Shopping Tote Pattern

Welcome to the Shopping Tote Pattern! This practical and stylish crochet tote is perfect for running errands, grocery shopping, or day trips. Made with Lily Sugar’n Cream yarn, this durable tote is not only functional but also stylish, allowing you to showcase your crochet skills. In this article, we’ll provide a detailed guide on how to create your very own shopping tote, including materials needed, crochet techniques, and step-by-step instructions.

this Pattern

About the Bag

The Shopping Tote is designed with simplicity and utility in mind. Featuring a spacious interior for carrying books, produce, or any of your daily essentials, this bag is crafted with a sturdy bottom panel and comfortable straps for easy carrying. The combination of different stitch patterns gives the tote a beautiful texture while maintaining its strength.

Materials

To create your Shopping Tote, you will need the following materials:

Yarn

• Lily Sugar’n Cream: 420 g / 14.75 oz

Crochet Hook

• Size 4 mm (U.S. G/6) crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge.

Optional

• Cardboard (for added support at the bottom of the bag)

Crochet Abbreviations

Here are some common crochet abbreviations used in the pattern:

• ch = chain
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• st = stitch
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Technical Notes / Construction Overview

This tote is constructed using several distinct components:

• Front and Back: Both pieces are made alike, using the same pattern.
• Side / Bottom Panel: Worked continuously to a length of 45 inches [114.5 cm] using the same repeating pattern.
• Straps: Two straps are made and fastened off after the 4th row.
• Edging: This is finished with the right side facing and is joined to the top of the bag.
• Assembly: The front and back are attached to the sides, creating a finished bag shape.

Instructions

Front and Back (make alike)

Base Section

1. Ch 53.
2. 1st row: (RS)
   • 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook.
   • 1 hdc in each ch to end of ch.
   • Turn.
     Stitch count: 51 hdc.
3. 2nd row:
   • Ch 3 (counts as dc).
   • 1 dc in each hdc to end of row.
   • Turn.
4. 3rd row:
   • Ch 2.
   • 1 hdc in each dc to end of row.
   • Turn.
5. Last 2 rows form Pat.
6. Keeping the pattern continuous, work a further 35 rows.
7. Fasten off.

Side / Bottom Panel

1. Ch 18.
2. 1st row: (RS)
   • 1 hdc in 3rd ch from hook.
   • 1 hdc in each ch to end of ch.
   • Turn.
     Stitch count: 16 hdc.
3. Repeat from 2nd row to Last 2 rows form Pat. until work from beginning measures 45 ins [114.5 cm].
4. Fasten off.

Straps (make 2)

1. Ch 113.
2. 1st row: (RS)
   • 1 sc in 2nd ch from hook.
   • 1 sc in each ch to end of ch.
   • Turn.
3. 2nd to 4th rows:
   • Ch 1.
   • 1 sc in each sc to end of row.
   • Turn.
4. Fasten off at end of 4th row.

Finishing

Join Front/Side/Back Panels

1. With WS of Front and Side together, join yarn with sl st to top left corner.
2. Ch 1.
3. Working through both thicknesses, work 1 row of sc down left side, across bottom, and up right side of Bag.
4. Fasten off.
5. Repeat for Back.

Edging (with RS facing)

1. With RS facing, join yarn with sl st to top of Bag.
2. 1st and 2nd rnds:
   • Ch 1.
   • 1 sc in same sp as sl st.
   • Work 1 rnd of sc around top of Bag.
   • Join with sl st to first sc.
   • Fasten off at end of 2nd rnd.

Attach Straps

Sew Straps to the Bag as shown in the included picture.

Optional Cardboard Insert

Cut a piece of cardboard to dimensions 5 x 17 ins [12.5 x 43 cm] and place it in the bottom of the Bag for added support.

Frequently Asked Questions

What crochet hook is used for this pattern?

For this pattern, a size 4 mm (U.S. G/6) crochet hook is recommended or use the size needed to obtain gauge.

Is this project worked in rows or rounds?

The tote is primarily worked in rows, with the assembly of different panels at the end.

Does this crochet project require assembly?

Yes, assembly is required to join the Front, Back, and Side panels together to complete the bag.

How is the shopping tote structured?

The shopping tote features a front and back that are identical, a continuous side/bottom panel, and two separate straps that are sewn on securely.

Can I add a cardboard bottom to my tote?

Yes, adding a cardboard insert at the bottom of the bag is optional but recommended for added sturdiness.

Conclusion

The Shopping Tote Pattern is an excellent project that yields a durable and stylish bag perfect for everyday use. With just a few basic stitches and a straightforward construction method, you can create this beautiful tote that’s both practical and a reflection of your crochet skills. We hope you enjoy making your very own shopping tote and find it useful in your daily activities! Happy crocheting!