Mochila bag red black white

Mochila Bag in Red, Black and White by Carolina Speek

Project Overview

This downloadable crochet pattern creates a structured mochila bag featuring a bold color-blocked design in red, black, and white. Designed by Carolina Speek, this intermediate-level project produces a finished bag measuring 27 cm (10.6 inches) in height with an approximate diameter of 18 cm (7.1 inches). The attached strap measures 4.5 cm (1.78 inches) wide and 125 cm (49 inches) long, making it suitable for wearing as a crossbody bag.

Materials Required

This pattern calls for cotton yarn in three colors, worked with a C2 (2.5 mm) crochet hook:

• Red cotton yarn: 100 grams (approximately 250 meters or 273 yards)
• Black cotton yarn: 150 grams (approximately 375 meters or 409 yards)
• White cotton yarn: Approximately 50 grams (approximately 125 meters or 136 yards)

The pattern specifies Scheepjeswol Larra cotton yarn as the recommended fiber. The yarn weight is sport weight (4-ply), which creates a fabric with good structure suitable for a bag that holds its shape.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This mochila bag employs several fundamental crochet techniques to create its distinctive appearance and construction:

• Chain (CH): Used to establish foundation stitches and create the base of the pattern
• Single Crochet (SC): The primary stitch used throughout the bag, worked using the "yarn under" method
• Slipstitch (SLST): Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions between color sections
• Magic Ring: Employed to begin the bag construction in the round without a visible center hole

Construction Method: Yarn Under Technique

The pattern utilizes a specialized single crochet variation called "yarn under," which creates a distinctive texture and appearance. In this technique, the crocheter works only into the back loops of the stitches from the previous round, rather than working under both loops as in standard single crochet. This method produces a ribbed or corded effect that adds visual interest and structural integrity to the finished bag.

Color Work and Stranding

The mochila bag features multicolor patterning achieved through the simultaneous carrying of multiple yarn colors. As the pattern progresses, colors are brought forward and used as needed to create the red, black, and white design. This stranding technique requires managing multiple yarn strands while crocheting, a skill that intermediate-level crafters can develop through careful tension control and attention to pattern placement. The pattern includes visual diagrams and references to online video tutorials for the "yarn under" technique and color-work methods to support successful completion.

Finished Dimensions

The completed mochila bag provides practical carrying capacity with its cylindrical shape. The 27 cm height and 18 cm diameter create a compact yet functional bag suitable for everyday use, while the 125 cm strap length allows for comfortable crossbody or shoulder wear.