Introduction: Dive into Summer with a DIY Macrame Beach Tote
Ah, summer! It conjures up images of sun-kissed beaches, sparkling waves, and, of course, stylish beach bags overflowing with essentials. But what if you could ditch the generic store-bought totes and create a unique, handcrafted beach bag that truly reflects your personality? With this free crochet pattern and easy-to-follow tutorial, you can craft a chic macrame beach tote that will turn heads and become your go-to summer companion.
This beginner-friendly project utilizes basic crochet stitches and incorporates the trendy look of macrame, making it perfect for those new to crocheting with macrame yarn or cotton rope. And the best part? You can customize your beach bag with different colors and handle styles to match your taste perfectly! So grab your materials, and let’s dive into this fun and rewarding project!
Gathering Your Supplies: What You’ll Need for Your Beach Tote Project
Before we begin crocheting, let’s gather everything we need. For this DIY bag project, you will need:
- Macrame yarn (approximately 300-400 grams total): This project uses a combination of white and a contrasting color of your choice. I recommend a number 3 macrame rope, which is about 3mm thick.
- Crochet hook size 2.5 mm or size to match your yarn
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
These materials will help you create a durable and stylish handmade bag perfect for summer outings.
The Perfect Base: Crocheting the Foundation of Your Beach Tote
Our crochet bag pattern starts with a rectangular base. This will form the sturdy bottom of your spacious beach tote, providing ample room for all your essentials and more.
- Chain 46 (not too tight).
- Row 1: In the 6th chain from the hook, make 3 double crochets. Skip 2 chains, make 3 double crochets in the next chain. Repeat until the end of the row.
- Row 2: Chain 1, turn. Skip 1 space, double crochet. Chain 3. In the last space, make 2 double crochets, 2 chains, 3 double crochets. Continue this pattern to the end of the row.
- Row 3: Continue making 3 double crochets between each group. At the end, make 3 double crochets in the last space.
- Row 4: Slip stitch to the top of the first chain. Chain 1, cut the yarn and change color.
Building Up the Sides: Creating the Shape of Your Spacious Beach Tote
Now that we have a solid base, it’s time to build up the sides of our macrame bag. To achieve that classic tote shape, we will continue working in rounds, but we’ll stop increasing at the corners.
- Row 5: Start in the middle of any crochet group with 3 chains and 2 double crochets. Continue with 3 double crochets in the middle of each group until the corner.
- Row 6-12: Alternate colors every 2 rows. Make 3 double crochets, 2 chains, 3 double crochets at the corners. Continue until you have 6 rows total.
Adding a Touch of Style: Incorporating Macrame Yarn into Your Beach Tote Design
Macrame yarn adds a stylish touch to your beach tote. Here’s how to incorporate it:
- Row 13-20: Continue with 3 double crochets in the middle of each group without making corners.
- Change colors every 2 rows, alternating between white and dark blue.
Sturdy and Chic: Crafting the Handles for Your Macrame Beach Tote
A beach tote isn’t complete without sturdy and stylish handles. This pattern uses crocheted handles made with the same macrame yarn, ensuring a cohesive and durable finish.
To make the handles:
- Chain 5: Make 5 single crochets starting from the 2nd chain.
- Row 2-30: Chain 1, turn. Make 5 single crochets in each row.
- Repeat until the handle is 53 cm long.
Make two identical handles.
Finishing Touches: Securing Handles and Adding Personalization to Your Beach Tote
Secure the handles to your macrame beach tote. You can sew them from the inside or outside. For a personal touch, add decorative elements like tassels or beads.
- Attach handles securely with a yarn needle.
- Add a few rows of single crochet around the top edge for a clean finish.
Now, for the fun part – personalization! Get creative and make your beach tote your own. Consider adding:
- A fun lining fabric for added durability and a pop of color.
- A button or magnetic closure to keep your belongings secure.
- Tassels, beads, or embroidery for a bohemian touch.
Tips for Beginners
- Don’t be afraid to experiment with colors and patterns!
- If you are struggling with a stitch, refer to a crochet tutorial video or ask for help online.
- Practice makes perfect! The more you crochet, the more confident you’ll become.
Conclusion: Show off Your New Handmade Macrame Beach Tote!
Congratulations! You’ve successfully crafted a stylish and functional macrame beach tote that’s ready for all your summer adventures. Whether you’re headed to the beach, the market, or just running errands around town, your handmade bag will be the envy of everyone you meet.
A big thank you to @TubaCrochet for the inspiration for this beautiful bag! You can find her original video tutorial here: (https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=I4pRGdxIHhM).
We’d love to see your creations! Don’t forget to share photos of your finished beach tote on Instagram using the hashtag #tubacrochet_ and on TikTok tagging @tubacrochet.
Now go out there and rock that handmade style!
Other Crochet Projects You’ll Love
- Boho Crochet Bags
- Eco-Friendly Market Bags
- Trendy Summer Hats
- Stylish Beach Cover-Ups
In Conclusion, crafting your own macrame beach tote is a rewarding experience. Not only do you get to enjoy a stylish bag, but you also gain new skills. Share your journey, inspire others, and join our vibrant crochet community. Happy crocheting!
I really like this bag! I am a little confused as the the size of the macrame yarn. You said 3mm but I have 3mm and it looks much thicker than what you are using, Maybe a 1 mm?
It may vary between countries.