Nettleton Bag

Nettleton Bag by Briana K

Project Overview

The Nettleton Bag is a beginner-friendly crochet handbag designed by independent designer Briana K. This tailored accessory project combines fundamental crochet techniques to create a structured bag with practical dimensions and stylish appeal. The finished bag measures 15.25 inches wide by 10 inches tall when folded and laid flat, making it a versatile everyday accessory.

What Is Being Made

This project creates a finished handbag suitable for carrying everyday essentials. The Nettleton Bag is a structured crochet accessory that showcases how basic crochet stitches can be combined to produce a wearable fashion piece. The design emphasizes the principle that true style comes from handmade creations, allowing crafters to customize their bag through yarn color selection and optional embellishments.

Crochet Techniques Used

The Nettleton Bag is worked in the round from the beginning, a technique that creates seamless construction and allows for even fabric development. This method is ideal for beginners as it eliminates the need for seaming and creates a cohesive finished product. The bag utilizes fundamental crochet shaping and stitch manipulation to achieve its structured form.

Stitches and Abbreviations

• Chain (ch) - The foundation stitch used to create the base of the project
• Single Crochet (sc) - The primary stitch used throughout the bag construction, creating a dense, sturdy fabric
• Single Crochet Two Together (sc2tog) - A decrease stitch used for shaping the bag structure
• Back Loop Only (BLO) - A technique worked through only the back loop of stitches to create textural variation or specific fabric characteristics

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Nettleton Bag requires 4 skeins of worsted weight yarn totaling approximately 400 yards (366 meters). The pattern features Bernat Handicrafter Cotton in three colorways: Gold, Rustic Grey, and Off White, with crafters able to select one or combine multiple colors for a custom look.

Yarn Substitutions are permitted when gauge is maintained, with recommended alternatives including Lilly n' Cream and Red Heart Creme de la Creme, both worsted weight options that provide similar drape and stitch definition.

Tools and Notions

• Crochet Hook: US Size H (5.0 mm)
• Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends
• Stitch Markers: Removable markers (optional but recommended for tracking rounds)
• Handbag Straps: Included in the pattern
• Macrame Tassels: Optional embellishment for personalization

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 17 stitches and 16 rows measuring 4 inches (10 centimeters) in single crochet stitch. Maintaining this gauge is essential for achieving the intended finished dimensions of 15.25 inches wide by 10 inches tall. Crafters should work a gauge swatch before beginning the project to ensure proper sizing.

Skill Level

While labeled as beginner-friendly in difficulty, the pattern notes indicate an intermediate skill level, suggesting that crafters with some foundational crochet knowledge will have the best experience. The combination of working in the round, managing multiple color options, and constructing a structured garment requires comfort with basic stitches and ability to follow pattern instructions.

Design Philosophy

The Nettleton Bag embodies the designer's philosophy that true style is what you make it. This project encourages individual expression through yarn color selection and optional embellishments like macrame tassels, allowing each crafter to create a unique accessory that reflects their personal aesthetic while developing their crochet skills.