How to Make a Crochet Tote Bag (Beginner-Friendly)

Absolutely! Here’s a detailed, beginner-friendly guide on how to make a crochet tote bag. I’ll break it down step by step so it’s easy to follow even if you’re new to crochet.

How to Make a Crochet Tote Bag (Beginner-Friendly)

Materials Needed

1. Yarn – Medium weight (worsted) cotton yarn is ideal for durability. Choose a color you like.

2. Crochet Hook – Size H/8 (5 mm) is commonly used for medium weight yarn.

3. Scissors – For cutting yarn.

4. Tapestry Needle – For weaving in ends.

5. Stitch Markers (optional) – Helpful to mark rounds or edges.

Step 1: Learn Basic Stitches

Since this is beginner-friendly, here are the main stitches you’ll use:

• Chain (ch) – Foundation stitch.

• Single Crochet (sc) – Tight, firm stitch.

• Double Crochet (dc) – Taller stitch for a looser fabric.

• Slip Stitch (sl st) – To join rounds or finish edges.

Tip: Practice these stitches a few times on scrap yarn before starting your bag.

Step 2: Start the Base of the Tote Bag

1. Foundation Chain: Decide how wide you want the tote bag. For example, chain 30 (or desired width).

2. Row 1: Single crochet (sc) into the 2nd chain from the hook and across the chain. Turn.

3. Row 2: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch across. Repeat until your base is the desired length (usually 10–12 inches for a medium tote).

Tip: Keep edges straight by counting stitches each row.

Step 3: Create the Body

1. Switch to Double Crochet (dc) for the body of the bag to give it a slightly open texture.

2. Round or Row Method:

   • Round Method: Work in continuous rounds around the base, placing 3 dc in the corners to keep it flat.

   • Row Method: Continue working in rows, turning at the end of each row until the bag reaches desired height (usually 12–15 inches).

3. Check Shape: Try folding the base upward as you work to see how the bag will look.

Step 4: Make Handles

1. Decide Handle Placement: Usually 3–4 inches from the sides.

2. Chain for Handle: Make a chain the desired length of your handle (e.g., 20–25 chains for a shoulder tote).

3. Attach Handle: Skip stitches on the bag, then attach with slip stitch.

4. Reinforce Handle: Single crochet along the chain back to the base to make it sturdy. Repeat for the second handle.

Tip: You can also make wide straps by working a few rows of single crochet over the chain.

Step 5: Finish the Bag

1. Edge: Optional – add a single crochet or crab stitch (reverse single crochet) around the top edge for a clean finish.

2. Weave in Ends: Use your tapestry needle to hide all loose ends.

3. Optional Lining: Sew a fabric lining inside for extra durability and to prevent items from slipping through stitches.

Step 6: Personalize Your Tote

• Add pockets, buttons, or decorative stitches.

• Use variegated yarn or stripes for color patterns.

• Fringe or tassels on the sides can make it stylish.

Tips for Beginners

• Keep your tension even; too tight makes the bag stiff, too loose makes it floppy.

• Measure as you go to ensure the bag is the size you want.

• If you make mistakes, don’t be afraid to unravel a row or two. It’s part of learning!

Estimated Time

• Base: 1–2 hours

• Body: 2–3 hours

• Handles & finishing: 1–2 hours
  Total: 4–7 hours depending on skill level.

If you want, I can also draw a simple diagram showing the base, body, and handles to make this tote bag tutorial even easier to follow visually.

Watch tutorial: