An easy crochet tote bag with a fun, thick stitch – my Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag – is a free pattern here on the blog! Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the perfect yarn I chose.

Grab the inexpensive PDF pattern here or scroll all the way down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

The Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag is one I’ve had on my list to make since late last summer. I’ve seen so many gorgeous crochet tote bags over the years but they’re usually stretchy and open. I wondered what a more structured tote might be like (one that could pass my laptop test! And it did, no sagging or stretching!). After making my thermal stitch potholders last fall I knew this stitch would make an incredibly durable crochet tote bag.

Fraîche is french for “fresh” in the feminine distinction and translates also to “dewy, crisp, youthful” and I feel like those concepts perfectly describe this bag design. It’s fresh and new in concept yet somehow classic and crisp. It’s the perfect mixture of new, on-trend elements while still being timeless. My favorite kind of design!

The straps are my favorite part – they’re all crochet so you don’t need to purchase hard-to-find purse straps and they’re easy to make. A simple tiny tube actually makes for a fairly durable and rigid strap – especially if you thread some macrame or parachute cord through the center to prevent against stretching even more (this part is optional). Threading the strap through simple eyelet holes in the body of the bag make assembly simple and the crochet tote bag is easy to use. One could even add rivets to the eyelet strap holes for even easier strap movement as you load and unload your crochet tote bag with goodies.

One crochet tote bag, so many uses!

In designing this crochet tote bag I wanted to make sure it could pass my “laptop test” – would it stretch out or sag with a heavy laptop inside? NOPE! It passed with flying colors! The rigid thermal stitch and the sturdy side seams supported the weight of my laptop perfectly. (Full disclosure: I have a 13″ Macbook air – so not the largest or heaviest laptop ever but I believe this bag would hold up well no matter what you load up inside!).

This crochet tote bag would also make an excellent farmer’s market companion. Filling with fresh fruits, vegetables and flowers is easy with its accessible body and incredibly thick structure. There is also quite a bit of privacy with this bag because the body isn’t see-through! Because let’s be honest – we all love to stop at the local bakery table at the farmer’s market and load up on chocolate croissants. Is that just me??

Simple and stunning construction

I wanted to make sure that this crochet tote bag design wasn’t too complicated. That’s why it’s made from one big rectangle! I believe that adventurous beginners can make this project – if you’ve already learned the thermal stitch by making my potholders or coasters, this bag is no more tricky than that!

We start by making one large thermal stitch rectangle with two eyelet holes at each end (don’t worry these are really just chain 1, skip 1 spaces). Then we fold it up and seam the sides, leaving a thermal stitch folded bottom for extra strength. Then the strap is made and threaded through the eyelet holes to be seamed into one continuous tube. That’s it!

I’ve also made sure to include lots of photos on the assembly of the bag, just to take care of my beginner crocheters out there!

The Thermal Stitch

I love love LOVE the thermal stitch. It’s become my favorite stitch for durable, rigid projects. Combine the stitch with a cotton blend yarn and you’ve got a recipe for heirloom projects that can handle regular use! Wahoo!

I have a full stitch tutorial with video here for those that are unfamiliar. I’ve also included a photo tutorial for this stitch below the written pattern at the end of this blog post.

Yarn + Substitution

I used Lion Brand’s Re-Up yarn in ecru, which is a worsted weight yarn. It’s a cotton polyester blend yarn that’s made from recycled water bottles! It’s a very unique yarn that comes in a lot of gorgeous, vintage-inspired colors and is extremely sturdy for projects like crochet tote bags, potholders, and coasters (all of which are free patterns here on the blog using the thermal stitch!). It’s also only $1.99 per skein so it makes for a great, affordable option. Or grab the kit in any color by clicking here!

A note on substituting yarns for this project: there is a lot of variation in the yarn industry within the world of worsted weight category 4 weight yarn. The best way I know to compare yarns of different origins, fiber contents, and brand are to look at the yardage per gram. On the yarn label for any yarn (from a big box store or from an independent dyer), the yardage for the ball or skein is listed.

The Re-Up yarn I used from Lion Brand is a 70 gram ball with 114 yards. 114/70=1.63 yards per gram.

I try to make sure any yarns I’m substituting are absolutely no more than 0.5 yards per gram difference from the yarn originally used in the pattern. The lower this number is, the closer these comparative yarns will be in gauge, resulting in a seamless finished project!

I do however recommend going with a cotton or cotton blend worsted weight yarn for this project, even if you don’t use Re-Up. The cotton is more stiff and rigid than other kinds of fiber meaning that your crochet tote bag won’t stretch very much when you fill it with goodies!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Save to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Description

The ultimate crochet tote bag – simply classic in design with utilitarian functionality. Made-from-a-rectangle construction means adventurous beginners can make this crochet tote bag with ease. The thick thermal stitch offers rigidity and combats stretching. Make one for toting to the farmer’s market or a coffeeshop!

Yarn

–Lion Brand – Re-Up
(weight 4 / medium, 2.5oz/70g, 114 yds/105 m)
Color: ECRU – 8 skeins or 850 yds/778 m

Grab the kit in any color from Lion Brand here!

Notions

–Size 7mm Crochet Hook

–Size F 3.75mm Crochet Hook

–Darning needle

Gauge

12 sts x 12 rows = 4″ in pattern (thermal stitch, yarn held double)

Finished Size

12 x 14″ (excluding straps)

Notes

-Chain stitches throughout the pattern do no count as a stitch, nor are they included in total stitch counts.

-Substitute other yarns of any weight by using it’s recommended hook size and following the same stitch pattern with a foundation chain that’s the width of your desired bag size and working row repeats until you’ve reached the length you desire. Alterations may affect yardage.

-Yarn is held double throughout the pattern unless otherwise stated.

FRAÎCHE CROCHET TOTE BAG

With yard held double and 7mm crochet hook, ch 37, skip 1 stitch

Row 1: 3rd loop sc across, turn <36>

Row 2: Ch 1, BLO sc across, turn

Row 3: Ch 1, thermal sc across, turn

 

View this post on Instagram

 

A post shared by Ashleigh Kiser (@sewrella) on May 4, 2020 at 12:44pm PDT

Row 4: Rep row 3

Row 5: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, thermal sc next 22 stitches, ch 1, skip 1 stitch, thermal sc last 6 stitches, turn <34>

Row 6: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, regular sc in skipped space, thermal sc next 22 stitches, regular sc in skipped space, thermal sc last 6 stitches, turn <36>

Row 7: Ch 1, thermal sc next 6 stitches, BLO sc in regular sc, thermal sc next 22 stitches, BLO sc in regular sc, thermal sc in last 6 stitches, turn

Note: Eyelet hole made by ch 1, skip 1 may look somewhat hidden. Place a stitch marker near the hole in case you’re worried you won’t be able to find it later.

Rows 8-80: Rep Row 3

Rows 81-83: Rep Rows 5-7

Rows 84-86: Rep Row 3

Row 87: Slip stitch through both top loops of the stitch and the stitch we work into from the row below, rep across

Finish off, weave ends.

Strap

With a single strand of yarn and F 3.75mm crochet hook, ch 6, skip 1 stitch

Row 1: Sc across <5>

Row 2: Wrap strip of sc into a loop and sc into the first stitch from Row 1, work sc in the round

Continue working sc in the round until your strap measures 50″ long or the desired length of your entire strap piece.

Finish off leaving a long tail for sewing, do not weave ends.

Assembly

Fold large rectangle with right sides together to seam up sides. Take care to align foundation chain and last slip stitch row. With a long piece of scrap yarn (held double) seam selvedge edges with a mattress stitch, pulling each stitch tight as you sew to create a strong seam. Weave ends to secure. Turn inside out (optional).

Thread unfinished strap through the eyelet holes created (these should match up) as pictured. You may thread a bit of macrame cord through the strap for added structure to prevent stretch but it’s not necessary. With a tapestry needle, sew two ends of the strap together with a whip stitch to form one continuous tube strap. Weave ends to secure.

Abbreviations (US terms):

BLO – back loop only
ch – chain
rep – repeat
sc – single crochet
sk – skip
<> – stitch count

OTHER FREE THERMAL STITCH PATTERNS

1. Crochet Double Thick Potholders /2. Textured Crochet Coasters/ 3. Fraîche Crochet Tote Bag

The post FRAÎCHE Crochet Tote Bag appeared first on Sewrella.

Read through my inspiration, design process, and lots of info on the stunning yarn I chose, or scroll on down for the free pattern.

The Inspiration + Design

I love a good tote bag (seriously, who doesn’t?) but I wanted a little more luxury with my utility. So when I had a bunch of my favorite velvet yarn laying around I knew I wanted a squishy circular tote to hold my projects.

I love the luxe mixed media look of leather and super soft velvet, so I knew I wanted a sleek leather handle with my eggplant velvet bag. I love the cognac brown leather and the sturdiness it adds to my squishy bag – especially when it’s weighted down with half a dozen skeins of yarn!

I held the yarn double for this bag so that it had a tad bit more structure to keep the circular shape but this yarn is so pliable and drapey that the bag moves really naturally. It doesn’t squish my project because the structure is a little more rigid, but it also hasn’t lost it’s shape. Win win!

The Yarn

Lion Brand has been releasing stunning yarn after stunning yarn this season and they’re not stopping with this new velvet style yarn, Vel-Luxe. It’s a worsted weight polyester based yarn that feels like crushed velvet & it really is what the label says – LUXE.

There are several velvet yarns on the market but I love this one because it’s a worsted weight (unlike the bulky ones I’ve seen) and it doesn’t shed. Let me say that again –  IT DOES NOT SHED. Hallelujah! Finally a textured yarn with incredible feel and finish without any yarn fuzzies left behind!

