Crochet has long been a cherished craft, combining creativity with practicality. Among the many projects you can take on, one of the most satisfying and useful is making your own crochet tote bag. Whether you’re heading to the farmers’ market, the beach, or the library, a handmade tote bag adds a personal and eco-friendly touch to your routine. Best of all? It doesn’t have to be complicated.
In this article, we’ll walk you through how to make a super easy crochet tote bag—a project that’s perfect for beginners yet rewarding enough for more advanced crocheters. We’ll cover the materials, techniques, step-by-step instructions, and customization ideas to make your bag truly your own.
🧶 Why Make a Crochet Tote Bag?
There are plenty of reasons to love this project:
- Beginner-friendly: Uses basic stitches and techniques.
- Quick to make: Often completed in a weekend or less.
- Eco-conscious: Reusable and durable—perfect for ditching plastic bags.
- Stylish & customizable: Choose your own colors, sizes, and embellishments.
- Great gift idea: Handmade items are thoughtful and appreciated.
🧵 Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
- Worsted weight cotton yarn (100% cotton is best for durability and washability)
- Amount: ~300–500g depending on size
- Crochet hook: Size 5.0 mm (H-8) or 5.5 mm (I-9), depending on your tension and yarn
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle (for weaving in ends)
- Measuring tape
💡 Tip: Cotton yarn holds its shape better than acrylic, making it perfect for tote bags that need structure.
📚 Basic Crochet Stitches You’ll Use
If you’re new to crochet, don’t worry! This pattern only uses basic stitches:
- Chain stitch (ch) – the foundation of most crochet projects
- Single crochet (sc) – creates a tight and sturdy fabric
- Slip stitch (sl st) – used to join rounds or finish edges
- (Optional) Double crochet (dc) – can be used for decorative or open sections
🧺 Step-by-Step Pattern: Super Easy Crochet Tote Bag
This pattern is worked in the round from the bottom up, with optional handles added at the top.
🪡 STEP 1: Make the Base
You can create either a flat oval base or a simple rectangular base.
Option A: Simple Rectangle Base
- Chain 31 (for about 10 inches wide — adjust for desired width).
- Row 1: Single crochet in 2nd chain from hook and across (30 sc).
- Rows 2–10: Ch 1, turn, sc across each row (30 sc).
- Once your rectangle is about 10″ x 4″, do not fasten off. You’ll now start working in the round around this base.
🔄 STEP 2: Crochet the Body of the Bag
- Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around the entire rectangle, placing 3 sc in each corner. Join with sl st to first sc.
- Round 2-20: Ch 1, sc in each stitch around. Join with sl st to first sc.
You can make the body taller or shorter depending on your desired bag height. 20 rounds will give you a medium-sized tote.
📝 Optional Variation: Add a few rounds of double crochet to create a breathable, mesh-like section in the middle.
👜 STEP 3: Add the Handles
You’ll now add two simple straps. Decide how wide apart you want them.
Example:
- After finishing the last round, mark where you want the straps (about 6 stitches wide, 20 stitches apart).
- Handle Round:
- Ch 1, sc to first marker.
- Ch 40 (or desired strap length), skip 6 stitches, sc to next marker.
- Ch 40 again, skip 6 stitches, sc to end.
- Join with sl st.
- Next Round (Optional):
- Sc in each stitch and in each chain of the handles for added sturdiness.
✂️ STEP 4: Finish It Off
- Fasten off the yarn.
- Use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends.
- Block the bag if desired (lightly dampen and shape it, then let it dry flat).
🎨 Customization Ideas
One of the best parts of crocheting your own tote bag is making it unique. Here are a few fun ideas:
🌈 Color Play
- Use striped yarns or change colors every few rounds.
- Do a color block design with contrasting base and body.
🪡 Embellishments
- Add crochet flowers, buttons, or tassels.
- Sew on a fabric lining for extra durability.
🧵 Stitch Variation
- Try granny squares or shell stitches for a different texture.
- Use mesh stitches for a lightweight summer bag.
🧺 How to Care for Your Crochet Tote
To keep your tote bag looking fresh:
- Hand wash or machine wash on delicate (if cotton).
- Lay flat to dry to maintain shape.
- Avoid heavy stretching when wet.
🎁 Great Gift or Market Item
This tote bag isn’t just practical—it makes a perfect handmade gift. Add a cute gift tag and you’ve got a heartfelt present for birthdays, holidays, or just because.
If you’re into selling handmade crafts, this tote is also a great seller at markets. It’s fast to make, low-cost in materials, and endlessly customizable.
🧶 Final Thoughts
The super easy crochet tote bag is a rewarding project that blends function and creativity. With just a few basic materials and stitches, you can create something beautiful and useful. Whether you’re a beginner or a seasoned crocheter, this bag is a great way to hone your skills while making something you’ll use for years to come.
So grab your yarn, hook, and a comfy seat—it’s time to crochet your new favorite tote bag!
Video tutorial:
