Crochet A Spacious Messenger Bag: A Pattern For The Seasoned Crafter

If you're looking for a large messenger bag crochet pattern, you're in luck! There are several patterns available online that can help you create a stylish and functional bag. The Messenger Star Crochet Bag pattern, for instance, combines basic crochet stitches to create a unique and eye-catching design. This pattern is suitable for intermediate crocheters and can be customised to your liking. You can also find patterns on Etsy, with some even offering video tutorials to guide you through the process. So, whether you're a beginner or an experienced crocheter, you'll be able to create a beautiful and unique bag to show off.

Choosing the right yarn

Yarn Weight

The weight of the yarn refers to its thickness, with lighter yarns labelled from 0 to 3 and heavier yarns labelled from 4 to 7. For a large messenger bag, a medium to bulky weight yarn is ideal. A weight 4 yarn, also called medium, aran, or worsted, is one of the most common weights and perfect for beginners. A weight 5 yarn, or bulky/chunky yarn, is thicker and may be easier to handle and see your stitches.

Yarn Colour

Opt for a solid, lighter colour for your yarn. Dark colours can make it challenging to see your stitches, leading to potential mistakes. Lighter colours allow you to easily track your progress and identify any errors.

Yarn Type

Yarn can be made from various fibres, both synthetic and natural. The three most common choices for beginners are wool, cotton, and acrylic yarn. Wool is resilient and forgiving of mistakes, but some people may have wool allergies. Cotton is inelastic, making it slightly more challenging to work with, but it's a good choice for items that need to hold their shape. Acrylic is a popular choice due to its affordability, wide range of colours, and ease of use, but cheaper options may be more prone to splitting.

Stitch Definition

Selecting a yarn with good stitch definition will make it easier for beginners to count stitches and recognise mistakes.

Washability

Consider the washability of the yarn, especially if you plan to use the bag often. Acrylic and cotton yarns are typically machine washable, while natural fibres like wool usually require hand washing.

Price

As a beginner, it's a good idea to choose a more affordable yarn as you're learning the craft. Wool, cotton, and acrylic are great options that offer a range of prices.

Yardage

When selecting your yarn, pay attention to the yardage on the label to determine how many balls you'll need for your project. Calculate this by taking the total yardage from your pattern and dividing it by the yardage on one ball of yarn.

Dye Lot

If your project requires more than one ball of yarn, ensure they are from the same dye lot to ensure consistent colouring throughout.

Hook Size

Use the hook size recommended on the yarn label. As a beginner, it's best to start with the suggested size and adjust as needed based on your tension.

Personal Preferences

Ultimately, choosing the right yarn depends on your personal preferences and the specific project. Experiment with different yarns, fibres, and colours to find what works best for you and your large messenger bag crochet pattern.

How to assemble the bag

To assemble the bag, you will need to sew the different parts together. Here is a step-by-step guide:

• Join the front pocket to the bag front. Place the pocket in the centre of the bag, approximately 2 rows from the top. Pin it in place if desired. Use a bit of yarn and a yarn needle to whip stitch the pocket in place.
• Below the pocket, you can optionally place and secure two metal locks, buttons, or velcro.
• Join the two inside pockets to the inside of the bag back. Position the pockets so that the tops are lined with row 15 of the bag back and flap. Whip stitch into place.
• Join the bottle holder to the inside of the bag side. Place the bottle holder approximately 5 rows down from the side edge. Line up the bottle holder edges with the side edges and pin if desired. Whip stitch along the sides of the bottle holder to secure it in place.
• Join the bag sides to the front and back of the bag. Line up the bag side with the top of the bag front and at row 20 of the bag back. Working through both thicknesses, join the yarn through the front and side of the bag. Reverse sc through both thicknesses along each side and bottom of the bag. Continue to reverse sc along the top front of the bag. Join with a slip stitch in the first stitch. Fasten off, and weave in your ends.
• Repeat the above process around the back and sides of the bag and continue to reverse sc around the front flap of the bag.
• To join the bag strap, attach a metal buckle to each of the back sides of the bag using a whip stitch, approximately 2 rows from the top. Thread the narrower end of the bag handle through the buckle and sew into place.
• Fix bag buckles to the bag sides in the desired place. For example, you could place them about 2 inches in from the top of the bag sides.
• Add any additional hardware and buckles to your bag according to their instructions.
• Fasten off, weave in any remaining ends, and your bag is ready!

