Create A Fun Crochet Bag With Fringe Accents

crochet bag with fringe

A crochet bag with fringe is a fun, bohemian-style accessory that can be paired with a variety of summer outfits. This type of bag is usually designed for advanced beginner crocheters and typically involves basic techniques such as chaining and single crochet stitches. The bag's design is simple and can be adjusted to the desired size, making it a versatile project for crafters. The finished product is a stylish and functional bag, perfect for those who want to embrace their free-spirited style while still carrying their essentials.

Characteristics Values
Difficulty Easy for advanced beginners
Techniques Basic techniques including chaining and single crochet
Yarn Patons 100% cotton 4-ply yarn in the color 'limestone' (1716)
Yarn Weight 200g
Yarn Amount 2 balls
Yarn Strand Count 4 strands
Yarn Hook 10mm (US 15) crochet hook
Bag Dimensions Width = 7″ / 18cm, Height = 9″ / 23cm
Bag Gauge 10 sts in 12 rows / 4 inches
Bag Rings 2 rings, 1 inch in size
Bag Clips 2 clips, 1.5 inches in size

cycrochet

How to crochet a bag with fringe for beginners

Making a crochet bag with fringe is a fun project for beginners. You can easily adjust the size and use any type of yarn, making it a versatile and customizable project. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to crochet a bag with fringe for beginners:

Materials and Tools:

  • Yarn of your choice (you can use scrap yarn or buy new)
  • Crochet hook (size H/5mm or desired size for your yarn)
  • Yarn needle
  • Scissors
  • Optional: button, leather strap, or other embellishments

Steps to Crochet a Bag with Fringe:

  • Create a slip knot: Begin by creating a slip knot about 6 inches from the end of your yarn. This will serve as the starting point for your chain.
  • Chain stitches (CH): Decide on the width of your bag and chain accordingly. For example, if you want a wider bag, work with an even number of chains. Fasten off, leaving a yarn end of about 6 inches.
  • Single crochet (SC) stitches: Work a single crochet stitch into each chain of the foundation chain. This will form the base of your bag. Fasten off and turn your work.
  • Repeat rows: Create a slip knot 6 inches from the new yarn end. Work a single crochet in each stitch of the last row. Fasten off and turn your work. Repeat this step until you reach the desired height for your bag.
  • Decrease stitches: To shape the bag, you will now decrease the number of stitches. Work a single crochet decrease (SC2TOG) at the beginning and end of the row, with single crochets in the remaining stitches. Continue this pattern until you have only a few stitches left.
  • Final rows: Work a slip knot and insert your hook at the side of the bag flap. Single crochet into the side of each row of the bag flap. Chain 2 at the top point of the flap and work down the other side, creating a loop for the buttonhole if desired. Fasten off.
  • Assembly: Fold the bag body in half. Take yarn ends from the front and back of the bag, and knot them together. Repeat this process for all yarn ends on both sides of the bag. Trim the fringe to your desired length.
  • Strap: If you're adding a crochet strap, chain the desired length. Single crochet into the second chain from the hook and each chain across. Sew the strap to the inside of the bag.
  • Embellishments: You can add a button, leather strap, or other embellishments to your bag. For a leather strap, you can purchase strap fasteners and attach them to your bag.
  • Fringe: Cut yarn into pieces that measure about 24 inches. Attach these fringes to the bag by creating a loop and pulling the fringe tails through. Add as many fringes as you like, trimming them to your desired length.

Your crochet bag with fringe is now complete! Feel free to add your own creative touches and experiment with different yarns and colours.

cycrochet

Choosing the right yarn for a crochet bag with fringe

Choosing the right yarn for your crochet bag with fringe is essential to ensure your bag is functional and durable. Here are some factors to consider when selecting your yarn:

Yarn Weight

Medium weight or bulky yarns are ideal for crochet bags. Lighter yarns may not be robust enough, while heavier yarns can be cumbersome to carry. However, if you're making a statement purse, a heavier yarn can add a unique touch.

Yarn Fibre

Yarn fibres significantly impact the bag's elasticity, durability, and comfort during crafting. Most crochet bags are made with medium weight DK (Double Knitting) or worsted weight yarns.

  • Cotton and linen yarns are excellent choices as they are less stretchy, reducing the likelihood of sagging over time. "Kitchen cotton" or "craft cotton" are ideal for their sturdiness and affordability. Yarns like Lily Sugar'n Cream Worsted and Patons 100% Cotton DK are popular choices.
  • Wool and acrylic yarns are generally more elastic and prone to sagging. However, pure wool yarns can be used for crochet bags intended to be felted, as the felting process reduces elasticity. Malabrigo's worsted yarn is a premium option for this purpose.
  • Yarn blends, such as Premier's Ribbon yarn (65% cotton and 35% polyester), offer minimal stretch and exceptional durability. Scheepjes Softfun (60% cotton and 40% acrylic) is another blend known for its softness, making it perfect for bags you want to use as pillows.

Colourfastness

Consider using commercially produced bulk-dyed yarns, as they tend to be more colourfast than hand-painted or hand-dyed yarns. However, always test a swatch before committing to a particular yarn to avoid dye transfer onto your clothes or bleeding during laundry.

Pilling Resistance

Crossbody and tote bags rub against your clothes, creating friction that can lead to unattractive pilling. Smooth fibres and tightly twisted yarns with multiple plies (sections) are more resistant to pilling than fuzzy, loosely twisted, single-ply yarns.

cycrochet

Different types of fringes for crochet bags

Adding fringe to a crochet bag is a fun way to change the style of your bag and is a simple process that can be done by beginners. There are many different types of fringes that you can add to your crochet bag, and here are some ideas to get you started:

Long or Short Fringe

Fringe can be long or short, and this will depend on your personal preference and the style you want to achieve. Long fringe is commonly used in weaving as a detail in wall hangings and other works of art. You can replicate this look by adding long fringe to your crochet bag, creating a fun and unique design. Short fringe can also be elegant and subtle, adding a touch of interest to your bag without being too overpowering.

