Creating a Granny Square Tote Bag like the one in my photo is a fun and stylish crochet project! Below is a step-by-step guide to help you make a similar tote:
🧶 Materials Needed
- Cotton yarn in 3–4 colors (as shown: red, cream, blue, navy)
- Crochet hook (usually 4mm or as recommended)
- Yarn needle
- Fabric lining (optional, for sturdiness)
- Scissors
🧵 Basic Structure Overview
This tote is made by:
- Crocheting 13 granny squares
- Joining the squares in a specific arrangement
- Shaping the bag with seaming
- Adding a border and sturdy handles
🪡 Step-by-Step Instructions
1. Crochet the Granny Squares
You’ll need at least 13 granny squares (adjust depending on the size).
Basic 4-Round Granny Square Pattern:
Round 1: Ch 4, sl st to form ring. Ch 3 (counts as dc), 2 dc in ring, ch 2,
*3 dc in ring, ch 2* x3. Join to top of ch-3.
Round 2: Sl st to ch-2 corner, ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in same corner.
In next corner: *3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc*. Repeat for all corners. Join.
Round 3 & 4: Work 3 dc in spaces between clusters, and (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each corner.
Change colors each round as desired to match the color scheme.
2. Join the Squares
Layout suggestion for your bag (as in the photo):
[1]
[2][3][4]
[5][6][7][8][9]
[10][11][12]
[13]
- Use whip stitch or slip stitch on the back loops only to maintain clean seams.
- Join in rows and columns as shown, to get the 3D shape naturally when folding.
3. Shape the Bag
- Once all squares are joined:
- Fold the piece into a 3D bag shape by bringing sides together.
- Sew side and bottom seams where squares touch.
- You’ll notice it forms a hexagonal-bottom tote.
4. Add Border
- Work single crochet (sc) or half double crochet (hdc) evenly around the top opening of the bag for 2–3 rounds.
- Optional: Add a scallop or crab stitch edge for flair.
5. Make and Attach Handles
- Crochet long strips in sc or hdc to desired length (or use premade handles).
- Attach securely to the top edge (crochet or sew on).
- Reinforce with extra stitches for durability.
6. Optional: Add Lining
- Cut fabric slightly larger than bag interior.
- Sew lining separately, then hand-stitch it into the bag.
- This helps hold the shape and makes it more functional.
🧺 Finishing Touches
- Block the bag gently to even out the stitches.
- Weave in all ends.
- Decorate with tassels or buttons if desired!
Video tutorial : Easy crochet granny square tote bag