17 Free Crochet Bag Patterns for Stylish Totes and Crossbody Bags

17 Free Crochet Bag Patterns (Totes & Crossbody)

There is something satisfying about making a bag you will actually carry. This collection gathers 17 free crochet bag patterns, and it leans toward totes and crossbody styles that work for errands, markets, and everyday outings.

The designs come from the roundup published by Christine Britton. You will find bright market bags, a classic gingham tote, a mosaic placemat bag, and even a chicken purse. Most are described as beginner friendly, quick to make, and simple to customize.

If you like comparing options before you buy yarn, there are more free crochet bag patterns to browse, and you can read the original roundup for the complete set.

Key Takeaways

• All 17 designs are free patterns, covering totes, market bags, crossbody bags, and small pouches.
• Several are written for beginners and can be resized by adding rounds, stripes, or squares.
• Sturdier bags use doubled yarn, dense stitches, or firm cotton blends.
• Some projects need almost no sewing, including the folded rectangle crossbody bag.
• Colors, straps, and embellishments are easy to change, so one pattern can look very different from maker to maker.

Before You Start

Think about what the bag will carry before you choose a pattern. For heavier loads, the source recommends a firm cotton or cotton blend yarn, fairly tight tension, and either a lining or reinforced handles.

Yarns that hold up well include cotton, cotton linen, cotton acrylic blends, and sturdy worsted yarns. Hooks usually fall between 4.0 mm and 5.5 mm, depending on the yarn weight and how firm you want the fabric.

To strengthen a bag, use a smaller hook, denser stitches, doubled yarn, a fabric lining, or extra handle reinforcement. For lighter bags, mesh, eyelet, and other openwork stitches keep the fabric airy.

If a swatch feels floppy in your hands, the finished bag will stretch once it is loaded. A few test rows now save rework later.

New to the craft? These beginner friendly crochet projects make a gentle warm up, and Moogly keeps a large library of free crochet bag patterns for beginners.

Summer Harvest Market Bag

A lightweight, roomy bag that feels easy and breezy, suited to towels, snacks, or market produce.

Free Pattern: Summer Harvest Market Bag

A free pattern is available.

this …

Materials

Worsted weight cotton or cotton blend yarn, about 250 to 320 yards, a 5.0 mm (H) hook, stitch markers, a tapestry needle, and scissors.

Size and Fit

About 14 inches wide by 15 inches tall, handles not counted. Add or remove base and side rounds to change the size.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, st(s), sp, rnd, rep.

Pattern

Ch 31, sc in the second ch from the hook, place 3 sc in the final ch, then sc back along the other side and join to form an oval. Keep the oval flat through rnds 2 to 5 with 3 sc at each end.

Repeat the mesh round (ch 3, skip 1 st, sc in the next st) until the bag is 13 to 15 inches tall, then add 3 sc rounds and chain handles.

Finishing

Secure the ends, then steam block lightly or shape the base and handles by hand while flat.

Beginner Tip

Cotton or a cotton blend holds the bag shape better than stretchy acrylic.

Gingham Tote Bag

HayHay Crochet gives this classic check a step by step guide and a sturdy shape for markets, school, or shopping.

Classic Gingham Color Options

Bold reds and whites, sweet pastels, or black and white all work. A light, medium, and dark shade build the check.

Step by Step Pattern Guide

The pattern explains the color changes row by row. You can make the bag larger, lengthen the strap, or add pockets.

Perfect for Everyday Use

The source calls it beginner friendly and enjoyable for experienced crocheters too, with room for snacks, books, or sunglasses.

Free Pattern: Gingham Tote Bag

The pattern is free to use.

Materials

Worsted cotton yarn in 3 colors, a 5.0 mm (H) hook, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. A fabric lining is optional.

Size and Fit

About 13 inches wide by 14 inches tall. More or fewer gingham squares change the finished size.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, st(s), RS/WS, rep.

Pattern

Chain a multiple of 8 plus 1 for each panel and sc across. Work sc rows while changing color every 8 stitches, carrying or cutting the yarn between blocks. Join the two panels along three sides, work 2 sc rounds around the opening, and add handles of 45 to 60 chains worked back in sc.