The color palette LB chose for this yarn is really wonderful too, it’s refined and elevated with neutrals and color that are everything we want to wear. I made my sample in Eggplant, but I’m so in love with every color – it was hard to choose just one color! Browse them all here.

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

To sum it up: The perfect textured circular tote bag made with luxurious velvet yarn. It’s the perfect size for a project bag or a large purse for everything you need on-the-go. I love simple construction with pretty texture and this bag fits the bill!

Materials:

–Lion Brand Vel-Luxe yarn (Weight: 4/Medium – 5.3 oz, 246 yds)

Color: Eggplant (2 skeins)

–Size K 6.5mm crochet hook

–Leather bag strap handles (click to grab the ones I used!) — here is an alternate long strap option too.

-Scrap light weight yarn (or strong thread) for sewing bag strap

-Tapestry needles (large eye and sharp darning)

–Stitch marker

Click here to shop my favorite tools and materials!

Gauge:

10 sts x 8 rows in Hdc = 4″ (yarn held double)

Finished Measurements:

Diameter: 16″

Depth: 4″

Abbreviations (US Terms):

3rd loop – work in the 3rd loop of the stitch only (positioned behind the two top loops)

ch – chain

hdc – half double crochet

rnd(s) – round(s)

rpt – repeat

sl st – slip stitch

st(s) – stitch(es)

Skill Level:

Level 1 – Beginner

Pattern Notes:

-Entirety of pattern is worked holding a double strand of Vel-Luxe yarn.

-Sizing is adjustable to be as large or small as you like – to make your bag smaller, do not complete all the rounds of the bag panels before moving on. To make your bag larger, continue in the same pattern of the bag panels to desired size.

-Bag may be made with another super bulky yarn in place of the double stranded worsted velvet yarn I used. Pay close attention to gauge when adjusting yarn.

-Bag will be made in two identical pieces and seamed.

-Place a stitch marker in the first st of each round if you need help identifying where to begin.

Crochet Velvet Tote Bag

Bag Panels:

*make 2

Make a magic ring

Rnd 1: Ch 2, 8 hdc in ring, sl st to join (8)

Rnd 2: Ch 2, 2 hdc in each st around, sl st to join (16)

*Note: To achieve an invisible seam, work your sl st into the first hdc of the previous rnd, ch 2, and work the first 2 hdc of the next rnd into the same st as your ch 2.

Rnd 3: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc; rpt from * around, sl st to join (24)

Rnd 4: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 2 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (32)

Rnd 5: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 3 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (40)

Rnd 6: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 4 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (48)

Rnd 7: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 5 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (56)

Rnd 8: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 6 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (64)

Rnd 9: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 7 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (72)

Rnd 10: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 8 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (80)

Rnd 11: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 9 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (88)

Rnd 12: Ch 2, *2 hdc, hdc next 10 sts; rpt from * around, sl st to join (96)

You should now have a flat circle about 12″ in diameter.

Edging:

Rnd 13: Ch 2, 3rd loop hdc in each st around, sl st to join (96)

Rnds 14-16: Ch 2, hdc in each st around (96)

Finish off, weave ends.

Assembly:

With a long piece of spare yarn double stranded (for strength) threaded on a tapestry needle, and wrong sides facing together, whip stitch 72 sts from Rnd 16 from each panel – leave 24 sts unsewn.

Weave ends.

Strap:

Position strap on bag. I lined up the bottom of the strap with the round of 3rd loop hdc.

With scrap yarn (I used 24/7 Cotton from Lion Brand in Ecru), sew into place with a small, sharp tapestry needle.

Repeat on other side of bag.

You’re done! Go flaunt your new luxurious tote bag out and about!

OTHER FREE CROCHET PATTERNS

1. Crochet Elle Convertible Shawl / 2. Crochet Rancher Poncho / 3. Crochet Audrey Tunic

The post Crochet Velvet Tote Bag appeared first on Sewrella.

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes 150+ patterns just like this one on sale for $20 today HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

The post Crochet Rover Circle Bag appeared first on Sewrella.

You may remember the 2 kids backpacks I made for the back to school season last year, the Grayson Little Kid Backpack and the Aubrie Big Kid Backpack. They’re so cute!

This year, I wanted to make a backpack that works for moms on the go! This mini size backpack is perfect for holding a wallet, car keys, a compact, chapstick, and a few other goodies (like a few diapers and wipes – not for me, for my little person. Usually.)

I used Lion Brand Fast Track yarn for this project because of its chunky, bulkier weight and the cotton/polyester blend. This yarn is really durable with great stitch definition, making it great for a bag. I actually made my Mykonos Bag out of this yarn several months ago, carry it all the time, and it’s still holding up really well!

This backpack could easily be made bigger by adding a few more increasing rounds to the base and following the same basic stitch pattern up the body. It would take a little creativity, but it can be done! Personally, I like the mini look because it forces me to carry less stuff around with me that I don’t need. Plus aren’t all things cuter when they’re in miniature form?

