Oxbow Tote

Oxbow Tote Crochet Pattern by Janine Myska

What is Being Made

The Oxbow Tote is a crocheted handbag designed by Janine Myska and published by Knits 'N Knots in 2019. This is a practical, everyday tote bag constructed using crochet techniques to create a seamless, durable carry bag suitable for shopping, travel, or daily use.

Construction Method and Techniques

The Oxbow Tote is constructed bottom-up in a spiral, which creates a seamless bag without the need for seaming pieces together. This spiral construction method is worked continuously in rounds, building the bag from the base upward. The pattern notes specify that the right side of the work (which becomes the exterior of the finished bag) faces the crocheter during the construction process. Once the crocheted body is complete, a purse strap with clips on both ends is simply clipped directly into the stitches around the bag opening at equal distances on either side, eliminating the need for sewing or additional attachment methods.

Stitches and Stitch Details

While the specific stitch abbreviations are not detailed in the provided pattern excerpt, the construction begins with a circular base. The pattern includes a gauge measurement indicating that after Round 4, the diameter of the circle measures 3 inches, which helps establish the foundation size and proportions of the finished bag.

Materials and Tools Required

• Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton in Black (#761-124), 2 skeins (365 yards/333 meters total). This is a #4 weight, 100% cotton yarn, making it suitable for a durable, washable tote bag with good structure and drape.
• Crochet Hook: Size G/7 (4.5mm)
• Hardware: Purse strap with clips on both ends
• Additional Tools: Scissors, stitch marker or scrap yarn for marking rounds, and a needle for weaving in ends

Yarn Weight and Fiber Content

This pattern uses worsted weight yarn in a cotton fiber, which provides excellent durability and structure for a tote bag. Cotton yarn is breathable, easy to care for, and creates a fabric with good definition for stitch visibility. The 100% cotton composition makes the finished bag machine-washable and suitable for everyday use.

Finished Bag Dimensions

The pattern includes specific gauge measurements to help crocheters achieve the correct finished size. The gauge is established by measuring the diameter of the circular base after Round 4, which should measure approximately 3 inches. This gauge measurement ensures that finished bags will be consistent in size and proportions.