Trio of Totes in Caron Simply Soft Paints, Simply Soft Collection & Simply Soft Brites - Downloadable PDF

Trio of Totes – Crochet Pattern Summary

The Trio of Totes is a free, downloadable crochet pattern designed by Carrie Carpenter and released as part of the Caron Simply Soft Collection. As the name suggests, this pattern covers three distinct tote bag designs, each featuring its own decorative motif and finished dimensions. The pattern is rated beginner difficulty, making it an ideal project for newer crocheters who want to build confidence while creating functional, stylish accessories. All three totes are worked in worsted weight yarn, which crochets up quickly and produces a sturdy, structured fabric well-suited to everyday bags.

The Three Tote Designs

Pocket Tote

The Pocket Tote is the most straightforward of the three designs, measuring approximately 7 inches (18 cm) wide by 6.25 inches (16 cm) long in its finished dimensions. As the name implies, this tote incorporates a pocket detail, adding both practicality and visual interest to the finished bag. It is an excellent starting point for beginners exploring functional crochet construction.

Peace Sign Tote

The Peace Sign Tote features a bold circular peace sign motif with a finished diameter of approximately 4.25 inches (11 cm). The peace sign appliqué or integrated design element gives this tote a retro, expressive character. Working circular motifs like this introduces crocheters to working in the round, a foundational skill in crochet construction.

Ring Totes (Ring 1 and Ring 2)

The pattern also includes two Ring Tote variations. Ring 1 has a finished diameter of approximately 4.75 inches (12 cm), while Ring 2 measures approximately 4.5 inches (11.5 cm) in diameter. These ring-style designs likely feature circular or O-ring shaped structural or decorative elements, giving the bags a modern, graphic aesthetic.

Techniques Used

This pattern introduces and employs several crochet techniques that are useful for beginners to learn and practice:

• Surface slip stitch – A decorative technique where slip stitches are worked across the surface of a finished fabric to create lines, outlines, or motifs such as the peace sign. This is noted under Special Techniques in the pattern.
• Working in the round – Used to construct circular motifs and bag bases, a core skill in crochet bag-making.
• Appliqué and motif construction – Separate decorative pieces are constructed and applied to the main tote body.
• Color contrast work – Each tote uses multiple yarn colorways designated as Contrast A through Contrast G, encouraging crocheters to work with color combinations across different yarn lines.

Stitches Used

The pattern uses a focused set of crochet stitches, keeping it accessible for beginners while still producing polished results:

• Chain (ch) – Used for foundation chains, turning chains, and decorative chain spaces.
• Slip stitch (sl st) – Used for joining rounds and for surface slip stitch embellishment.
• Single crochet (sc) – A foundational stitch used throughout the tote construction for tight, sturdy fabric.
• Reverse single crochet (reverse sc) – Also known as the crab stitch, this technique is worked backward along an edge to create a neat, decorative border or finishing detail.
• Double crochet (dc) – A taller stitch used to add height and texture to sections of the tote.
• Treble crochet (tr) – The tallest stitch called for in the pattern, used for decorative or structural elements requiring extra height.

Materials

The pattern calls for yarn from three lines within the Caron family, all at worsted weight:

• Caron Simply Soft Paints (113 g / 4 oz; 190 m / 208 yds per skein) – Used as Contrast E, F, and G