Skill Level: Advanced beginner/intermediate
Finished Size (approx.): 18″ wide x 16″ tall (not including handles)
Hook: 5.0 mm (H-8)
Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (approx. 350–450 yards)
Notions: Yarn needle, scissors
Gauge: Not critical. The fabric should feel firm but not stiff.

🪡 Abbreviations (US terms)

ch – chain
sc – single crochet
dc – double crochet
sl st – slip stitch
st(s) – stitch(es)
sk – skip

CHART

✍️ Pattern Instructions

🔹 Base of the Bag (worked flat)

Row 1: Ch 61 (or any even number for your preferred width).
Row 2: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (60 sts)
Rows 3–10: Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across.

You now have a firm rectangular base. Adjust the number of rows here for a thicker or thinner base.

🔹 Body of the Bag (worked in the round)

Round 1:
Ch 1, sc evenly around all four sides of the rectangle to begin working in the round.
Place 2 sc in each corner. Sl st to first sc to join.

(Your stitch count may vary, but aim to keep it even – around 140–160 sts total.)

Round 2:
Ch 3 (counts as dc), ch 1, sk 1 st, dc in next st. Repeat from * to * around.
(You’re now working a mesh stitch: dc, ch-1, skip.)
Sl st to top of ch-3 to join.

Rounds 3–30 (or desired height):
Sl st into next ch space. Ch 3 (counts as dc), ch 1, dc in next ch space. Repeat around.
Sl st to top of ch-3 to join each round.

Optional: Add more rounds for a taller bag or fewer for a smaller tote.

🔹 Top Border (solid rounds)

Rounds 31–33:
Ch 1, sc in each st and ch space around.
Sl st to join.

🔹 Handles

Round 34 (handle placement):
Ch 1, sc in next 15 sts,
ch 45 (for handle), skip 25 sts,
sc in next 30 sts,
ch 45, skip 25 sts,
sc in remaining sts to end.
Sl st to join.

Round 35:
Sc in each st and across each chain handle (i.e., 45 sc on each handle).
Sl st to join.

Rounds 36–37:
Repeat round of sc around entire bag and handles to thicken the edge.

🔹 Finishing

Fasten off.
Weave in all ends securely.
Lightly block the bag if needed to shape it.

💡 Tips

For extra durability, work handles with hdc or even slip stitches over the chain spaces.
Want a sturdier base? Try holding two strands of yarn together for the base rows.
Add a lining if you want to carry small items or produce.