And I have to talk about these straps for a moment – they aren’t actually backpack straps. They’re pre-made bag straps from Joann Stores called “Purse-analize it!” Straps. These things are like a godsend, y’all. They’re so durable and take your bag to the next level, they make your bags look so much more professional. I’m not being paid to say this, but you need these straps. That is all.

I used brown purse straps of this sort (attached a bit differently than on a usual purse) as backpack straps! I used a long piece of yarn to sew over the metal pieces of the purse handles and it was really easy to add such a stunning finishing touch. You can certainly crochet your own bag straps like I did on the kids backpacks linked above!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern from Etsy HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Materials:

-2 skeins Lion Brand Fast Track yarn in Jet Black

-Purse-analize it! brown straps (here is a good alternate from Amazon)

–Size K 6.5 mm crochet hook

–Dritz Home Cable Cord

–Large eye tapestry needle

Shop all my favorite tools & materials HERE!

Base:

Ch 21, Sc in 2nd and across, 3 Sc in last st (next to slip knot), turn and work down the other side of your foundation chain, Sc in each, 2 Sc in last st, sl st to first st to join, Ch 1

Round 2: 2 Sc, Sc in next 19, 2 Sc in each of next 4, Sc in next 20, 2 Sc in next 2, sl st to join, Ch 1

Round 3: 2 Sc, Sc in next 22, 2 Sc in next 4, Sc in next 24, 2 Sc in last 2, sl st to join, Ch 1

Round 4: 2 Sc, Sc in next 24, 2 Sc, Sc, 2 Sc, Sc, 2 Sc, Sc, Sc 24, 2 Sc, Sc, 2 Sc, sl st to join, Ch 1

Round 5: 2 Sc, Sc in next 23, 2 Sc, Sc next 2, 2 Sc, Sc next 2, 2 Sc, Sc next 2, 2 Sc, Sc next 22, 2 Sc, Sc 2, 2 Sc, Sc 2, 2 Sc, sl st to join, Ch 1

Round 6: Sc in each around, sl st to join, Ch 1

Round 7: Back Loop Sc in each around, sl st to join, Ch 1

Body of the bag:

***Note: From this point on, work in a spiral and do not join rounds.

Round 8: *Sc, Ch 1, skip 1, repeat from * around

Round 9: *Sc in Ch 1 space, Ch 1, skip 1, repeat from * around

Rounds 10-36: Repeat Round 8

Round 37: Sc in each around (including Ch 1 spaces), finish off and weave ends

-Cut a piece of cable cord 3 feet long. Weave in and out of Round 35 every 4 Ch 1 spaces. Tie knots at the bottom of your cord, fray bottom and trim to your liking. Tie drawstring.

-Cut 4 long pieces of yarn and sew purse handles onto the back of your bag. I sewed mine while the bag lied flat, ungathered. Sew each strap 4 Rounds from the top and 2 Rounds from the bottom. Be sure your straps aren’t twisted and weave your ends well.

The post Crochet Daytripper Backpack appeared first on Sewrella.

I’m not generally a purse person. I’ve never been the kind of gal to stalk the designer sites and shops for the hot new bag to buy. I’m the use-the-same-bag-until-the-strap-rips-apart kind of girl.

Until I realized I can make any style bag I like, in the colors I want, and for only a few dollars!

I’ve been eyeing bohemian, bucket style bags lately, and I’m love with the shape. Many of them have tasseled ties and long straps, but not a lot of space for all the things moms need to bring everywhere (diapers, snacks, socks, patience, etc.).

So after seeing too many of these on my most recent trip to Target (because again, mom life) – I sat down to make one!

And what better yarn to use for a big bucket bag than Lion Brand Yarn’s brand new cotton/polyester hybrid Fast Track! This yarn is THE BEST y’all. Remember how last year I was obsessed with their 24/7 Cotton? I made this, this, this, and all of these. Okay, I’m still obsessed but Fast Track is my NEW obsession!

I’ve already got a whole slew of projects just a’waitin to get made. I see many late nights with Fast Track in my future, just don’t tell my fiance.

And this bag only takes 2 skeins! For this big ole bag! Usually I’m the queen of color, but I decided to neutral-it-up for this one – because let’s be honest, this thing is going with me everywhere. And taupe is dope.

You can now get a kit from Lion Brand for all the yarn you need for this pattern! Grab yours here.

I also chose to make the straps and drawstring out of Dritz Home Cable Cord – you can get this from Joann’s but it’s cheaper on Amazon! This stuff is super sturdy and usually used for piping in sewing projects like pillows & upholstery. If it weren’t so expensive, I’d crochet a whole project out of it. Just sayin’.

As if that weren’t enough, adding some gold hardware really sends this thing through the roof. People will think you bought it. From Saks Fifth Avenue. Seriously.

Alrighty, enough of my rambling. Here’s the pattern!

PATTERN

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern from Etsy HERE.
• Grab the Ultimate Pattern Bundle that includes this pattern and 100+ others for under $30 HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.

Materials:

-Lion Brand Fast Track yarn (1 skein Airstream White & 1 skein Trucker’s Taupe) – grab the kit with all the yarn here!

–Size K 6.5mm crochet hook

–12 size 1.1mm gold grommets and tools to attach them (if you haven’t used eyelets or grommets before, get the “kit” version that comes with the base and chisel to attach, linked here)

–1 package Dritz Home o.28″ Cable Cord  (I got mine on Amazon here)

–Large eye tapestry needle

Shop all my favorite tools & materials HERE!

Bag:

Round 1: With Trucker’s Taupe, Ch 26, Sc in 2nd and across, 3 Sc in last st, turn to work down the other side of the Ch & Sc in each, 2 Sc in same st as beginning of the round, don’t join (54)

Round 2: 2 Sc in each of next 2 sts, Sc in next 21 sts, 2 Sc in each of next 4 sts, Sc in next 22, 2 Sc in each of next 3 sts (61)

Round 3:  2 Sc in each of next 3 sts, Sc in next 24 sts, (2 Sc, Sc) 3 times, Sc in next 24, (2 Sc, Sc) 2 times, Sc in last (70)

Rounds 4-17: Sc in each around (70)

*Note: From now on, consider the side of the bag to be the beginning of the round. Before changing each color, Sc to the approximate side of the bag (should be directly above the end of your foundation chain)

Rounds 18-30: Color change to Airstream White, work Griddle Stitch around (Sc, Dc, Sc, Dc, repeat across) (70)

Rounds 31-35: Color change to Trucker’s Taupe, Sc around (70)

Round 36: Considering the side of the bag the beginning of the round, Sc in next 4, Ch 2, skip 2, *Sc in next 3, Ch 2, skip 2, repeat 4 more times, Sc in next 8, Ch 2, skip 2, *Sc in next 3, Ch 2, skip 2, repeat 4 more times, Sc in last 4 (46)

Round 37: Sc in each around making 2 Sc in each Ch 2 space (70)

Round 38: Sc in each around, finish off, weave all ends (70)

Using instructions in grommet/eyelet kit, attach grommets to the Ch 2 spaces. Be sure you are catching some of the fabric with the teeth of the grommet so that it doesn’t slip out while in use.

Once secure, cut a piece 3 feet long of the Cable Cord. Thread it through the grommets, with the tails coming out of the front 2 center grommets. Trim the cord to desired length (I left mine long) and knot the ends of the cord to keep from unraveling.

Shoulder Strap:

Cut the remaining cord in 5 equal length pieces. Knot one end leaving 2″ of cord to fray, and braid the length of the cord.

Make a 5 strand braid by separating the strands – 2 on the left and 3 on the right. Start by moving the right far outside strand, and move it down and to the opposite side. Now move the furthest strand on the left down and to the opposite side. Continue in this manner until the entire length is braided.

If you have trouble, follow THIS video tutorial.

Knot the end of the braid and trim the tails to make them even.

Using your scrap Airstream Fast Track yarn and a large eye tapestry needle, Sew the knots and up a bit into the braided handle over Rows 36-38 of the bag, knot & weave ends.

Don’t forget to PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards!

I hope you enjoy this fun bag – be sure to tag me @sewrella on Instagram so that I can see your beautiful work. You might even be featured on my page!

The post The Mykonos Crochet Bag appeared first on Sewrella.

Click HERE for the $1.99 large print, ad-free, pdf Pattern!

Hi there!

This Back to School Series has been so much fun to put together for you all and I am so glad that I got to bring you some fun patterns to brighten up your new school year!

I hope you enjoyed all of the patterns as much as I have!

The final installment is the Aubrie Big Kid Backpack! Inspired by my spunky niece who is always full of excitement and energy (give me some of that, am I right?), this bag will work as hard as your big kid!

Make it in any color scheme for your boys and girls – or for yourself! This “Big Kid” bag would also fit an adult nicely, with plenty of space for books, magazines, mobile devices, and your latest crochet project!

Don’t forget about Grayson’s Little Kid Backpack that matches this baby! This guy is best for toddlers and young primary school kids.

I made this bag using strong Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton yarn – my most favorite yarn ever! Right now its a bit hard to find in stores, so head on over to the LB website and snag some of this stuff on sale – it really is my most favorite ever. Like I can’t get enough. And that is the truth. Amen.

Click HERE for that!

Whip up this cute bag in a jiff, you won’t be sorry!

PATTERN:

Materials:
–Lion brand 24/7 Cotton in Ecru, Sky, Pink, and Lilac (2 skeins each)
-Size K 6.5mm crochet hook
-Tapestry needle
-6 ft. of paracord/parachute cord (I found 16ft. packs of these in the jewelry-making section of my craft store-hang onto the rest for the matching Little Kid Backpack found HERE!)

***Note: The entire bag will be made holding a double strand. Crochet holding 2 strands of the same color together, and working with them as if they were one chunkier strand.

