Aura Crochet Checkered Bag Pattern that Bold Look

Materials

Collect these supplies for the project:

• Yarn: Barroco No. 6 (cotton yarn) in two colors: beige and brown [00:50].

• Hook: Size 3.5 mm crochet hook [01:03].

• Extras: Scissors, a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and optional glue for securing yarn joins.

Special Features

This bag features an integrated handle design, where the strap and the bag’s side gusset are worked as one continuous piece [33:11]. The checkered (xadrez) pattern is achieved using the carried yarn (fio conduzido) technique, making the fabric thick and sturdy without needing a lining. The curved top edges give it that signature “gringa” baguette shape popular on social media [20:12].

Difficulty Level

The level of difficulty is Intermediate. While the bag exclusively uses single crochet stitches, the challenge lies in managing two yarn colors simultaneously and executing the precise decreases required to create the curved side profile.

Tutor’s Suggestions

• Check Your Gauge: The initial 40-chain foundation measures about 23 cm, but will expand to 25.5 cm after adding the borders [01:38].

• Prevent Staining: Always switch to the new color on the final pull-through of the 5th stitch in a block to ensure the color transitions stay crisp and un-smudged [06:22].

• Symmetry is Key: Frequently compare your current side to the previously finished one to ensure the curves and stitch counts match perfectly [26:10].

Step-by-Step Pattern

1. Foundation and Main Body

• Chain: Start with 40 chains (or any multiple of 5) [01:15].

• Row 1: Work single crochets in blocks of 5. On the 5th stitch of a block, change colors by pulling the new color through the last two loops [03:29].

• Block Height: Work 4 rows for each color block before inverting the colors (e.g., beige over brown) to create the checkerboard effect [13:50].

• Total Height: Complete 19 rows of the grid pattern for the main body [18:35].

2. Creating the Side Curves

• Decreasing: Start Row 20 with 12 single crochets following the pattern, then decrease by one stitch at the edge in each subsequent row [20:12].

• Sharp Curve: After several rows of single-stitch decreases, begin skipping two stitches at a time to create a more open, dramatic curve [22:32].

• Mirroring: Repeat this process on the opposite side of the same panel [24:38].

3. Bottom and Back Panel

• Bottom Gusset: Attach yarn to the foundation chain and work 4 rows across the bottom to create the base of the bag [27:45].

• Back Panel: Continue working from the bottom gusset for another 19 rows (plus the curved sections) to create the second side of the bag [28:45]. Total rows should reach approximately 50 for the entire front-to-back piece [30:04].

4. The Continuous Strap/Side Piece

• Foundation: Chain 4 (the width of the bag’s bottom) [32:00].

• Pattern: Work 4-stitch wide rows in the checkered pattern (4 rows per color block) until you have a long strip of 30 blocks [36:26].

5. Assembly and Edging

• Joining: Turn the bag inside out. Use single crochet stitches to join the long strap piece to the sides and bottom of the main bag panels [38:13].

• Top Border: Turn the bag right-side out. Work one final round of single crochets around the entire top opening and handles to hide any messy yarn transitions and provide a clean finish [46:20].

Intended Uses

Use this bag as a daily fashion accessory for carrying essentials like your phone, wallet, and keys. Its structured design makes it a perfect statement piece for outings, while the thick crochet fabric ensures it holds its shape.

Pro Tip

When working the top border, don’t worry about a strict stitch count on the curves. Simply insert your hook wherever it looks most harmonious to create a smooth, natural-looking arch [49:16].

Crocheting this baguette bag allows you to master the carried yarn technique while creating a high-end fashion piece. Following these steps results in a sturdy, professional-grade accessory that brings a handmade touch to a modern trend.