The Perfect Boho Accessory: Crochet Crossbody Bag

The boho bag is a stylish accessory, and when it's a crossbody crochet bag, it's also a practical choice. The handmade, bohemian-style bag is a unique fashion statement, and with its versatile design, it can be worn across the body or over the shoulder. With a range of colours and patterns available, from mustard unicolor to multicolour, there's a bag to suit every taste. These bags are often compact, lightweight, and perfect for carrying small items like phones and wallets, making them ideal for summer events, festivals, and outdoor activities.

Crossbody boho bag crochet patterns

Boho bags are trendy because of their eclectic designs and versatility. If you're looking to make your own, there are plenty of crochet patterns available online. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Urban Nomad Boho Bag

This bag is built from a pair of squares and triangles which are easily joined before a playful fringe is added. The pattern includes instructions for three strap options: a basic crochet strap, a leather belt, or a six-strand braid. You can also add an optional fabric liner to protect your belongings.

Crossbody Circle Bag

This bag is perfect for summer and date nights. The pattern includes instructions for both a crocheted strap and a faux leather strap. The bag is lined, which helps it keep its shape.

Sandy Crossbody Tote

This bag's relaxed and versatile design fits seamlessly into the bohemian aesthetic. The use of natural, earthy tones and textured stitches adds to its boho charm.

One Skein Boho Bag

This bag pattern is perfect for craft fairs as it's quick to make and only requires one skein of yarn.

Bamboo Boho Bag

This bag is the perfect size for holding your wallet, phone, and chapstick. You'll have the chance to use a variety of colours if you'd like.

Boho Reel Time Crossbody Bag

This bag pattern allows you to create a stylish circle bag, complete with a crossbody strap and a magnetic snap closure. The pattern includes options for both large and small sizes, as well as lining instructions.

Granny Square Bag

This bag is made by connecting eleven squares to create a modern sling bag for your essentials. A Romanian cord strap guarantees your precious cargo is secure.

Aztec Boho Crossbody Purse

This stylish bag has leather (or faux leather) details. It's a great pattern for the advanced crocheter.

Boho Market Bag

This bag is big enough to take to the market but can also be used as a purse if you choose to line it. The bottom of the bag is pretty big, so you can carry a water bottle or other heavier items.

Boho Beachy Tote & Market Bag

This bag is made with cotton yarn and a 4mm crochet hook. It works up quickly and has measurements of 18.5″ from handles to base and a height of 12″.

Crossbody boho bag crochet for beginners

Boho bags are a fun, stylish, and comfortable accessory to add to your wardrobe. If you're a beginner at crocheting, there are some simple patterns you can follow to create your own unique crossbody boho bag. Here's a step-by-step guide to help you get started:

Choose Your Materials

First, you'll need to gather the necessary materials. For a beginner-friendly project, you'll want to select a worsted-weight yarn in a colour or colours of your choice. You'll also need a crochet hook that corresponds to the size of your yarn. Other materials include a tapestry needle, fabric scissors, fabric for the lining, a needle and thread, pins, and a faux leather strap.

Create a Pattern or Follow an Existing One

You can find several crossbody boho bag patterns online, like the one provided by Maria's Blue Crayon, or you can create your own pattern. If you're a beginner, it's recommended to start with a simple pattern and work your way up to more complex designs. The pattern should include instructions for the bag's body, strap, and any additional features like pockets or closures.

Start Crocheting

Follow the pattern's instructions to begin crocheting your bag. Take your time and carefully count your stitches to ensure accuracy. If you're unfamiliar with any of the stitches or techniques mentioned in the pattern, there are plenty of online resources and video tutorials that can provide additional guidance. Remember to weave in any loose ends as you work to maintain a neat appearance.

Assemble the Bag

Once you've finished crocheting the bag's body and strap, it's time to assemble the pieces. This may involve sewing the pieces together, adding a lining, and attaching the strap. If you're not confident in your sewing skills, don't worry—lining a bag is a straightforward process that even beginners can tackle. You can follow the step-by-step lining instructions provided by Maria's Blue Crayon as a guide.

Finishing Touches

After your bag is assembled, you can add any final touches, such as buttons, beads, or other embellishments. You can also leave it as is for a more minimalist look. Either way, your unique crossbody boho bag is now ready to be shown off!

Crossbody boho bag crochet care instructions

To keep your crossbody boho bag crochet in its best condition, it's important to practice preventative care. This means not letting your bag get dirty, soaked, or dried out. Here are some care and cleaning instructions to help you do that:

General Care Instructions:

• Try not to get your bag dirty, soaked, or dried out.
• If your bag has any metal objects or sequins attached, always check the yarn label before experimenting with cleaning methods.
• Avoid hanging your bag on a wire or exposing it to direct sunlight, as this will cause it to lose its shape and fade.