Bag Base:
With Lilac, Ch 23
Round 1: 3 Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in next 19, 3 Sc in last Ch, turn to work in the other side of your foundation Ch, Sc across, sl st to first Sc in the round to join, Ch 1
Round 2: 2 Sc in each of first 3 sts, Sc in next 19, 2 Sc in next 4, Sc in next 16, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 3: 2 Sc in each of first 3 sts, Sc in next 20, 2 Sc in next 3, Sc in next 19, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 4: 2 Sc in each of first 5 sts, Sc in next 24, 2 Sc in next 5, Sc in next 19, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 5: Sc in each st around, sl st to join – don’t finish off, continue with body of bag

Body of Bag:
***Note: When joining each round, join to the first stitch in the round, Ch 1, then work the first st of the next round in the same stitch as your starting Ch

-continuing-
Round 6: (Sc in back loops only for this entire round) *Sc, 2 Sc, repeat from * around until you have 24 sts left open, Sc in these last 24 sts (this is the back side of your bag), sl st to join, Ch 1
Rounds 7-48: Sc in each st around, sl st to join, Ch 1
Color changes are as follows:
Round 17: Color change to Pink
Round 22: Color change to Ecru
Round 27: Color change to Sky
Round 38: Color change to Ecru
Round 43: Color change to Lilac
Round 48: Color change to Pink

Round 49: Sc in first 3 sts, *Ch 2, skip 2, Sc in next 3 sts, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 44: Dc in each st around, placing 2 Dc in each Ch space, sl st to join, finish off, weave all ends

Straps:
*Make 2
With Pink, Ch 9 (leave a long tail on your starting slip knot for sewing later)
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook and in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-65: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 66: Sc in each st across, finish off leaving a long tail for sewing

-Sew straps onto bag using a tapestry needle. Sew one end of the strap to the base of the bag on Round 6 (where you see the edging from stitching in the back loops only)
-Sew the other end of the strap to Round 40. I sewed strap 1 between sts 6 & 11, and strap 2 between sts 60 & 65

Drawstring:
-Cut your piece of paracord down to 6 ft. long. (At this stage I VERY CAREFULLY burned the ends of the cord with a lighter to keep from fraying)

-Weave the cord in and out of your Ch 2 spaces from Round 49 of the bag. There should be a Ch space at the front center of the bag, you want both ends of the paracord to come out that slot. Pull the cord tightly to gather the top of the bag and tie in a bow

Don’t forget to PIN this project to your Pinterest boards!

Enjoy your freshly finished Big Kid Backpack! Be sure to check out my Little Kid Backpack pattern HERE!

The post Aubrie’s Crochet Big Kid Backpack | Back to School Series appeared first on Sewrella.

Howdy!

Do you remember when the teacher would ask the class what their favorite school subject is? And there would always be that one kid who would scream “Lunch!” and then beam with clever pride.

Oh, to be a child again.

Well, this little lunch bag is just the perfect thing for that kid in the classroom! Or any kid who eats lunch. So basically any kid ever.

Ain’t that apple the cutest little thing? Find that pattern HERE!

This little guy is the perfect child’s size. If you have a high school junior on the football team, this may not be the lunch bag for him. Those dudes will eat you out of house and home. It really is something to marvel at.

However this little lunch bag is the perfect size for a sandwich, an apple, and a couple of cookies – yum! The size would also work perfectly for a snack bag to take to soccer practice or ballet lessons!

I used Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton for this project (as well as the rest of my Back to School Series) – and for a very important reason. It holds up great to WASHING. I do recommend hand washing and laying flat to dry just to preserve vivid color and shape, but in a pinch you can toss this lunch bag in the machine!

Little hands + food = frequent lunch bag washing

So grab some 24/7 Cotton for this project HERE – it’s even on sale right now!

I used a pretty unisex color palate, and made it a bit girly with a pink button. You could easily make this exact same bag with a brown or green button to make it a bit more boyish – or leave it pink, because who says pink is just for girls? Not me!

PATTERN
Materials:
-Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton yarn in White and Aqua (2 skeins each)
-Size K 6.5mm crochet hook
-Tapestry needle
-1 Button (I got this decorative pink one from Joann’s)

***Note: The entire bag will be made holding a double strand. Crochet holding 2 strands of the same color together, and working with them as if they were one chunkier strand.


