A handmade bag gets used every day, which makes it one of the most satisfying things you can crochet. This collection gathers our free crochet bag patterns: granny square totes in lavender, coral and berry colors, sunflower and daisy totes, a sunset ombre crossbody, a mesh market bag, a handbag, a shoulder bag and a mini bag for kids.
Bags are grouped into granny square bags, totes and shoulder bags, and crossbody, mesh and mini bags. Within each group, cards run from the most approachable to the most advanced by the designer's rating. Each card lists the hook and yarn. For cases, keychains and hair accessories, see our main bag and accessory pattern collection.
Free crochet bag patterns
Granny square bags
Perfect Granny Square Tote Bag: Easy Crochet Pattern
Beginner–Intermediate · 4 mm hook · DK / cotton yarn
Charming Berry Patch Granny Tote Bag Free Crochet Pattern
Intermediate · 4 mm hook · worsted / cotton yarn
Easy Spring Garden Granny Tote Bag Free Crochet Pattern
Intermediate · 6 mm hook · worsted / DK yarn
Charming Lavender Fields Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern
Intermediate · 4.5 mm hook · worsted / DK yarn
Totes and shoulder bags
Free Carry Sunshine Bag Crochet Pattern – Easy DIY
Beginner–Intermediate · 3.5–4.5 mm hook · worsted yarn
Free Sunflower Summer Tote Crochet Pattern | Easy DIY Bag
Beginner–Intermediate · 4 mm hook · worsted / DK yarn
Crossbody, mesh and mini bags
Useful Crochet Handbag: Best Free Bag Pattern
Beginner–Intermediate · 4 mm hook · worsted / cotton yarn
Perfect Sunset Ombre Crossbody Bag: Free Easy Crochet Pattern
Advanced · 3.5 mm hook · DK / cotton yarn
Picking your first crochet bag
The smallest start: the kids' mini bag rated beginner is about 8 to 9 cm in worsted yarn on a 3.5 mm hook. It teaches the shape of a bag, with a base, sides and strap, in an afternoon.
A practical everyday bag: the cotton mesh bag and the sunshine carry bag are rated beginner to intermediate. Mesh bags stretch to hold a surprising amount of shopping.
Your first granny square tote: the granny square tote in DK cotton is rated beginner to intermediate and works on a 4 mm hook. Squares are small, portable pieces you can make anywhere, then join at the end.
A showpiece: the sunset ombre crossbody and the lavender fields purse are rated advanced. Save them for when you are comfortable with shaping and color changes.
Granny square bags: why they're so popular
Granny squares make bag construction simple: make a set of squares, join them, add a base and handles. Mistakes are easy to fix, because one square can be remade without unraveling the whole bag.
- Make every square the same size. Check each against the first one. Blocking all squares before joining evens out small differences.
- Plan your layout. Lay the squares out and photograph the arrangement before you join them.
- Join flat. A whipstitch or slip stitch through back loops gives a neat, flat seam.
- Line it, if you like. A sewn fabric lining keeps small items from slipping through and adds strength. Several patterns here explain how.
The best yarn for crochet bags
| Yarn | Strength | Shape | Good for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Cotton or mercerized cotton | Very strong, little stretch | Crisp, holds its shape | Totes, granny square bags |
| Cotton-acrylic blends | Strong, softer | Slight drape | Everyday shoulder bags |
| Worsted acrylic | Durable, can stretch under weight | Softer, slouchier | Lightweight bags |
| Bulky or super bulky | Thick and sturdy | Structured, quick | Chunky shoulder bags |
For a bag that will carry weight, cotton is the safest choice. Acrylic is fine for a lighter purse but can stretch over time, especially in the handles.
Strong handles and a bag that keeps its shape
- Work handles tightly. Use a smaller hook than the body, or work them in single crochet, so they stretch less.
- Reinforce the joins. Sew handles to the body through several rows, or join them with extra rounds of stitches.
- Add a base. A firm, flat crochet base, or a piece of plastic canvas inside a lining, helps a tote stand up.
- Line heavier bags. A fabric lining takes the weight and stops the crochet from stretching.
Bags with matching accessories
Granny squares are everywhere on our site, in cardigans, baby clothes and decor too. For the whole collection, see the granny square patterns linked below. To finish a bag, add a phone pouch or pencil case inside, or a charm on the strap.
Frequently asked questions
What is the easiest crochet bag for beginners?
The kids' mini bag is rated beginner by its designer. For a full-size bag, the mesh bag and the sunshine carry bag are rated beginner to intermediate.
What yarn is best for crochet bags?
Cotton or mercerized cotton. It is strong, does not stretch much and holds its shape, especially in totes and granny square bags.
How do I stop my crochet bag from stretching?
Use cotton yarn, work the handles tightly, and add a fabric lining. A firm base also helps the bag keep its shape.
Should I line my crochet bag?
Lining is optional, but it makes a bag stronger and keeps small items from falling through open stitches, which is especially useful for mesh and granny square bags.
More collections to explore
- Granny Square Crochet Patterns (17 patterns)
- Crochet Pouch & Case Patterns (10 patterns)
- Crochet Keychain Patterns (19 patterns)