Crochet Handbag Pattern (T-Shirt Yarn Tote Bag)
A durable and practical crochet handbag pattern designed for everyday use. This bag works well as a tote, project bag, or laptop bag, thanks to its dense stitch structure and sturdy t-shirt yarn construction.
This pattern has been tested through real use, focusing on structure, durability, and usability—not just appearance.
About This Pattern
Hi, I’m Millie — crochet designer behind Swecraftcorner.
I’ve been crocheting for over 10 years, primarily creating patterns for items that are actually used daily, not just displayed. This bag design comes from that approach — focusing on:
- Strength (holds weight without stretching out)
- Simplicity (repetitive, easy-to-follow construction)
- Practical size (fits everyday essentials or a laptop)
This pattern has been written and refined to avoid common frustrations like unclear stitch placement or inconsistent shaping.
What You’ll Learn
- How to crochet a sturdy oval base
- How to use the waistcoat stitch (knit-look crochet stitch)
- How to create reinforced handles that won’t stretch easily
- How to work with t-shirt yarn effectively
Important Before You Start
- This bag is made with t-shirt yarn, which is heavier than standard yarn
- Not recommended for small children due to weight
- Yarn thickness can vary between brands and batches
This means your final size may vary slightly even if you follow the pattern exactly.
Skill Level
Beginner – Intermediate
- Beginner-friendly stitches
- Requires attention to stitch placement (waistcoat stitch)
- Uses bulky yarn, which can be harder to control if you’re new
Finished Size
- Approx. 42 cm wide × 28 cm tall
Materials
- 1.5–2 spools t-shirt yarn
- 10.0 mm crochet hook
- Optional: bag straps or O-rings
Abbreviations (US Terms)
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| ch | chain |
| sl st | slip stitch |
| st / sts | stitch / stitches |
| sc | single crochet |
| 2sc | 2 single crochets in same stitch |
| sk | skip |
Special Stitch (Important)
Waistcoat Stitch (Center Single Crochet)
All stitches are written as sc, but instead of working under the top loops:
Insert your hook into the center of the stitch (between the “V”)
This creates:
- A tighter fabric
- A knit-like appearance
- A more structured bag
Pattern Notes (Read This First)
- Pattern is worked in joined rounds
- Ch 1 does NOT count as a stitch
- Always start the round in the same stitch as your join
- Stitch counts are shown in ( )
- Consistent tension is important when using bulky yarn
Step-by-Step Instructions
Base
Tip: Make 2 bases for a sturdier bag
Ch 21
Round 1
2 sc in 2nd ch from hook, 1 sc in next 18 sts, 3 sc in last ch
Continue on opposite side:
1 sc in next 18 sts, 1 sc in last st, sl st to first st
(42 sts)
Round 2
Ch 1, 2 sc in next 2 sts, 1 sc in next 18 sts,
2 sc in next 3 sts, 1 sc in next 18 sts,
2 sc in last st, sl st to first st
(48 sts)
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Round 3
Ch 1,
*1 sc, 2 sc in next st* × 2,
1 sc in next 18 sts,
*2 sc, 1 sc in next st* × 3,
1 sc in next 19 sts,
2 sc in last st, sl st to first st
Optional: Reinforced Base
For extra durability:
- Place bases wrong sides together
- Sl st through both layers around entire base
Bag Body
From here, switch to waistcoat stitch
Rounds 1–20
Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around, sl st to first st
(54 sts)
Handles
Placement
- Use 4 stitch markers
- Each handle skips 9 stitches total
- Leave 7 stitches between markers
Check symmetry before continuing
Round 1 (Handle Gaps)
Ch 1, 1 sc to first marker
ch 11, skip marked stitches
1 sc to next marker
ch 11, skip marked stitches
1 sc to end
sl st to first st
Round 2 (Reinforce Handles)
Ch 1, 1 sc in each st around
Work 1 sc into each chain across handles
sl st to first st
Fasten off using a false stitch
Durability Notes (Real Use Insight)
- T-shirt yarn holds shape well but can:
- Stretch slightly under heavy weight
- Feel stiff at first, then soften with use
For best results:
- Avoid overloading the bag
- Store flat when not in use
Customization Options
- Add leather or fabric straps
- Make it taller by adding more body rounds
- Use cotton cord for a lighter version
Troubleshooting
Bag curling at base?
→ Too tight tension or hook too small
Bag too floppy?
→ Hook too large or yarn too thin
Handles stretching?
→ Reinforce with tighter tension or add a lining
Share Your Results
If you make this bag, sharing your result helps others understand how the pattern works in real use.
Copyright & Usage
© Swecraftcorner
- Do not copy or redistribute this pattern
- You may sell finished items in small quantities
- Credit: Swecraftcorner
- Include: www.swecraftcorner.com
- Do not use original photos
Disclaimer
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