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Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern

Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern
4.3★ Rating
25-30 Hours Time Needed
4.0K Made This
✂️

Advanced Level

Designed for experienced knitters, these patterns involve intricate designs and complex techniques to challenge and inspire.

⏱️

All-Day Adventure

Requires 8-10 hours, ideal for a full day of immersive knitting.

Stylish Touch

An elegant detail to elevate any look, combining traditional techniques with contemporary design sensibilities.

About This Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern

Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Designed by Natalia Kononova, this pattern includes comprehensive video tutorials for each challenging section, detailed charts for visual learners, and written instructions that guide you through every stitch. The finished bag features elegant spiral cord handles and can be customized with an optional fabric lining for a professional finish.

Why You'll Love This Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it transforms crochet from simple stitches into wearable art. The embossed technique creates such incredible texture and dimension that people won't believe you made it with just a hook and yarn. What I find most satisfying is watching the leaf motifs emerge as you work – it's like magic! The pattern may seem complex at first, but Natalia has broken everything down with detailed videos and clear instructions, so you'll feel supported every step of the way. Plus, there's something incredibly rewarding about carrying a handmade bag that's both stunning and functional. The compliments you'll receive make every stitch worthwhile, and you'll develop advanced crochet skills that will elevate all your future projects.

Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern step 1 - construction progress Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how versatile the Corfu Bag pattern can be with just a few creative tweaks! While the original design features stunning leaf and fish motifs in neutral tones, you could transform this into a completely different look by experimenting with bold, contrasting colors – imagine a bright turquoise background with coral embossed elements for a vibrant summer vibe.

For a more subtle variation, try working the entire bag in monochromatic shades, using different values of the same color family to create a sophisticated tonal effect where the texture becomes the star. You could also adjust the handle length to convert this from a shoulder bag to a crossbody style by making longer spiral cords.

If you're feeling adventurous, consider adding decorative elements like beads or buttons to the center of the leaf motifs for extra sparkle, or work the fish stripes in a third contrasting color to make them pop even more. The pattern's construction also lends itself well to creating a coordinating set – use the same techniques to make a matching coin purse or phone case.

Another fun variation would be to work the upper edge backing in a contrasting color and let it peek out as a design element rather than hiding it inside. You could even crochet a decorative edging around the top for added flair. The possibilities are truly endless once you master the embossed technique!

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Forgetting to switch yarn colors when working front post and back post stitches, which ruins the embossed effect appearance ✗ Not maintaining consistent tension throughout the pattern, leading to uneven leaf motifs and distorted bag shape overall ✗ Skipping stitch markers when indicated in the pattern, causing misaligned increases and design elements to shift position ✗ Stuffing the bag too tightly or loosely during assembly, affecting the final structure and professional appearance significantly ✗ Not checking gauge before starting, resulting in a bag that's either too large or too small for intended use ✗ Missing color changes at specific stitches marked with red circles on charts, disrupting the embossed pattern design ✗ Failing to secure the interfacing properly to the upper edge, causing the bag to lose shape after use

Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern

Create your own stunning Corfu Bag with this intricate embossed crochet pattern. This beautiful tote bag features unique textured leaf and fish motifs that create a three-dimensional surface design, making it a true showstopper. Perfect for everyday use or special occasions, this structured bag combines functionality with artistic flair. The pattern includes detailed charts, video tutorials, and step-by-step instructions to guide you through the embossed crochet technique, complete with reinforced handles and an optional lining for added durability.

Advanced 25-30 Hours

Materials Needed for Corfu Bag Crochet Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    DK weight yarn (120-130 meters per 50 grams)
  • 02
    Scheepjes Catona (100% Mercerized Cotton, Fingering weight, 50g/125m)
  • 03
    Yarn1 (Silver Blue): 4 skeins / 170g / 465yds for background
  • 04
    Yarn2 (Moon Rock): 7 skeins / 305g / 834yds for embossed elements

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook 2.75mm
  • 02
    Tapestry needle
  • 03
    Hand-sewing needle
  • 04
    Sewing thread matching background color
  • 05
    Buckram or stiff interfacing (7cm x 80cm / 2¾'' x 31½'')
  • 06
    Stitch markers
  • 07
    Pins
  • 08
    Scissors
  • 09
    Optional: Lining fabric (40cm x 80cm / 15¾'' x 31½'')
  • 10
    Optional: Drawstring cord (50cm / 19¾'')

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— Bag Bottom :

Inc Rnd 1 :

With Yarn2 ch4, ss in 1st ch, ch2 (counts as dc), 8dc in ch4-ring, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2 (9dc)

Inc Rnd 2 :

ch2, F2i (in beg ch-2 from pr), 8 F2i, sk ch-2, ss (in 1st F) (18F)

Inc Rnd 3 :

ch2, F2i (in 1st F from pr), F, [F2i, F]x8, ss (27sts)

Inc Rnd 4 :

ch2, [2F, F2i]x9, ss (36sts)

Inc Rnd 5 :

ch2, [F2i, 3F]x9, ss (45sts)

Inc Rnd 6 :

ch2, 2F, [F2i, 4F]x8, F2i, 2F, ss (54 sts)

Inc Rnd 7 :

ch2, 4F, [F2i, 5F]x8, F2i, F, ss (63sts)

Inc Rnd 8 :

ch2, [6F, F2i]x9, ss (72sts)

Inc Rnd 9 :

ch2, [F2i, 7F]x9, ss (81sts)

Inc Rnd 10 :

ch2, 2F, [F2i, 8F]x8, F2i, 6F, ss (90sts)

Inc Rnd 11 :

ch2, 4F, [F2i, 14F]x5, F2i, 10F, ss (96sts)

Inc Rnd 12 :

ch2, 6F, [F2i, 15F]x5, F2i, 9F, ss (102sts)

Inc Rnd 13 :

ch2, 8F, [F2i, 16F]x5, F2i, 8F, ss (108sts)

Inc Rnd 14 :

ch2, 10F, [F2i, 17F]x5, F2i, 7F, ss (114sts)

Inc Rnd 15 :

ch2, 12F, [F2i, 18F]x5, F2i, 6F, ss (120sts)

Inc Rnd 16 :

ch2, 14F, [F2i, 19F]x5, F2i, 5F, ss (126sts)

Inc Rnd 17 :

ch2, 16F, [F2i, 20F]x5, F2i, 4F, ss (132sts)

Inc Rnd 18 :

ch2, 18F, [F2i, 21F]x5, F2i, 3F, ss (138sts)

Inc Rnd 19 :

ch2, 20F, [F2i, 22F]x5, F2i, 2F, ss (144sts)

Inc Rnd 20 :

ch2, 22F, [F2i, 23F]x5, F2i, F, ss (150sts)

Inc Rnd 21 :

ch2, [24F, F2i]x6, ss (156sts)

Inc Rnd 22 :

ch2, [F2i, 38F]x4, ss (160sts)

Inc Rnd 23 :

ch2, 2F, [F2i, 39F]x3, F2i, 37F, ss (164sts)

Inc Rnd 24 :

ch2, 4F, [F2i, 40F]x3, F2i, 36F, ss (168sts)

Inc Rnd 25 :

ch2, 6F, [F2i, 41F]x3, F2i, 35F, ss (172sts)

Inc Rnd 26 :

ch2, 8F, [F2i, 42F]x3, F2i, 34F, with Yarn1 ss (176sts)

Info :

Mark stitches for making B3i: pm in 1st F of Rnd 26, [sk 21F, pm in next F]x7 (21F rem to 1st F)

— Bag Sides :

Rnd 27 :

With Yarn1 ch2 (counts as 1st B of B3i), shallow B2i in 1st F from pr, [*F2t, 17F, F2t*, shallow B3i]x7, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 28 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in same st, [*B, B2i, F2t, 15F, F2t*, B2i]x7, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 29 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in ch-2 from pr, [*3B, B2i, F2t, 13F, F2t*, B2i]x7, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 30 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in ch-2 from pr, [*2B, F, 2B, B2i, F2t, 11F, F2t, B2i, 5B, B2i, F2t, 11F, F2t*, B2i]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 31 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in ch-2 from pr, [*3B, F, 3B, B2i, F2t, 9F, F2t, B2i, 7B, B2i, F2t, 9F, F2t*, B2i]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 32 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*4B, F3i, 5B, F2t, 7F, F2t, B2i, 9B, B2i, F2t, 7F, F2t*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 33 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*2B, B2t, F2i, hdc bet F's, F, hdc in bet F's, F2i, B2t, 3B, F2t, 5F, F2t, B2i, F, 9B, F, B2i, F2t, 5F, F2t*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 34 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*B, B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), 2 F2i, B in hdc, F, B in hdc, 2 F2i, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts), 2B, F2t, 3F, F2t, B2i, B, F2i, B2t, 5B, B2t, F2i, B, B2i, F2t, 3F, F2t*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 35 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), F2i, 3F, B2i, F, B2i, 3F, F2i, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts), B, F2t, F, F2t, B2i, 2B, 2 F2i, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts), B3t, B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), 2 F2i, 2B, B2i, F2t, F, F2t*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 36 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*B (in 2 posts), 5F, B2i, B, F, B, B2i, 5F, 2 B (1st in 2 posts), F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts), B2i, 3B, F2i, 3F, B3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts; 2nd leg in 3 posts), 3F, F2i, 3B, B2i, F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts)*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 37 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*B, F2t, F, F2t, B2i, 2B, F3i, 2B, B2i, F2t, F, F2t, 2B (finish with Yarn1), with Yarn2 F (in 3 posts of F3t) and finish with Yarn1, 4B, B2i, 4F, F3t (2nd leg in 3 posts), 4F, B2i, 4B (finish last B with Yarn1), with Yarn2 F (in 3 posts; finish with Yarn1)*, B]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Info :

