How To Crochet A Granny Square Bag (Tutorial for Beginners)
Learn how to crochet a colorful and easy granny square bag for your summer trips with a step-by-step tutorial from Ezohandmade287. This bag features a striped motif in the center and two long and short straps for cozy portability. You can crochet it very quickly if you already know how to crochet a granny square.
The complete guide for crocheting this bag, however, will be available at the end of this post. Let’s get started!
Skills Used: Skills demonstrated include starting with a magic ring, working double crochet stitches (dc), forming motif patterns, joining motifs using slip stitches (sl st), and creating a bag shape. Additionally, the tutorial teaches how to make adjustable straps, sew on buttons, and reinforce edges with single crochet stitches (sc) to ensure durability.
Guide Span: 49 Minutes Only
Personalization Tips: There are three color versions available. Different yarn types can be used to achieve softer or sturdier textures. The strap length can be adjusted by changing the number of stitches or using different attachment methods, like chains or clasps. Additionally, decorative elements such as beads, tassels, or embroidery can be added for a unique look.
The tutorial provides a detailed, step-by-step guide for crocheting a stylish crochet bag using basic techniques. It starts with an introduction to materials and progresses through granny square creation, joining, and final assembly. The instructor carefully explains each process, including alternative options for fastening and strap-making. Here is a quick overview of this tutorial:
Free Crochet Summer Motif Bag Pattern
Materials
- Yarn:
- 100% cotton (recommended for durability and structure)
- Several colors for motifs (suggested: Apple Cotton or similar)
- Contrast color for edging and joining (optional)
- Stiff cotton for outer edge and handles
- Hook Sizes:
- 3.5 mm for motifs
- 4.0 mm for edging and handle
- Buttons: For closure and adjustable straps (1–2 pieces)
- Darning needle: For sewing and weaving in ends
- Scissors
- Optional: Chain handle (instead of crocheted), fabric lining or zipper for closure
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- BL – back loop
- Magic ring – adjustable ring
Special Notes
- The bag is constructed from two square motifs with graduated colors. Motif instructions are for a classic granny-square style.
- Straps are adjustable; button closures are practical and allow for transformation between a long shoulder or short handle bag.
- Stiff cotton yarn is used for structure, especially for outer rounds and straps.
- Optionally, motifs can be lined or fitted with a zipper for improved function.
Pattern
1. Motif (Make 2)
Using 3.5 mm hook and desired colors.
Motif Center:
- Start with a magic ring.
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 11 dc into the ring. (12 dc total)
- Sl st to top of beginning ch-3.
- Fasten off and switch to next color.
Second Round (Color Gradient):
- Join new color with sl st in any dc.
- Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same st.
- In next st, 2 dc in same st; repeat around. (24 dc)
- Sl st to join. Fasten off.
Third Round:
- Join next color with sl st.
- Ch 3, 2 dc in same st. (3 dc group)
- Move to next st, 3 dc in same st; repeat around. (Total: 12 three-dc groups)
- Sl st to join.
Fourth Round (Forming Corners):
- Join another color with sl st, ch 3, 2 dc in same st.
- In next st, work 3 dc in same st; repeat until you reach four corners.
- Corners: In corner spaces, work
- 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc (into same space)
- Repeat corner formula on each side of the motif.
- Sl st to join and fasten off.
Edging (for both motifs):
- Join outer yarn with sl st in any stitch.
- Ch 3, work 3 dc in each space between groups.
- At corners, work
- 3 dc, ch 2 or 3 (as needed for expansion), 3 dc
- Continue around. Fasten off.
Single Crochet Rounds (Structure):
- Using same or another contrasting color, sc in each st around motif edges.
- At corners, work 1 sc, ch 2, 1 sc.
- Add additional rounds as desired for width, increasing at corners.
2. Joining Motifs
- Place motifs with right sides together.
- Use sl st or sc method to join three sides, leaving one side open for the flap.
- Align corners and edges for a square finish.
- Turn inside out, motif seams should be neat and inside the bag.
3. Bag Flap and Edging
- Work extra rounds of dc or sc over one motif’s edge for a flap, using BL for texture.
- Continue in rows, turning after each, until flap covers opening.
- At corners and sides, work evenly and increase as needed.
4. Handles / Adjustable Straps
- For short strap: Work a chain (e.g., 55 cm), turn, sc or dc back.
- For long strap: Work a chain (e.g., 80 cm), turn, sc or dc back.
- Attach buttons at chosen points on the bag’s sides to adjust strap length.
5. Closure
- For button flap:
- Sew a button at bag’s opening.
- Crochet a loop on the flap: ch 8, sl st to form loop.
- Attach and secure.
- For zipper or lining (optional): Sew into lining and edges before final motif seaming.
6. Finishing
- Weave in all ends with darning needle.
- Sew straps securely and reinforce button holes.
- Add additional decorative edging or tassel if desired.
- Block the bag gently for sharper motif shape.
Conclusion
This motif-based summer bag combines creative use of leftover motifs with practical crochet skills. The adjustable strap and button closure make it functional and stylish for everyday use. Select yarns and motifs to coordinate with your wardrobe for a personalized accessory.
Pattern Corrections & Tips
- Correction: Ensure motifs are the same size for seamless joining.
- Tip: Use stiff cotton for edges and straps to maintain bag structure.
- Tip: Increase stitches at corners while working single crochet rounds to prevent curling.
- Tip: If desired, add lining or zipper before final joining for enhanced practicality and privacy.
- Tip: If using a chain as a strap, attach securely at sides with jump rings or sewing.
- Secure and tighten joins to prevent holes at motif edges.
