Free crochet tote bag pattern with built-in handles

This tote starts with a flat rectangle for the base. You then work around the base in rounds to build the sides, and the handles are made in the last few rounds, so there's no sewing. Cotton yarn keeps it strong and washable.

#Materials

• Worsted weight 100% cotton, about 500 yd
• 5 mm (H-8) hook
• Stitch marker, yarn needle

#Gauge

16 sc and 18 rows = 4 in (10 cm). Keep your tension firm; a dense fabric holds its shape when the bag is full.

#Abbreviations

• ch: chain
• sc / hdc: single and half double crochet (guide)
• sk: skip
• sl st: slip stitch

#Base

Foundation: Ch 49.

Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. (48)

Rows 2–16: Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across. (48)

Don't fasten off. The base should measure about 12 × 3½ in.

#Sides

From here you work in joined rounds, without turning.

Rnd 1: Ch 1. Sc around all four edges of the base: 48 sc along each long side and 16 sc along each short side (1 sc per row end). Sl st to the first sc. (128)

Rnd 2: Ch 1. Sc in the back loop only of each st around. Sl st to join. (128) This makes a crisp edge so the sides stand up.

Rnd 3 onwards: Ch 1. Hdc in each st around. Sl st to join. (128)

Repeat until the bag measures 11 in from the base. Place a marker at each corner of the base so you can find the long sides.

#Handles

Handle rnd 1: Ch 1. On the first long side: sc in the next 16 sts, ch 40, sk 16 sts, sc in the next 16 sts. Sc in the 16 sts of the short side. Repeat for the second long side and short side. Sl st to join. (96 sc, 2 ch-40 loops)

Handle rnd 2: Ch 1. Sc in each sc, and work 40 sc into each ch-40 loop. Sl st to join. (176)

Handle rnd 3: Sl st loosely in each st around.

#Finishing

Fasten off and weave in the ends along the inside of the bag. If the bag feels soft, wet it, stuff it with a towel to shape it, and let it dry. Cotton firms up once it's dried in shape. For a smaller, more colourful bag, try our granny square bag.