Shift beg of rnd next to the embossed element: turn to WS, 7ss (in prev 7sts: F, 4B, B2i), turn

Rnd 38 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in same st, [*8B (6th in F; finish last B with Yarn1), with Yarn2 F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts; finish with Yarn1), 4B, F2i, hdc in bet F's, F, hdc in bet F's, F2i, 4B (finish last B with Yarn1), with Yarn2 F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts; finish with Yarn1), 8B (3rd in F), B2i, 3F, F3t (2nd leg in 3 posts), 3F*, B2i]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 39 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in same st, [*B2i, 9B (last is shallow B in F3t), 2 B2t, 2 F2i, B in hdc, F, B in hdc, 2 F2i, 2 B2t, 9B (1st is shallow B in F3t), 2 B2i, F2t, F3t (2nd leg in 3 posts), F2t*, B2i]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 40 :

ch2 (counts as 1st B of B2i), B in same st, [*10B, B2t, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), F2i, 3F, B2i, F, B2i, 3F, F2i, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), B2t, 10B, B2i, F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts; 2nd leg in 3 posts)*, B2i]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Rnd 41 :

ch2 (counts as 1st leg of B2t), B in 1st B after ch-2 from pr, [*10B, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), 5F, B2i, B, F, B, B2i, 5F, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), 10B, B2t, F3i (in 3 posts)*, B2t]x3, rep bet *'s, sk ch-2, ss in 1st B

Rnd 42 :

ch2 (counts as 1st leg of B2t), B in 2nd B after ch-2 from pr, [*10B (last in 2 posts), F2t, F, F2t, B2i, 2B, F3i, 2B, B2i, F2t, F, F2t, 10B (1st in 2 posts), B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), F2i, F, F2i*, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts]x3, rep bet *'s, sk ch-2, ss in 1st B

Rnd 43 :

ch2 (counts as 1st leg of B2t), B in 2nd B after ch-2 from pr, [*9B and finish last st with Yarn1, with Yarn2 F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts) and finish with Yarn1, 4B, F2i, hdc in bet F's, F, hdc in bet F's, F2i, 4B and finish last st with Yarn1, with Yarn2 F3t (1st and 3rd legs in 2 posts) and finish with Yarn1, 9B, B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), F2i, 3F, F2i*, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts)]x3, rep bet *'s, sk ch-2, ss in 1st B

Rnd 44 :

ch2 (counts as 1st leg of B2t), B in 2nd B after ch-2 from pr, [*9B (last is shallow B in F3t), 2 B2t, 2 F2i, B in hdc, F, B in hdc, 2 F2i, 2 B2t, 9B (1st is shallow B in F3t), B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), F and finish with Yarn1, fish stripe: with Yarn1 F2i, 3 F, F2i, and finish with Yarn2, F*, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts)]x3, rep bet *'s, sk ch-2, ss in 1st B

Rnd 45 :

ch2 (counts as 1st leg of B2t), B in 2nd B after ch-2 from pr, [*6B, B2t, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), F2i, 3F, B2i, F, B2i, 3F, F2i, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), B2t, 6B, B2t (2nd leg in 2 posts), F2i, 7F, F2i*, B2t (1st leg in 2 posts)]x3, rep bet *'s, sk ch-2, ss in 1st B

Rnd 46 :

ch2 (counts as B), [*6B, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), 5F, B2i, B, F, B, B2i, 5F, B2t (both legs in 2 posts), 7B (last in 2 posts), F and finish with Yarn1, fish stripe: with Yarn1 9F and finish with Yarn2, F*, B (in 2 posts)]x3, rep bet *'s, ss in 2nd ch of beg ch-2

Info :

Shift beg of round: with RS facing, 5ss (in 5B)

Rnd 47-67 :

Continue following pattern rounds as written, maintaining color changes and stitch patterns through Round 67

Dec Rnd 68 :

With Yarn2 ss in next F, ch2, F in same st, 20F, [sk B3t, 21F]x7, sk B3t, sk ch-2, ss in 1st F (168 sts)

Dec Rnd 69 :

ch2, F in same st, 8F, F2t, 10F, [9F, F2t, 10F]x7, sk ch-2, with Yarn1 ss in 1st F (160sts)

