocket
- Start the outer pocket on the front loops of the stitches left from the body rows.
- Chain 2, then make 1 double crochet (dc) into the first front loop, and continue with 1 dc in each front loop across the row.
- Close the row with a slip stitch in the first dc, then chain 1.
- Alternate between rows of dc and single crochet as described:
- Row 1: Double crochet stitches
- Row 2: Single crochet stitches
- Repeat until you achieve the desired depth of the pocket.
- For additional design, alternate front post (fp) and double crochet (dc) stitches on certain rows to create texture.
- Once the pocket is complete, close the rows with a slip stitch.
- Optional: You can section the pocket into two by sewing down the middle or leave it as one piece.
5. Handle
- To make the handle, use two threads together (e.g., gray and white) for added durability and design.
- Use a larger crochet hook (e.g., size 6 mm) for the handle section.
- Start with a slip knot and work chains until the handle measures 51 cm or your desired length.
- Crochet back along the chain with slip stitches to reinforce the handle.
- Attach the handle securely to the sides of the bag by sewing or crocheting, ensuring symmetry and strength.
6. Finishing Touches
- Work 3 rows of slip stitches at the opening of the bag to create a polished and sturdy edge.
- Weave in all loose threads to ensure the bag looks clean and professional.
- Optional: Add a button, zipper, or magnetic clasp if desired.
