The Perfect Lantern Tote: Crochet Pattern For A Magical Bag

The Lantern Bag Pattern is a free crochet pattern for a stylish and functional bag. This bag is perfect for everyday use, shopping, or even as a beach bag. The pattern is suitable for beginners and works up quickly, making it a great project for those new to crocheting. The bag is made with two strands of yarn held together, creating a thick and dense fabric that is perfect for a tote bag. The finished product is approximately 11 high, 16 long, and 4 deep, with straps that are 10 away from the bag. The pattern includes detailed instructions for each step, making it easy for anyone to create their own crochet tote bag.

How to crochet a lantern tote bag

Crocheting a lantern tote bag is a fun and simple project that can be completed in a few steps. Here's a guide to help you get started:

Materials Required:

• AMERICAN THREAD COMPANY "AUNT LYDIA'S" HEAVY RUG YARN in Light Rose colour – 3 skeins of 70 yd each
• Plastic Crochet Hook in Size H or any size that will result in a stitch gauge of 3 sts = 1 inch

Steps to Crochet the Lantern Tote Bag:

• Starting the Bag: Begin by chaining 4, then join this chain to form a ring. Chain 1 more, and work 8 single crochet (s c) stitches into the ring. Do not join this round or the following ones.
• Round 2: Place a marker at the beginning of this round and work 2 s c in each s c.
• Round 3: Continue working in s c, but now work 2 s c in every other stitch.
• Round 4: Again, work in s c, but this time, work 2 s c in every 3rd stitch.
• Round 5: Work 2 s c in every 4th stitch.
• Round 6: Work 2 s c in every 5th stitch.
• Round 7: Work 2 s c in every 6th stitch.
• Round 8: Now, work in the back loops of the stitches only. Do 1 s c in each stitch, join with a slip stitch (sl st) in the first s c, then chain 1 and turn.
• Round 9: Working in the back loops of the stitches, do 1 double loop stitch in each s c. To make a double loop stitch, insert the hook into the stitch, wind the yarn clockwise around your index finger twice, then complete the stitch by picking up both loops and pulling through. Join with a sl st, chain 3, and turn.
• Round 10: Working through both loops of the double loop stitch, do 1 s c in each of the 2 loops all around, join in the first s c, then chain 1 and turn.
• Round 11: Working in the front loops of each s c, work 1 double loop stitch in each s c, join, chain 3, and turn.
• Rounds 12-15: Repeat Rounds 10 and 11, then repeat Round 10 again.
• Rounds 21-24: Do not join the following rounds. Working in the back loops of the stitches only, work 1 s c in each s c.
• Round 25: Chain 1, skip 1 s c, then s c in the next s c. Repeat this around.
• Round 26: Work 1 s c in each s c and in each chain 1 space.
• Round 27: Same as Round 21.
• Round 28: Chain 1, slip stitch in the next s c, and repeat this all around. Cut the yarn.
• Ties: Chain 100, work 1 sl st in the back loop of each stitch of the chain, then cut the yarn. Lace these ties through the chain 1 meshes, starting and ending each chain from opposite sides of the bag, and tie the ends.

Additional Tips:

• You can adjust the size of the bag by starting with a longer chain.
• This pattern can be adapted for different ages; the smaller bag is perfect for toddlers, while the larger one suits 2-5-year-olds.
• For a sturdier bag, hold two strands of yarn together while crocheting.

Now you have all the instructions to create your own lantern tote bag! Enjoy the process of crafting your unique bag, and feel free to add any personal touches to make it even more special.

Choosing the right yarn

Yarn Weight and Thickness:

The weight and thickness of the yarn are crucial factors in determining the overall look and feel of your bag. Yarn weight ranges from 0 (lace weight) to 7 (jumbo), with each weight serving a specific purpose. For a lantern tote bag, a medium to bulky weight yarn is recommended to provide structure and durability.

