Crochet Shoulder Bag Tutorial
Materials Needed:
Yarn (medium worsted weight, approximately 200300 yards)
Crochet hook (size recommended on your yarn label, usually H/8 or I/9)
Scissors
Yarn needle for weaving in ends
Stitch markers (optional)
Magnetic snap (optional for closure)
Lining fabric (optional, for a neater finish)
Abbreviations:
ch = chain
sc = single crochet
dc = double crochet
st = stitch
sl st = slip stitch
rep = repeat
Step 1: Create the Base
1. Start with a Magic Circle:
Make a magic circle and ch 2 (this will count as your first dc).
2. Round 1:
11 dc into the magic circle. Pull tight to close the circle. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch2 (12 st total).
3. Round 2:
Ch 2, dc in the same stitch, then 2 dc in the next st; rep from around. Join with a sl st (24 st total).
4. Round 3:
Ch 2, dc in the same stitch, then dc in the next st, 2 dc in the following st; rep from around. Join (36 st total).
5. Round 4:
Ch 2, dc in the next 2 sts, 2 dc in the following st; rep from around. Join (48 st total).
6. Continue Increasing:
Continue increasing as desired until the base is the desired size for your bag’s bottom. Common sizes range from 610 inches in diameter.
Step 2: Build the Sides
1. Start the Sides:
Once you have the desired base size, stop increasing. Ch 1 for a sc round; sc in each st around, join with a sl st.
2. Establish the Height:
Ch 2 for a dc round. Dc in each st around. Repeat this sc and then dc progression until your bag reaches the desired height. A common height is around 810 inches.
Step 3: Create the Strap
1. Determine Strap Length:
Decide how long you want the strap. A typical length is about 4050 inches for a crossbody bag or 2030 inches for a shoulder bag.
2. Crochet the Strap:
Ch a length equal to your desired strap length (for example, 100150 ch for a long strap).
Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across.
For extra sturdiness, you can do multiple rows or make it wider by adding more chains.
3. Attach the Strap:
Attach the strap to each side of the bag using slip stitches or sewing it in place with a yarn needle.
Step 4: Finishing Touches
1. Weave in Ends:
Use a yarn needle to weave in all loose ends securely.
2. Add a Closure (Optional):
If desired, add a magnetic snap or button for closure.
3. Add Lining (Optional):
Cut fabric to fit inside your bag, and sew or glue it in for a polished look.
4. Embellishments:
Add appliqués, tassels, or buttons for decor!
Final Thoughts:
Congratulations on completing your crochet shoulder bag! Feel free to customize it in different colors, sizes, and styles. Enjoy your new accessory or gift it to someone special!