Looking for a bag that’s both durable and stylish? This crocheted tote is the perfect project. The entire bag is made using a unique stitch that creates a dense, ribbed fabric, giving it fantastic structure and a minimalist feel. The simple single-color design makes this a quick and satisfying project that looks great with any outfit.
This pattern is worked from the bottom up, starting with a flat, rectangular base. The body is worked in continuous rounds, and the handles are created as a seamless extension of the bag itself.
What You’ll Need:
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Aran/10 ply) cotton yarn is highly recommended for its durability and firm fabric.
- Color: A single color for the entire bag (the light green in the example). Approximately 300-350 yards.
- Crochet Hook: Size H/5.0mm (or hook size needed to achieve a tight, firm fabric).
- Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends.
- Scissors
- Stitch Marker (optional): To mark the beginning of each round.
Abbreviations Used:
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- BLO: back loop only
- st(s): stitch(es)
- rnd: round
- FO: fasten off
- [ ]: repeat instructions in brackets
- ( ): stitch count at the end of the round
Gauge:
Your finished base should be approximately 28 cm x 10 cm (11 inches x 4 inches). This is crucial for the bag to have the correct structured shape.
Part 1: The Base
We will create a flat, rectangular base by working in the round.
- Ch 25.
- Rnd 1: 3 sc in the 2nd ch from the hook. Sc in the next 22 ch. 3 sc in the last ch. Working along the other side of the foundation chain, sc in the next 22 ch. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (50 sc)
- Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in the first st. Sc in the next st, 2 sc in the next st. Sc in the next 22 sts. 2 sc in the next st. Sc in the next st, 2 sc in the next st. Sc in the next 22 sts. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (56 sc)
- Rnd 3: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (56 sc)
- Repeat Rnd 3 for 2 more rounds, for a total of 5 rounds of single crochet for the base.
Part 2: The Body (Ribbed Texture)
We will now build the sides of the bag using the single crochet in the back loop only to create the horizontal ribbing. We will work in continuous rounds, so use a stitch marker to keep track.
- Transition Round: Sc in the BLO of each st around. Do not join at the end of the round. This will start your spiral and create the first horizontal ridge. (56 sc)
- Rnds 2-25: Sc in the BLO of each st around. Continue for 24 more rounds, or until your bag reaches the desired height (approximately 28 cm or 11 inches).
Part 3: The Handles
The handles are created as a seamless extension of the bag.
- Rnd 1 (Handles): At the end of your last body round, sl st into the next stitch to level off the spiral.
- Ch 1, sc in the first 8 stitches. Ch 20 (or to your desired handle length). Skip the next 12 stitches. Sc in the next 16 stitches (this is the back of the bag). Ch 20. Skip the last 12 stitches. Join with a sl st to the first sc.
- Rnd 2 (Securing Handles): You will now work in the BLO of the stitches and chains to continue the ribbing.
- Ch 1, sc in the BLO of the first 8 sc. Sc in the BLO of each of the 20 chains. Sc in the BLO of the next 16 sc. Sc in the BLO of each of the 20 chains. Join with a sl st.
- Rnd 3: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Join with a sl st.
- FO and weave in all ends.
Video tutorial
Finishing Touches:
- Weave in all remaining ends securely.
- Blocking (optional but recommended): To help your bag hold its shape and define the ribbing, gently steam or spritz it with water. Stuff it with a towel and shape it as it air dries completely.
You’ve now created a beautiful and unique bag that’s perfect for your next outing! Enjoy your new accessory.