Finishing

Weave in the ends from the color changes and add a lining if the bag will hold keys or pens.

Beginner Tip

Keep every color change on the same side of the work so the front stays tidy.

Elegant Tote Bag

Crochet with Carrie blends shape and texture in a sophisticated tote with a roomy interior.

Tassels or decorative buttons are optional extras.

Free Pattern: Elegant Tote Bag

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 300 to 400 yards of worsted cotton or cotton acrylic yarn, a 5.0 mm (H) hook, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. A magnetic snap or lining is optional.

Size and Fit

About 12 to 14 inches wide by 13 to 15 inches tall. Add rows for height or widen the base for more capacity.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, dc, sl st, BLO, st(s), rep.

Pattern

Ch 36 and work 6 to 8 hdc rows for the rectangular base, then sc evenly around it with 3 sc in each corner. Alternate a dc round with an hdc round worked in back loop only to build a raised ridge, repeating until the bag is about 13 inches tall. Finish with 3 sc rounds and two sturdy handles.

Finishing

Sew each handle through several stitches so it stays put, then add a lining or snap if you like.

Beginner Tip

If the fabric feels floppy, drop half a hook size for a firmer gauge.

Harbor Tote Bag

This one is built for strength, with two strands of yarn held together and a doubled base.

Leather handles give it a modern look.

Free Pattern: Harbor Tote Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

About 500 to 600 yards of worsted cotton held double, a 6.0 mm (J) hook, and leather or crocheted handles, plus markers and a needle.

Size and Fit

About 15 inches wide by 14 inches tall with a reinforced base. Doubling the yarn makes the fabric thicker and stronger.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, sl st, st(s), rnd, rep.

Pattern

Ch 34 and work hdc rows until the base is about 4 inches deep, then sc evenly around it with 3 sc in each corner. Work hdc around for the body, leaving rounds unjoined for a spiral if you prefer, until it measures 12 to 14 inches. Add 4 sc rounds for the top band, then attach the handles.

Finishing

Check each handle join twice and sew through the tabs several times.

Beginner Tip

Holding yarn double uses more yardage than you expect, so buy an extra ball.

Market Tote

Mall Knits designed an eyelet tote that stays light on the shoulder while holding vegetables, flowers, or pastries.

Eyelet Stitch Pattern

The eyelet variations add visual detail and keep the fabric airy, and the pattern suits beginners as well as experienced crocheters.

Feminine Design Appeal

A simple shape and a delicate stitch give it a soft look that works with casual or dressier outfits. The pattern is free.

Perfect for Markets

It is intended for market trips, with room for produce and flowers while keeping the decorative detail.

Free Pattern: Market Tote

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 250 to 350 yards of worsted cotton yarn, a 5.0 mm (H) hook, a stitch marker, a tapestry needle, and scissors.

Size and Fit

About 13 inches wide by 15 inches tall. The eyelet stitches give a little when the bag is filled.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, sk, sp, rnd, rep.

Pattern

Start with a foundation chain of 31 and work 4 to 5 base rounds, increasing at both ends until it lies flat.

For the body, ch 4, skip 1 st, and sc in the next st around, then sc into each chain space with ch 3 between spaces on the following round.

Repeat to the height you want, add 3 sc rounds, and form handles with ch 60 and a 14 stitch skip, working 2 sc rounds over the chains.

Finishing

Block gently to open the eyelets and weave the ends into the top band.

Beginner Tip

Skip tiny items unless you add a lining or carry them in a small pouch.

Dont Mesh With Me Bag

MJ Off the Hook created an open mesh bag that shows what is inside at a glance, which suits groceries and eco conscious shopping.

Free Pattern: Dont Mesh With Me Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

About 200 to 300 yards of DK or worsted cotton yarn, a 4.5 to 5.0 mm hook, a stitch marker, and a tapestry needle.

Size and Fit

About 12 inches wide by 16 inches tall. Because mesh stretches, you can add or remove body rounds.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, ch sp, rnd, rep.

Pattern

Make a compact solid base in sc, then work mesh rounds: ch 5, skip 2 sts, sc in the next st, and join. On later rounds, sc into each chain space with ch 5 between spaces.

