Crochet Tote Bag: Target's Summer Essential For You

Target offers a variety of crochet tote bags and related products. One option is the Hearth & Harbor 43-piece crochet kit, which includes a canvas tote bag, 20 skeins of yarn, 9 hooks, and 14 accessories. Another option is the Pavilia knitting bag, a large crochet organizer with a clear PVC cover, a shoulder strap, and a robust velcro handle. Target also offers a DIY crochet tote bag kit from Mondo Llama, which includes yarn in five colors, a crochet hook, a needle, and a guidebook.

Crochet tote bag kits

If you're looking for a crochet tote bag kit, Target has a few options to choose from. Here's a closer look at some of the kits available:

Hearth & Harbor 43-Piece Small Crochet Kit

This kit is designed for beginners, kids, and adults, and it contains everything you need to create crochet projects. It includes 20 skeins of yarn in 20 rich colours, 9 crochet hooks in various sizes, and 14 bonus accessories such as stitch holders, stitch markers, a stitch counter, safety pins, sewing needles, scissors, and a tape measure. The kit also comes with a tote bag that's perfect for storing and transporting your supplies. This option is ideal if you're new to crocheting and want a comprehensive set to get started.

Pavilia Knitting Bag Yarn Storage Tote

While not specifically a crochet kit, this storage tote is perfect for organising and transporting your crochet projects and supplies. It features a clear PVC cover that allows you to see and organise your yarn without opening the main compartment, as well as a half-open top secured by magnetic buttons to easily stow away projects mid-work. The bag also has a shoulder strap and a robust velcro handle for easy carrying. Additionally, it has multiple interior and exterior storage pockets, including dividers, clear pockets, and elastic straps for knitting needles and hooks, making it easy to keep your supplies organised.

Mondo Llama DIY Crochet Tote Bag Kit

This kit is perfect for those who want a fun craft project. It includes yarn in five colours, a plastic crochet hook, a needle, and a guidebook with instructions. It's suitable for ages 12 and above and is a great option for those who want to create their own tote bag from scratch. The kit provides everything you need to make a vibrant embroidered pattern, and it's also affordably priced at $15.

These kits offer a range of options for those interested in crocheting, whether you're a beginner looking for a comprehensive set or someone seeking a fun craft project.

Crochet tote bag patterns

If you're looking to create your own crochet tote bag, there are plenty of patterns available online. You can find free patterns on blogs and websites, or you can purchase patterns from online stores or platforms like Etsy. Some patterns are simple and perfect for beginners, while others are more complex and suitable for experienced crocheters.

The Moroccan Tote Bag Pattern

This pattern, available on acrochetjourney.com, adds a touch of class to your tote with leather handles and a magnetic clasp. You can also add a fabric lining to keep your belongings secure. The recommended hook and yarn size will create a dense and tight fabric for your bag.

The Street Fair Crochet Boho Purse

This free-spirited bag is simple to make and perfect for beginners. You crochet two identical circles to form the body of the bag, and then add a strap and tassels for a boho-chic look. The suggested yarn for this pattern is Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton.

The Expandable Market Tote

This sturdy and stylish tote features an expanding mesh pouch. The stitch may look intimidating, but its airy design makes it quick to work up. The pouch is created using the mesh Solomon's knot stitch, which allows for expansion while maintaining its shape.

The Beginner-Friendly Origami Bag

This modern and multi-purpose carryall is perfect for beginners. You'll work with half-double crochet stitches to create a rectangle, which is then folded and seamed together to form the bag. The strap length can be easily adjusted to make it a crossbody bag.

The Granny Square Crossbody Bag

Learn how to make a trendy granny square bag with this free pattern and simple tutorial. You'll connect eleven squares to create a sling bag for your essentials. Finish it off with a border and crochet button closure.

When choosing a pattern, consider the level of difficulty, the type of yarn and hook required, and any additional materials or notions you may need. You can also find crochet kits, like the ones available at Target, that include all the necessary materials and instructions to make a crochet tote bag.

Crochet tote bag accessories

A crochet tote bag is a fun and functional project that showcases your style. Here are some accessories to consider for your next crochet tote bag project:

Yarn

The type of yarn you choose for your crochet tote bag is important, as you want something durable that will hold its shape. Natural fibres like cotton are popular choices as they are often stronger and more durable than acrylic yarns. Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton is a mercerized cotton yarn that is strong, has a smooth appearance, and holds colour brilliantly. It is also washable and affordable. You could also use Lion Brand Rewind Yarn, which is suitable for a variety of crochet bag patterns. Medium-weight cotton yarn is also a popular choice for many crochet bag patterns.

Hooks

When it comes to crochet hooks, it is recommended to use a smaller hook size to create tighter stitches. A hook with a pointed tip can also be easier to use than a rounded one. The Hearth & Harbor Crochet Kit from Target includes nine crochet hooks in various sizes, which is great for different projects and stitch patterns.

Stitch Markers, Stitch Holders, and Counters

Stitch markers, stitch holders, and counters are useful tools to have when working on a crochet project. They help you keep track of your stitches and rows, and can also be used to mark increases or decreases in your stitching. The Hearth & Harbor Crochet Kit includes stitch markers and stitch holders, as well as a row counter.

Scissors, Sewing Needles, and Tape Measure

These basic tools are essential for any crochet project. They are useful for cutting yarn, sewing pieces together, and measuring your work. The Hearth & Harbor Crochet Kit includes a pair of scissors and a tape measure, as well as sewing needles and safety pins.

Lining

Adding a lining to your crochet tote bag can give it a more professional look and help protect your belongings. Fabrics like cotton or canvas can be used for the lining, and it can be sewn into the bag by hand or with a sewing machine.

Handles

Handles can add a stylish touch to your crochet tote bag, and there are many options to choose from. You can opt for crocheted handles, or you can use materials like leather, fabric, or rope. Leather handles can add durability and a stylish touch to your bag. You can even use a thrifted leather belt as a unique handle option.

These are just a few accessories to consider when making a crochet tote bag. With the right tools and materials, you can create a functional and stylish bag that showcases your creativity and personality!

Crochet tote bag yarn

When it comes to choosing the right yarn for your crochet tote bag, there are a few factors to consider. Firstly, durability is key – you'll want a yarn that is strong and sturdy to ensure your bag holds its shape and stands the test of time. Natural fibres such as cotton are often a good choice as they tend to be stronger and more durable than acrylic yarns. Mercerized cotton, in particular, is known for its strength, smooth appearance, and vibrant colour retention. It's also machine washable, making it a practical choice.

Another factor to consider is the weight of the yarn. Medium-weight or worsted cotton yarn is a popular choice for crochet bags as it strikes a balance between durability and flexibility. Bulky or super bulky yarn can also be used, especially for bags intended for colder seasons like fall and winter. For a lightweight, summery bag, you might opt for light or lace-weight yarn.

When choosing a colour for your yarn, consider whether you want a single shade or a multicoloured design. You can opt for a solid colour, a variegated yarn with different shades, or a combination of different colours for a unique, multicoloured bag.

In addition to the type of yarn, you'll also need to select an appropriate crochet hook. The size of the hook will depend on the weight of your yarn – a smaller hook for lighter yarn and a larger hook for bulkier yarn. You may also want to choose a hook with a pointed tip, as this can make it easier to insert the hook between tight stitches.

Lastly, while not necessary, adding a fabric liner to your crochet tote bag can enhance its durability and give it a more polished look. The liner can also help prevent stretching and ensure that small items don't slip through the stitches.

Crochet tote bag lining

Adding a lining to your crochet tote bag can be a great way to make it sturdier and more durable. It can also add structure to your bag, preventing it from stretching and sagging, and protect your yarn from pilling and separating.

Choosing the Right Lining Fabric:

Select a lining fabric that complements the weight of your bag. If your bag is delicate and light, opt for a lightweight fabric like silk or cotton. For heavier bags, choose a more durable lining. Ensure the weights of the bag and lining match to prevent the lining from pulling and causing the bag to stretch or rip.

Calculating the Lining Measurements:

Before cutting your lining fabric, it's crucial to accurately calculate the required measurements. Here are two formulas you can use:

• Width of the lining fabric = width of the bag + (2 x depth of the bag) + 1" for seam allowance.
• Height of the lining fabric = (2 x height of the bag) + depth of the bag + 1/2" for seam allowance.

Cutting and Preparing the Lining Fabric:

Iron your lining fabric to remove any creases before you start cutting. Then, using the measurements from step 2, cut out the lining fabric.

If you want to add a pocket to your lining, cut the pocket fabric to your desired size. Fold and iron a 1/4" seam around the entire pocket, and sew the top to give it a finished edge. Position the pocket on the lining, sew it in place, and add additional lines to create pouches within the pocket.

Sewing the Lining Sides:

Place the lining fabric with right sides together and sew the sides using a 1/2" seam allowance. You can use a sewing machine or sew by hand. If your bag has depth, create depth in the lining by sewing a boxed corner.

Attaching the Lining to the Bag:

Fold the top edge of the lining fabric towards the wrong side by 1/2" and press it with an iron. Place the lining inside the bag with the wrong sides out, and use sewing pins to hold it in place. Using a needle and thread, carefully stitch the lining to the top of the bag using small running stitches.

Optional: Adding a Zipper:

If you want to add a zipper to your lining, unfold the fabric and lay one short edge right-side down, centered on the upper portion of the zipper. Bring the other short edge up to the bottom portion of the zipper, with the right side of the fabric facing the zipper. Iron the seams and sew down the sides of the fabric.

Finally, insert the liner into the bag, pin it in place, and use an invisible stitch to hand sew the top of the bag to the zipper.

Frequently asked questions