How to Make an Easy Tote Crochet Bag

As someone who recently dipped my toes into the world of crochet, I wanted a project that felt rewarding. That’s when I decided to make a crochet bag, more specifically, a tote bag I could use daily.

I figured it would be a simple project: yarn, hook, a couple of hours, done. But halfway through, I started noticing an issue that’s all too familiar to beginners: stretchy handles. I had used bulky YarnArt macrame XL yarn, and even though I loved the texture, the finished straps sagged the moment I added anything heavier than a phone. I started wondering, was it the yarn? The stitch? My tension?

Determined to learn, I searched deeper and found a few answers. First off, I had crocheted the handle stitches in the back loop only, a beginner mistake, it turns out, because that weakens the structure.

Crocheting into both loops creates a sturdier fabric, especially at stress points like handle joins. Another trick I learned? Reinforce that corner where the handle pulls the most, almost like sewing a button.

And when it comes to durability, cotton is your best friend. That’s why my second go-around with this crochet bag included these materials: 100% cotton yarn, a 4.0 mm hook, stitch markers, measuring tape, and even a yarn needle to secure ends with extra care.

I also experimented with sturdier strap stitches like Tunisian and thermal single crochet, and wow, the difference in strength was immediate.

While I initially set out to make a granny tote bag, I quickly realized that the yarn’s color change didn’t work well with small motifs. So, I shifted to a classic tote shape with added rows at the top and beefed-up handles.

And although I didn’t find this particular pattern super fun to make, the final result? Totally worth it. My white tote crochet bag not only looks great but has also taught me about yarn behavior, stitch tension, and the magic of finishing techniques.

The best part? I now have a solid pattern for future gifts or for when I want to make something pretty and useful without guessing my way through. It may have started with some stretched stitches, but it ended with confidence and a bag I’m proud to carry.

Materials Needed

• 100% cotton yarn (sport or worsted weight, cotton gives durability without stretching)
• Crochet hook: typically 4.0 mm (G‑6) or size recommended for your yarn
• Scissors
• Yarn needle (for weaving in ends)
• Stitch markers (optional but helpful for rounds)
• Measuring tape (to check size)

A Reddit user shared that using 100% cotton, 1–3 mm cord yields sturdy handles without stretch, perfect for crochet bags.

Step-by-Step Tutorial

Step 1: Choose Your Base Pattern

starting with an oval base, then building up a mesh body. Prep by chaining the specified number of stitches (e.g., 30 chains) to form the base’s length.

Step 2: Crochet the Base

• Round 1: Work around the chain with single crochets and increases at each end to shape the oval.
• Rounds 2–4: Continue working single crochets evenly around the ends, adding increases as needed to maintain shape.

The tutorial uses single crochets for a firm, durable foundation.

Step 3: Build the Mesh Body

Once the base is completed:

• Switch to a mesh pattern commonly chain 3, skip 2 stitches, double crochet in the next stitch, and repeat around.
• Work even rounds until the bag reaches your desired height (typically 30–35 cm for a tote).

This open design gives the tote flexibility while keeping it sturdy for groceries or towels.

Step 4: Create Handles

• Identify where to place them symmetrically.
• Chain the length you want for a shoulder or hand tote, then join back into the body with single crochets.
• Continue working around in the mesh pattern.

Advice: Use tighter hooks or sturdier cord for handles to prevent floppy wear; cotton works well.

Step 5: Finish & Weave Ends

After your final round:

• Work an even round of single crochet to give the top edge shape.
• Fasten off, leaving a tail.
• Weave in all yarn ends using your yarn needle.

Pro Tips

• Stitch markers help track round beginnings, especially in base shaping.
• Use cotton yarn for no-stretch durability, good for reusable shopping bags.
• Tight hook tension on the base keeps the bottom solid; mesh rows allow more openness.
• Adjust size easily: To make a larger bag, add more chains to the base and more mesh rounds to the body.
• Personalize with color stripes, beads, or a lining if you plan to carry small items.

FAQs

1. Can beginners follow this tote crochet bag pattern?

Yes, base rounds use simple stitches (single crochet, increases), then a repetitive mesh pattern that’s ideal for beginners.

2. What’s the ideal yarn?

100% cotton yarn or cord (1–3 mm) is best for strength and no stretch.

3. How to prevent handles from stretching?

Use a smaller hook size when crocheting the handles for sturdier results for your crochet bag.

4. Can I line the crochet bag?

Absolutely.

5. How do I care for the crochet bag?

Hand wash in cool water and reshape while wet. Hang to dry to maintain its structure.

Conclusion

You now know how to make a crochet tote bag with a durable mesh design. This versatile crochet bag is perfect for everyday use or quick beach hauls.