How to Make a Small Crochet Bag with “Sand Waves” Design

Here’s a detailed, step-by-step tutorial for making a Small Crochet Bag with a “Sand Waves” Design — perfect for beginners who want something elegant, textured, and stylish.

How to Make a Small Crochet Bag with “Sand Waves” Design

Difficulty: Easy to Intermediate
Style: Elegant textured wave pattern
Technique: Crochet (using basic stitches and wave pattern repetition)

Materials You’ll Need:

1. Yarn:

   • Type: Medium weight (Category 4) cotton or acrylic yarn

   • Colors: Choose 2–3 sand-tone shades (e.g. beige, cream, light brown) for a beachy “sand waves” look

   • Approx. 150–200g total

2. Crochet Hook: 4.0 mm (G-6) or size that matches your yarn

3. Notions:

   • Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)

   • Scissors

   • Stitch markers (optional)

   • Lining fabric & zipper/button (optional for finishing)

Abbreviations (US Terms)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Step 1: Make the Base

1. Foundation chain:

   • Ch 41 (or more if you want a wider bag).

   • This will be the bottom width of your bag.

2. Round 1 (base oval):

   • Work 1 hdc in 2nd ch from hook and across to the end (39 hdc).

   • In last ch, work 3 hdc to curve around to the other side.

   • Continue working along the opposite side of the foundation chain: 1 hdc in each ch, ending with 2 hdc in last stitch.

   • Join with sl st to the first hdc.

3. Round 2–3:

   • Work 1 hdc in each st around, increasing 2 sts at both curve ends each round to keep the base flat.

   • After 3 rounds, you’ll have a neat oval base.

Step 2: Start the Body – “Sand Waves” Pattern

The sand waves pattern uses a combination of dc and sc stitches to create a flowing wave texture.

Pattern Repeat (multiple of 8 sts + 1):

Row 1: ch 2 (counts as dc), 1 dc in next 3 sts, 1 hdc in next st, 1 sc in next 3 sts, 1 hdc in next st — repeat across.
Join with sl st.

Row 2: ch 1, 1 sc in next 3 sts, 1 hdc in next st, 1 dc in next 3 sts, 1 hdc in next st — repeat around.
Join with sl st.

Tip: Alternate colors every 2 rows to enhance the “sand wave” effect. For example:

• Rows 1–2: Beige

• Rows 3–4: Light Brown

• Rows 5–6: Cream

Repeat Rows 1–2 until your bag reaches your desired height (typically 18–20 rows for a small bag).

Step 3: Shape the Top Edge

1. Switch to the main color (lightest shade).

2. Work 2 rounds of sc in each st around to give a firm, clean edge.

3. You can add a decorative border if desired: [sc, ch 1, skip 1] for a subtle lacy finish.

Step 4: Make the Straps

You have a few options:

• Option A: Simple Crochet Strap

  • Ch 80–100 (depending on desired length).

  • Work 1 row of hdc, then another row of sc for reinforcement.

  • Sew ends securely to the inside of the bag.

• Option B: Braided Cord Handle

  • Make 3 long strands of yarn.

  • Braid them tightly and sew to the bag.

Step 5: Optional Lining and Closure

1. Lining (optional):

   • Cut fabric slightly smaller than the bag size.

   • Sew sides, fold the top edge, and stitch inside using a yarn needle.

2. Closure (optional):

   • Add a zipper, magnetic snap, or button loop for a neat finish.

Step 6: Finishing Touches

• Weave in all yarn ends.

• Lightly steam block the bag to shape it and make the “waves” pop.

✨ Tips for Best Results

• Use contrasting sand-like shades for depth and movement.

• Keep your tension even; loose stitches make waves droop.

• You can adjust the width and height easily by changing the starting chain or number of wave repeats.

Optional Variation

If you want a “Beach Tote” version, simply:

• Increase base chain (e.g. ch 61 instead of 41).

• Add 6–8 extra rounds of the wave pattern.

• Use leather straps or wooden handles for a classy touch.

Would you like me to include a crochet chart (diagram) or a written pattern PDF layout version that you can print and follow easily?

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