Chunky Crochet Bag: A Jolly Good Time

The Jolly Chunky Bag is a crochet bag pattern by Lucy of Attic24. It is a smaller, neater version of the original big floppy yarn bag, made with chunky yarn. The bag is made using a 5mm hook and approximately 400g of chunky yarn. The pattern is available for free on the Attic24 blog and has also been featured in Simply Crochet magazine. The bag can be made using Stylecraft Special Chunky yarn, with 8 coloured buttons. Alternatively, the bag can be made using Scheepjeswol Stonewashed XL yarn in 9 different colours.

The Jolly Chunky Bag is a crochet pattern by Lucy of Attic24

The bag features a colourful design with a scalloped edge and a crochet flower and leaf decoration. The pattern includes detailed instructions for each round of the base and sides, as well as the handles, flowers, and leaves. It also includes a list of the specific colours and buttons used, as well as the number of stitches required for each round.

The Jolly Chunky Bag has been described as a "simple pattern" that is "gorgeously simple" and has received an overall rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars from 70 votes on Ravelry. It is a popular pattern that has been made and shared by many crafters online.

The bag can be made with different types of yarn, such as Stylecraft Special Chunky or Scheepjeswol Stonewashed XL, and can be customised with different colours and buttons. Some crafters have also added a lining to their bags for a more finished look.

The bag is made with Stylecraft Special Chunky yarn

The Jolly Chunky Bag is a fun crochet project that yields a colourful, vibrant bag. The bag is made with Stylecraft Special Chunky yarn, an affordable and versatile option that comes in a wide range of colours. Stylecraft yarn is made from 100% acrylic, making it durable and ideal for everyday use.

The bag requires approximately 400g of chunky yarn and a 5mm hook. The pattern includes nine rounds for the base and 18 rows that make up the sides. Each round is worked with a different colour, creating a fun, multicoloured effect. The base of the bag is made by working out of the central ring, while the sides are worked with the right side (the outside of the bag) facing you.

The handles of the bag are also crocheted, requiring nine rows in total. The pattern suggests using two different shades of green for the handles, with flowers and buttons added for decoration. The flowers are made by crocheting 11 treble stitches into a ring, then working half treble and treble stitches to form petals. The leaves are made using a chain stitch, double crochet, half treble, and treble stitch combination.

The Jolly Chunky Bag is a great project for those who want to experiment with different colours and stitches, resulting in a unique and cheerful bag.

The bag is crocheted using a 5mm hook

The 5mm hook size is also versatile and can be used with a variety of yarn weights, from worsted to bulky. It is a good idea to check the yarn label for the recommended hook size, as using a 5mm hook with a different weight yarn may result in a stiff or floppy fabric.

When crocheting the jolly chunky bag, it is important to maintain an even tension throughout the project. This will ensure that the bag is uniform in size and shape. The 5mm hook will help you achieve this by providing a consistent gauge, which is the number of stitches and rows per inch.

The 5mm hook is also comfortable to hold and easy to manoeuvre, making it a good choice for those who are new to crochet or who have arthritis or hand pain. The hook can be made of different materials such as aluminium, plastic, or bamboo, so you can choose the one that feels best for you.

Using a 5mm hook with the recommended amount of yarn (approximately 400g of chunky yarn) will result in a bag that is approximately 23cm in diameter at the base. The bag will have a nice depth and can be used to carry a variety of items, such as a small Sophie (a crocheted item).

The bag can be lined and buttons added

The Jolly Chunky Crochet Bag is a fun and colourful bag to make, and adding a lining and buttons can give it an extra special touch. Here's a guide on how to do it:

Planning the Lining

First, decide if you want a pocket, a closure, or both. Pockets are great for keeping your phone and other small items easily accessible. If you opt for a closure, you can choose between options like a zipper or a magnetic snap. Keep in mind that adding a closure will require additional steps and materials.

Next, choose the fabric for your lining. You'll need enough fabric to create a single or double thickness lining, depending on your preference. Consider the colour of your yarn and whether you want the lining to blend or contrast with it.

Creating the Lining Pattern

To create a custom lining pattern, start by tracing the outline of your bag onto a piece of paper. Fold the paper in half vertically and make marks about 2.75 inches from the top on both sides. Draw a new line starting from these marks, gradually moving out to 1/2 inch from the original line, and then continue around the sides and bottom of the bag. This new line will be your cutting line.

Cut out the paper pattern and unfold it to ensure both sides match in size. Don't worry about minor imperfections; you're creating a custom pattern!

Cutting and Sewing the Lining

Iron your fabric and cut out two purse pieces (front and back) using the pattern. If you're adding a pocket, cut out two fabric squares for it. Sew the pocket to one of the bag sides, encasing the unfinished edge within the lining seam.

Prepare the top edges of the bag lining by pressing them over to the wrong side. If you're adding a snap, cut a piece of iron-on stabilizer and attach it behind the desired location before installing the snap.

Sew the sides and bottom of the lining, leaving the top open. Remember to use a 5/8" seam allowance for a proper fit.

Attaching the Lining to the Bag

Turn the lining inside out and slip it into the crochet bag. Pin the top edges, ensuring the lining fills up the bottom and sides of the bag, with the top edge about 1/2" below the bag's opening. Hand sew the lining to the bag's opening.

Adding Buttons

Lastly, add buttons to the centre of each flower on the bag. You can use sewing thread and a fine needle to securely attach the buttons.

The bag can be made in different colours

The Jolly Chunky Crochet Bag is a fun project that can be made in a variety of colours to suit your taste. The bag is designed to be a vibrant and colourful accessory, so feel free to experiment with different shades and combinations.

The original pattern by Lucy of Attic24 calls for approximately 400g of Stylecraft Special Chunky yarn in eight different colours, with an additional colour for the handles and flowers. The specific colours she used for the base, sides, and handles are listed in her blog post, along with the exact sequence of colours to achieve the "Attic24 Random Look." However, you can use any chunky yarn and colours of your choice to create your unique bag.

For example, one crafter chose to use Scheepjeswol Stonewashed XL yarn in nine different colours, including Moonstone, Deep Amethyst, Corundum Ruby, and Lemon Quartz, resulting in a vibrant and beautiful bag. You can also add your own personal touches, such as a customised lining, special buttons, or a "Handmade with Love" label, to make your bag even more unique and special.

The bag's colourful design and customisable features make it a fun project for experienced crocheters and a great way to showcase your favourite colours or try out new colour combinations. So, feel free to get creative and choose colours that reflect your personality and style!

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