Bag Base:
With Aqua, Ch 18
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-9: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 10: Sc in each st across, finish off, weave ends

Bag Sides:
*Make 2
With Aqua, Ch 9
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-21: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 22: Sc in each st across, finish off, weave ends

Bag Back:
With Aqua, Ch 18
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-7: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 8: Sc in each st across, color change to White, Ch 1, turn
Rows 9-12: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 13: Sc in each st across, color change to Aqua, Ch 1, turn
Rows 14-15: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 16: Sc in each st across, color change to White, Ch 1, turn
Rows 17-20: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 21: Sc in each st across, color change to Aqua, Ch 1, turn
Rows 22-30: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 31: Sc in first 7 sts, Ch 2, skip 2 (*this is your buttonhole), Sc in last 7 sts, Ch 1, turn
Row 32: Sc in each st across making 2 Sc in the Ch space, finish off, weave ends

Bag Front:
With Aqua, Ch 18
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in each st across, color change to White, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-5: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 6: Sc in each st across, color change to Aqua, Ch 1, turn
Rows 7-8: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 9: Sc in each st across, color change to White, Ch 1, turn
Rows 10-13: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 14: Sc in each st across, color change to Aqua, Ch 1, turn
Rows 15-16: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 17: Sc in each st across, color change to White, Ch 1, turn
Rows 18-21: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 22: Sc in each st across, finish off, weave ends

Assembly:
With Aqua, hold together the Bag Back and one Bag Side, lining up Row 1 with Row 1 (by this I mean – the beginning of the side and the beginning of the back. There will be extra on the Bag Back. This is the overflap that will button later. Be sure you are NOT stitching the Bag Side to the end of the Bag Back with the buttonhole)

Insert your hook into the corner sts, Sc these pieces together ALONG THE SIDE OF YOUR WORK (along the ends of your rows) until you reach the end of the Bag Side. Continue Sc around the top of the bag back (this will just finish of the edging nicely). Make 2 Sc in each corner.
Coming down the other side of the Bag Back, hold your other Bag Side in place, and Sc these pieces together as you did with the first side.
When you reach the bottom, 2 Sc in the corner. Hold together Row 1 of the Bag Base and Row 1 of the Bag Back. Sc these pieces together along both Row 1’s.

Work 2 Sc in each corner, and continue around the Bag Base, joining each short side to the Bag Sides with the same methods as above, and joining the other long side of the Bag Base to Row 1 of the Bag Front.

Your lunch bag should be looking like a lunch bag right about now!
Sc along the edges to join the Bag Front to the open long sides of the Bag Sides. Finish off and weave all ends.

Using a tapestry needle, sew your button onto the Bag Front directly underneath where your buttonhole lies when the over flap is folded over (the exact Row may be different depending on your button size, sew where appropriate).

Handle:
With Aqua, Ch 8     –leave a long tail on the slip knot for sewing–
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-13: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 14: Sc in each st across, finish off leaving a long tail for sewing, weave ends
Sew onto top of the bag, on the over flap. I sewed onto Row 24 of the Bag Back.

The post Crochet Little Lunch Bag | Back to School Series appeared first on Sewrella.

I have a cutie pie nephew, Grayson. He’s two and the absolute cutest. I made this Little Kid (toddler-6 or 7 years old) sized backpack with him in mind!

He is the little guy in his tribe, the youngest of four kids, and always winds up with hand-me-downs so I wanted to make something super special just for him! A mini-me sized backpack for toys and books seemed to be perfect.

This backpack, with the top untied, measures 11.5 in by 13 in and could easily fit several books and a few small toys.

The design is simple and versatile, just change up the colors (or don’t!) for a more girly look. This backpack would also be super cute if you added appliques – a dinosaur or superhero would be just Grayson’s style! My design is simple – add to it and make each backpack super unique!

I’d also like to note that I used Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton for this bag and recommend you do too (ESPECIALLY because it’s on sale right now!). It is super SUPER strong and durable while being bright with a sheen from the mercerized treatment of the cotton. I crocheted this bag holding a double strand (two strands at once) to really be sure it would hold up to the wild adventures Grayson is sure to go on. It also makes for a bit tighter stitch, so that his smallest toys won’t fall through the cracks.

Being that this bag is cotton and mega-beautiful, you can toss it in the wash without worry! To preserve color and shape I do recommend hand washing or on a delicate cycle with cold water in the machine, lay flat to dry (I just had to note the washing instructions because, let’s face it, we are making a toddler size bag here folks!)

OH! And one more thing – look out for a “Big Kid” backpack coming up next week!

This Back to School Series is shaping up nicely, if I do say so myself!

PATTERN
Materials:
-Lion brand 24/7 Cotton in White, Aqua, Tangerine, and Grass (2 skeins each)
-Size K 6.5mm crochet hook
-Tapestry needle
-6 ft. of paracord/parachute cord (I found 16ft. packs of these in the jewelry-making section of my craft store-hang onto the rest for the Big Kid Backpack coming up next week!)

***Note: The entire bag will be made holding a double strand. Crochet holding 2 strands of the same color together, and working with them as if they were one chunkier strand.

