not your granny bag

Main project photo — *The finished project — looks amazing, right?*

2. Introduction

Welcome to the world of modern crochet with our “Not Your Granny Bag”! This stylish and functional bag measures approximately 12” wide by 10” tall, making it the perfect accessory for a day out, a casual trip to the farmers’ market, or even a chic carry-all for everyday essentials. You’ll love how easy and satisfying it is to create, turning heads with your unique, handmade flair.

For this project, we’ve chosen soft, durable worsted weight yarn in a sophisticated palette of muted teal, warm mustard, and soft gray. These adult-friendly colors are not only trendy but also versatile, ensuring your bag can complement a variety of outfits. The best part? This bag works up quickly, making it a delightful evening project or a lovely gift for friends and family. While the pattern is straightforward and beginner-friendly, even seasoned crocheters will enjoy the rhythmic stitch work. Plus, it’s a fabulous seasonal item to showcase your crochet skills!

Materials and preparation — *Materials and work-in-progress shot*

3. Materials Needed

– Yarn: Worsted weight yarn (approximately 300-400 yards total) in muted teal, warm mustard, and soft gray

– Hook: 4.0mm crochet hook

– Eyes: Not applicable

– Stuffing: Not applicable

– Needle: Tapestry needle for sewing ends

– Marker: Stitch marker

– Optional extras: Button for closure, fabric lining for added durability

4. Designer Notes / Tips

As you embark on creating your “Not Your Granny Bag,” here are a few tips to enhance your experience:

– Stitch technique: This bag uses basic stitches including single crochet (sc) and double crochet (dc) to create a lovely texture. Pay attention to tension as it helps in forming a sturdy structure.

– Assembly: When joining the bag pieces, make sure to use slip stitches for a neater finish. This will ensure that the seams are less visible and provide a polished look.

– Yarn substitutions: If you prefer a more eco-friendly option, consider using cotton or bamboo blends, which provide a beautiful drape and are easy to clean.

– Gauge tips: For an ideal fit, always make a gauge swatch! Aim for 16 stitches in 4 inches using sc. Adjust hook size if necessary to meet gauge.

– Safety considerations: If you’re making this bag for a child, consider adding a magnetic snap instead of a button for easier access.

5. Pattern Instructions

For the Bag:

Base

– Foundation Chain: Ch 30.

– Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook and across (29)

– Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (29)

– Repeat Row 2 until the base measures 12” long.

Sides

– Row 1: Turn and ch 1, sc in each st across (29)

– Row 2: Ch 1, turn, dc in each st across (29)

– Repeat Row 1 and Row 2 until the piece measures 10” tall.

– Note: As you work the sides, you can change colors every 4 rows to create a striped effect.

Straps

– Foundation Chain: Ch 90.

– Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook and across (89)

– Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (89)

– Repeat Row 2 until strap measures 36” long (or desired length).

– Make 2 straps.

Assembly

1. Fold the base piece to form the sides. Slip stitch the side seams together.

2. Attach straps to each side of the bag using a tapestry needle to sew securely.

3. If desired, add a button on one side for a closure and sew a small loop from yarn on the opposite side.

6. Closing & Social Engagement

Congratulations on completing your “Not Your Granny Bag”! This stylish accessory is sure to become a staple in your wardrobe. I’d love to see your version! Please leave a comment below sharing your thoughts or any color combinations you chose. What unique touch will you add to make it your own? Feel free to share your finished bag on social media—let’s inspire each other in our crochet journeys!