Adding hardware to the bag

Adding hardware to your crocheted bag will give it a finished, boutique-worthy look. You can add buckles to the front of the bag and to attach the bag strap to the sides. You can also add metal locks or buttons to the front pocket.

• Purchase your hardware: You can find bag hardware, such as buckles, locks, and buttons, at craft stores or online.
• Plan the placement: Before attaching the hardware, decide on the placement of each piece. For example, you may want to place buckles 2 inches from the top of the bag sides.
• Attach the hardware: Using a needle and thread, sew the hardware pieces to the bag. Alternatively, you can use a whip stitch or backstitch to secure the hardware.
• Test the hardware: Once the pieces are attached, test them to ensure they are secure. Try opening and closing buckles or locks to make sure they function properly.
• Add additional hardware: If desired, you can add more hardware to further embellish your bag. Follow the instructions for each piece, as some hardware may have specific attachment methods.

By adding hardware to your crocheted bag, you can create a unique and functional piece that showcases your creativity and attention to detail.

Adapting the pattern for different shapes and sizes

When adapting a crochet pattern for a large messenger bag, there are several ways to modify the pattern to achieve different shapes and sizes.

Firstly, it is important to understand the concept of gauge or tension square, which is usually provided at the beginning of a pattern. This indicates that a certain number of stitches and rows will measure a specific size, typically 10 cm x 10 cm. Before starting a new project, it is recommended to make a gauge swatch to get an idea of the final dimensions, as individual crocheting tension varies. By making a larger swatch, counting the stitches, and performing some simple calculations, you can adjust the number of stitches and rows to achieve your desired length and width.

One way to adapt the pattern for a larger messenger bag is to use a larger crochet hook. The larger the hook, the larger the stitches, and consequently, the larger the finished product. For example, if you want to increase the size of your large messenger bag, using a larger hook with the same yarn will result in a bigger bag.

Another method to increase the size is by double-stranding the yarn. This involves holding two pieces of yarn together and working with the same or a larger hook. This technique not only increases the size of the bag but also allows for creative colour combinations.

Additionally, you can increase the height of the stitches. By using taller stitches, such as going from half double crochet to double crochet, you can add more volume to your bag. This method also allows you to play with different textures, creating a more visually appealing and tactile project.

On the other hand, if you want to make a smaller bag, you can use thinner yarn and a smaller hook. This will result in tighter stitches and a more compact bag. You can also decrease the height of the stitches by using shorter stitches, such as switching from double crochet to half double crochet.

Furthermore, you can add textures and details by experimenting with different stitch types. For example, using double treble crochet adds texture and requires an additional yarn-over to make the stitch. Playing with different stitch types can give your bag a unique look and feel.

Lastly, colour changes can be a simple yet effective way to modify your large messenger bag pattern. You can use multiple colours of yarn, add stripes, or create colour patterns to suit your style or the occasion.

By combining these techniques, you can create a large messenger bag that is not only functional but also reflects your personal style and creativity.

How to attach the strap

To attach the strap to your crocheted messenger bag, you can use a yarn needle to stitch it up. Sewing the strap on with a yarn and needle is a good option for a pouch or bag that will be carrying weight. You can also use slip stitches if you are attaching the strap to the edges.

If you are attaching the strap further down the side of the bag, the yarn needle and sewing method would be the best option. Sew a couple of neat passes back and forth for stability, making sure to sew the corners down well and go up the side of the strap a bit.

Another option is to use metal buckles. First, attach the metal buckles to each side of the bag with a whip stitch, about 2 rows from the top. Then, thread the narrower end of the bag strap through the buckle and sew it into place.

Frequently asked questions