Whether you're a seasoned crochet enthusiast or just starting your journey, this pattern offers a rewarding, fun and functional project.

Ready to get started?

Let's crochet the round handbag!

Get the free pattern below or purchase the printable PDF which includes step by step images here.

I would love to see these handbags made in lots of different colours, they would look very cute in different pastel tones. Why not create a bunch and offer them at holiday markets and craft fairs?

The sides of the crochet handbag are made from two round pieces, and are made with a stitch that is a one-round repeat!

Talk about a super easy pattern!

If you're familiar with the single crochet stitch and can crochet in the round, you're already on your way to creating your handbag.

Why you’ll love the Mae Bag #20!

Easy and quick to make: With simple instructions, this pattern is perfect for newcomers to crochet, offering a rewarding project with beautiful results.
Eco-friendly: Made from recycled t-shirt yarn, this bag is a sustainable choice for environmentally-conscious crafters, allowing you to create stylish accessories while caring for the planet.
Fun and Relaxing: Crocheting can be a therapeutic and enjoyable activity.
Versatile: Versatile and customizable, you can crochet in small, medium, and large sizes to suit your needs.

New to crochet? This should help to get you started: A Beginner's Guide to Crochet

Free crochet bag pattern

This free round handbag pattern is perfect for beginners!

Materials You’ll Need

Yarn: Chunky Recycled T-Shirt Yarn.
For this project, I used a t-shirt yarn from Hooked Zpagetti.
Alternative Yarn Options:
You could easily use a different chunky or bulky-weight yarn with a corresponding hook size.
If chunky yarn isn't available, you can achieve the desired thickness by holding two or three strands of regular yarn together as you crochet.
Crochet Hook: Size recommended for your chosen yarn (usually 6.0 mm or 8.0mm).
I used a 7 mm hook for this bag.
Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends
Stitch Marker: I used two stitch markers for this project. Often I just use a piece of different coloured yarn to mark a specific stitch or round.
Scissors.

Skill Level – Easy / Beginner

You can purchase the downloadable, printable, PDF pattern with picture tutorials and a stitch guide here.
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Notes:

The bag is made by Crocheting in Continuous Rounds. This technique involves crocheting in a spiral without joining at the end of each round with a slip stitch. A stitch marker will help you keep track of the beginning of each round.
This the downloadable pattern is using US and UK terminology.
(SC, Single Crochet: US = DC, Double Crochet: UK)

Step-by-Step Guide

Step 1: Crochet the sides of the bag

Step 1: Chain 5 stitches.
Step 2: Work a slip stitch in the first stitch to create a circle

Insert 2 single crochets (sc) into the second stitch, then work 1 single crochet (sc) into each of the following stitches across the row.

Row 1: Crochet 8 sc stitches into the circle. [8 sts]
Row 2: Work 2 sc stitches into each stitch. [16 sts]
Row 3: 1 sc, work 2 sc into the 2nd stitch. Repeat all the way around. [24 sts]
Row 4: 2 sc, work 2 sc into 3rd stitch. Repeat all the way around. [32 sts]
Row 5: 3 sc, work 2 sc into every 4th stitch. Repeat all the way around. [40 sts]
Row 6: 4 sc, work 2 sc into every 5th stitch. Repeat all the way around. [48 sts]
Row 6 & 7: Work 1 sc stitch into every stitch. [48 sts]

Marking the placement for the handles

Row 8: Insert a stitch marker in the 10th stitch from the start of the row. Then, count 10 more stitches and place a second stitch marker to mark the handle's position.

Chain 18.
SC into the 10th stitch.
Work 1 sc all the way around.

Row 9: Work 1 sc into every stitch, including the handle. [66 sts]
Row 10: Work sc stitches over the two rows of the handle. Crochet over the whole handle until you’ve covered the previous row. [Approximately 26 sts]

Continue to sc all the way around.

Repeat rows 1–10 for the second part of the bag.

Step 2: Assembling the bag

Securely weave in all loose ends.
Before doing so, gently pull the yarn tight to close the gap in the starting circle, then proceed with weaving.

Step 1: On both parts of the bag, mark the locations where you will stitch the two parts together.
Count 5 stitches from the start of the right handle opening, and use a stitch marker to mark the spot. Repeat on the other side.

Step 2: Place the two parts on top of each other, and make sure the alignment is perfect. Then use slip stitches to join the parts together. The location of your stitch marker (see step 1) is where you start slip-stitching the two parts together.

Step 3: Slip stitch all the way around until you reach the second stitch marker. Cut yarn and weave in all the ends.

Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them in Crochet Bag Making

Not Counting Stitches: An uneven stitch count can lead to a misshapen bag. Always count your stitches to maintain even edges and a symmetrical shape.

Tight Tension: Crocheting too tightly can make the bag rigid and difficult to work with. Maintain a relaxed tension for a bag that's flexible and easy to use.

Insecure Ends: Not weaving in ends securely can lead to unravelling. Thoroughly weave in all loose ends for a durable and long-lasting bag.

Wrong Hook Size: Using the incorrect hook size can alter the bag's dimensions and texture. Always match the hook size to the yarn recommendation for the best results.

Customization tips for your crochet bag

Colourful Rows: Experiment with different colours for each row to create a vibrant and unique look. Use a planned colour scheme for a structured design, or go with random selections for a playful, style.
Tassel Embellishments: Add tassels to the bag's edges or corners for a bohemian flair. You can use matching yarn for a subtle touch or contrasting colours for a bold statement.
Patterns and Textures: Incorporate various crochet stitches to add visual interest. Mixing textures, such as using a combination of smooth and fluffy yarns, can enhance the bag's tactile appeal.
Appliqués and Patches: Attach crocheted flowers, leaves, or other motifs to personalize your bag. These can be sewn onto the body of the bag for a customized touch.
Unique Handles: Use alternative materials for handles, such as leather strips or braided cords, to give your bag a modern twist. You can also crochet intricate designs for the handles themselves.
Button and Bead Accents: Sew on decorative buttons or beads to add sparkle and detail. These can be placed strategically to accentuate specific parts of the design.
Personalized Linings: Line your bag with fabric that complements the outer crochet design. Not only does this add durability, but it also provides an opportunity to introduce another layer of colour or pattern.

Now that you’ve mastered the art of crocheting a bag, it’s time to unleash your creativity!

Share your unique bag designs with us on Instagram using #MouseAndSparrow, or explore our pattern collection available on our website.

Happy Crocheting and enjoy crafting your one-of-a-kind bag! 👜✨