Category: Crochet Patterns | Accessories | Quick & Easy Skill Level: Absolute Beginner Finished Dimensions: Approx. 12 inches (30 cm) wide by 13 inches (33 cm) tall (excluding straps) Estimated Time: 2 to 3 hours
Looking for a practical, chic, and quick weekend project? This chunky crochet tote bag is the ultimate everyday accessory. Whether you need a sturdy farmers’ market bag, a book tote, or a cute minimalist shoulder purse, this pattern works up in just 2 to 3 hours using bulky yarn and simple stitches.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern
- Beginner Friendly: Uses only basic single crochet and chain stitches.
- Fast Make: Chunky yarn and a large hook make it grow remarkably fast.
- Seamless Design: Worked seamlessly from the base up, meaning fewer ends to weave in!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Approx. 250–300g of bulky (#5) or super bulky (#6) cotton/cotton-blend yarn (neutral cream, terracotta, or taupe work best for a cozy aesthetic)
- Crochet Hook: 6.5 mm (US K-10.5) or 8.0 mm (US L-11)
- Tapestry Needle: large eye, for weaving thick ends
- Stitch Markers: 2 markers to easily place handles
- Scissors: a sturdy pair for cutting thick yarn
Pattern Notes & Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Gauge: Not strictly critical for this project; keep your tension firm so the bag doesn’t sag.
- Ch – Chain
- Sc – Single Crochet
- Sl st – Slip Stitch
- St(s) – Stitch(es)
Step-by-Step Instructions
1. The Sturdy Oval Base
Start by working along both sides of a foundation chain:
- Foundation: Ch 21.
- Round 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (19 sc). In the last chain, make 3 sc (corner turned). Now work down the opposite side of the foundation chain: sc in each stitch across, ending with 2 sc in the very first chain (42 sc total). Sl st to the first sc to join.
- Round 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in first st, 18 sc, 2 sc in next 3 sts, 18 sc, 2 sc in last 2 sts (48 sc). Sl st to join.
2. The Bag Body
We will now build height without increasing:
- Round 3: Ch 1, sc in the back loop only (BLO) of each stitch around to create a defined base rim (48 sc). Sl st to join.
- Rounds 4–22: Ch 1, sc in both loops around each stitch (48 sc). Join with sl st at the end of each round. The body will naturally curve upward into a basket shape.
3. The Integrated Handles
- Round 23: Ch 1, sc in the next 10 sts, ch 24 (skip 8 stitches for front handle opening), sc in next 16 sts, ch 24 (skip 8 stitches for back handle opening), sc in remaining 6 sts. Sl st to join.
- Round 24: Ch 1, sc in each st around. When you reach the handle chains, work 26 sc directly over each chain space for added thickness and durability. Sl st to join.
- Round 25 (Finishing Edge): Sl st loosely in every stitch around the entire rim and handles to give the bag a clean, reinforced border.
- Fasten off yarn, cut leaving a 6-inch tail, and weave in all yarn tails securely inside the bag.
Care Tips for Crochet Bags
To keep your tote looking fresh and sturdy, hand-wash in cold water with mild soap and lay flat on a clean towel to dry. Avoid hanging it while wet so the straps maintain their original length.
Show off your finished tote by tagging us on Pinterest or Instagram with #MyCozyHook! Happy crocheting!