How to Create a Striped Crochet Bag with Braided Strap

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Pick your yarn colours

The first step is choosing yarn colors that catch your eye. With an endless range of options, experiment freely until you find a combination that feels right for you. Pay attention to the weight and texture of your chosen yarns — these will significantly affect the final look and feel of the bag. Yarns of the same weight and texture work best for an even, consistent stripe pattern.

Step 2 — Crochet the bag body

With your colors selected, begin crocheting the bag body. For a beginner-friendly approach, alternate rows of two colors using single crochet stitches. For a more advanced project, consider double crochet or shell stitch for added texture and visual interest. Work the body to your desired size, keeping your stripe pattern consistent throughout.

Step 3 — Create the buttonhole

Plan your buttonhole on the flap near the strap attachment point. Measure the desired width and height to ensure a comfortable fit for your chosen button. Use a crochet hook one size smaller than the one used for the bag body and work evenly around the marked area using single crochet stitches, leaving a small gap at the top for threading the button through later.

Step 4 — Make the strap

For a thicker, braided strap gather four strands of yarn in your chosen colour. Divide them into two pairs and cross one pair over the other, then cross back again — repeat this pattern along the entire length of the strap. Secure the ends by tucking them inside and sewing together with a yarn needle and thread. For a thinner, simpler strap, work a long row of single crochets in your preferred colour instead.

Step 5 — Iron and attach the strap

To flatten the strap and remove any twists, press it with an iron on a low heat setting, placing a towel between the strap and the iron to prevent damage. Once cooled, find the slot where the flap folds over and tucks inside the bag body. Insert the raw edge of the strap into this slot and use a yarn needle and thread to stitch through all layers, securing it firmly. Repeat on the opposite end for symmetry.

Step 6 — Sew on the button

Thread a yarn needle with strong thread and knot the end. Pass the needle through one of the buttonholes and pull through until the knot rests against the inside of the bag. Wrap the thread around the button several times to secure it, then pass the needle back through the opposite hole. Knot the thread on the inside of the bag to finish — your striped crochet bag is complete and ready to use!

Frequently asked questions

What supplies are needed to create a striped crochet bag with a braided strap?
You will need multiple colors of yarn (preferably the same weight and texture), a crochet hook, a yarn needle and thread, scissors, an iron, a towel, a button for the closure, and a tape measure.

How do I choose yarn colors for my striped crochet bag?
Experiment with various color combinations until you find one that appeals to you. Keep in mind the weight and texture of your chosen yarns, as these factors will significantly impact the final look and feel of the bag.

How do I create a buttonhole for my crocheted bag?
Measure the desired width and height of your buttonhole, then use a crochet hook one size smaller than the one used for the bag body. Work evenly around the marked area using single crochet stitches, leaving a small gap at the top for threading the button through.

Can I make a thinner strap instead of the four-strand braid?
Yes! To create a thinner strap, simply make a long row of single crochets using your preferred yarn color. This gives a more delicate look compared to the braided strap.

How do I attach the strap to my finished crochet bag?
Insert the raw edge of your finished strap into the slot where the flap folds over and tucks inside the bag body. Use a yarn needle and thread to stitch through all layers, securing the strap in place. Repeat on the opposite end for symmetry.

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