Rivna Market Bag

Rivna Market Bag by Sidsel Sangild

What Is Being Made

The Rivna Market Bag is a practical crocheted tote designed for versatile everyday use, whether shopping at the beach or visiting yarn shops. This intermediate-level project creates a structured bag with finished measurements of approximately 40 cm (16 inches) in width and 30 cm (12 inches) in height, providing ample space for carrying items while maintaining a refined appearance.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This design employs fundamental crochet techniques suitable for intermediate crafters. The bag is constructed using an oval base that expands systematically through strategic increases. The pattern begins at the dark end of the yarn to create a color gradient effect, with the darkest tones forming the bottom of the bag as the ombré yarn transitions through its color progression.

The construction method involves working in rounds, with the base oval established and then expanded through controlled stitch increases. The pattern includes a helpful freestyle alternative for crafters who prefer improvisation: instead of following exact stitch counts, you can increase 6 stitches at each end of the oval and continue for 7 rounds total until reaching approximately 132 stitches, allowing for creative customization while maintaining proper bag proportions.

Stitches Used

• Double Crochet (dc) — the primary stitch forming the fabric structure
• Chain (ch) — used for turning and shaping
• Slip Stitch (sl st) — used to join rounds and secure stitches
• Front Loop (F) — worked around specific stitches to create texture and shaping

Materials and Specifications

Yarn: One cake of Scheepjes Whirl ombré yarn (1000 meters / 215 grams). This yarn blend consists of 60% cotton and 40% acrylic, making it suitable for a durable, breathable market bag with pleasant drape and structure. The ombré color progression creates visual interest as you work through the rounds.

Hook: 2.5 mm crochet hook, appropriately sized for the 4-ply yarn weight to achieve proper fabric density and finished measurements.

Gauge: No gauge swatch is required for this project. Instead, you should measure your gauge after completing Round 7 as instructed in the pattern, ensuring your bag will reach the specified finished dimensions.

Difficulty Level

Rated as intermediate, this pattern is accessible to crafters with foundational crochet knowledge. The systematic increases and round-by-round construction provide clear structure, while the freestyle option offers flexibility for those seeking a more intuitive approach to the project.