Cleaning Instructions:

• For an overall or internal cleaning, start by removing all contents from your bag, including emptying any pockets.
• Handwashing is the safest way to clean your bag and get it thoroughly clean. Use mild laundry detergent formulated for delicate or baby clothes to avoid chemical reactions.
• Add a splash of the mild detergent to a bowl of cold water. Dip a soft, clean cloth or non-abrasive sponge into the water, wringing out the excess.
• Gently rub the surface of your bag. Rinse the cloth or sponge so it is free of detergent and dampen with water, wiping off any soap residue.
• To dry, use a clean, dry cloth to wipe your bag. You can also let your bag air-dry until it is completely moisture-free.

Washing Machine Instructions:

Although handwashing is recommended, you can also wash your crochet bag in the washing machine, especially if it is made of synthetic yarn.

• Use the delicate cycle and place your bag inside a mesh laundry bag if possible.
• Check the yarn label for the proper water temperature setting. If you don't have the label, use the cool water setting to avoid shrinkage.
• Wash your bag alone to avoid colours bleeding from other laundry items.
• Most synthetic yarns can be dried in the dryer on a low heat setting.

Spot Cleaning Instructions:

For bags with reinforcement or those made from very fine yarn, spot cleaning might be the only option.

• Add some mild detergent to a bowl of cold water. Soak a clean, soft cloth or sponge in the bowl, then wring out the excess water.
• Carefully rub your bag with the cloth or sponge, focusing on the areas that need to be cleaned.
• Rinse the cloth or sponge to remove any detergent and dampen it with clear water. Gently dab your bag until you remove any detergent residue.

Crossbody boho bag crochet colour options

When it comes to colour options for your crossbody boho bag crochet project, the possibilities are endless! Whether you're looking for a fun and colourful statement piece or a more neutral accessory to match any outfit, there is a wide range of colours and patterns to choose from.

If you're feeling adventurous, why not try a multicoloured option? This could include vibrant shades such as red, orange, yellow, green, blue, or purple, combined with neutral colours like black, white, or beige, to create a unique and eye-catching design. Etsy offers a variety of multicoloured options, including a "Multicolor Cotton Bag" and a "Colorful Crochet Tassel Bag".

On the other hand, if you prefer a more understated look, neutral colours such as black, white, beige, grey, or brown can give your bag a classic and elegant feel. Amazon offers a "Multi Colored Black" option, while Colourful 4U has a range of neutral-coloured bags, including "Desert Dreams Bohemian Handbags" and "Solid Crochet Bags".

You could also consider using different shades of the same colour to create a cohesive and stylish look. For example, you could use different shades of blue, green, pink, or orange to add depth and interest to your bag.

Additionally, you may want to incorporate some fun patterns or designs into your bag. This could include stripes, chevron patterns, floral designs, or geometric shapes. For example, Colourful 4U offers a "Chevron Perissa Beach Bag" and a "Desert Sunset Summer Bag" with a unique pattern.

Don't be afraid to mix and match colours, patterns, and textures to create a bag that truly reflects your personal style. Whether you prefer a bold and vibrant statement piece or a more subtle and versatile accessory, the colour options for your crossbody boho bag crochet project are endless!

Crossbody boho bag crochet size guide

The size of a crossbody boho bag depends on its purpose and the items it needs to accommodate. For example, a small hippie-style crossbody bag may measure 7.5 inches tall and 7 inches wide, with a 23-inch strap drop, comfortably fitting a small wallet, phone, keys and other small essentials.

On the other hand, a larger bag may be more suitable for a trip to the market, requiring a bigger base to accommodate heavier items such as a water bottle.

When crocheting a boho bag, it's important to keep in mind the desired size and shape, whether it be a rectangle or circle, and adjust the pattern accordingly. Increasing or decreasing the number of rows and stitches will result in a bigger or smaller bag.

Additionally, the strap length should be considered for comfort and preference. A longer strap may provide more flexibility in how the bag is worn, such as across the body or over the shoulder.

Size Considerations:

• Purpose: Consider what items the bag will hold. For example, a wallet, phone, keys, makeup, etc.
• Strap Length: Determine the desired strap drop for comfort and wearing style.
• Shape: Decide on the shape, such as rectangle or circle, and adjust the pattern accordingly.

Tips for Adjusting Size:

• Rows and Stitches: To make a bigger bag, increase the number of rows and stitches. For a smaller bag, do the opposite.
• Strap Customization: Allow flexibility in how the bag is worn by adjusting the strap length.
• Pattern Adaptation: When following a pattern, make size adjustments as needed to achieve the desired bag size.

By taking these considerations into account, you can create a crossbody boho bag that is both functional and fashionable, accommodating your everyday essentials with a stylish and comfortable fit.

Frequently asked questions