Crochet granny squares have been a beloved staple in the crochet world for decades. Known for their versatility, ease, and charm, they’re often used in blankets, scarves, and clothing. But one of the most stylish and modern applications of the granny square is the crochet granny square bag — and when made with a bold two-color design, it becomes a real fashion statement.
Whether you’re new to crochet or an experienced maker looking for a satisfying and fashionable project, this step-by-step guide will help you create your own two-tone granny square bag that’s perfect for daily use or gift-giving.
👜 Why Choose a Granny Square Bag?
- ✅ Beginner-Friendly: Easy to learn and repetitive.
- ✅ Customizable: Change colors, size, or layout.
- ✅ Trendy: A perfect mix of vintage and modern.
- ✅ Sustainable: Use leftover yarn and make an eco-friendly accessory.
🧵 Materials You’ll Need
- Yarn (2 colors): Worsted weight cotton or acrylic yarn (Color A & Color B)
- Crochet hook: 4.0 mm (G-6) or size appropriate for your yarn
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
- Stitch markers (optional)
- Lining fabric, zipper, or magnetic snap (optional but recommended)
- Handles or straps: You can crochet your own or attach store-bought leather/wooden handles
📏 Finished Size (Adjustable)
- Each granny square: Approx. 10 cm (4 in)
- Bag: Depends on the number of squares used (e.g., 13 squares makes a small handbag; 24+ makes a tote)
🧩 Step-by-Step Instructions
🔸 PART 1: Classic Two-Color Granny Square
We’ll begin by creating multiple granny squares using Color A and Color B in alternating rounds.
🧶 Pattern for One Granny Square:
Round 1 (Color A):
- Start with a magic ring or ch 4 and sl st to form a ring
- Ch 3 (counts as 1 dc), work 2 dc into ring, ch 2,
- (3 dc, ch 2) three more times into ring
- Join with sl st to top of ch 3 (you’ll have 4 corners of 3 dc groups with ch-2 spaces)
Round 2 (Color B):
- Join new color in any ch-2 corner
- Ch 3, 2 dc in same space, ch 2, 3 dc in same space (corner made)
- In next ch-2 space: 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc
- Repeat for remaining corners
- Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join
Round 3 (Color A):
- Join color A in any corner space
- Ch 3, 2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc (corner made)
- In next side space: 3 dc
- Repeat around, working corner (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in each ch-2 space, and 3 dc between corners
- Join with sl st
Round 4 (Color B):
Repeat the same pattern as Round 3 to make the square larger.
🔁 Optional: You can make 3 or 4 rounds per square depending on the desired size.
🧵 Weave in ends of both colors carefully using a tapestry needle.
🔸 PART 2: Make Multiple Squares
Depending on the desired bag size, you’ll need:
- 13 squares (1 front, 1 back, 1 bottom, 2 sides, 2 for strap base, and 6 for strap — recommended for a small bag)
- 24+ squares for a tote bag style (4×3 layout front and back, plus sides and bottom)
💡 Tip: Alternate the color sequence on some squares to create visual contrast. For example:
- Some squares: Color A center, Color B outer
- Others: Color B center, Color A outer
🔸 PART 3: Assemble the Bag
Now that your squares are ready, let’s join them.
🧵 Join Granny Squares Together:
You can use one of several methods:
- Whip Stitch (invisible seam with a yarn needle)
- Slip Stitch Join (gives a slight ridge and texture)
- Flat Single Crochet Join (adds sturdiness)
Steps:
- Lay out your squares in the layout you want (front, back, sides, bottom).
- Join the front and back squares.
- Attach bottom piece to both.
- Connect the sides to create a boxy bag shape.
🔸 PART 4: Make and Attach Straps
Option A: Crochet Your Own Strap
- Chain 80–100 (depending on desired length)
- Work 3–5 rows of sc back and forth for width and strength
- Attach ends to the inside of bag using whip stitch
Option B: Use Granny Squares as Strap
- Join 6 small squares end-to-end using slip stitch
- Add sc rows along the edge for reinforcement
Option C: Use Pre-Made Handles
- Sew or attach using rivets or strong glue (if using leather or wooden handles)
🔸 PART 5: Optional Lining & Closure
Lining (recommended):
- Cut fabric to match bag shape
- Sew side seams to form pouch
- Hand-sew or machine-stitch lining into the inside of the bag
- Adds structure and prevents stretching
Closure:
- Sew in a zipper across the top
- Add magnetic snaps for a clean closure
- Create a button loop and button from yarn
🎨 Customization Ideas
- Add tassels or fringe to the bottom for a boho touch
- Use gradient yarns for a colorful twist
- Create flower granny squares for a more intricate design
- Embroider small flowers or initials on plain-colored squares
- Use sparkle yarn for the final round for an elegant finish
🧼 Care Instructions
- Hand wash or machine wash cold (delicate setting) if using colorfast yarn
- Lay flat to dry to maintain shape
- Avoid wringing or twisting, especially if unlined
📝 Quick Recap
| Step | Description |
|---|---|
| 1. Make Granny Squares | Use two colors in 3-4 rounds |
| 2. Create Layout | Choose layout for size and shape |
| 3. Join Squares | Use whip, slip, or sc join |
| 4. Add Strap | Crochet or use pre-made handle |
| 5. Add Lining & Closure | Optional but adds professionalism |
📌 Final Thoughts
Creating a two-color granny square bag is a joyful and creative experience. It allows for artistic expression while being practical and functional. The repeating pattern of granny squares offers a therapeutic rhythm, while the color combinations bring each square to life.
You can make it as minimalist or vibrant as you like—whether you choose neutral tones for an everyday tote or bold contrasting colors for a standout accessory, this bag is a guaranteed head-turner.
Video tutorial:
