Creative Crochet Patterns For Pull String Bags

Crochet bags are a great way to express your style and personality while also being practical and eco-conscious. With the rise of eco-consciousness and the reduction of plastic usage, crochet bags are a fun and trendy way to carry your essentials. From groceries to cosmetics, these bags provide a soft and stylish storage option. The art of crocheting allows for endless customisations, from backpack-style bags to animal and fruit-shaped designs. Whether you're a beginner or an expert, there are various patterns available to create your own unique crochet pull-string bag.

How to crochet a basic drawstring bag

A crochet drawstring bag is a great beginner-friendly pattern that is easy to make and can be used for various purposes, such as storing makeup, keys, phones, and other small items. It can also be used as a shopping bag or a pouch to carry your essentials. Here is a step-by-step guide on how to crochet a basic drawstring bag:

Materials and Tools:

• Any lightweight yarn in your preferred colour and weight (fingering weight or worsted weight yarn)
• Crochet hook in the appropriate size for your chosen yarn (e.g., US size H 5.0 mm for fingering weight yarn)
• Scissors
• Darning needle or tapestry needle
• Thread or cord for the drawstring
• Keyring clips and a gold bag chain (optional)
• Stitch marker set (optional)

Instructions:

• Creating the Base Circle: Start by making a slip knot and chaining (ch) 4 stitches. Join the first and last ch with a slip stitch (ss) to form a ring.
• Round 1: Chain 1, then single crochet (sc) 8 times into the ring. You should have 8 stitches. Place a marker (PM) to denote the beginning/end of the round.
• Round 2: For this round, you will increase the number of stitches. Crochet 2 sc in each sc from the previous round. You should now have 16 stitches.
• Round 3: This round will have a combination of single crochet and chain stitches. Start with 1 sc in the next sc, then 2 sc in the next sc. Repeat this pattern around, ending with a slip stitch to join the round. You will have 24 stitches.
• Rounds 4-11: Continue crocheting in a spiral, increasing the number of stitches in each round to create a flat, circular base. The specific increases will vary depending on the size and shape of your desired bag. For example, in Round 4, you would crochet 1 sc in each sc, and in Round 5, you would do 1 sc in the next sc, then 2 sc in the next sc, and so on.
• Final Round: Once your base circle reaches the desired diameter (e.g., 6 inches), finish it off with a slip stitch and cut the yarn, leaving a tail to weave in later.
• Creating the Bag Body: After creating the base, continue crocheting in a spiral without turning your work. Single crochet in each stitch around until the bag reaches your desired height (e.g., 9.5 inches). Remember to keep the marker to identify the beginning/end of each round.
• Adding the Drawstring: Using a darning needle, weave the drawstring through the bag, leaving a gap of a few stitches (e.g., 3 sts or holes) between each stitch. Position the drawstring about 1.5 to 2 inches below the top of the bag. Pull the ends of the drawstring together and tie them in a bow to secure the bag. You can also knot the ends or use two lengths of cord for a more traditional closure.
• Optional: Adding a Chain Strap: If you want to add a strap, attach bag clips and a chain to each side of the bag. The length of the chain will depend on your preference. You can use pliers to open the clasp on the keyring clip if needed.

Feel free to add embellishments like tassels, beads, or charms to your drawstring bag. You can also experiment with different colours and types of yarn to create unique designs.

Choosing the right yarn for your crochet bag

• Yarn Weight: Most crochet bags are made with medium weight yarns, such as DK (double knitting) or worsted weight yarns. Lighter yarns may not be robust enough, while heavier yarns can make the bag too heavy to carry comfortably.
• Durability and Elasticity: Opt for yarns that are strong and hard-wearing. Avoid highly elastic yarns like wool and acrylic, which tend to sag out of shape over time, especially when carrying heavy items. Cottons and linens are less stretchy and, therefore, more suitable for bags.
• Colourfastness: If your bag will rub against your clothes, ensure the yarn is colourfast to prevent dye transfer. Test this by tying a small bundle of the yarn and soaking it in warm water for 20 minutes. If no colour leaches out, it's colourfast.
• Pilling: The friction between your bag and clothes can cause unsightly pilling. To test for pilling resistance, crochet a swatch and rub it together to see if pills form. Smooth fibres and tightly twisted yarns with multiple plies are more resistant to pilling.
• Washability: Bags can be tricky to wash, especially if they have linings and handles. Choose a yarn that is easy to spot clean or, if possible, machine washable.
• Yarn Feel: If you have the option, feel the yarn before purchasing to ensure it has the desired texture and durability for your bag.
• Colour: The colour of your yarn can make or break your project. Ensure the yarn you select comes in the colour(s) you envision for your bag.

Some recommended yarns for crochet bags include:

• DK weight yarns, such as Coboo (a cotton and bamboo blend) or Swish DK from Knit Picks/We Crochet (superfine merino wool).
• Worsted weight yarns, such as Lion Brand Yarn 24/7 Cotton (mercerized cotton) or Lion Brand Heartland (premium acrylic).
• Bulky weight yarns, such as Biggo Yarn from We Crochet (superwash merino wool and nylon blend) or Berroco Comfort Chunky (acrylic and nylon blend).

