Portofino Bag Set

Portofino Bag Set by Two of Wands

What Is Being Made

The Portofino Bag Set is a coordinated collection of two crocheted bags designed by Two of Wands. This intermediate-level crochet project includes a spacious tote bag and a smaller bottle bag, both constructed using filet crochet techniques. The set offers versatile storage solutions with the tote measuring 21 inches wide by 15 inches long with a 7-inch depth, while the bottle bag features a 10-inch circumference with an adjustable length of 7 inches. Both bags include attached straps for comfortable carrying.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This pattern utilizes filet crochet as its primary construction method, a technique that creates an open, lacy fabric through the strategic placement of chain spaces and double crochet stitches. The filet structure is built using a combination of fundamental crochet stitches including chain stitches, double crochet, single crochet, and slip stitches. The pattern employs chain-3 and chain-5 foundations at the beginning of rows and rounds, which count as working stitches within the filet structure. This technique creates a geometric, openwork appearance characteristic of filet crochet while maintaining structural integrity suitable for functional bags.

Materials and Specifications

The Portofino Bag Set is constructed using Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton yarn in the Hay Bale colorway (product code 761-173). This is a worsted weight yarn (weight category 4, also referred to as aran weight), with each skein providing 186 yards or 170 meters. The complete set requires 3 skeins of yarn. Crochet construction uses a US F/5 (3.75mm) crochet hook. Additional tools include removable stitch markers for tracking pattern placement and a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and finishing details.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 7 filet squares measured stitch-wise and 8 filet squares measured row-wise, equaling 4 inches or 10 centimeters. This gauge measurement is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions. The tote bag strap measures 15 inches in length, while the bottle bag features a longer 50-inch strap, allowing for versatile carrying options.

Skill Level

This project is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with foundational knowledge of basic stitches and comfort working with stitch patterns. The filet crochet technique, while requiring attention to stitch placement and chain spaces, is achievable for those with some crochet experience.