Product Description
This is a very handy tote, designed because I needed a bag to carry my projects around in. It works up really quickly because it's in bulky yarn and has a number of pockets in different sizes for all those bits and pieces you need to carry with you :) There is plenty of room for carrying your latest project, extra yarn, pattern and anything else you may need. The yarn woven through the handle helps prevent it from stretching.
You can modify the pattern for a different weight yarn as long as you change your hook size to get a nice firm fabric.
This pattern has been tech edited by the wonderful (and patient) boricuacrochet who can be found here on Ravelry if you are in need of a tech editor.
The pattern is available in both US and UK term and has been tested by the wonderful testers in the Happy Hookers Hangout.
Handee Craft Tote by Sarahjanedesigns
Project Overview
The Handee Craft Tote is an intermediate-level crochet bag designed by Sarahjanedesigns. This downloadable PDF pattern provides instructions for creating a practical, structured tote bag suitable for everyday use. The finished bag measures approximately 32cm high by 40cm across, offering ample space for carrying crafts, groceries, or personal items.
What Is Being Made
This project results in a finished tote bag featuring a reinforced base and contrasting color design. The bag is constructed with a sturdy structure, enhanced by an inserted base made from strong card or plastic measuring 20x28cm. The design incorporates two large buttons as functional or decorative elements, making it both practical and visually appealing.
Crochet Techniques and Stitches
The Handee Craft Tote employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The pattern utilizes several essential stitches to create the bag's structure:
- Double crochet (dc) – forms the primary fabric of the tote, creating a dense, sturdy texture
- Chain stitch (ch) – used for foundation rows and shaping
- Slip stitch (sl st) – joins rounds and creates seamless transitions
- Treble (tr) – adds height and variation to stitch patterns
- Double treble (dtr) – provides additional texture and drape options
- Back loop only (blo) – a technique that creates textured ridges by working through only the back loop of stitches
The pattern is worked in rounds, as indicated by the abbreviation "Rnd," allowing for seamless construction of the cylindrical bag body.
Materials and Tools Required
This project calls for 550 meters (600 yards) of bulky weight yarn, also known as 12 ply yarn. The yarn is divided into two colors: approximately 300 meters (330 yards) of main color and 250 meters (270 yards) of contrast color, enabling a two-tone design. The pattern specifies using a 6mm/J crochet hook, though crafters are encouraged to adjust hook size based on their chosen yarn to achieve a firm, structured fabric suitable for a tote bag. A yarn needle with a large eye is needed for weaving in ends and assembly. Additional materials include a piece of strong card or plastic measuring 20x28cm for the bag base and two large buttons for finishing.
Construction Notes
The pattern uses UK and Australian crochet terminology throughout. Tension and gauge are noted as not critical for this particular project, making it more forgiving for crafters of varying experience levels. However, the instructions recommend using a smaller hook size than typically recommended for the yarn weight to ensure the fabric remains firm and durable for bag use. This technique prevents stretching and sagging that might occur with a looser tension.
```Specifications
| Brand: | Independent Designer |
| Yarn Weight: | Chunky |
| Pages: | 8 |
| Designer: | Sarahjanedesigns |
| Craft: | Crochet |
| Format: | Downloadable PDF |
| Languages: | English |
| Number of Patterns: | 1 |
| Skill Level: | Intermediate |
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