Nothing says “summer” like a breezy, handmade accessory—especially one you crafted yourself! A crochet summer bag is the perfect DIY project to carry your essentials to the beach, the market, or your favorite coffee spot. This tutorial will walk you through everything you need to create your very own beautiful and durable crochet summer bag, even if you’re new to the craft.
🧺 Why Make a Crochet Summer Bag?
Crochet summer bags are:
- Lightweight & breathable – perfect for warm weather.
- Customizable – choose your colors, shapes, and finishes.
- Eco-friendly – reusable and sustainable.
- Beginner-friendly – you only need basic stitches to start.
🧶 Materials You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following supplies:
- Yarn: Choose cotton yarn for durability and breathability. Look for worsted weight (#4) or DK weight (#3) yarns.
- Crochet Hook: Use a size appropriate for your yarn. For worsted cotton, a 4.0 mm (G/6) or 5.0 mm (H/8) hook is ideal.
- Scissors
- Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends.
- Stitch Markers (optional): Help keep track of rounds or stitches.
- Bag Handles (optional): Wooden, plastic, or crocheted straps.
🧵 Stitches You’ll Need to Know
Don’t worry—you don’t need to be an expert. This pattern uses simple stitches:
- Chain (ch)
- Slip Stitch (sl st)
- Single Crochet (sc)
- Double Crochet (dc)
- Half Double Crochet (hdc) (optional, depending on variation)
🎒 Crochet Summer Bag Pattern (Basic Tote Style)
🧶 Part 1: Base of the Bag
We’ll start with a flat oval base (you can make a circle or rectangle if preferred).
Step 1: Create a Foundation Chain
- Chain 21 (you can adjust for a wider or narrower bag).
Step 2: Round 1
- Sc in 2nd chain from hook and in each chain across (20 sc).
- In the last chain, make 3 sc to turn the corner.
- Now crochet along the opposite side of the chain: 1 sc in each stitch (18 sc), then 2 sc in the last stitch.
- Join with sl st to first sc. (44 sts total)
Step 3: Rounds 2–4
- Work in continuous rounds (use a stitch marker if needed).
- Sc in each stitch, placing 2 sc in each of the 3 corner stitches at both ends to keep the oval shape.
- After a few rounds, your base should be sturdy and flat.
🧶 Part 2: Body of the Bag
Now we build up the sides of the bag.
Step 4: Rounds 5–20
- Sc or dc in each stitch around (no increases).
- For a mesh look, alternate:
- Round A: Ch 1, skip 1 stitch, dc in next stitch
- Round B: Sc in each chain space and stitch from previous round
Optional Variation: For a lacy or beachy vibe, use granny stitch clusters or shell patterns (3 dc in one stitch, skip 2, repeat).
Step 5: Customize Height
- Continue rounds until the bag is as tall as you’d like (15–18 rounds is a good size for a tote).
🧶 Part 3: Handles
Option A: Built-in Handles
- Stop 2 inches below the top of the bag.
- On the next round, ch 15 (skip 10 stitches), sc in next 10 stitches, repeat on the other side.
- Next round: Sc in each stitch and each chain space to form a sturdy handle.
Option B: Attached Handles
- Purchase or crochet straps separately and sew them onto the bag with a yarn needle.
✨ Optional Embellishments
- Tassels or fringe at the bottom.
- Crochet flowers or appliqué designs.
- Drawstring or button closure for extra security.
- Lining (fabric sewn inside) if you want more structure.
🧼 Finishing Touches
- Weave in all loose ends with your yarn needle.
- Block the bag (especially if it looks uneven): lightly dampen and shape it flat to dry.
- Optional: Add lining by sewing in fabric with needle and thread or fabric glue.
👜 Tips for Success
- Use tight stitches for structure if you don’t plan to line the bag.
- If using stretchy yarn, double-strand it for durability.
- For a beach bag, try a net stitch or mesh pattern to keep it light.
- Always count your stitches at the end of rounds to keep the shape even.
🌞 Styling Your Summer Bag
Your crochet bag can go anywhere:
- Beach: Add flip-flops, a towel, and sunglasses.
- Farmer’s Market: Carry fresh produce in a breathable cotton tote.
- Daily use: Style with a sundress or jeans for a boho-chic look.
🧶 Ready-Made Variations You Can Try
Once you master the basics, experiment with:
- Circular mandala bags
- Crossbody boho slings
- Mini clutch purses
- Granny square patchwork totes
🪡 Final Thoughts
A crochet summer bag is the perfect combination of fashion and function—and there’s nothing quite like the pride of carrying something you made by hand. Whether you’re just starting out or looking to elevate your crochet skills, this project is a fun and rewarding way to embrace sunny, crafty days.
Video tutorial:
