Motley Tote

Motley Tote Crochet Bag by Knothing Usual

What is Being Made

The Motley Tote is a colorful crocheted tote bag designed as a versatile summer accessory. This intermediate-level project produces a finished bag measuring approximately 40cm × 40cm (roughly 16 inches square), making it a practical carryall suitable for everyday use, beach trips, or casual outings.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This pattern employs fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The construction utilizes a combination of basic stitches worked in rows to build the bag structure. The design incorporates colorwork, with six distinct yarn colors creating visual interest and the "motley" aesthetic that gives the bag its name. The multicolor approach requires managing yarn changes throughout the project, which adds moderate complexity to the construction process.

Stitches Used

The Motley Tote pattern incorporates the following crochet stitches:

• Half Double Crochet (hdc) – Forms the primary fabric of the bag, worked at a gauge of 15 stitches and 11 rows per 10cm × 10cm square
• Single Crochet (sc) – Used for shaping and finishing details
• Chain Stitch (ch) – Creates foundation chains and turning chains throughout the pattern
• Slip Stitch (slst) – Joins rounds and secures stitches
• Popcorn Stitch (pc) – A textured stitch worked with 5 half double crochets, adding decorative dimension to the design

Materials and Tools

The pattern calls for Paintbox Yarns Cotton Aran yarn in six coordinating colors. You will need 6 balls of Colour 1 and 1 ball each of Colours 2, 3, 4, 5, and 6, allowing for a total of 11 balls. The aran weight yarn provides a medium thickness ideal for creating a sturdy, structured tote bag.

Two crochet hooks are required: a 4mm crochet hook and a 5mm crochet hook, allowing you to adjust tension and stitch size as needed throughout the project. Additional supplies include a magnetic bag clasp for secure closure, scissors for cutting yarn, and a yarn needle for weaving in ends and assembling the finished bag.

Difficulty Level and Gauge

Rated as an intermediate