Crochet tote bags are stylish, eco-friendly, and practical everyday accessories. Whether heading to the farmer’s market, the beach, or carrying everyday essentials, a durable handmade tote is an essential staple for any crochet enthusiast.
This free pattern uses basic stitches to create a sturdy, textured tote bag that works up quickly, even for beginners.
Materials Needed
To complete this bag, prepare the following items:
- Yarn: 3 skeins of worsted weight 100% cotton yarn (cotton provides durability and minimal stretching).
- Crochet Hook: Size 5.0 mm (US H-8).
- Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, and 2 stitch markers.
Stitches and Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single crochet
- hdc: Half double crochet
- sl st: Slip stitch
- st(s): Stitch(es)
Step-by-Step Bag Pattern
1. Base of the Bag (Oval Bottom)
- Foundation Chain: Chain 31.
- Round 1: Work 2 hdc in the 2nd chain from hook. Work 1 hdc in each of the next 28 chains. Work 4 hdc in the last chain to turn the corner. Working down the opposite side of the chain, work 1 hdc in each of the next 28 spaces, ending with 2 hdc in the first chain. Join with a sl st to the first hdc. (64 sts total).
- Round 2: Ch 1, 2 hdc in first 2 sts, 1 hdc in next 28 sts, 2 hdc in next 4 sts, 1 hdc in next 28 sts, 2 hdc in last 2 sts. Join with sl st. (72 sts total).
2. Bag Body (Working Upwards)
- Round 3: Ch 1, work 1 hdc in the back loop only (BLO) of every stitch around. Join with sl st. (72 sts). This creates a defined edge separating the base from the body.
- Rounds 4–28: Ch 1, work 1 hdc in both loops of every stitch around. Join with a sl st to the first stitch.
Repeat until the bag reaches approximately 12 inches (30 cm) in height from the base.
3. Handles and Finishing
- Mark the Handle Positions: Lay the bag flat. Place stitch markers on both sides leaving 16 center stitches open for the handle gap on the front and back panels.
- Handle Round 1:
- Work sc up to the first marker.
- Chain 45 (or desired handle length), skip the 16 marked stitches, and join with a sc past the second marker.
- Work sc across to the back panel, chain 45, skip 16 stitches, and sc to the end. Join with sl st.
- Handle Round 2: Work 1 sc in every sc and 1 sc in each chain of both handles. Join with sl st.
- Fasten off: Cut yarn, pull through, and weave in all loose ends securely with a tapestry needle.
Tips for a Long-Lasting Bag
- Yarn Choice: Always prefer cotton over acrylic for bags, as acrylic stretches excessively when carrying weight.
- Lining (Optional): Sewing a simple fabric interior lining helps the bag retain its shape permanently under heavy use.