Rainbow Handbag

Rainbow Handbag by Elise Mann

What Is Being Made

The Rainbow Handbag is a crocheted tote-style bag constructed from a single hexagon that is folded and stitched together to create the finished form. The design features a vibrant rainbow color progression—Stormy Grey, Pillar Red, Blood Orange, Buttercup Yellow, Lime Green, Marine Blue, Royal Blue, and Dusty Lilac—with the grey representing sky often seen beneath rainbows in nature. The handle is created using a simple braided technique, making this an accessible project suitable for beginners.

Crochet Techniques Used

This pattern employs amigurumi-style crochet, a technique typically used for three-dimensional stuffed items but adapted here for flat, structured fabric. The work is completed in continuous spirals without stepping up between rounds, which creates a seamless appearance and requires careful row tracking using a stitch marker. Color changes are executed in the final loop of the last stitch of each color row, creating a deliberate step in the color sequence. Because the hexagon is folded during construction, this color step is strategically hidden at the fold line and remains invisible in the finished bag. The braided handle demonstrates basic fiber manipulation beyond standard crochet stitches.

Stitches and Construction

While specific stitch abbreviations are referenced in UK crochet terminology (with US equivalents provided in the pattern), the project relies on fundamental crochet stitches worked in continuous rounds. The hexagon shape is achieved through increases and decreases strategically placed to form six sides. The pattern is written in UK style notation, with conversions available for those working in US terminology. The folding and stitching technique transforms a flat hexagon into a three-dimensional bag structure.

Materials and Yarn

The Rainbow Handbag is designed to be made in Paintbox Cotton Aran yarn, a cotton-based yarn at aran weight. Cotton yarn is chosen for its strength and softness, making it ideal for a functional handbag that will receive regular use. The pattern specifies one ball each of eight colors: Stormy Grey, Pillar Red, Blood Orange, Buttercup Yellow, Lime Green, Marine Blue, Royal Blue, and Dusty Lilac. A single ball of each color yields enough yarn to make multiple bags, making this an economical project. A 4.5mm crochet hook is used for this aran-weight yarn.

Customization Options

The pattern offers flexibility for crafters who wish to adjust the finished size. Working the same pattern in DK weight yarn will produce a smaller handbag. Alternatively, reducing the number of rows worked in each color section will also decrease the overall dimensions, potentially creating a smaller bag suitable for storage inside the full-sized version. This adaptability makes the pattern suitable for various skill levels and project goals.

Difficulty Level

Rated as a beginner project, the Rainbow Handbag is accessible to those new to crochet. The continuous spiral technique and color-change method are straightforward to learn, and the basic stitches required are foundational. The project completes relatively quickly due to the aran yarn weight and simple construction, making it an encouraging first bag project or a satisfying quick make for experienced crocheters.