Hand Crocheted Bags: Creative Patterns To Try

There are many different types of crochet handbags that you can make, from tote bags to purses and backpacks. The best yarn for making bags is usually a natural fibre like cotton, which is strong and washable. You can also use acrylic yarn, but make sure it's not too stretchy. When it comes to stitches, it's best to use tight, durable ones that hold their shape well, such as the half-double crochet or the corner-to-corner technique.

Crochet tote bags

Getting Started with Crochet Tote Bags

Before you begin crocheting your tote bag, it's important to understand the construction process. Most crochet tote bags are worked from the bottom up, starting with a chain or a magic loop. You will increase stitches to create a circular or oval base for the bag. The sides of the bag are then formed by working stitches without increases. The strap or handle can be integrated into the bag's design or stitched separately and sewn on. Alternatively, you can opt for a flat rectangular bottom, or work on the sides first and then stitch a long rectangle to form the bottom, sides, and strap in one go.

Materials Required for Crochet Tote Bags

When it comes to materials, crochet tote bags are relatively simple and require only a few supplies:

• Yarn: Choose a strong, easy-to-wash, colourfast, and pill-resistant yarn for durability. Cotton yarns are a popular choice for their inexpensiveness, durability, and stretch. Acrylic yarns are also a good option, offering colourfastness and machine washability.
• Crochet hook: Select an appropriately sized hook for the weight of your yarn or as specified in the pattern.
• Stitch marker: Useful for projects worked in the round to keep track of the end of each round.
• Scissors: For trimming yarn.
• Yarn needle: Essential for weaving in ends and sewing bag pieces together.
• Notions: Zippers, buttons, stitch markers, clasps, bag handles, liners, and bottoms can be added for extra functionality and style.

Popular Patterns and Designs for Crochet Tote Bags

Now, let's explore some popular patterns and designs to inspire your next crochet tote bag project:

• Solid Fabric Tote Bags: These bags feature a more solid fabric construction, making them ideal for carrying groceries or books. They usually have a flat oval or rectangular base worked in continuous rounds, with stitches divided to form panels for the body.
• Lacy Tote Bags: Perfect for the beach or a trip to the market, lacy tote bags feature more open and mesh-like stitches. Play with colours and textures to create a unique look.
• Granny Square Tote Bags: Granny squares give a modern twist to the classic crochet pattern. They are a great way to use leftover yarn from other projects and can be lined to create an everyday bag.
• Bulky or Super Bulky Yarn Tote Bags: Larger yarn sizes result in faster crocheting and sturdier bags. These bags are perfect for library books or carrying multiple essentials. They are often worked in continuous rounds, with some featuring contrasting tops or tapestry crochet designs.

Where to Find Crochet Tote Bag Patterns and Supplies

If you're looking for specific patterns and supplies to create your own crochet tote bag, websites like Etsy offer a wide range of options, including ready-made bags, patterns, and yarn. Additionally, sites like Stitch11 provide free and easy-to-follow crochet tote bag patterns for beginners and experienced crafters alike.

So, whether you're a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, creating your own crochet tote bag is a fun and rewarding project. With the right materials, patterns, and a bit of creativity, you can make a stylish and functional accessory that reflects your unique personality. Happy crocheting!

Crochet purses

Yarn and Supplies

When it comes to choosing the right yarn for your crochet purse, natural fibres like cotton are a good choice as they are sturdy and provide crisp stitch definition. Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is a popular option for its strength, smooth appearance, and vibrant colours. You can also opt for acrylic yarns, but choose varieties with minimal stretch and resistance to pilling. The crochet hook size will depend on the yarn you select, so be sure to check the label. Other essential supplies include a tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers, and any pattern-specific items like buttons, zippers, or leather straps.

Patterns and Techniques

There are numerous crochet purse patterns available online, ranging from simple to complex designs. Some common stitches used for purses include half-double crochet, corner-to-corner (C2C) technique, herringbone double crochet, and moss stitch. If you're a beginner, opt for a basic pattern that uses simple stitches like single crochet and double crochet. You can also find patterns that incorporate special techniques like Tunisian crochet or finger crochet.

Customisation and Embellishments

Customising your crochet purse is a fun way to make it unique and reflect your personality. Here are some ideas for embellishments:

• Handles made from crochet, leather, fabric, or rope
• Printed fabric lining
• Zippers or magnetic clasps for closure
• Organisational pockets in different colours and sizes
• Fringe or lace edging for a vintage look
• Leather or cork labels for a boutique feel
• Cross-stitch embroidery
• Tassels, pom-poms, and applique crochet flowers for a boho vibe
• Metal grommets for secure strap holes

Tips for Success

To ensure your crochet purse is durable and long-lasting, consider these tips:

• Choose a sturdy yarn with minimal stretch.
• Use a smaller hook size to create tighter stitches.
• Opt for closed stitches like single and half-double crochet for a more rigid fabric.
• Add a fabric lining to prevent stretching and keep small items secure.
• Use cardboard, plastic canvas, or other rigid materials for a solid base.
• Reinforce crochet handles by adding an inner canvas belt to prevent stretching.

