Side Stripes

Side Stripes Crochet Backpack by OneLoopShy Designs

Project Overview

Side Stripes is a downloadable crochet pattern for a classic summer backpack designed by OneLoopShy Designs. This intermediate-level project combines functional bag construction with decorative striping techniques, creating a versatile accessory perfect for warm-weather wear. The finished backpack features a 12-inch diameter circular base, stands 11.5 inches tall, and includes a 55-inch I-cord shoulder strap for comfortable carrying.

Construction Techniques

The Side Stripes backpack employs several advanced crochet techniques to achieve its polished appearance. The bag bottom is worked in the round with the right side facing throughout the increase process, eliminating the need for tedious stitch counting and marking. A textured swirl pattern simplifies the shaping of the circular base. The sides are constructed separately and then incorporated into the design, allowing for the signature striped colorwork to be added with precision.

Professional finishing details elevate this project beyond basic bag construction. The pattern includes eyelets for decorative and functional purposes, surface crochet for dimensional embellishment, an I-cord strap for durability and structure, and cinch tabs that provide adjustable closure and visual interest.

Stitches and Abbreviations

The pattern utilizes fundamental and intermediate crochet stitches to create texture and structure:

• Single Crochet (sc) – the primary stitch for the bag body, creating a dense, sturdy fabric
• Back Loop Only Single Crochet (BLsc) – worked through only the back loop to create textured ridges
• Double Crochet (dc) – used for lighter sections and stitch variation
• Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc) – creates raised, dimensional texture
• Chain (ch) – foundational stitch for edges and construction
• Slip Stitch (sl st) – used for joining rounds and finishing

Yarn and Materials

The Side Stripes backpack is designed for DK weight yarn, a lightweight yet durable choice ideal for summer garments and bags. The pattern calls for approximately 325 yards of DK weight cotton in a main color (MC) for the base and body, plus 110 yards each of four coordinating colors (A, B, C, and D) for the signature side stripes. The recommended yarn is Tahki Cotton Classic, a breathable cotton option that works beautifully for structured bags.

Construction requires a size E (3.5mm) crochet hook, or the appropriate size needed to achieve the specified gauge of 18 stitches by 20 rows over 4 inches in single crochet. The pattern also calls for nine 7/16-inch eyelets and an eyelet setting tool to create the decorative openings that add both visual appeal and functional ventilation to the finished bag.

Difficulty Level and Skill Requirements

Rated as an intermediate project, Side Stripes is suitable for crocheters with foundational skills who are ready to tackle multi-technique construction. Familiarity with working in the round, post stitches, and surface crochet techniques is beneficial. The pattern's thoughtful design—such as the textured swirl that eliminates stitch counting during increases—demonstrates designer consideration for maker experience and helps streamline the construction process.