Crocheting a bag with a solid base

To crochet a bag with a solid base, you will need to start by making a magic circle or loop. This will form the centre of your circular base. You will then need to crochet a series of stitches into the ring, pulling the tail to close the ring tight and joining with a slip stitch at the end of each round. The number of stitches and rounds will depend on the size of the base you want. For a larger base, you can increase the number of stitches and rounds.

Once you have completed the base, you will continue to crochet in rounds, working chain stitches and double crochet stitches to create the sides of the bag. You can adjust the length of the bag by crocheting more or fewer rounds.

After you have reached the desired height for your bag, you can finish it off by weaving a cord through the top and adding a drawstring or chain strap. You can also add embellishments such as tassels or beads to decorate your bag.

Step 1: Make a magic circle or loop with your chosen yarn.

Step 2: Crochet a series of stitches (such as treble crochet or double crochet) into the ring, pulling tight to close the ring.

Step 3: Join the round with a slip stitch.

Step 4: Repeat steps 2 and 3 to create additional rounds, increasing the number of stitches in each round to form the base of your desired size.

Step 5: Continue to crochet in rounds, working chain stitches and double crochet stitches to create the sides of the bag.

Step 6: Crochet until you reach your desired bag height.

Step 7: Finish the bag by weaving a cord through the top for a drawstring closure, or add a chain strap by attaching it to each side of the bag.

Step 8: Embellish your bag with tassels, beads, or other decorations if desired.

Adding a chain strap to your crochet bag

Materials and Tools:

Before you begin, make sure you have all the necessary materials and tools. You will need:

• A crochet bag (handmade or store-bought)
• Chain strap made of metal, plastic, or other sturdy material
• Pliers (optional)
• Keyring clips or other connectors
• Fabric or ribbon for lining (optional)

Step 1: Measure and Cut the Chain:

Determine the desired length of your chain strap. Consider the drop length from your shoulder to the desired position of the bag. Cut the chain to the appropriate length using pliers, if necessary.

Step 2: Attach the Connectors:

Use keyring clips or other suitable connectors to attach the chain strap to your crochet bag. Open the clasp on the keyring clip using pliers, if needed. Securely attach one end of the chain strap to each side of the bag.

Step 3: Test and Adjust:

Once the chain strap is attached, test the weight distribution by placing items in the bag. Adjust the position of the connectors or add additional reinforcement if needed.

Step 4: Optional Lining:

If desired, you can add a lining to the chain strap for a more polished look and extra comfort. Cut a piece of fabric or ribbon to the length of the chain strap, and carefully wrap it around, securing it with glue or small stitches.

Step 5: Embellish and Personalize:

Feel free to add your own creative touches to your chain strap. You can attach charms, beads, or other decorations to the chain or the connectors. You can also paint or customise the chain to match the colour or style of your bag.

How to crochet a bag for beginners

If you're a beginner at crocheting, there are plenty of simple bag patterns to choose from. You can opt for a drawstring bag, a tote bag, or a shopping bag, depending on your preference. Here's a step-by-step guide on how to crochet a simple drawstring bag for beginners:

Materials Required:

• Yarn: You can use any type of yarn, such as lightweight yarn, fingering weight yarn, or worsted weight yarn. Choose a colour that you like and that will go with your outfits.
• Crochet Hook: The size of the crochet hook will depend on the type of yarn you choose. For lightweight yarn, a US size H 5.0 mm crochet hook is recommended. If you're using worsted weight yarn, you can go up a size or two for a larger bag.
• Scissors: You will need scissors to cut the yarn and finish off your project.
• Needle: A darning or tapestry needle will be useful for weaving in ends and creating the drawstring.
• Drawstring: You can use cord, thread, or a similar material for the drawstring.

Instructions:

• Creating the Base: Start by making a slip knot and chaining (ch) 4 stitches. Join the first and last ch with a slip stitch (sl st) to form a ring. In the ring, crochet 8 single crochet (sc) stitches. In the next round, crochet 2 sc in each sc to create 16 stitches. Continue increasing stitches in each round until you reach the desired diameter for your bag base.
• Building the Sides: Once you have the base, you'll continue to single crochet without turning your work. Work in a spiral, always keeping the right side facing you. Mark the last stitch of each round to keep track. Crochet until your bag reaches the desired height.
• Adding the Drawstring: After you've finished crocheting the bag, cut the yarn and secure and weave in the ends. Then, with your cord or thread, weave through the bag, leaving a few stitches between each weave. Pull the ends of the cord together and tie them in a bow to close the bag. You can also knot the ends or use two lengths of cord for a traditional drawstring closure.
• Optional Embellishments: You can add a tassel, beads, or other charms to your bag. You can also attach a bag chain or strap to each side of the bag if desired.

Remember to choose colours and materials that you like and that reflect your style. Crocheting a bag is a fun and rewarding project, and you'll have a unique and personalised accessory at the end!

Frequently asked questions