Simple Market Tote Crochet Pattern

 

Crocheting a market tote is a fun and practical way to practice your skills while creating a useful item for everyday use. This simple market tote crochet pattern is perfect for beginners, as it uses basic stitches to create a sturdy and stylish bag. Whether you’re heading to the grocery store or the farmer's market, this crochet tote is versatile enough for any occasion.

Materials:

• Worsted weight cotton yarn (approximately 200-250 yards, depending on the size you want)
• Crochet hook (size H/8 or 5mm)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch marker (optional)

Abbreviations:

• Ch = Chain
• Sc = Single Crochet
• Sl st = Slip Stitch
• St(s) = Stitch(es)
• Sp = Space
• Rnd = Round

Gauge:

• 14 stitches and 16 rows = 4” in single crochet (this is approximate; adjust hook size if needed to match gauge)

Finished Dimensions:

• Height (without handles): approx. 12 inches
• Width: approx. 12 inches
• Handles length: approx. 20-24 inches (adjustable based on preference)

Pattern Instructions:

Base of the Tote:

1. Ch 36 (or any multiple of 3 that gives you the desired base width).

2. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (35 sc)
   Turn.

3. Row 2: Ch 1, sc in each st across. (35 sc)
   Turn.

4. Repeat Row 2 until the base piece is about 12 inches long (or the desired width).

Forming the Sides:

1. Once the base is the right size, you’ll start working in rounds to form the sides of the bag.
   Join the last stitch with a slip stitch to the first stitch of the row to form a round.

2. Round 1: Ch 1, sc in each st around (35 sc).
   Join with sl st to first sc of the round.

3. Round 2: Ch 1, sc in each st around.
   Join with sl st to first sc.
   Continue to repeat Round 2 until the sides reach your desired height (approximately 12 inches).

Handle Straps:

1. Once the sides of the tote are tall enough, it’s time to add the handles. For each handle, you'll make a chain and attach it to both sides of the tote.

2. Round 1: Ch 25 (or adjust length based on preference), attach with a slip stitch to the side of the tote.
   Repeat on the other side for the second handle.

   Tip: To attach the handle securely, make sure you’re attaching it to both the front and back of the tote, creating a sturdy structure.

3. Round 2: For each handle, ch 1, sc in each ch across (25 sc). Join with a sl st to attach the handle to the tote. Repeat for the second handle.

Finishing:

1. Once both handles are attached, fasten off your yarn and weave in any loose ends with a yarn needle.

2. You can optionally add a few extra rounds to the body of the tote for a thicker, more sturdy structure, but this is optional based on your preferences.

Customization:

• Stripes or Color Changes: This pattern can be easily adapted by adding stripes or color changes. Simply change colors at the end of a round, and carry the yarn up the side to keep it neat.
• Adding a Lining: For extra durability, you can line your market tote with fabric. Simply measure the interior dimensions of the bag and sew a fabric lining with handles to match.
• Tote Size Variations: Adjust the width of the base and the height of the sides to create a smaller or larger tote, based on your needs.

Conclusion:

This Simple Market Tote Crochet Pattern is quick to make and perfect for everyday use. With minimal supplies and beginner-friendly techniques, you can create a beautiful and functional bag in no time. Customize it to your style with color changes or fabric linings, and you’ll have a one-of-a-kind accessory for shopping, beach days, or casual outings. Happy crocheting!