This handmade crochet plaid bag is a great everyday tote – it’s sturdy, stylish and has that cosy handmade charm. Whether you’re headed out with groceries or making a thoughtful gift, this bag is a fun make and easy to love.
WHY YOU ARE GOING TO LOVE THIS PROJECT
The classic look of the bag is given by the plaid design, and the open crochet design means it is light but strong. It’s a satisfying project that utilises simple stitches and feels great as it grows into a useful accessory.
Things You Need
- Two different colours of yarn
- Crochet hook to match your yarn weight
- Needle (Tapestry)
- Scissors
Select a yarn and hook size that will give you the fit, texture and durability you want.
Best Yarn for This Project
Use cotton or a heavy blend yarn for a plaid tote bag – it forms a nice shape and feels good in your hands.
Skill Level
Easy to Intermediate – basic crochet stitches with colour changes to create the plaid pattern.
Size & Fit Guide
Change the width of your foundation chain for a wider or narrower bag. More rounds for a deeper bag and test fit as you go before you finish.
Sutures Used
-
- Chain (ch)
- sc = single crochet
- Plaid effect colour shifts (likely alternating rows or blocks)
How to Do It
Begin the Base
Make a foundation chain that is wide enough to form the bottom of your bag. Knit even rows of stitches back and forth to create a rectangle, using the colour sequence shown in the tutorial to create the plaid pattern.
Body Work
For plaid look, just continue crocheting the rows (changing colours as needed). Have both colours on hand so you can change cleanly and evenly.
Form the Bag
Once you are happy with the height of the body, fold the rectangle in half matching up the edges and sew down the sides. This creates the body of your tote.
Add the Handles
Work straps to desired length. Either as separate pieces sewn on or worked up from the top edge, depending on the video tutorial.
Seal Edges
Tie up all the loose ends nicely. Add a simple border to the top edge for a clean, finished look.
Tips That Help
- Keep both yarn colours available to make it easier to change colours.
- To minimise the ends, carry the unused yarn up the sides.
- As you add handles, try on your bag to find a comfortable drop length.
Typical Errors to Avoid
- Keep tails clean – don’t switch colours cleanly.
- Foundation chain too tight — this can distort the bag.
- Don’t pull on tension – keep your stitches even for a smooth plaid.
- Not counting rows – plaid sections look best evenly spaced.
- If you skip finishing, weaving in the ends makes a huge difference to durability.
Ideas for Customisation
- For a sunny plaid, go for bolder contrasts in colour.
- Add a lining for added structure.
- Add decorative buttons or tassles.
- Make the handles longer so it can be a shoulder bag.
Style Tips
This bag is ideal for casual outfits, trips to the farmers’ market or beach days. The classic plaid pattern adds a touch of cosy chic to everyday wear.
Washing Instructions
Hand wash or delicate machine wash with cool water. Reshape while damp. Lay flat to dry.
Time Required
Depending on the speed you choose and the size of the bag, this could take a few hours.
Conclusion
Crocheting a plaid bag is a fun way to practice colour changes while creating something practical. With a little patience and a simple stitch pattern you will have a beautiful bag to show off!
FAQs
“Can I make this bag bigger?”
Yes — more rows or a wider foundation chain to make a bigger bag.
Do I need to be a genius?
Not really, just basic stitches and changing the colour.
Can I put a lining in?
Yes! The lining gives it structure and stops small items from slipping through.
What is a good yarn?
A sturdy cotton or cotton blend yarn is great for bags, as it holds its shape well.
Should I block this one?
Blocking is optional, but can help even out stitches.