Crocheting Mesh Bag: Beginner's Guide To A Stylish Summer

Crochet mesh bags are a great beginner-friendly project that only uses basic stitches like chain, slip stitch, single crochet, and double crochet. They are also eco-friendly, practical, and perfect for summer. You can use any lightweight yarn you have on hand, such as cotton yarn, which is a top choice for its durability, breathability, and ability to handle multiple washings. The bag pattern typically involves crocheting a flat, circular base and then working in rounds to create the mesh body and handles. The mesh body is created using a combination of treble crochet stitches and chain stitches, resulting in a bag that is lightweight, durable, and stylish.

Choosing the right yarn

When choosing the right yarn for a beginner crochet mesh bag pattern, there are a few things to consider. The first is the design of the bag. If you are making a bag with a slouchy or stretchy design, like a market bag, you might want to opt for milk cotton yarn, cotton-acrylic yarn blends, or acrylic yarn. These yarns tend to be stretchy, and if you plan to sew on a lining, they can also work for a more structured bag. However, acrylic and wool yarns tend to pill and can give the bag a "furry" look over time.

If you want a firmer and well-shaped bag, such as a handbag or backpack, 100% cotton yarn is a good choice. Cotton yarn is soft, durable, and less stretchy, allowing your stitches to stand out more. Cotton yarns also tend to be more durable and pill less, but they are heavier and pricier than acrylic yarns.

For a sturdy, non-stretchy, and structured bag, bag yarns like cotton-linen yarn or braided cotton rope yarn are ideal. These yarns are specially formulated for making bags and are usually too stiff for other projects. Bag yarns provide excellent durability and stiffness, but they can make the finished bag heavier and bulkier.

When choosing yarn for a crochet bag, it is also essential to consider the ease of washing and colourfastness. Look for yarns that are easy to spot clean or machine washable, especially if the bag is likely to come into contact with your clothes. To test for colourfastness, tie a small bundle of the yarn and let it soak in warm water for 20 minutes. If no colour bleeds out, it is less likely to stain your clothes.

Lastly, consider the colour of the yarn. Choose a colour that speaks to you and fits your vision for the bag. Checking the care information, fibre content, and cost of the yarn is also crucial to ensure it aligns with your criteria.

Basic stitches

To make a crochet mesh bag, you need to know some basic crochet stitches. Here is a detailed guide on how to do them:

Chain Stitch (ch)

The chain stitch is the most basic stitch and the first one that beginners learn. It is also the first stitch used when starting new crochet patterns. Most crochet patterns start with a certain number of chain stitches, and the rest of the project is built upon them.

To make a starting chain:

• Insert your crochet hook into the slip knot.
• Yarn over and pull through to make a new loop. This is your first chain stitch.
• Repeat to make the next chain stitch, then continue until you have the correct number of crochet stitches for your foundation chain.

Single Crochet Stitch (sc)

Once you've gotten more comfortable with the chain stitch, it's time to tackle single crochet stitches. This stitch is nearly as easy as the chain stitch and is quick and easy to make. It creates a smooth texture that works well for scarves, baby blankets, and hats.

Single crochet stitch instructions:

• Once you have your starting chain, insert your hook into the next stitch.
• Yarn over and pull through to create a loop. You will now have two loops on your hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through both loops. You should end with only one yarn loop on your hook.

Double Crochet Stitch (dc)

This basic stitch is next on the list once you’ve become comfortable with the single crochet stitch. The double crochet stitch is taller than the single crochet stitch and is often used in various crochet patterns. It will create a texture that’s more flexible than the single crochet stitch.

Double crochet stitch instructions:

• Yarn over.
• Insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull up a loop.
• Yarn over and pull through two loops on the hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through both loops on the hook.

Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc)

Half double crochet stitches are basically a cross between the single crochet stitch and the double crochet stitch. This stitch works well for blankets, scarves, textured bags, and more.

Half double crochet stitch instructions:

• Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.
• Yarn over again and pull through. You will have 2 loops on your hook.
• Now yarn over again and pull through all three loops to create one single loop on your hook.

Treble Crochet Stitch (tr)

Next up is the treble crochet stitch. This stitch is the tallest of the stitches (4 chains tall) and it involves repetition, working up quickly, and creating loose blankets with lace-like, open patterns. Once you become comfortable stitching, you can build on it and create double treble and triple treble crochet stitches.

Treble crochet stitch instructions:

• Yarn over twice and insert your hook into the next stitch.
• Yarn over again and pull through. You will have 3 loops on your hook.
• Yarn over again and pull through the first 2 loops on your hook.
• Yarn over and pull through the next 2 loops.
• Repeat the process one more time, pulling your hook through the last 2 loops to create one single loop on your hook.

Slip Stitch (sl st)

The slip stitch is a basic stitch that can be used in many different ways. One way is to use a slip stitch to connect the last stitch of a row to the first stitch of the same row so that you can work in the round. Another way to use slip stitches is to create flat invisible stitches so that you can move yarn across a row without adding height. Slip stitches can also be used to decorate crocheted items.

Slip stitch instructions:

• Insert your crochet hook into the next stitch.
• Yarn over, then pull it through the stitch and the loop that’s on the hook.

Creating a flat base

Round Base:

To create a round base, you will need to start with a magic circle or sliding loop. Chain 3, which counts as your first treble crochet (tr), and then crochet 11 tr into the ring. Pull the tail to close the ring tightly and join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the top of the chain 3. This will give you a total of 12 treble crochet stitches.

In the next round, you will again chain 3 and crochet a treble in the same stitch. Then, crochet 2 treble crochet stitches in each treble crochet stitch around, joining with a slip stitch to the top of the chain 3. This will increase the number of stitches to 24.

Continue increasing stitches in each round until you reach the desired size for your base. Remember that a round base helps distribute weight evenly and prevents sagging when items are placed inside the bag.

Square Base:

For a square base, you can work in rows back and forth or start with a granny square. If you opt for the former, ensure you know the number of starting stitches required for the width of your bag.

• Chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to the first chain to create a loop, or use a magic circle.
• Chain 2 (this doesn't count as a stitch), then work 2 double crochet (dc), 1 treble crochet, and 2 double crochet in the loop. Chain 2 and repeat this sequence 3 more times, joining with a slip stitch to the first stitch.

Continue working in rounds, increasing the number of stitches in each round until you reach your desired base size. Then, you can start working on the sides of the bag.

Flat Rectangle Base:

To create a flat bottom for a rectangular bag, you will need to fold the bag so that the side seam lines up with the centre bottom of the bag. Using a ruler, slide the ruler up the side seam until the sides measure 2 inches across.

Slip stitch along the ruler to join the bottom and side of the bag, creating a 2-inch flat section at the bottom. Fasten off and weave in the ends. Repeat this process for the other side of the bag.

Oval Base:

An oval base is a great option for zipper pouches, shoulder bags, or crossbody bags as it curves against your body for a comfortable fit. To create an oval base, you will need to work in rounds, increasing stitches at each end of the foundation chain.

• Chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to the first chain to create a loop, or use a magic circle.
• Chain 2 (counts as a double crochet), then work a double crochet in the loop, chain 2. Repeat the sequence of (2 double crochet, chain 2) 5 more times, and join with a slip stitch to the first stitch.

Continue working in rounds, increasing each round by 12 stitches until you reach your desired size.

Tips:

• When working with a stitch pattern, use the starting stitches for the larger stitch to ensure your base lays flat.
• If you tend to crochet tightly, add more stitches to your starting chain to compensate.
• For a stiffer bottom, you can make two bag bottoms and sandwich a piece of plastic canvas between them.

Working the mesh

Step 1: Understanding the Basics

Before you begin, it's important to understand the basic stitches and terms used in crocheting. In this pattern, you'll be using chain stitches (ch), double crochet stitches (dc), slip stitches (sl st), and treble crochet stitches (tr). The beginning chain of each round usually counts as a stitch, but there may be exceptions specified in your pattern.

Step 2: Creating the Base

Start by creating a flat, circular base for your bag using double crochet stitches. The number of stitches and rounds will vary depending on the size and shape of your desired bag. Make sure to follow the specific instructions for your chosen pattern.

Step 3: Working the Mesh Rounds

After completing the base, you'll continue to crochet in rounds to create the mesh body of the bag. This is where the magic happens! You'll be working sets of chain stitches and double crochet stitches to form the mesh pattern. Here's a general idea of how these rounds will go:

• Chain a certain number of stitches (specified in your pattern) and skip a certain number of stitches from the previous round.
• Work a double crochet stitch into the next stitch.
• Repeat the process of chaining and skipping stitches, followed by a double crochet stitch, all around the round.
• Join the round with a slip stitch to the first stitch or the specified stitch.

Step 4: Repeating the Mesh Pattern

Repeat the mesh rounds as instructed in your pattern. The number of mesh rounds you work will depend on the desired height of your bag. Remember to maintain the same stitch pattern throughout these rounds to create a consistent mesh pattern.

Step 5: Transitioning to Handles (Optional)

If your bag design includes handles made from the same mesh pattern, continue working the mesh rounds until you reach the desired length for the handles. Typically, you'll work a few more rounds after the bag's body is complete to form the handles.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

Once you've reached the desired length for your bag (or handles), it's time to finish off. This usually involves slip stitching to join the last round and weaving in any loose ends of the yarn. At this point, you can also add any additional features, such as a lining or a drawstring closure, if desired.

Remember to refer to your chosen crochet mesh bag pattern for specific instructions on working the mesh, as the number of stitches and rounds may vary. Happy crocheting!

Adding handles

Planning the Handles

Before you start crocheting your handles, it's a good idea to plan ahead. Use stitch markers, scraps of yarn, or any other tools you have to mark out the spots where you want the handles to attach to the bag. This will help you visualise the placement and ensure even handle placement.

Crocheting the Handles

Once you have marked the handle placement, it's time to start crocheting! Start by working a series of chain stitches to achieve the desired length of your handles. The length will depend on your preference—do you want just enough room to slip your hand through, or do you want it long enough to wear as a cross-body bag?

After determining the length, work in rows to achieve the desired width. Generally, thinner and lightweight yarn will stretch less than bulkier yarns since the stitches are tighter and smaller. You can add more rows to create thicker handles, and using shorter stitches will make them sturdier.

If you want to minimise stretching, you can place a piece of cord, macrame rope, or ribbon along the inside of the handle and whip stitch around it. Since these materials don't stretch, they will help the handle retain its shape. Be sure to sew the rope securely onto the purse to prevent it from moving within the handle.

Attaching the Handles

Now it's time to attach the handles to the bag. Carefully sew the handles onto the purse by stitching around the edges. You can use a yarn needle to whip stitch the ends together, ensuring a secure attachment.

Adding Embellishments (Optional)

If you want to add a pop of colour or a decorative touch to your handles, consider sewing a pretty ribbon along the inside. You can match the colour to the bag for a subtle look or choose a contrasting colour for a bolder statement.

Finalising the Bag

With your handles securely attached, your beginner crochet mesh bag is almost complete! Finish off any loose ends by weaving in any remaining threads, and your bag is ready to use or gift!

Frequently asked questions