Big Purse Bag

Big Purse Bag by Littlejohn's Yarn

Project Overview

The Big Purse Bag is an intermediate-level crochet project designed as a spacious beach bag. This downloadable PDF pattern from independent designer Littlejohn's Yarn provides detailed instructions for creating a functional, oversized tote using super bulky yarn construction techniques.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a large capacity beach bag suitable for carrying essentials to the shore or for everyday use. The bag features a structured design with decorative rings and sturdy straps, making it both practical and visually appealing.

Materials Required

• Yarn: 2 skeins of Caron One Pound in #4 worsted weight (approximately 350 yards total) in Blue (Color A) and Tan (Color B)
• Hooks: 4mm crochet hook and 6.5mm crochet hook
• Additional Tools: Yarn needle for finishing

Yarn Weight and Construction Method

The pattern utilizes a unique super bulky yarn creation technique by combining three strands of worsted weight yarn together to achieve a super bulky weight effect. This method allows crafters to work with standard #4 worsted weight yarn while achieving the visual and textural qualities of super bulky yarn. The combination creates a yarn weight of approximately 350 yards when using the two skeins provided.

Crochet Techniques Used

This intermediate project incorporates several key crochet construction methods. The pattern involves creating decorative rings as structural elements, with instructions for making 4 rings as shown in the accompanying video tutorial (8:40 mark). The bag also features 2 straps that are constructed separately (video 11:35 mark), which are then attached to the main body.

The multi-strand yarn construction is explained in detail within the pattern, with a specific video tutorial at the 0:30 mark demonstrating how to combine three strands of worsted weight yarn to create the super bulky effect needed for this project.

Stitches Used

• Chain (Ch): Foundation stitch used to create the base structure
• Single Crochet (Sc): Primary stitch for building fabric density and structure
• Slip Stitch (Sl st): Used for joining rounds and creating seamless transitions
• Half Double Crochet (Hdc): Stitch included in the pattern's stitch guide for potential use in construction

Pattern Structure

The rings, which form decorative and functional elements of the bag, are constructed by chaining 15 stitches and slip stitching to the first chain to form a ring. Round 1 involves working 20 single crochets into the ring and slip stitching to join. Round 2 continues with single crochet in each stitch around, slip stitched to join, before fastening off.

The strap construction involves cutting 30 strands of yarn, each 72 inches long, with half of each color (Blue and Tan), then threading all strands through the completed rings. The strands are folded evenly across the ring to create the strap structure.

Video Support

This pattern includes comprehensive video tutorials linked within the PDF, providing visual guidance for complex techniques such as ring construction, strap assembly, and the multi-strand yarn combination method. The main video tutorial is available at https://youtu.be/NZYE0AihGBo

Skill Level

Classified as an intermediate project, this bag requires foundational crochet knowledge including familiarity with basic stitches and the ability to follow multi-round patterns. The unique yarn-combining technique and the structured construction of rings and straps make this an appropriate challenge for crafters beyond the beginner level.