Crochet handbags

Choosing Yarn and Stitch

When selecting a yarn, it is best to opt for a durable, natural fibre such as cotton, which is strong, affordable and provides crisp stitch definition. Acrylic yarns can also work, but it is important to choose a type that does not stretch too much. Medium-weight cotton yarn is a popular choice for crochet bags.

For stitches, it is recommended to use tight, durable stitches that hold their shape well. Closed stitches such as single and half-double crochet are good options, as they result in a more rigid fabric compared to mesh or lace patterns. Other stitch options include the corner-to-corner (C2C) technique, herringbone double crochet, moss stitch, knit stitch and Tunisian crochet simple stitch.

Bag Shapes and Styles

There are several ways to construct a crochet bag, depending on your preference:

• Working in the round to create seamless totes and drawstring bags.
• Crocheting panels in rows for front and back pieces, then seaming them together.
• Crafting two identical shapes (such as circles or squares) and joining them.
• Creating a rectangle, folding it in half and seaming the sides to form a bag.

Adding Features

You can personalise your bag with a range of features, including:

• Handles made from crochet, leather, fabric or rope.
• Printed fabric lining.
• A zipper or magnetic clasp to keep the bag closed.
• Pockets in different colours, sizes and designs.
• Fringe, lace edging or tassels for a bohemian touch.
• Leather or cork labels for a boutique feel.
• Cross-stitch embroidery.
• Appliqué crochet flowers.
• Metal grommets to secure the strap holes.

Patterns and Tutorials

There are numerous free crochet bag patterns and tutorials available online, offering a range of styles such as:

• Totes
• Purses
• Backpacks
• Drawstring bags
• Market bags
• Beach bags
• Bucket bags
• Clutches
• Crossbody bags

So, whether you are a beginner or an experienced crocheter, there are plenty of options to create a stylish and functional crochet handbag that reflects your unique taste and personality.

Crochet backpacks

If you're looking for a new crochet project, a crochet backpack could be the perfect choice. Not only are they functional and practical, but they also allow you to express your style and personality. Here are some ideas for crochet backpacks to get you inspired:

The Florence Backpack

This stylish, ergonomic, and comfortable backpack is a great choice for a day at the beach or a trip to the farmer's market. It features drawstrings to keep your belongings secure. You can find the pattern for this backpack on hopefulhoney.com, and the suggested yarn is Lion Brand Rewind Yarn.

Bohemian Drawstring Backpack

Bring out your bohemian side with this casual and sturdy drawstring backpack. This practical bag even has an interior pocket for your cell phone, and you can add a tassel for a pop of colour. The yarn weight suggested for this pattern is worsted, and the recommended yarn is Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton.

Wildrose Backpack

Unfortunately, I wasn't able to find much information about this crochet backpack pattern, but it seems to be a popular choice on Etsy.

Summer Boho Backpack

This trendy woven crochet straw backpack is perfect for a vacation or a day at the beach. It features a flap and drawstring closure and is available in beige and khaki colours.

Crochet Kit Backpack for Beginners

If you're new to crochet, this backpack kit from Amazon might be a good choice. It includes a step-by-step video tutorial, 16 rolls of crochet yarn in different colours, 9 crochet hooks, a crochet bag, and other accessories.

Other Options

If you're feeling creative, you can also find patterns for crochet mouse backpack buddies, floral mini bags, and drawstring backpacks with sun and moon designs. You can also find crochet backpack patterns on websites like Ravelry and Etsy, as well as free patterns on blogs like hopefulhoney.com and sarahmaker.com.

Crochet drawstring bags

To make a crochet drawstring bag, you'll need the following materials:

• Yarn in your preferred colour and texture.
• A crochet hook that complements your yarn size.
• Scissors for cutting the yarn.
• A yarn or tapestry needle for weaving in ends.
• Optional decorations like beads, charms, or embroidery thread.

Here's a step-by-step guide to creating your own crochet drawstring bag:

• Creating the base: Start with a magic circle to eliminate any hole at the bottom of your pouch. Work a series of single crochet (sc) stitches into the magic circle to form the base. The number of stitches will depend on your desired pouch size.
• Working in rounds: Continue working in a spiral without joining to create the sides of the bag. This technique ensures a seamless look. If you're making a circular base, you may need to increase stitches in the first few rounds to maintain flatness before working up to form the sides.
• Adding the drawstring closure: Once you've reached the desired height, crochet a round to create a channel for the drawstring. You can do this by crocheting chain spaces or using a stitch that creates holes. Chain a length of yarn and thread it through the channel. Add beads or charms to the ends of the drawstring for a decorative touch.
• Finishing touches: Embellish your crochet pouch with beads, charms, or embroidery to make it unique. These small details can turn a simple pouch into a cherished item.

Some tips for making the perfect crochet drawstring bag:

• Maintain consistent tension for a neat finish.
• Experiment with different types of yarn (cotton, wool, acrylic) to observe their effects on the bag's look and feel.
• Practise the stitches on a test swatch if you're new to crocheting.
• Choose a drawstring material that is durable and complements your yarn choice.

Frequently asked questions