Crocheting your own tote bag is a rewarding and fun way to combine creativity with functionality. Whether you’re new to crochet or an experienced crafter looking for a quick and satisfying project, this Easy DIY Crochet Mini Tote Bag is the perfect choice. It’s compact, stylish, and ideal for holding essentials like your phone, wallet, or small notebooks. Let’s dive into how to make your own step-by-step!
🧶 What You’ll Need
Before you begin, gather the following materials:
Materials:
- Worsted weight cotton yarn (medium weight – choose your favorite color)
- Crochet hook size 5.0mm (H-8) – or size recommended on your yarn label
- Scissors
- Yarn needle – for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers (optional)
📏 Finished Size
The finished mini tote bag will be approximately:
- Width: 8–9 inches
- Height (without handles): 7 inches
- Straps: 12–14 inches (can be adjusted)
🪡 Basic Crochet Skills Required
This project is beginner-friendly. You’ll need to know:
- Chain (ch)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Working in rounds and rows
🧵 Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Create the Base
- Ch 21
- Row 1: Sc in the second ch from hook and in each ch across (20 sc). Ch 1, turn.
- Rows 2–10: Sc in each stitch across. Ch 1, turn.
You should now have a rectangular base for the bottom of your tote.
Step 2: Work the Body in the Round
- Round 1: Sc evenly around all four sides of the rectangle. Place 3 sc in each corner to help it curve. Join with sl st to the first sc. This should give you a neat oval base.
- Round 2–18: Sc in each stitch around. Do not increase stitches. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round if needed. Keep working in continuous rounds to build height.
You can make the bag taller or shorter by adjusting the number of rounds.
Step 3: Add the Handles
Once the body is complete, it’s time to shape the handles:
- Next round:
- Sc in the next 12 stitches
- Ch 25 (this forms the first handle)
- Skip 12 stitches on the bag body, then sc in the next 24 stitches
- Ch 25 (second handle)
- Skip 12 stitches again, sc in the remaining 12 stitches
- Sl st to join the round
- Final Round:
- Sc in each stitch and ch around the entire bag, including across the handles, to strengthen and finish the edges nicely
- Sl st to finish and fasten off
Step 4: Finishing Touches
- Weave in all ends using the yarn needle
- Optional: Block the bag lightly if the shape needs adjusting
- Add embellishments like tassels, buttons, or fabric linings if you want to personalize your tote
🌟 Tips for Success
- Use cotton yarn for a sturdy and washable tote
- Adjust the size by increasing the base chain and number of rows
- Double yarn if you want a thicker, more durable tote
👜 Perfect For…
- Quick handmade gifts
- Market or produce bag
- Mini purse for kids
- Summer outings
🧶 Final Thoughts
Crocheting a mini tote bag is a great way to put your creativity and crafting skills to use. This easy pattern is perfect for beginners but flexible enough for more advanced crafters to customize and expand. Once you’ve made one, you’ll likely want to make a few more in different colors and styles!
Video tutorial:
