The Fun Yip Yip Bag: A Crochet Pattern For Beginners

yip yip bag crochet pattern

The Yip Yips crochet pattern, designed by Carissa Browning, has become a popular project in the crafting community. Inspired by the beloved puppet characters from the iconic children's show, Sesame Street, this pattern allows crafters to create their own unique Yip Yip bags. With their cute googly eyes and colourful fabric, these crocheted creations have captured the hearts of many. The pattern is available for free on Ravelry and offers a fun and creative way to pay tribute to the beloved alien characters.

Characteristics Values
Pattern Designed By Carissa Browning
Pattern Available On Ravelry
Pattern Type Crochet
Pattern Format PDF
Pattern Cost Free
Materials Bernat Blanket/Blanket Brights/Baby Blanket (100% polyester; 220 yards/201 metres per 300-gram skein); 1 skein in the colour of your choice; shown in Royal Blue, Pixie Pink, Pow Purple, Baby Teal, Baby Lilac, and Crimson
Stitch Marker Tapestry Needle
Additional Materials 2 ping pong balls, black paint pen or permanent marker, 2 pipe cleaners (12 inches long), awl, ice pick, corn pick (for poking holes in ping pong balls), black flannel fabric (16 x 24 inches), scissors, sewing needle, black thread
Stitch Count 8 stitches and 8 rows = 4 inches
Circumference 25 inches
Height 14 inches (excluding tentacles and hanging loop)

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Choosing colours and materials

When choosing colours and materials for your Yip Yip bag, there are several things to consider. Firstly, decide on the colour scheme you want to use. The Yip Yips from the show are typically depicted in bright, vibrant colours such as royal blue, pixie pink, powder purple, baby teal, crimson, and spring green. You can choose to replicate these colours or create your own unique combination.

Once you've decided on a colour scheme, you'll need to select the type of yarn or thread. The most popular choice for this project is Bernat Super Bulky Blanket Yarn, which comes in a variety of colours. This yarn is recommended because it holds its form well, giving your bag structure and ensuring it maintains its shape. However, some people have found this yarn a bit challenging to work with due to its bulkiness.

If you're looking for a softer option, Bernat Velvet Yarn is another choice. Keep in mind that this type of yarn may not hold the bag's shape as well, resulting in a droopier appearance. You can also opt for Red Heart Super Saver Yarn, which offers a range of colours, including flamingo, gold, spring green, and turqua.

In addition to the yarn, you'll need a crochet hook. The recommended size for this project is an L/8mm crochet hook. However, be sure to check the specific requirements of the pattern you are using, as hook sizes may vary depending on the design.

Finally, you'll need to choose the type of eyes you want for your Yip Yip bag. You can either crochet the eyes separately and sew them on or use safety eyes that can be attached directly to the bag. If you're making this for young children, ensure that all parts are securely attached to prevent choking hazards.

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Creating the eyes and tentacles

To create the eyes for your Yip Yip bag, you'll need to crochet two small circles. You can use a black paint pen or permanent marker to add some detail to the eyes before stuffing them lightly and stitching them closed. Once they're closed, you can attach them to the main body of the bag.

For the tentacles, you'll need two pipe cleaners that are 12 inches long. You can poke holes in ping pong balls using an awl, ice pick, or corn pick, and then insert the pipe cleaners into the holes to create the tentacles. You can choose to add as many or as few tentacles as you like, and you can also shape the pipe cleaners before inserting them to create different tentacle shapes.

Some people have chosen to omit the tentacles altogether, especially if they plan to use their Yip Yip bag around cats, who might be tempted to shred them. The inside of the bag can also be lined with fabric, but this is optional.

The eyes and tentacles are what give the Yip Yip bag its unique and whimsical character, so have fun and get creative with these features!

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Lining the Yip Yip bag

The Yip Yip crochet pattern by Carissa Browning is a fun project for any crafter. The finished bag measures 25 inches in circumference and 14 inches in height, excluding the tentacles and hanging loop. While the bag is adorable as-is, adding a fabric lining can provide structure, protect the yarn, and give the bag a more professional look. Here are the steps and considerations for lining your Yip Yip bag:

Benefits of Lining Your Crochet Bag

Firstly, adding a lining to your crochet bag provides structure. Without a lining, a crochet bag can be flimsy and unstable. A lining gives the bag extra support so it doesn't stretch out of shape when filled with items. Secondly, a lining protects the yarn. Yarn can pill and separate easily, and a pointy object can quickly create an irreparable hole. Lastly, a lining gives your bag a finished, professional look. It can be the difference between your bag appearing homemade or store-bought.

Lining Considerations

When adding a lining to your bag, you have several options. You can choose to add a plain lining, a zippered lining, or even include pockets. If you're new to sewing, it's best to stick with a plain lining or a simple patch-style pocket. Additionally, consider if you want your lining to be one thickness or double thickness. With one thickness, the raw edges of the fabric will face the inside of your crochet work, which may be fine unless your crochet has large holes. A double thickness is more work but can be worth it for a cleaner finish, especially if you want the inside of your bag to be a different colour than your yarn.

