Summer is here, and what better way to embrace the sunshine and warm weather than with a stylish and practical tote bag? This easy-to-make double crochet mesh stitch tote is the perfect project for crocheters of all skill levels, from beginners looking for a fun new challenge to experienced crafters seeking a quick and satisfying project. Its airy, open design is ideal for carrying beach essentials, market finds, or simply your everyday necessities. The lightweight mesh stitch allows for excellent breathability, keeping your belongings cool and preventing that heavy, stuffy feeling often associated with tightly crocheted bags.
This delightful project requires minimal materials and utilizes a simple yet elegant stitch pattern. The result is a beautiful, functional bag you’ll be proud to use all summer long. Ready to get started on your own breezy summer tote? Let’s dive into the step-by-step instructions below!
Preparation and Safety Guidelines
- Mercerized cotton yarn (weight 4)
- 4.5 mm crochet hook
- Always use a hook size appropriate for your chosen yarn. Using too small a hook can lead to tight, uncomfortable stitches and potential hand strain. Using too large a hook can result in a loose, floppy bag.
- Ensure you have enough yarn before starting. Accurately estimating your yarn needs will prevent having to stop mid-project and find a matching color/lot.
- Be mindful of your yarn tension. Consistent tension is key to creating an even and aesthetically pleasing mesh. Inconsistent tension can cause the bag to appear uneven or misshapen.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Foundation Chain
- Begin by making a slip knot on your hook and chaining 45 (36 + 1 + 8). The additional 8 makes the first corner.
Foundation Chain Base Round 1
- Double crochet in the ninth chain from the hook, chain 2, skip 2 chains, double crochet in the third chain. Repeat across. End with a double crochet in the last chain.
Base Round 1 Base Round 2
- Chain 8, double crochet in the beginning of the chain 8. Chain 2, double crochet in the base of the double crochet from round one. Chain 5, double crochet in the base of the first double crochet from round one (this creates the second corner). Continue the chain 2, skip 2, double crochet sequence across. Repeat corner sequence at the end.
Base Round 2 Base Rounds 3 & 4
- Repeat the pattern from Round 2, increasing by two squares each round. Remember corner chains are always chain 5.
Base Rounds 3 & 4 Bag Sides
- Continue with the same sequence as Round 3 and 4, but without increasing. This forms the sides of the bag.
Bag Sides Strap Decreases
- Row 1: Chain 3, double crochet in the top of the first double crochet. Continue chain 2, skip 2, double crochet sequence. In the last stitch, omit chain 2 and do a single double crochet (decrease). Row 2-4: Repeat the decrease pattern at the beginning and end of each row. Row 5-19: Continue without decrease, maintaining six squares across.
Strap Decreases Strap Main Section
- Row 1: Chain 3, double crochet in the top of the first double crochet. Continue chain 2, skip 2, double crochet sequence. In the last stitch, omit chain 2 and do a single double crochet (decrease). Row 2-4: Repeat the decrease pattern at the beginning and end of each row. Row 5-19: Continue without decrease, maintaining six squares across.
Strap Main Section Strap Increases
- Rows 20-23: Increase from six to fourteen squares using treble crochet and chain 2 increase pattern.
Strap Increases Attach Strap
- Sew the strap to the bag using a whip stitch.
Attach Strap
Read more: Easy Color Block Crochet Blanket Tutorial for Beginners
Tips
- Use a cotton yarn, preferably mercerized cotton, for minimal elasticity.
- Remember your corner chains are always chain five.
- Use stitch markers to keep track of rounds and corners.
- Take your time when working corners, being careful not to accidentally increase.
- Consider the stretch factor of the yarn when designing the strap length.