Plextobag20

PLEXTOBAG20 Crochet Tote Bag Pattern

Project Overview

The PLEXTOBAG20 is a beginner-friendly crochet tote bag pattern designed by PLEXTOPATTERN. This downloadable PDF provides complete instructions for creating a structured, functional bag using simple crochet techniques. The finished tote features a spacious rectangular body with handles, making it an ideal project for crafters new to bag construction.

What Is Being Made

A crochet tote bag with the following finished dimensions:

• Height without handles: 40 cm (15.75 inches)
• Total height including handles: 65 cm (25.5 inches)
• Width: 32.5 cm (12.8 inches)

This versatile bag design combines practical storage capacity with a classic aesthetic, suitable for everyday use or as a handmade gift.

Crochet Techniques Used

The PLEXTOBAG20 pattern employs fundamental crochet construction methods appropriate for beginners:

• Foundation chain method: The pattern begins with a chain line, establishing the base width of the bag
• Two-directional row work: The first row is worked up one side of the chain foundation, then back down the opposite side, creating the initial fabric structure
• Joined rounds: Subsequent shaping is accomplished using joined rounds, which create a more structured, tailored appearance than continuous spiral rounds
• Stitch increases: Strategic increases build dimension and shape into the bag body

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern uses standard US crochet terminology with the following core stitches:

• Chain (ch): The foundation stitch used to begin the pattern
• Double crochet (dc): The primary working stitch throughout the bag, providing structure and density
• Slip stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions
• Double crochet increases (dc2in1, dc4in1): Multiple stitches worked into the same stitch to create shaping and expansion in the fabric
• Skip (sk): Stitches skipped to create shaping and stitch count management

Each round begins with Ch3 (which counts as the first double crochet) and finishes with a slip stitch to the top of the opening chain.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for 165 grams of Raffia yarn. With each 25-gram skein providing approximately 55 meters, this project requires roughly 6 skeins of yarn. Raffia creates a sturdy, structured fabric ideal for bag construction, offering excellent stitch definition and durability.

Crochet Hook: A 3.00 mm hook (US size 5) is used to work the yarn to the correct gauge.

Additional Tools: A tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and scissors for cutting yarn complete the required materials.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 16 double crochet stitches by 8 rows per 10 cm (4 inches) square. Achieving proper gauge is essential for the finished bag to reach the intended dimensions. Crafters should adjust hook size if their gauge differs: use a larger hook if too many stitches appear in 10 cm, or a smaller hook if too few stitches are present. This flexibility allows the pattern to work with slight yarn weight variations.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the PLEXTOBAG20 introduces bag-making fundamentals without requiring advanced techniques. The straightforward stitch selection, clear gauge guidance, and logical construction sequence make this pattern accessible to crocheters with basic stitch knowledge who are ready to expand into structured projects.