Crafting Reusable Grocery Bags With Crochet

As the world moves towards eliminating single-use plastics, crochet grocery bags are becoming an increasingly popular alternative to plastic bags. They are eco-friendly, stylish, and can be customised with different colours, shapes, and designs. Making your own crochet grocery bag can be a fun and rewarding project, allowing you to express your creativity while also contributing to a more sustainable planet. In this article, we will discuss the benefits of crochet grocery bags, provide a step-by-step guide on how to make one, and offer tips and tricks for customisation. So, get your crochet hooks ready, and let's dive into the world of crochet grocery bags!

Choosing the right yarn

Yarn Weight

For crochet grocery bags, it is recommended to use a medium to bulky yarn weight, which will provide durability and sturdiness to the bag. Worsted (medium) to super bulky yarn weights fall under this category and are ideal for creating bags that can withstand the weight of groceries and daily use. Medium weight yarn, such as DK and worsted weight yarns, are commonly used for crochet bags. Lighter yarns may not be robust enough, while heavier yarns may become too heavy to carry comfortably.

Yarn Material

The choice of yarn material depends on your specific needs and preferences. Cotton or cotton-blend yarn is a popular choice for grocery bags due to its strength, washability, and eco-friendly qualities. Cotton yarns are less stretchy than wool or acrylic yarns, making them less prone to sagging out of shape. Linen yarn is another option that adds strength and durability to the bag. Wool yarns can also be used, but they may require special care during washing to avoid felting.

Colourfastness

If your crochet grocery bag will be carried next to your body or rubbed against your clothes, it is important to consider the colourfastness of the yarn. Test the yarn by tying a small bundle and soaking it in warm water for at least 20 minutes. If no colour leaches out into the water or onto a white or bare fabric, then it is colourfast. This will ensure that the dye from your bag does not transfer onto your clothing.

Pilling

Pilling refers to the formation of small balls of fibre on the surface of the yarn due to friction. To test for pilling, crochet a swatch and rub it together to see if pills form. This will help you determine how well the yarn will hold up to the friction of everyday use.

Yarn Care

Consider the ease of care when choosing your yarn. Some yarns may require special care, such as hand washing or dry cleaning, which can be inconvenient for a grocery bag that may need frequent washing. Look for yarns that are machine washable and dryable, making them easier to maintain.

Yarn Price

While price may not be as much of a factor for smaller projects like grocery bags, it is still something to consider. Compare prices between different yarns to find an option that fits your budget. Keep in mind that you will typically need around 500 yards or 2-3 skeins of yarn for a good-sized tote bag.

Crocheting the base

To crochet the base of your grocery bag, you will need to start by making a flat, circular base. This will be created with double crochet stitches.

Begin by making a magic circle or sliding loop. Then, chain three (this counts as your first treble crochet stitch), and make 11 treble crochet stitches into the ring. Pull the tail to tighten the ring, and join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain three again (this counts as your first treble crochet stitch), then make a treble crochet stitch in the same stitch. Make two treble crochet stitches in each treble crochet stitch around, and join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain three (counts as your first treble crochet stitch), then make a treble crochet stitch in the same stitch. Make one treble crochet stitch in the next stitch, then two treble crochet stitches in the next stitch. Repeat this around, and join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain three (counts as your first treble crochet stitch), then make a treble crochet stitch in the same stitch. Make one treble crochet stitch in each of the next two stitches, then two treble crochet stitches in the next stitch. Repeat this around, and join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain three (counts as your first treble crochet stitch), then make a treble crochet stitch in the same stitch. Make one treble crochet stitch in each of the next three stitches, then two treble crochet stitches in the next stitch. Repeat this around, adding an additional three stitches over the last two stitches of the row to make the stitch count equal to 63 stitches. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Now you will work in continuous rounds, without turning. Chain four, skip two stitches, then make a slip stitch into the next stitch. Repeat this around. Chain four, then make a slip stitch into the next chain four space. Repeat this round a total of 15 times, or until the bag is as long as you would like.

