3 patterns
Crochet Bag Patterns: Totes, Market Bags, Purses and Baskets
Crochet bag patterns produce totes, stretchy market bags, structured purses, backpacks, and baskets. Sturdy bags use cotton, jute, or t-shirt yarn with a smaller hook for firm fabric, while market bags use open mesh that stretches around shopping. Most bags start with a flat base, then work the sides upward in rounds.
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Sturdy chunky crochet basket with handles
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Super bulky (#6)
- Hook size
- 8 mm hook
- Yardage
- 180 yd
Free pattern
Eight-square granny tote bag
- Skill level
- Easy
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 330 yd
Free pattern
Cotton mesh crochet market bag
- Skill level
- Easy
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 360 yd
Free pattern
What yarn is best for crochet bags?
The best yarn for crochet bags is 100% cotton or a cotton blend, because cotton is strong, holds its shape, and does not stretch as much as acrylic. Jute, raffia, and t-shirt yarn make stiffer bags and baskets.
| Yarn | Structure | Best for |
|---|---|---|
| Cotton (#4) | Firm, low stretch | Totes, purses, market bags |
| Cotton-acrylic blend | Softer, some stretch | Everyday shoulder bags |
| T-shirt yarn | Heavy, stiff | Baskets, structured totes |
| Jute / raffia | Very stiff | Beach bags, storage baskets |
| Acrylic | Stretches under load | Small decorative purses |
How do you stop a crochet bag from stretching?
A crochet bag stretches less when it is worked tightly in single crochet or a solid stitch, uses cotton instead of acrylic, and has a fabric lining sewn inside. Straps stretch most, so work them in dense single crochet or reinforce them with cotton webbing.
How do you crochet a flat bag base?
A flat bag base is made either by increasing evenly in rounds to form a circle or oval, or by working a rectangle in rows and then crocheting around its edge. Stop increasing when the base reaches the target size, then work even rounds for the sides.
Frequently asked questions
Should I line a crochet bag?
Lining keeps small items from slipping through stitches and reduces stretching. It is recommended for purses and totes that carry weight.
How long are crochet bag straps?
Handheld straps are usually 12–16 inches, shoulder straps 22–26 inches, and crossbody straps 45–55 inches.
Can I wash a crochet bag?
Cotton bags can usually be machine washed on a gentle cycle and dried flat. Jute and raffia should be spot cleaned.
What stitch is used for market bags?
Market bags use open mesh stitches, such as chain-space mesh or filet mesh, which stretch to hold produce while using very little yarn.