— Upper Edge Backing :

Dec Rnd 70 :

ch1, sc blo in same st, [*3sc blo, sc2tog blo, 8sc blo, sc2tog blo*, 5sc blo]x7, rep bet *'s, 4sc blo, ss blo in 1st sc (144sts)

Rnds 71-86 :

ch1, sc blo in same st, 143sc blo, ss blo in 1st sc. Fasten off after Rnd 86 (144sts)

— Handles :

Handle Attaching Strip :

Make 4 strips. Locate 8 middle sts of Round 69, join Yarn2 in front post of 1st of 8sts, ch1, drop tail, ch1 (2 ch count tog as F), 7F, turn

Rows 2-8 :

Alternate ch2 (counts as B), 7B for WS rows and ch2 (counts as F), 7F for RS rows. Fasten off leaving 30cm tail

Spiral Cord Handles :

Make 2 handles. With Yarn2 leave 30cm tail, make 78cm long 8-sts spiral cord. Fasten off leaving 30cm tail

Loop at End :

Measure and mark 15cm from each end of handle. Sew border row to marked spot on cord

Loop Seam Cover :

Make 4 covers. With Yarn2, ch14 and work 9 rows of slip stitch rib. Position strip over loop seam and secure

Assembly Instructions

  • Reinforce upper edge backing by applying buckram interfacing to wrong side, securing with zig-zag or stretchable stitch along all edges
  • Create four handle attaching strips by working 8 rows on 8 middle stitches of Round 69, positioned above fish motifs
  • Make two spiral cord handles measuring 78cm each, optionally inserting narrow non-stretchable tape inside to prevent excessive stretching
  • Attach loops at both ends of each handle by measuring 15cm from ends and sewing border row to marked spots
  • Cover each loop seam with slip stitch rib strips, positioning them so short edges face inner side of bag
  • Insert handle attaching strips into loops at handle ends and fold to wrong side, sewing securely to original 8 stitches
  • Optional: Create and attach lining with drawstring closure, hand-stitching backing and lining to bag's wrong side with invisible stitches

Important Notes

  • 💡Use Yarn1 for all back post stitches and Yarn2 for all front post stitches to achieve proper embossed effect
  • 💡When switching colors, use next color to finish previous stitch by making last yarn over with new color
  • 💡Do not switch to Yarn2 for front post stitches if back post stitch will be made in same stitch next round
  • 💡Watch provided video tutorials for each challenging section to understand special techniques like shallow B and working legs in multiple posts
  • 💡Check gauge carefully before starting: 23 sts x 15 rows should equal 10cm x 10cm in front or back post double crochet
  • 💡Mark stitches as indicated throughout pattern to ensure proper placement of increases and design elements
  • 💡Interfacing doesn't fuse well to crocheted fabric, so basting and stitching are essential for reinforcing upper edge

The Corfu Bag pattern is a masterpiece of embossed crochet that transforms simple yarn into a textured work of art. Designed by Natalia Kononova, this pattern teaches advanced techniques while creating a functional, beautiful accessory you'll treasure for years. The combination of detailed written instructions, comprehensive charts, and helpful video tutorials ensures your success every step of the way. Whether you're looking to expand your crochet skills or create a stunning handmade bag, this pattern delivers both challenge and reward. Happy crocheting! 🧶✨

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FAQs

What is embossed crochet and is it difficult to learn?

Embossed crochet creates three-dimensional textured designs using front and back post stitches. While it requires understanding of post stitches and color changes, the detailed videos and charts in this pattern make it manageable for intermediate to advanced crocheters willing to learn.

Can I use different yarn than what's specified in the pattern?

Yes, but maintain the same weight (DK with 120-130 meters per 50 grams) and check your gauge carefully. Different yarns may affect the bag's size and structure, so swatching is essential before starting.

How do I prevent the spiral cord handles from stretching over time?

The pattern suggests inserting a narrow non-stretchable tape inside the cord after creating the first centimeter. Securely sew the tape ends to the beginning and end of the cord to maintain handle length.

Is the lining necessary or optional?

The lining is completely optional. The bag is fully functional without it, but adding lining provides extra structure, protects contents, and gives a more professional finish.

What if I want to make the bag larger or smaller?

The pattern includes instructions for an optional oblong bottom that creates a slightly different size. To significantly alter size, you'd need to adjust the stitch counts proportionally, which requires advanced pattern modification skills.

How do I know when to switch between Yarn1 and Yarn2?

The pattern highlights stitches to be worked in Yarn2 on charts and provides color-switching rules. Generally, use Yarn1 for back post stitches and Yarn2 for front post stitches, switching yarns by completing the previous stitch with the new color.