Yarn Fiber:

The type of fiber you choose will impact the bag's texture, drape, and durability. Common yarn fibers for crochet projects include wool, cotton, and acrylic. Wool is resilient and forgiving of mistakes, making it excellent for practising crochet stitches. Cotton, an inelastic fiber, offers a stiffer feel and is ideal for projects that require shape retention. Acrylic yarn is widely available, affordable, and comes in various colours, making it a popular choice for crochet enthusiasts.

Yarn Colour:

When selecting a yarn colour, consider your personal style and the purpose of the bag. Light-coloured yarns are generally easier to work with as they allow you to see your stitches clearly. If you plan to use multiple colours or create a specific pattern, ensure you purchase enough yarn of each colour to complete your project.

Yarn Price:

Yarn prices can vary depending on the fiber and brand. As a beginner, it is advisable to choose affordable options like cotton, wool, or acrylic to practise with before investing in more expensive yarns.

Yarn Yardage:

When purchasing yarn for your lantern tote bag, pay attention to the yardage on the label. Calculate how much yarn you will need by dividing the total yardage required for your project by the yardage per ball of your chosen yarn. It is generally a good idea to buy an extra ball or two to ensure you don't run out midway through your project.

Yarn Texture:

For your first few projects, it is recommended to choose a smooth yarn over a textured one. Textured yarns, such as eyelash yarns, can be challenging to work with and may frustrate beginners.

Step-by-step instructions

Step 1: Gather your materials

• For this project, you will need two skeins of worsted weight yarn in the colour of your choice. You will need approximately 860 yards of yarn in total. The specific yarn used in the example is Pound of Love in the colour "Olive".
• You will also need a K/10.5 (6.50 mm) crochet hook, a yarn needle, scissors, a measuring tape, a stitch marker, and pins.

Step 2: Create a slip knot and foundation chain

• Begin by creating a slip knot and placing it on your crochet hook. This will serve as your first stitch.
• Next, you will create a foundation chain by yarn over (YO) and pulling the yarn through the loop on your hook. Repeat this process until you have a chain of 31 stitches.

Step 3: Crochet the bottom of the bag

• In the second chain from your hook, single crochet (SC). SC in the next 28 chains. In the last chain, SC 5 times.
• Working into the other side of the chain, SC in the next 28 chains. In the last chain, SC 2 times. You should now have a total of 64 stitches. Slip stitch (Sl St) into the top of the first SC to join.
• Chain 1, then increase by SC 2 times in the first stitch. SC in the next 29 stitches. Increase by SC 2 times in each of the next 3 stitches. SC in the next 29 stitches, then increase by SC 2 times in each of the next 2 stitches. Slip stitch into the top of the first SC to join. You should now have 70 stitches.
• Continue to increase the number of stitches in each round until you reach Round 6, where you will SC in the back loops only of each stitch around (104 stitches). Slip stitch into both loops of the top of the first SC to join.

Step 4: Crochet the body of the bag

• Chain 1, then SC in the first stitch. Chain 1 and skip the next stitch. Continue this pattern around until there is 1 stitch left. Chain 1 and skip the last stitch. Slip stitch into the top of the first SC to join.
• Slip stitch into the first chain 1 space. Chain 1 and SC in the same space. Chain 1 and SC in the next chain 1 space. Repeat this pattern around, slip stitching into the top of the first SC to join.
• Chain 1 and SC in the first stitch. Chain 1 and SC in the next chain 1 space. Repeat this pattern around. After your last SC, do not chain 1. Slip stitch into the top of the first SC to join.
• Repeat Rounds 2 and 3 consecutively until your work measures 11" high (approximately 32 rounds total). End after repeating Round 2.

Step 5: Create the straps

• Start by leaving a 30" starting tail and chaining 7.
• In the third chain from your hook, SC. Chain 1 and skip the next chain. SC in the next chain. Chain 1 and skip the next chain. SC in the last chain.
• Chain 2 and turn. SC in the first chain 1 space. Chain 1 and SC in the next chain 1 space. Repeat this pattern, slip stitching into the top of the first SC to join.
• Repeat Row 2 until your strap measures 40" long (approximately 114 rows). Fasten off, leaving a 30" tail.