Bag Base:
With Grass, Ch 19
Round 1: 3 Sc in 2nd Ch from hook, Sc in next 15, 3 Sc in last Ch, turn to work in the other side of your foundation Ch, Sc across, sl st to first Sc in the round to join, Ch 1
Round 2: 2 Sc in each of first 3 sts, Sc in next 16, 2 Sc in next 4, Sc in next 16, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 3: 2 Sc in each of first 3 sts, Sc in next 19, 2 Sc in next 3, Sc in next 19, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 4: 2 Sc in each of first 5 sts, Sc in next 19, 2 Sc in next 5, Sc in next 19, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 5: *Sc in first st, 2 Sc in next, Sc in next, repeat from * two more times, Sc in next 19, **2 Sc, Sc in next 2, repeat from ** around two more times, Sc in next 19, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 6: Sc in each st around, sl st to join – don’t finish off, continue with body of bag

Body of Bag:
***Note: When joining each round, join to the first stitch in the round, Ch 1, then work the first st of the next round in the same stitch as your starting Ch

-continuing-
Round 7: (Sc in back loops only for this entire round) *Sc, 2 Sc, repeat from * around until you have 19 sts left open, Sc in these last 19 sts (this is the back side of your bag), sl st to join, Ch 1
Rounds 8-42: Sc in each st around, sl st to join, Ch 1
Color changes are as follows:
Round 15: Color change to Aqua
Round 19: Color change to White
Round 22: Color change to Tangerine
Round 30: Color change to White
Round 33: Color change to Grass
Round 37: Color change to Aqua
Round 41: Color change to White

Round 43: Sc in first 3 sts, *Ch 2, skip 2, Sc in next 3 sts, repeat from * 9 more times, **Ch 2, skip 2, Sc in next 5 sts, repeat from ** once more, Ch 2, skip 2, Sc in last 2 sts, sl st to join, Ch 1
Round 44: Dc in each st around, placing 2 Dc in each Ch space, sl st to join, finish off, weave all ends

Straps:
*Make 2
With Aqua, Ch 7 (leave a long tail on your starting slip knot for sewing later)
Row 1: Sc in 2nd Ch from hook and in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Rows 2-53: Sc in each st across, Ch 1, turn
Row 54: Sc in each st across, finish off leaving a long tail for sewing

-Sew straps onto bag using a tapestry needle. Sew one end of the strap to the base of the bag on Round 7 (where you see the edging from stitching in the back loops only)
-Sew the other end of the strap to Round 40. I sewed strap 1 between sts 6 & 11, and strap 2 between sts 60 & 65

Drawstring:
-Cut your piece of paracord down to 6 ft. long. (At this stage I VERY CAREFULLY burned the ends of the cord with a lighter to keep from fraying)

-Weave the cord in and out of your Ch 2 spaces from Round 43 of the bag. There should be a Ch space at the front center of the bag, you want both ends of the paracord to come out that slot. Pull the cord tightly to gather the top of the bag and tie in a bow

Don’t forget to PIN this project to your Pinterest boards!

Enjoy your freshly finished Little Kid Backpack! Be sure to check out my Big Kid Backpack coming up soon!

The post Grayson’s Crochet Little Kid Backpack | Back to School Series appeared first on Sewrella.

I also love reusable grocery bags. I can’t stand the icky plastic ones. But that’s a rant for another day.

I’m very crunchy granola, I know.

What can I say? I’m from California.

So I thought to myself “Self, I bet you could crochet a cute bag to take your fruits and veggies in…”

And after a little testing – this cutie was born!

This bag is pretty big, just not in relation to my baby bump.

Though, she’s not huge but could easily hold an armful of fruits and veggies.

BUT it only takes 1 skein to make this cute bag! Wahoo! I love 1 skein projects!

I’ll be making several of these!

PATTERN:

• Get the ad-free, large print, printable PDF pattern from Etsy HERE.
• PIN this pattern to your Pinterest boards for later HERE.
• Add this pattern to your Ravelry queue HERE.

Materials
-1 skein any worsted weight or cotton yarn (I used I Love This Yarn in Pasha – but I STRONGLY recommend using a cotton for sturdiness!)
–Size H crochet hook
–Tapestry needle
Shop all my favorite tools & materials HERE!

Begin with a magic ring
Round 1: Ch 2, 10 Dc in ring, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 2: 2 Dc in each st, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 3: *2 Dc in first st, Dc in next st*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 4: *2 Dc in first st, Dc in next 2 sts*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 5: *2 Dc in first st, Dc in next 3 sts*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 6: *2 Dc in first st, Dc in next 4 sts*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 7: *2 Dc in first st, Dc in next 5 sts*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Rounds 8-9: Dc around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 10: *V st (all in same st – Dc, Ch 1, Dc), Ch 1, skip 2 sts*, repeat from * around, sl st to join, Ch 2
Round 11: Repeat Round 10 stitching in the Ch 1 spaces from the row below
Rounds 12-27: Repeat Round 11
Rounds 28-29: Dc around, sl st to join, Ch 2

For the strap:
Working from your last Ch 2, Dc in next 8 sts, Ch 2, turn
Repeat for 66 total rows of 8 Dc
Sl st to other side of bag, finish off, weave ends

What will you carry in your new cute bag? Fill it with something yummy and good for you!

The post 1 Skein Crochet Farmer’s Market Bag appeared first on Sewrella.