Simple Tote Bag - Knitting and Crochet

Designer: PurlJam | Website: https://purljam.verde.uk | Support: team@verde.uk | Socials: #purljam

Overview

A sturdy, everyday tote you can knit or crochet. Worked flat as a rectangle then seamed and boxed for depth. Includes two handle options: integrated i-cord or reinforced sewn straps. Suitable for intermediate beginners who know basic shaping and seaming.

Finished size

Approx 14 in wide x 12 in tall x 4 in deep (35 cm x 30 cm x 10 cm). Change gauge or yarn to alter size.

Materials

• Yarn (knit or crochet): Worsted weight, Medium 4. Typical 100 g skein = 200–230 m (220–250 yd) depending on brand. Tote uses about 300–450 yd (275–410 m) depending on style and handles. For a lighter version use DK weight: plan for about 400–550 yd (365–503 m).
• Knitting needles: US 8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm recommended. Alternate tighter fabric: US 7 / UK 7 / 4.5 mm. If using circular needles for magic loop or working flat with a long needle, use 24 in/60 cm circular of the same size.
• Crochet hook: US I-9 / UK 5 / 5.5 mm recommended for worsted; smaller hook for denser fabric: US H-8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm.
• Notions: tapestry needle, stitch markers, measuring tape, scissors, optional interfacing or cotton lining fabric and matching thread, optional non slip bag base insert or heavy interfacing for structure.

Gauge

Knitting: 18 sts x 24 rows = 4 in x 4 in (10 cm x 10 cm) in stockinette worked on 5.0 mm needles. Crochet: 14 sc x 16 rows = 4 in x 4 in (10 cm x 10 cm) with 5.5 mm hook. Adjust needle/hook to meet gauge if exact finished size is important.

Abbreviations

Knitting: CO cast on, BO bind off, k knit, p purl, st(s) stitch(es), RS right side, WS wrong side, k2tog knit 2 together, p2tog purl 2 together, sl slip. Crochet: ch chain, sc single crochet, hdc half double crochet, dc double crochet, st(s) stitch(es), sl st slip stitch, sk skip.

Notes

• This pattern is written for one size. Numbers given create the finished dimensions above.
• Choose a firm stitch pattern for a sturdy bag. Seed stitch, garter, or lined stockinette knit well. For crochet, sc or hdc produce strong fabric.
• Boxed corners can be made by sewing across a measured distance or by shaping while working; both methods included.

Knitting Version - Panel Method

Panel (make 2)

Using 5.0 mm needles, CO 68 sts. Work 4 rows garter (optional base reinforcement). Continue in seed stitch or pattern of choice until piece measures 12 in from CO edge, ending with a WS row. Break yarn and leave live.

Seaming and Boxing Corners

Place panels RS together and seam sides using mattress stitch, leaving top open. To box corners, flatten bottom corner so side seam and bottom seam are aligned and measure 1.5 in from point along seam. With marker, sew straight across that width; repeat for other corner. Adjust measurement to get 4 in depth. Weave in ends.

Handles - Integrated I-Cord (knit)

With four double pointed needles or small circular and same yarn, cast on 5 sts in I-cord method. Work in K for desired length, 26 in for shoulder length or 18 in for short straps. Attach ends to inside of bag, secure with backstitches and reinforce with a few slip stitches. Alternatively knit two strips flat 5 sts x desired length and sew to bag.

Crochet Version - Single Rectangle

Rectangle

Using 5.5 mm hook, ch 52. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch and each across, turn. Row 2: ch 1, sc in each st across, turn. Repeat Row 2 until piece measures 12 in from starting chain, ending with a WS row. Fasten off.

Seaming and Boxing

Fold rectangle RS together and whipstitch or use mattress stitch to seam sides, leaving top open. Box corners by squaring bottom corners and measuring 1.5 in across the point; sew ends across the measured width. Weave in ends.

Handles - Reinforced Crochet Strap

Ch 8, work hdc in 2nd ch and across to make a sturdy strap, or make a longer strap with hdc until desired length. Make two. For reinforcement, fold strap in half lengthwise and sew closed or single crochet around both layers to enclose. Attach to bag interior with strong stitches and optional leather or fabric reinforcement patch.

Optional Lining

Cut a rectangle of fabric 1 in smaller than knitted/crocheted panel on width and height to allow seam allowance. Fold and sew sides and bottom, box corners the same width as knitted boxed corners. Insert lining into bag and hand stitch top edge to inside of bag with ladder stitch. For a professional finish, topstitch 1/8 in from top edge before adding handles.

Finishing

• Block pieces lightly to even stitches without overstretching. Shape gently while damp and let dry flat.
• If bag is sagging, add interfacing or a slip-in bag base. You can also knit or crochet a firm base panel and insert it between fabric and lining.
• Weave in all ends and reinforce handle attachments with extra stitching.

Care

Depends on yarn. For machine washable acrylic, wash gentle cool and reshape, air dry. For wool or wool blends, hand wash and lay flat to dry. Avoid heavy loads without reinforcement.

Variations and Modifications

• Make it larger: increase cast on/ch count proportionally and add rows to height.
• Add pockets by knitting or crocheting separate small panels and sewing them to interior before lining.
• Use chunky yarn and larger needles for a quick, super sturdy tote; adjust yardage.

Troubleshooting

• Saggy sides: choose denser stitch, smaller needles, or add lining/interfacing.
• Uneven base: block panels before seaming and check gauge.

Yarn and Needle Reference Summary

• Suggested yarn weight: Worsted / Medium 4. Typical 100 g skein = 200–230 m (220–250 yd).
• Estimated yardage: 300–450 yd (275–410 m) for unlined tote; 400–550 yd (365–503 m) for lined or large tote.
• Knitting needles: US 8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm. Alternate: US 7 / UK 7 / 4.5 mm for tighter fabric.
• Crochet hooks: US I-9 / UK 5 / 5.5 mm. Alternate: US H-8 / UK 6 / 5.0 mm for tighter fabric.

Enjoy making your tote. For questions or support contact team@verde.uk or visit https://purljam.verde.uk. Share finished projects with #purljam.

Created by purlJam with the help of magic AI dust. Shop Verde for patterns and yarn.

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