For the upper section and handles, chain three (this counts as a stitch), then make two double crochet stitches in the first chain four space, and three double crochet stitches in the next chain four space and in each chain four space around. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain three (counts as a stitch), turn, then make a double crochet stitch in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain three.

Chain two, then make a half double crochet stitch in each of the next seven stitches. Repeat this row until the handle reaches your desired length. Attach the handle to the opposite end of the bag with a slip stitch seam.

Creating the bag's body

To crochet the body of a grocery bag, you will need to start by crocheting a flat base and then work on the sides. This can be done in a number of ways, depending on the style of bag you want to make.

One method is to create a flat, circular base using double crochet stitches. From there, you can continue to crochet in a round, working with chain stitches until you reach the desired length. This allows for easy adjustment of the bag's size. To make the bag wider, simply continue crocheting a wider base, adding stitches to each round. To make it longer, crochet for more rounds.

Another approach is to crochet a solid base, from which netted stitches radiate outwards. This type of base typically starts small and compact, gradually expanding as the bag grows. This construction not only makes for a stronger bag but also prevents items from poking out through the bottom.

For a unique design, you can experiment with crocheting different motifs or patterns for the circular base. This adds a creative touch to your grocery bag.

Once you have the base, you can move on to creating the net body of the bag. This typically involves chaining and skipping stitches to form the mesh pattern. The size of the chain spaces can be adjusted to create larger or smaller openings in the mesh, depending on your preference.

For a French-style market bag, a slightly different construction is used. Instead of crocheting in the round, you work in back-and-forth rows to form a square. This square is then gathered and cinched on two sides to create the bag's shape, allowing for optimum expansion.

The specific stitches, techniques, and yarn used will vary depending on the pattern you choose, but these are the basic steps for creating the body of a crocheted grocery bag.

Making the handles

To make the handles, start by chaining 70. Be careful not to twist the chain, and anchor it down approximately 16 stitches along with a slip stitch. Then, make one double crochet in the next treble crochet, turn your work, and make one double crochet in each chain. Anchor this second row with a slip stitch in the next treble crochet along from where the chain started. Make one double crochet in the next treble crochet, turn your work, and make one double crochet in each double crochet. Repeat this process for two more rows so that your handle is four rows deep.

To make the second handle, slip stitch over to the next gathered section, approximately 30 stitches along. Repeat the same steps as for the first handle.

Fasten off your work and weave in any loose ends of the thread.

Customising your bag

Now for the fun part: customising your bag! The great thing about crocheting your own bag is that you can tailor it to your exact preferences and needs. Here are some ideas to get you started:

• Choose your own colour palette: Do you want a single-colour bag or one that's a rainbow of hues? The choice is yours! You can opt for a neutral shade like grey or beige, go for a bright and bold colour like red or orange, or create a multicoloured masterpiece.
• Add some tassels: Tassels can add a fun and playful touch to your bag. Try adding some colourful hanging tassels to the corners or sides of your bag for a bohemian look.
• Experiment with different stitches: Try using different crochet stitches to create unique textures and patterns on your bag. You can use the basic crochet stitches like single crochet and double crochet, or experiment with more advanced stitches like the granite stitch or moss stitch for a denser, sturdier fabric.
• Play with the shape: Most of the bag patterns listed above are rectangular or square, but you can get creative and experiment with different shapes. Try a circular bag or a hexagon-shaped bag for something a little more unique.
• Add some embellishments: Why not add some extra flair to your bag with embellishments? You can attach buttons, beads, pom-poms, or even small crocheted flowers or animals to your bag for a whimsical touch.
• Make a statement with the handles: The handles of your bag can also be a fun way to express your style. Try making them extra-long so your bag can be worn across the body, or add some braiding or fringe for a boho vibe.
• Personalise it: Make your bag truly yours by adding your initials or a fun message. You can crochet the letters directly into the bag or attach them as appliques.

Frequently asked questions