Discover this simple, free crochet bag pattern! Perfect for beginners, this DIY macrame bag is quick, easy, and the handmade touch adds a stylish flair.
Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a curious beginner, this easy crochet bag pattern is perfect for adding a touch of handmade charm to your wardrobe. This trendy macrame handbag is surprisingly simple to create and boasts a chic style that will transition effortlessly from beach days to casual outings. Best of all, this is a completely free pattern, making it an accessible project for crafters of all skill levels.
What You’ll Need
- Yarn: Macrame cord (cotton is a great choice for durability) in your desired color. Consider the thickness too – a thicker cord works up quicker but creates a bulkier bag.
- Crochet hook: A 3.5 mm crochet hook is recommended but adjust according to your yarn choice.
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional, but incredibly helpful)
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends.
Skill Level: Beginner
Let’s Get Started!
The Base – Building a Solid Foundation
This bag utilizes basic crochet stitches that are easy to master. If you know how to chain (ch), single crochet (sc), and increase, you’ve got the skills!
Step by Step Crochet Pürse Pattern (Bag Body)
- Magic Circle: Start with this crochet staple! If you need a refresher, there are plenty of tutorials online.
- Round 1: Work 12 sc into the magic circle. Join with a slip stitch (sl st). (12 sc)
- Rounds 2-5: Increase in every stitch around. To increase, work 2 sc stitches into one existing stitch. At the end of Round 5, you should have 60 stitches. Mark the beginning of your rounds to stay on track.
- Rounds 6-10 (Body): Here’s where the ‘petal’ design begins!
- Work 5 sc.
- Increase in the next stitch.
- Repeat this pattern all the way around.
Continue increasing every 5th stitch for approximately 5-7 rounds or until your bag reaches your desired depth.
Shaping the Base (Optional):
For a more structured base, continue Rounds 6-10 for a few additional rounds without increasing. This will create a slightly flattened bottom.
Descending Rows (Optional for Shaping):
Note: Descending rows are not required but can add a subtle shaping detail to the bag.
- Round X (Specify round number): Work 4 sc, decrease (work 2 sc together into the next 2 stitches), sc to end of round. Join with sl st. (Decrease two stitches every 5th stitch around).
- Round X+1: Work sc around, decreasing as established in the previous round. Join with sl st.
Repeat descending rounds until you’ve decreased to your desired number of stitches for the bag opening.
Crafting the Handles
For this pattern, we’ll crochet the handles directly onto the bag. It saves time and adds stability.
- Placement: Decide where you’d like your handles (equal distances apart is ideal). Mark these spots.
- Building the Handle:
- Chain the desired length of your handle (try draping it over your shoulder to find your perfect fit).
- Attach back into the bag with a sl st.
- Work a row of sc along the chain back to the bag.
- Repeat: Make a matching handle in the marked position.
Finishing Touches
- Edging: Add an optional decorative edge with double crochet (dc) or even triple crochet (tr) along the top of your bag! You can keep it simple or try a shell stitch for a fancier look.
- Customize: Attach a magnetic clasp for a more secure closure or add tassels or beads for extra flair.
Ascending and Descending Rows for Styling (Optional):
While the written pattern creates a straight-up bag body, you can add visual interest by incorporating ascending and descending rows. This technique creates a subtle wave pattern along the sides of the bag.
Here’s how to modify the pattern for this effect:
- Round 6: Work 3 sc, increase, 2 sc, increase, repeat around.
- Round 7: Work 4 sc, increase, 1 sc, increase, repeat around.
- Repeat Rounds 6 & 7: Continue alternating these two rounds for your desired number of “waves.”
- Resume Regular Pattern: After completing your desired number of wave rounds, return to working Rounds 6-10 from the original pattern (without increasing).
Remember: This is just a suggestion! Experiment with different stitch counts and combinations of ascending and descending rows to achieve your own unique style.
Tips
- Stitch Markers: If you’re a beginner, these save lives! Mark the beginning of each round and your handle placements.
- Tension: Try to keep your stitches even for a neater look.
- Resources: For a visual guide, check out the wonderful GORY.CROCHET YouTube channel (https://www.youtube.com/@GORY.CROCHET) and the specific video here: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=BgpYbnfbRMc
Share Your Creations!
I’d love to see your finished crochet handbags! Share photos on Instagram (https://www.instagram.com/tubacrochets?igsh=MW0wNjA2ZTcwbjUyMw==) or TikTok (@tiktok.com/@tubacrochet) – let’s inspire each other!
Conclusion
This easy crochet bag pattern is a fantastic way to unleash your creativity and add a unique, handmade touch to your wardrobe. Even as a beginner, this project offers a rewarding sense of accomplishment and is something you can proudly show off!
Happy crocheting!
