Rainbow Saver Tote

Rainbow Saver Tote by Ashley Parker

Project Overview

The Rainbow Saver Tote is a beginner-friendly crochet bag designed by Ashley Parker of The Loopy Lamb. This downloadable crochet pattern creates a practical, colorful tote bag perfect for everyday use. The finished tote measures approximately 13 inches tall by 16.75 inches wide, making it a functional accessory for carrying essentials.

What Is Being Made

This project produces a medium-sized tote bag with a rainbow color scheme. The bag features a structured design worked in the round and is finished with sturdy cotton rope handles and decorative eyelets or grommets. The tote is designed as a single-size project suitable for various carrying needs.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Rainbow Saver Tote employs fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for beginners. The bag is worked in the round without joining at the end of each round unless specifically indicated in the pattern instructions. The designer uses an invisible join method when changing colors to create a polished, seamless appearance. Back loop only (BLO) stitching is incorporated into the pattern construction.

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

• CH – Chain stitch, the foundation stitch for beginning rows
• SC – Single crochet, the primary stitch used throughout the bag
• SCINC – Single crochet increase, used to shape the tote
• SL ST – Slip stitch, used for joining rounds and color transitions
• BLO – Back loops only, a technique for creating texture and structure
• FO – Finish off, completing the crochet work

Materials and Supplies

Yarn: The pattern calls for one Chiffon Ribbon Ombre Pack in Ribbon from Darn Good Yarn. This chunky-weight yarn creates quick, satisfying stitches ideal for a beginner project.

Tools: An 8 mm crochet hook is required for working with the chunky-weight ribbon yarn. A tapestry needle is needed for weaving in yarn ends after completion.

Hardware and Handles: The tote is finished with four 11.1 mm eyelets or grommets, applied using an 11.1 mm eyelet or grommet application kit and a hammer. Approximately 6 feet of 3/8" three-strand cotton rope serves as sturdy handles, providing durability and comfort.

Optional Embellishments: Crafters may choose to add a Tim Holtz Idea-ology Word Band for personalization, which requires sewing thread and a needle if selected.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 9 stitches across by 11 rows equals a 4-inch square. Maintaining proper gauge ensures the finished tote reaches its intended dimensions of approximately 13 inches tall by 16.75 inches wide.

Pattern Notes

This pattern is written using American standard crochet terminology. The bag construction is worked continuously in the round, which creates a seamless, tubular shape. The invisible join method minimizes visible color transitions, contributing to a professional finish. The beginner skill level makes this project accessible to newer crocheters while still producing a polished, functional accessory.