Elegant Tote Bag

advertising

Elegant Tote Bag with Pearl Accents | Detailed Crochet Tutorial

Overview

This project is an intermediate-level crochet tote bag that features a mix of Shell Stitches, Floral Lace motifs, and Diamond Textured stitches. It is worked in rounds from the bottom up using a sturdy cotton or macramé cord for structure.

Materials Needed

Yarn: 100% Cotton cord or Worsted weight cotton yarn (Off-white and Caramel/Tan colors).
Hook Size: 3.5mm or 4.0mm (depending on yarn gauge).
Extras: Faux pearls (various sizes), tapestry needle, and a matching fabric for lining (optional).

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. The Base (Foundation)

Technique: Work in a tight Single Crochet (SC).
Step: Create an oval base by crocheting around a starting chain. Increase at the ends of each round until you reach your desired width and depth.

2. Bottom Shell Section (White)

Pattern: Transition to the Shell Stitch (5 Double Crochets in one stitch, skip two, 1 SC in the next).
Work: Continue for 3–4 rows to create the scalloped texture seen at the bottom.

3. Lower Diamond Band (Caramel)

Switch Color: Change to the caramel/tan yarn.
Stitch: Work a Diamond Lattice Stitch using Front Post Treble Crochets (FPTC) to create the raised crisscross texture.
Detail: Sew small pearls at each intersection of the diamonds.

4. Center Floral Motif (White)

Technique: This is a Filet Crochet or Irish Lace inspired band.
Step: Work large 8-petal flowers. You can crochet them individually and join them (Join-as-you-go) or work them into a mesh grid.
Detail: Attach a large pearl to the center of each flower.

5. Upper Diamond Band (Caramel)

Repeat: Mirror the steps from the lower band (Step 3). Ensure the diamonds align vertically with the bottom ones for a symmetrical look.

6. The Top Rim & Handles

Rim: Switch back to white yarn. Work 4–5 rounds of solid Half Double Crochet (HDC) or Single Crochet (SC) to create a sturdy opening.
Handles: Crochet two long tubes or flat straps using Single Crochet. For added durability, crochet over a piece of nylon cord. Securely sew them to the inside of the rim.