let’s get this classy bag crocheted! This pattern will guide you through creating a structured and stylish bag. We’ll cover the base, body, flap, handle, and finishing touches.

Skill Level: Intermediate

Materials:

• Worsted weight yarn (approximately 300-400 yards, depending on size). Choose a sturdy yarn that holds its shape well.
• Crochet hook size H/8 (5.0 mm) or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Stitch markers
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Optional: Magnetic snap or other closure
• Optional: Fabric lining
• Optional: Purse feet

Gauge: 14 single crochet (sc) stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in single crochet. Adjust hook size if necessary to achieve gauge.

Finished Size: Approximately 10 inches wide, 8 inches tall, and 3 inches deep (adjustable).

Abbreviations (US Crochet Terms):

• ch: chain
• sl st: slip stitch
• sc: single crochet
• hdc: half double crochet
• dc: double crochet
• inc: increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
• dec: decrease ¹ (sc2tog – single crochet two stitches together)  
• BLO: back loop only
• FLO: front loop only
• rep: repeat
• rnd(s): round(s)
• st(s): stitch(es)

Pattern:

Part 1: Base

The base is worked in a rectangle.

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 31 (this determines the width of your base; adjust as desired).
2. Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across (30 sc). Turn.
3. Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across (30 sc). Turn.
4. Rows 3-16: Rep Row 2 (this determines the length of your base; adjust as desired).

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Part 2: Body

The body is worked in the round, attached to the base.

1. With the right side of the base facing you, join yarn in any corner.
2. Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around the edge of the base. You should have approximately 72-76 sc (adjust as needed to maintain a consistent stitch count on all sides, especially at the corners where you might work 2-3 sc in the corner stitch). Place a stitch marker to indicate the beginning of the round. Do not turn; work in a continuous spiral (or join with a sl st at the end of each round if you prefer a more defined seam).
3. Round 2: Sc in each st around (72-76 sc).
4. Rounds 3-10: Rep Round 2.
   • Optional Shaping: For a slightly tapered look, you can incorporate decreases in these rounds. For example, in Round 5, you could work a few evenly spaced decreases.
5. Round 11 (Creating the fold line): Ch 1, hdc in BLO of each st around (72-76 hdc). This row will create a subtle line for folding the flap later.
6. Rounds 12-20: Ch 1, sc in each st around (72-76 sc).

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Part 3: Flap

The flap is worked flat, attached to the back of the bag body.

1. With the wrong side of the bag body facing you, locate the center back. Count approximately 1/3 of the total stitches from one side to the other. Join yarn.
2. Row 1: Ch 1, sc in the next 24-26 sts (adjust based on your bag width to create a flap that comfortably covers the opening). Turn.
3. Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across (24-26 sc). Turn.
4. Rows 3-12: Rep Row 2.
   • Optional Shaping (Tapered Flap):
     • Row 7: Ch 1, sc, sc2tog, sc across to last 3 sts, sc2tog, sc (22-24 sc). Turn.
     • Row 8: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
     • Row 9: Ch 1, sc, sc2tog, sc across to last 3 sts, sc2tog, sc (20-22 sc). Turn.
     • Row 10: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
     • Rows 11-12: Rep Row 10.
5. Edging (Optional): To create a cleaner edge for the flap, you can work a round of slip stitches or single crochet around the entire flap.

Fasten off and weave in ends.

Part 4: Handle

There are a few options for the handle. Choose the one you prefer:

Option 1: Crocheted Strap

1. Ch 5 (or desired width of strap).
2. Row 1: Sc in the second ch from the hook and in each ch across (4 sc). Turn.
3. Rows 2-Desired Length: Ch 1, sc in each st across (4 sc). Turn. Continue until the strap reaches your desired length.
4. Fasten off, leaving long tails for attaching.

Option 2: I-Cord Handle (More Structured)

1. Chain 3.
2. Drop the loop from your hook.
3. Insert your hook into the first chain, yarn over, and pull through a loop. (2 loops on hook)
4. Insert your hook into the next chain, yarn over, and pull through a loop. (3 loops on hook)
5. Without turning, drop the last two loops from your hook, keeping the first loop on.
6. Yarn over and pull through the first loop. (1 loop on hook)
7. Pick up the dropped loops. Yarn over and pull through the first loop on your hook and one of the dropped loops. (1 loop on hook)
8. Yarn over and pull through the loop on your hook and the next dropped loop. (1 loop on hook)
9. Repeat steps 7-8 until your i-cord reaches the desired length.
10. To finish, yarn over and pull through the remaining loops on your hook. Fasten off, leaving long tails for attaching.

Option 3: Purchased Handle

You can also purchase a ready-made purse handle and attach it to your bag.

Part 5: Assembly and Finishing

1. Attach the Handle: Position the ends of your crocheted strap or i-cord evenly on the sides of the bag opening. Securely sew them in place using your yarn needle. If using a purchased handle, follow the manufacturer’s instructions for attaching.
2. Attach Closure (Optional): If using a magnetic snap, determine the placement on the flap and the body of the bag. Install according to the snap’s instructions. You could also use a button and loop closure, or simply leave the bag open.
3. Optional Lining: If you choose to add a fabric lining, measure the inside of your bag and cut fabric pieces accordingly. Sew the lining together and hand-stitch or carefully glue it inside the crocheted bag.
4. Optional Purse Feet: If desired, attach purse feet to the bottom of the base for added protection and structure.

Video tutorial

Tips and Variations:

• Stitch Patterns: Experiment with different stitch patterns for the body of the bag, such as half double crochet, double crochet, or textured stitches.
• Colorwork: Incorporate stripes or other colorwork designs for a unique look.
• Texture: Use different yarn weights or textures to add interest.
• Size Adjustments: To make the bag larger or smaller, adjust the number of starting chains for the base and the number of rounds/rows for the body and flap.
• Embellishments: Add decorative elements like appliques, beads, or tassels.