The Vendbar Tote

The Vendbar Tote Bag by Ashley Parker

Project Overview

The Vendbar Tote is an intermediate-level crochet bag designed by Ashley Parker of The Loopy Lamb. This finished tote measures 14 inches tall at its tallest point (excluding handles) by 14.75 inches wide, making it a practical everyday carryall. The design showcases colorwork techniques using multiple shades of cotton yarn to create visual interest and dimension.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This project employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for crafters with intermediate experience. The construction utilizes standard crochet stitches and joining methods to build the bag structure. The pattern incorporates a repeating stitch sequence (rows 10–23 of the bag pattern) that establishes the gauge and overall fabric texture. Colorwork is integrated throughout the design, requiring careful attention to yarn color changes and transitions to achieve the intended visual effect.

Stitches Used

• Chain (CH) – Foundation and structural stitches
• Single Crochet (SC) – Primary fabric-building stitch
• Single Crochet Increase (SCINC) – Shaping and increases
• Double Crochet (DC) – Texture and stitch variation
• Triple/Treble Crochet (TR) – Additional stitch height and detail
• Slip Stitch (SL ST) – Joining rounds and finishing edges
• Back Loop Only (BLO) – Textured edge detail

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Vendbar Tote is designed to work with sport weight yarn, specifically Hobbii Rainbow Cotton 8/8 in a multi-color bag. The pattern calls for a 4.0 mm crochet hook. The yarn palette includes five coordinating colors: 1 ball each of Colour 01 (white) and Colour 02 (cream), and 2 balls each of Colour 70 (medium blue), Colour 71 (light blue), and Colour 76 (dark blue). An optional third ball of Colour 76 (dark blue) is recommended for crafters who prefer not to match gauge precisely.

The cotton yarn choice provides a lightweight, breathable fabric ideal for a tote bag, while the sport weight creates a structured yet flexible finished product. Additional supplies include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and a stitch marker for tracking pattern progression.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 19 stitches across by 15 rows (measured over rows 10–23 of the bag pattern repeat) equaling a 4-inch square. Achieving proper gauge is important for obtaining the finished dimensions, though the designer notes that crafters may choose to work without matching gauge if preferred. The finished tote is one size: 14 inches tall by 14.75 inches wide, creating a substantial and functional bag suitable for daily use.