Work 3 to 4 sc rounds for the top band, then add one shoulder strap of 70 to 90 chains worked back in sc, or two shorter handles.

Finishing

Weave the tails in around the base and band, then block lightly to even out the mesh.

Beginner Tip

Mesh grows when filled, so stop the body a little shorter than you want it.

Sturdy Market Bag

Delia Creates uses a wool blend for a rustic look in a bag described as quick to crochet and strong enough for produce or books.

Free Pattern: Sturdy Market Bag

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 350 to 450 yards of worsted cotton or wool blend yarn, a 5.0 mm (H) or 5.5 mm (I) hook, stitch markers, a tapestry needle, and optional lining fabric.

Size and Fit

About 14 inches wide by 15 inches tall. Tighter stitches are suggested if the bag will carry heavier items.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, sl st, st(s), rnd, rep.

Pattern

Ch 38 and work hdc rows until the rectangle is about 5 inches deep, then sc evenly around it with 3 sc in each corner.

For the body, work 2 hdc rounds followed by 1 sc round and repeat until the bag is 13 to 15 inches tall. Add 4 sc rounds at the top, then crochet two handles or sew on premade ones.

Finishing

Reinforce the handle joins with extra stitches and add a lining for groceries or books.

Beginner Tip

Make the handles separately and sew them on with doubled yarn for extra strength.

Dune Bag

Two Of Wands designed a bag with sharp corners and bold texture, giving it an unusual silhouette that still works every day.

Free Pattern: Dune Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

About 300 to 400 yards of worsted cotton or raffia style yarn, a 4.5 mm or 5.0 mm hook, markers, and a tapestry needle. A magnetic clasp is optional.

Size and Fit

About 11 to 13 inches wide, depending on the shaping. Folded or slanted sides create the distinctive silhouette.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, inc, dec, sl st, RS/WS.

Pattern

For each panel, ch 31 and work hdc rows, increasing 1 st at both ends every 4th row, then work straight until the panel is about 11 inches tall and decrease to mirror the angle. Make two matching panels.

Crochet a 2 to 3 inch sc gusset strip, join it around the sides and base with the right side facing out, and add a long sc strap.

Finishing

Steam block the panels before assembly to sharpen the corners, then add a clasp or button.

Beginner Tip

Place stitch markers along the shaped edges so increases and decreases stay balanced.

Summer Breeze Tote

A Crochet Simplicity uses floral openwork in an airy tote that suits light loads such as a yarn project rather than heavy groceries.

Free Pattern: Summer Breeze Tote

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 300 yards of DK or worsted cotton yarn, a 4.5 mm hook, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. Lining is optional.

Size and Fit

About 12 inches wide by 14 inches tall. The openwork leaves gaps, so it is best for lightweight items.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, tr, sl st, sk, sp, rep.

Pattern

Work a solid base about 12 inches wide and 4 inches deep, then sc evenly around it. For the motif rounds, ch 3 and work double crochet clusters with chain spaces, keeping the stitch count even, and repeat until the body is 12 to 14 inches tall.

Finish with 3 sc rounds and attach two handles or one long strap to the band.

Finishing

Block gently to open the lace, and add a simple lining if you carry small items.

Beginner Tip

Keep your tension relaxed so the openwork stitches do not pull tight.

Lucy Tote Bag

Evelyn and Peter Crochet designed this roomy striped tote for errands, library trips, and school supplies, with a build that suits newer crocheters.

Simple Construction Techniques

The tote uses basic stitches with a clear layout, step by step directions, and photos to guide the work.

Stylish Stripe Patterns

Bold stripes add color without making the bag heavy. The color changes look complex but are described as easy to work.

Versatile Everyday Use

It holds books, snacks, and other essentials, and the simple texture invites different color combinations.

Free Pattern: Lucy Tote Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

2 to 4 colors of worsted cotton yarn, about 300 to 400 yards total, a 5.0 mm hook, markers, and a needle.

Size and Fit

About 13 inches wide by 14 inches tall. Add stripe repeats for extra height.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, dc, sl st, st(s), rep.

Pattern

Ch 36 and work 8 hdc rows for the base, then sc evenly around to start the body. Work 2 rounds in one color, 2 in the next, repeating and changing colors at the back seam, and alternate hdc with dc rounds for texture until the bag reaches the height you want.

Add 3 sc rounds and form two handle openings with chains on the first band round.

Finishing

Weave the color change ends inside the bag and steam lightly to smooth the stripes.

Beginner Tip

Change color on the final yarn over of the last stitch so each stripe starts cleanly.

Heart Drawstring Pouch

A small beginner project with a heart motif in the center, sized for little treasures, snacks, or notes.

Free Pattern: Heart Drawstring Pouch

A free crochet pattern is available.

Materials

DK cotton yarn in a main color plus a small amount for the heart, a 4.0 mm hook, and a tapestry needle. Two drawstrings or a ribbon close the pouch, and beads are optional.

Size and Fit

About 5 inches wide by 6 inches tall. Add rounds to the base and body for a larger pouch.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, dc, sl st, rnd, st(s).

Pattern

Work 6 sc into a magic ring and increase evenly over 5 to 6 rounds to make a flat circle, then sc around without increasing until the pouch is about 5 inches tall.

Make the heart separately with hdc and dc, or work it into the front with a color change. For the drawstring round, ch 2, skip 2 sts, sc in the next 2 sts, and repeat, then work one final sc round and thread a chain or ribbon through the openings.

Finishing

Attach the heart motif if it was made separately, then knot the drawstring ends.

Beginner Tip

Mark the first stitch of each round so the pouch stays even.

Folded Rectangle Crossbody Bag

A simple folded construction turns one crocheted rectangle into a crossbody bag with very little sewing.

Simple Folded Construction

Crochet a rectangle, fold it in half, and seam the sides. The project uses basic techniques and can be customized with color, texture, or buttons.

Versatile Everyday Style

The crossbody strap keeps your hands free, and the compact shape holds essentials without bulk.

Beginner Friendly Pattern

Step by step instructions and visuals guide the fold, and the construction is described as quick.

Free Pattern: Folded Rectangle Crossbody Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

About 250 to 350 yards of worsted cotton or acrylic cotton blend, a 5.0 mm hook, a tapestry needle, and a button or magnetic snap.

Size and Fit

After folding, about 8 to 9 inches wide by 7 inches tall. A longer rectangle makes a deeper flap.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, BLO, sl st, RS/WS, st(s).

Pattern

Ch 34 and work hdc rows until the rectangle is about 22 to 24 inches long, working every fourth row in back loop only for texture. Fold the lower portion up to form the bag, leaving 5 to 6 inches at the top for the flap, then seam both sides with sc or a whipstitch and add a strap.

Finishing

Close the flap with a button, snap, or loop, secure the ends, and block the rectangle flat.

Beginner Tip

Fold the rectangle around your phone or wallet before seaming to check the size.

Red Heart Crochet Chicken Bag

A playful chicken motif makes this easy level tote a fun accessory or a distinctive gift, and its small size suits a few essentials.

Free Pattern: Red Heart Crochet Chicken Bag

A free pattern is available.

Materials

Worsted yarn in a body color plus small amounts of red and yellow, a 5.0 mm hook, safety eyes or black yarn, and a tapestry needle. Lining is optional.

Size and Fit

About 9 to 11 inches wide, sized as a small novelty tote or gift bag.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, dc, inc, dec, sl st, rnd.

Pattern

Make two rounded oval panels in sc, increasing evenly until they reach the size you want, then work rounds or rows without increases for depth or join them with a narrow gusset.

Add red shells or picots along the top for the comb, a small yellow sc triangle for the beak, and a half circle wing on each side, then make a short handle or a longer sc strap.

Finishing

Attach the eyes securely, embroider the details, and line the bag if it is a gift for a child.

Beginner Tip

Stitch decorative parts down firmly so they do not snag in use.

Lily Mosaic Crochet Placemat Bag

An intermediate project that turns a placemat style panel into a bag with bold geometric mosaic motifs.

Free Pattern: Lily Mosaic Crochet Placemat Bag

The pattern is free.

Materials

Cotton yarn in two contrasting colors, a 4.5 mm hook, a tapestry needle, and handles or a strap. Lining is optional.

Size and Fit

About 10 to 12 inches wide, depending on the panel size. A firm rectangular panel works best.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, BLO, FLO, RS/WS, rep.

Pattern

Make one large rectangular mosaic panel or two smaller ones, working the design in rows and changing colors after each row or every two rows while keeping the wrong side tidy.

Fold the rectangle into a bag, or join two panels along the sides and base with sc. Work a firm sc round around the opening and attach handles, straps, or rings at the upper corners.

Finishing

Block the panel before seaming so it lies flat, and line the bag to cover the floats inside.

Beginner Tip

Pick high contrast colors so the mosaic pattern reads clearly.

Caron Crochet Knotty Beach Bag

Knotting techniques add texture to a roomy bag that holds sunscreen, sunglasses, a water bottle, and a book.

Caron yarn is described as soft yet durable enough for beach use.

Free Pattern: Caron Crochet Knotty Beach Bag

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 350 to 450 yards of cotton or cotton blend yarn, a 5.0 mm hook, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. Wooden beads are optional.

Size and Fit

About 15 inches wide by 16 inches tall. The knot texture gives the fabric some stretch and movement.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, sp, rnd, rep.

Pattern

Increase at both ends of an oval base until it is about 12 to 14 inches long, then work one dc round around it.

Distribute chain loops or knot style chain spaces evenly around the body and alternate solid dc rounds with textured openwork rounds until the bag reaches the height you want.

Add 3 sc rounds at the top, then chain 75 to 90 stitches for each strap and work 2 sc rows over the chain.

Finishing

Secure the ends inside solid fabric rather than the open mesh, and add beads or tassels if you like.

Beginner Tip

Keep the top band solid and firm so the bag holds its shape at the beach.

Crocheted Beach Pouch

A handy pouch with openwork that lets sand shake out and air circulate, so contents dry faster.

Free Pattern: Crocheted Beach Pouch

The pattern is free.

Materials

About 120 to 180 yards of DK or worsted cotton yarn, a 4.5 mm hook, and a tapestry needle. A drawstring cord or crochet chain closes it, and a zipper pouch insert is optional.

Size and Fit

About 7 inches wide by 8 inches tall. Change the foundation chain and body rounds to resize it.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, dc, sl st, sk, sp, rnd, rep.

Pattern

Begin with a foundation chain of 21 and sc around it, making 2 to 3 base rounds with increases at both ends.

For the body, alternate a dc round with a mesh round of dc, ch 1, and skip 1 st around, repeating until the pouch is 7 to 8 inches tall.

For the drawstring round, ch 2, skip 2 sts, and sc in the next 2 sts around, then work one final sc round and thread a cord through.

Finishing

Knot the cord ends securely, and add a washable fabric insert for very small items.

Beginner Tip

Cotton handles beach conditions better and dries more cleanly than fluffy yarn.

Everyday Crossbody Tote

A hands free design with a durable stitch pattern and a roomy interior, suited to daily use.

Free Pattern: Everyday Crossbody Tote

A free pattern is available.

Materials

About 350 to 450 yards of worsted cotton or cotton acrylic yarn, a 5.0 mm hook, stitch markers, and a tapestry needle. Adjustable strap hardware is optional.

Size and Fit

About 11 inches wide by 12 inches tall, with a crossbody strap made to your preferred length.

Abbreviations

ch, sc, hdc, dc, sl st, st(s), rnd, rep.

Pattern

Ch 32 and work hdc rows until the base is about 4 inches deep, then sc evenly around it to start the sides.

Continue in hdc around until the bag is 11 to 12 inches tall, adding occasional dc rounds for more drape, then work 3 sc rounds along the top edge.

Chain to the length you want, work 3 sc rows for the strap, and sew the ends to the side seams.

Finishing

Weave in the ends, reinforce the strap joins, and add a lining or pocket for daily use.

Beginner Tip

Try the strap on before sewing both ends, since crossbody length is personal.

Conclusion

From roomy market totes to small drawstring pouches, this set of 17 free crochet bag patterns covers a lot of ground. Each one is a chance to practice stitches, play with color, and finish something you will actually carry.

Pick the bag that matches how you will use it, choose a yarn that suits the load, and take the beginner tips one step at a time. The full collection is worth a look if you want to compare all 17 side by side.