Moving Forward Crossbody Bag

Moving Forward Crossbody Bag by Shashis Stitches

Design Overview

The Moving Forward Crossbody Bag is an intermediate-level crochet crossbody bag designed by Shashis Stitches. Inspired by themes of hope and forward momentum during 2020-21, this textured bag features a distinctive arrow pattern that symbolizes looking ahead to what lies ahead. The bag is worked in the round, creating a seamless construction that builds upward to form the finished piece.

What Is Being Made

This pattern creates a functional crossbody bag suitable for everyday wear. The bag combines practical design with meaningful symbolism through its forward-facing arrow motif. The textured construction adds visual interest and dimension to the finished accessory, making it both a useful carryall and a statement piece.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Moving Forward Crossbody Bag employs several intermediate crochet techniques to achieve its distinctive look. The pattern is worked in continuous rounds, eliminating the need to turn work after chain stitches. A special stitch called front post stitches (fptr) is featured prominently, worked on the second previous row and building diagonally upward to the current row to create visual texture and the arrow pattern. This technique creates raised stitches on the outside of the purse, giving the bag its characteristic dimensional appearance.

Stitches and Construction Details

• Circular construction: The pattern is worked in rounds without turning after ch 1 or ch 2
• First chain note: The first chain does not count as the first stitch
• Front post stitches: These stitches are worked on the second previous row and build diagonally to create the arrow pattern and textured surface
• Two-color option: The pattern can be worked in a single color or with two contrasting colors as shown in the model photographs

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The Moving Forward Crossbody Bag is designed to work with worsted weight yarn (size 4 yarn). Total yardage requirements depend on color choice: 193 yards total if using a single color, or Color A: 94 yards and Color B: 98.28 yards if working the two-color version. A 4.5 mm or 5.00 mm crochet hook is recommended for this project.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience who are comfortable working in the round and executing post stitches. The special front post stitch technique and the continuous circular construction require attention to detail and familiarity with these foundational intermediate skills.