Single or Multiple Edges

Another option for your crochet bag is to add fringe to one, two, or more edges. Adding fringe to multiple edges will give your bag a more consistent and uniform look, while adding fringe to a single edge will create a more subtle and understated appearance. Play around with different placements to see what looks best for your bag.

Colourful Fringe

Using colourful fringe is a great way to add a pop of colour to your crochet bag. You can choose a colour that complements the bag's main colour or go for a contrasting colour to really make a statement. Adding colourful fringe is an excellent way to showcase your personality and creativity.

Tassel Fringe

Tassel fringe is a unique and fun way to add texture and interest to your crochet bag. You can make tassels in different colours and sizes and attach them to the bottom of your bag or even use them as a decorative element on the straps or sides of the bag. Tassels are a versatile and eye-catching option that can elevate the look of your crochet bag.

Braided Fringe

Braided fringe is another option for your crochet bag, adding a touch of intricacy and detail. This type of fringe is created by braiding the yarn before attaching it to the bag. It's an excellent choice for a more subtle and elegant look, and it can be a great way to incorporate multiple colours or types of yarn into your design.

With these ideas in mind, you can start experimenting and creating your own unique crochet bag with fringe!

cycrochet

How to assemble a crochet bag with fringe

To assemble a crochet bag with fringe, you will need to follow these steps:

Firstly, fold the bag body in half. Take the yarn ends from the front and side of the bag, holding them together to create an overhand knot close to the bag's side. Repeat this process for all the yarn ends on this side of the bag, and then do the same for the other side. This will create a fringed effect. If you have adjusted the height of the bag, you may need to adjust the number of yarn ends you knot together at the end.

Next, sew on the bag strap just below the bag flap. You can add a buttonhole to the flap if desired, and then sew on a button to the front of the bag.

Now, you can add fringe to the bag. Cut fringe pieces to your desired length, usually around 32 inches. Using a hook, grab a few strands of fringe and pull them through to the front of the bag. Insert your fingers through the loop and pull the fringe tails through. Repeat this process along the sides of the bag, adding as much fringe as you like. Trim the fringe to your desired length.

Finally, stitch the side seams of the bag together, catching the 'V' shapes in the stitching. Feed the bag strap through the rings and stitch them in place, then attach the bag clips. Your crochet bag with fringe is now ready to use!

UK Crocheters Love These Amazon Handbags

You may want to see also

cycrochet

Adding a strap to a crochet bag with fringe

Planning the Strap Type and Materials

Before starting, decide on the type of strap you want. You can choose between a shorter purse bottom with a separate longer leather strap or a longer crocheted strap that serves as both the purse bottom and the shoulder strap. For a shorter strap, you can follow the instructions provided for Option A, and for a longer strap, follow Option B.

Gathering the Right Materials

For a shorter strap (Option A), you will need a leather strap and strap fasteners that can be purchased or found. For the longer strap (Option B), you will need to use the same type of yarn and crochet hook as used for the bag. Ensure you have enough yarn to create a strap that is approximately 67" long after blocking.

Creating the Strap

If you opt for the shorter strap (Option A), you can create a foundation chain of 100 or 101 chains, depending on your preference. Then, work a single crochet into each chain across the row. Repeat this process for a total of five rows. If you choose the longer strap (Option B), create a foundation chain of 175 chains, or adjust the number of chains to your desired strap length. Work a single crochet into each chain for a total of five rows.

Blocking and Assembly

Block your strap by stretching it and pinning it to a blocking board, then steam it with a steamer or iron. This helps ensure that the crochet strap doesn't stretch too much with wear. With your strap ready, it's time to assemble the bag. Position the strap so that the seam is at the bottom of the purse. Pin the strap to the front and back pieces of the bag along the sides and bottom. Using a tapestry needle and yarn tails, seam the front and back of the purse to the strap along the pinned edges.

Attaching the Strap

Feed the bag strap edges through the silver rings or strap fasteners, and stitch them into place. Measure approximately 1.5" from each ring or fastener, and then attach the strap to the bag clips. Clip the strap into place on either side of the bag, and your fringe bag with a strap is complete!

Feel free to add your own creative touches, such as beads or different types of fasteners, to make your crochet bag unique and personalised.

Frequently asked questions

A crochet bag with fringe is a type of bag made using crochet techniques, typically featuring a textured or bohemian style with fringe details. It can be a fun and easy project for advanced beginner crocheters.

You can use various types of yarn for this project, such as cotton yarn or acrylic yarn. The pattern you follow may specify a particular type of yarn, such as 100% cotton 4-ply yarn in a specific colour.

The size of the crochet hook will depend on the yarn you are using. For example, if you are using multiple strands of worsted weight yarn (#4 yarn), you may need a larger hook, such as a 10mm (US 15) crochet hook.

To create the fringe, you can cut strands of yarn to the desired length and attach them to the bag. You can stitch or knot the fringe to the bag, depending on the desired effect. The fringe can be added to the edges of the bag, or you can get creative and add it to other areas as well.

Basic crochet techniques such as chaining, single crochet, and double crochet are commonly used in these patterns. Additionally, you may need to know how to increase and decrease stitches to shape the bag, as well as how to sew or weave in ends to finish the project neatly.

Written by
Reviewed by
Share this post
Print
Did this article help you?

Leave a comment