Creating a Pattern for Your Lining

To create a pattern for your lining, start by taping together 4 sheets of 8.5 x 11 paper or laying out enough paper to trace your bag. Place your bag on the paper and use a pencil to trace around it. You may find it easier to do this before sewing on the handles. Once you've traced the bag, you'll need to make some adjustments to the drawing before cutting it out as your pattern. First, fold the paper in half vertically so that the fold runs from the top to the bottom of the bag. Measure from the top peak to each side, about 2.75 inches, and mark this point. From this point, draw a new line that gradually extends to 1/2 inch from the original line, then continue this line around the side and bottom of the bag. This new line is your cutting line for the pattern. Cut out the paper pattern, and you'll have two sides that match in size.

Choosing and Preparing Your Fabric

For the fabric, Carissa Browning's pattern recommends black flannel fabric measuring 16 inches by 24 inches. However, you can choose any colour and type of fabric that suits your taste. Once you've selected your fabric, be sure to press it well before cutting. If you're adding a zipper or a pocket, you'll also need to gather the necessary materials and prepare your fabric accordingly.

Sewing the Lining

After cutting out your fabric according to your pattern, it's time to sew the lining together. If you've opted for a plain lining, fold the fabric in half with right sides touching and sew down each side, leaving the top open. For a zippered lining, you'll need to follow the steps outlined in online tutorials, ensuring that you lay your fabric and zipper correctly before sewing.

Attaching the Lining to the Bag

Finally, it's time to attach the lining to your crocheted bag. Slip the lining inside the bag, making sure it fills up the bottom and sides, with the top edge about 1/2 inch below the bag's opening. Using a needle and thread, hand sew the lining to the opening of the bag, using an invisible stitch for a neat finish.

Final Thoughts

Lining your Yip Yip bag can enhance its structure, protect your crochet work, and give it a polished look. Whether you choose a plain or zippered lining, with or without pockets, your finished bag will be a unique and functional creation. Enjoy your new crocheted companion!

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Using the crocheted Yip Yip bag

The crocheted Yip Yip bag is a fun and versatile accessory that can be used in a variety of ways. Here are some ideas to get you started:

Holiday Decorations

The bag's playful design makes it perfect for holiday decorations. Use them as stockings during the festive season, adding a unique and whimsical touch to your celebrations. Fill them with treats and small gifts for a fun surprise.

Storage Solutions

The Yip Yip bag is ideal for storing toys, especially for children. Its colourful and quirky design will make tidying up fun, and the bag's ample size can accommodate a variety of items. You can also use it to store kids' laundry, keeping their rooms neat and organised.

Plastic Bag Holder

If you're looking to reduce waste, the crocheted Yip Yip bag can be a fun and functional way to collect and store plastic bags for recycling. Its unique shape and design make it a great conversation starter, and its durability ensures it can hold a substantial number of bags.

Creative Display

The crocheted Yip Yip bag can be a fun addition to your home decor. Hang them up or place them on shelves as quirky decorative pieces. Their bright colours and unique shape will add a touch of whimsy to any room.

Gift Giving

Fill the crocheted Yip Yip bag with gifts and treats for a unique presentation. It's perfect for giving gifts to children, especially those who love the character. The bag itself can become a cherished part of the gift, providing a memorable keepsake.

The crocheted Yip Yip bag is a versatile and creative accessory that can be used in a variety of ways. Its playful design and colourful appearance make it a fun addition to any home, bringing a touch of whimsy and personality to your space.

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Other crochet patterns by Carissa Browning

Carissa Browning has designed several crochet patterns, including the popular Yip Yips pattern. This pattern is available for free on Ravelry and has been downloaded over 2000 times, with an average rating of 4.9 out of 5 stars. The finished product can be used as holiday stockings, toy storage, or kids' laundry bags. In addition to the Yip Yips pattern, Carissa Browning has also designed a range of other crochet patterns, which are available on her Ravelry store.

One of her designs is the Seismic Shift pattern, which is available in both knit and crochet versions. She has also designed the Pride & Progress Cowl, which can be knitted or crocheted, and the Lakewood Cowl, which is available in both knit and crochet variations. Carissa Browning offers a Ravelry group, Carissa Browning Designs, where people can share their projects and ask for help with her patterns.

Some of Carissa Browning's other crochet designs include the Wonky Blocks Blanket, the Dissent Cowl, the WW Cowl, and the Shifting Stripes Shawl. She has also designed a variety of unique items, such as the Yoda Mitts, the Ewok Hood, and the Death Star, all inspired by Star Wars. Carissa Browning's patterns showcase her creativity and versatility, offering something for both knit and crochet enthusiasts.

In addition to her Ravelry store, Carissa Browning has also made some of her patterns available on other platforms, such as Lovecrafts. The Yip Yips pattern, for example, can be purchased as a downloadable PDF from Lovecrafts. This pattern includes detailed instructions on measurements, materials, and additional resources required to create the lovable alien characters. The finished Yip Yips have a circumference of 25 inches and a height of 14 inches, excluding the tentacles and hanging loop.

Frequently asked questions

You will need 1 skein of Bernat Blanket/Blanket Brights/Baby Blanket (100% polyester; 220 yards/201 meters per 300-gram skein) in the colour of your choice, a black paint pen or permanent marker, 2 pipe cleaners (12 inches long), an awl, ice pick, or corn pick for poking holes in ping pong balls, black flannel fabric (16 x 24 inches), scissors, a sewing needle, and black thread.

The finished size of the Yip Yip bag is approximately 9 x 5 inches, including the fringe. The circumference is 25 inches and the height is 14 inches (excluding the tentacles and hanging loop).

The Yip Yip crochet pattern can be used for holiday stockings, toy storage, kids' laundry, or even as a hanging basket or monster bag.

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