Step 6: Assemble the bag

• Turn the bag inside out and pin the straps in place. The straps should be on the inside of the bag, 4" from the sides, with the ends 1" from the bottom. The height from the top of the bag to the top of the straps should be approximately 10".
• Using the 30" tails and a yarn needle, attach the straps to the inside of the tote bag body, working only through the backs of the stitches to ensure the yarn does not show through the front. Attach all around and fasten off.

Now you have a beautiful lantern tote bag, perfect for shopping, the beach, or everyday use!

Tips and tricks

Materials

• You will need yarn, a crochet hook, a yarn needle, scissors, a measuring tape, and a stitch marker.
• The recommended yarn for this project is worsted weight yarn. You can use any size 4 medium yarn, such as Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton or Pound of Love in the color "Olive".
• For the crochet hook, a K/10.5 (6.50 mm) size is suggested.
• The amount of yarn you will need depends on the size of your bag. For a smaller bag, you will need approximately 180 yards of yarn, and for a larger bag, you will need approximately 430 yards.

Stitch Types and Techniques

• This project uses basic stitches such as single crochet, chain, and slip stitches.
• You will be working in rounds, so it is important to place a stitch marker at the beginning of each round to help you keep track.
• The pattern may include special stitches such as the double loop stitch and the crab stitch (also known as reverse single crochet). Make sure you are familiar with these stitches before starting.
• When working on the tote bag body, remember that you will always be working into the first stitch, the stitch attached to the chain.
• Chains never count as stitches, so be sure to skip the chain and work into the next stitch.
• The pattern may include abbreviations such as "sc" for single crochet and "ch" for chain.

Creating the Bag

• The tote bag is made from the bottom up, with the bottom and body worked in rounds.
• The bag pattern will likely include instructions for creating a dense fabric to ensure the bag is sturdy.
• You can adjust the size of the bag by starting with a longer chain. Keep in mind that the bag width will be slightly larger than the length of the starting chain.
• The pattern will specify how to join the rounds, such as joining with a slip stitch.
• When working on the handles, you can adjust the length and width to your preference.
• You can add a lining to your bag to give it a more professional look and ensure your belongings are secure.

Additional Tips

• Consider using a durable yarn that fits your project type to create a stronger and longer-lasting bag.
• Check your gauge before starting to ensure your bag turns out the correct size.
• This project is a great way to use up extra yarn or yarn scraps.

How to attach straps

Now that you've crocheted your bag, it's time to attach the straps to complete your project! Here's a step-by-step guide on how to attach the straps for your lantern tote bag:

• Turn the Bag Inside Out: Before you begin attaching the straps, make sure to turn your bag inside out. This ensures that the stitches and attachments are neat and not visible from the outside.
• Pin the Straps in Place: Position the straps where you want them to be on the bag. For the lantern tote bag, the straps should be placed on the inside of the bag, approximately 4 inches from the sides, with the ends 1 inch from the bottom. The height from the top of the bag to the top of the straps should be around 10 inches.
• Attach the Straps: Using the 30-inch tails of yarn (one strand at a time) and a yarn needle, carefully attach the straps to the inside of the tote bag body. It is important to only work through the backs of the stitches to ensure that the yarn does not show through to the front of the bag. Securely attach the straps all the way around.
• Fasten Off and Weave in the Ends: Once the straps are attached, fasten off the yarn and weave in all the loose ends to secure them.
• Turn the Bag Right Side Out: After attaching the straps, turn the bag right side out again, and your lantern tote bag is now complete!

Your lantern tote bag is now ready to be used or gifted! You can fill it with treats for a fun Halloween adventure or use it as a stylish everyday bag. Enjoy your handmade creation!

Frequently asked questions