If you’re new to crochet and want to make something stylish and useful, the Spencer Market Bag is a perfect first project. It’s a simple tote-style bag made using just basic stitches — mostly single crochet — and worked in the round, so there’s no complicated shaping or sewing involved. Whether you use it for groceries, books, or everyday essentials, this bag is not only functional but fun to make. With just yarn, a hook, and a little time, you’ll have a handmade market bag that’s beginner-friendly and totally customizable!
🧵 Materials Needed:
- Bulky weight yarn (like cotton or tape yarn)
- 5 mm crochet hook (H/8)
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Optional: Fabric or leather straps (or yarn to crochet your own)
🪡 Instructions:
1. Make the Bag Base and Body
- Start with a magic ring or chain 4 and join into a circle.
- Work single crochet stitches (sc) in the round to form a flat circle. Increase gradually (e.g. 6 increases per round) until the base is the size you want (about 8–10 inches wide).
- Then stop increasing and continue working 1 sc in each stitch around. This builds the sides upward.
- Keep going until the bag is about 12–14 inches tall.
2. Shape the Top Edge
- Once you’ve reached your desired height, do one or two rounds of slip stitch or single crochet to create a clean edge at the top.
- Fasten off and weave in all ends with a yarn needle.
3. Add the Handles
You have two beginner-friendly options:
- Fabric or pre-made straps: Cut two pieces about 20–25 inches long. Hand-sew or tie them securely to opposite sides of the bag.
- Crocheted handles: Chain 60–80, then work 1–2 rows of single crochet across the chain. Sew each end to the inside of the bag.
4. Customize (Optional)
- Add a button, tag, or small inner pocket if you’d like.
- You can even line the inside with fabric for more structure—but that’s totally optional for beginners!
✅ Why It’s Beginner Friendly
- Only uses single crochet stitches
- Made in the round, so no sewing panels
- Simple, clean construction with room for creativity
- No complicated shaping — just increase, then go straight up!
👜 Final Tip:
Don’t stress about perfection — the charm of handmade bags is their personality! This project is great for practice and ends with a stylish, usable bag you’ll be proud to show off.
Pattern and tutorial by Lakeside Loops