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Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern

Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern
4.8★ Rating
6-8 Hours Time Needed
2.1K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic knitting experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Weekend Treat

Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.

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Snug Essential

Everyday comfort with practical charm, designed for both functionality and style through changing seasons.

About This Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern

Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

The pattern offers three different handle variations, allowing you to customize your bag to match your personal style. Whether you prefer crocheted chain handles, sewn leather straps, or button-attached handles, this versatile design adapts to your preferences while maintaining its elegant granny square aesthetic.

Why You'll Love This Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern

I absolutely love how this pattern combines the nostalgia of classic granny squares with contemporary bag design! The way those colorful squares transform into a functional accessory never fails to amaze me. What I appreciate most is the clear, detailed instructions that walk you through each joining technique, making what seems complex surprisingly achievable. The three handle options mean you can make this bag multiple times with completely different looks. I find the back loop only technique particularly satisfying as it creates beautiful texture and structure. This pattern has become my go-to gift project because everyone loves receiving a handmade bag that's both practical and beautiful.

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

Switch Things Up

I love experimenting with different color combinations for this granny square bag! Instead of using a single solid color, try creating rainbow granny squares by changing colors every two rounds—the effect is absolutely stunning and gives your bag a bohemian festival vibe that turns heads everywhere.

For a more sophisticated look, I've made this bag in monochromatic cream with leather handles, and it became my favorite everyday accessory that looks expensive but cost a fraction of store-bought bags. You could also try using variegated or self-striping cord to create beautiful color transitions without having to change colors manually.

I've discovered that adding a fabric lining to the inside of the bag elevates it significantly and helps prevent small items from slipping through the stitches. Simply sew a simple rectangular fabric pouch and attach it to the inside top edge—it takes an extra hour but makes the bag so much more functional for daily use.

Another fun variation I enjoy is making mini versions of this bag as gift bags for special occasions. By stopping at round 5 or 6 for the granny squares and adjusting the side panel accordingly, you create adorable little gift bags that are reusable and much more special than paper wrapping.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Not tightening the magic ring firmly enough at the start, which creates a visible hole in the center of your granny squares ✗ Forgetting to count the chain-3 as a double crochet stitch, leading to uneven square edges and incorrect stitch counts throughout ✗ Skipping the third back loop when working back loop only rounds, resulting in loose fabric that doesn't hold the bag's shape properly ✗ Misaligning the squares when joining them together, creating an uneven bag top and making handle placement difficult to balance correctly

Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern

Transform simple granny squares into a stunning handmade bag perfect for everyday use. This timeless crochet bag pattern combines classic granny square technique with practical construction to create a stylish accessory measuring approximately 15 inches high and 14 inches wide. Learn to craft two beautiful granny squares, join them seamlessly, and add comfortable handles for a bag that's both functional and fashionable. Whether you're heading to the market or meeting friends, this versatile crochet bag will become your go-to companion.

Intermediate 6-8 Hours

Materials Needed for Granny Square Bag Crochet Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    3-4 mm cotton, acrylic or polyester cord
  • 02
    300-350 meters of cord total for complete bag

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook 5 mm
  • 02
    Scissors
  • 03
    Stitch markers
  • 04
    Yarn needle for weaving
  • 05
    Handles for bag (50-60 cm) with buttons or sewn attachment
  • 06
    Pins for assembly
  • 07
    Steamer or iron for blocking

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— Granny Square (Make 2) :

Starting :

Make a Magic Ring

Rnd 1 :

in MR: ch3, 2dc, [ch2, 3dc]*3, ch1, tighten the ring firmly, sl st in 3rd ch (12) - count ch3 as 1dc, ch2 space is corner

Rnd 2 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc) - 1sc and ch1 counts as 1dc, [dc in the next 3 stitches, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 3dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st in ch1) (28)

Rnd 3 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [7dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 7dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (44)

Rnd 4 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [11dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 11dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (60)

Rnd 5 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [15dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 15dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (76)

Rnd 6 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [19dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 19dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (92)

Rnd 7 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [23dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 23dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (108)

Rnd 8 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [27dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 27dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (124)

Rnd 9 :

into the corner just behind: (1sc, ch1, 1dc), [31dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch2, 2dc)]*3, 31dc, in the corner: (2dc, ch1, sl st) (140)

Finishing :

Cut cord leaving 15 cm end, pull out and close round with needle, hide end on wrong side and cut

— Side of the Bag :

Starting :

ch11

Row 1 :

start from second ch from hook: 10 sc, ch1, turn (10)

Row 2 :

skip 1 stitch, 8 sc, inc, ch1, turn (10)

Rows 3-109 :

skip 1 stitch, 10 sc, ch1, turn (10) - note: last 10th sc in each row must be crocheted slightly on the side

Info :

Do not cut the cord at the end

— Assembly :

Preparation :

Steam all parts following recommendations for your cord or yarn

First Square Join :

Put square piece front side up, insert hook in chain and stitch of rectangular part, work through both parts with sl st joining them (109 sl st)

Connecting :

Make 1 sl st, turn part to wrong side and work 9sc to end of square part

Second Square Join :

Pull out hook, take second square part and join with sl st (110 sl st)

Top Edge :

When finish joining, go to top side of square part and work sc all around

Body Rounds :

Work in spiral, crochet 6 rounds sc BLO - when working BLO, also crochet in 3rd back loop of each stitch to make work tighter

— Variant 1 (Chain Handles) :

Handle Placement :

Put base evenly, hang markers on handle places on both sides (4 markers total), distance between markers is 24 stitches

Handle Creation :

Work sc till first marker, ch60, sc in stitch after second marker, work sc till third marker, ch60, sc in stitch after fourth marker, work sc to end of round

Finishing Rounds :

Crochet 3 rounds sc BLO, finish at fold, at end of last row do 4 slip stitches

Final Finish :

Cut cord leaving 15 cm end, pull end out, take needle and make 1 stitch, hide end between stitches on wrong side, cut cord

— Variant 2 (Sewn Handles) :

Top Edge :

When finish joining, work sc all around perimeter of bag

Body Rounds :

Work in spiral, crochet 3 rounds sc BLO - when working BLO, also crochet in 3rd back loop

Handle Holes :

Put markers in places for handles (holes equal width of 3 stitches), work sc BLO to first marker, make ch3, skip 3 stitches on base and work sc, continue to next marker, make 3 holes for handles same way

Final Rounds :

Crochet 2 rounds sc BLO, finish on side of bag

Attach Handles :

Insert the handles through holes

— Variant 3 (Leather Handles) :

Top Edge :

When finish joining, work sc all around perimeter of bag

Body Rounds :

Work in spiral, crochet 3 rounds sc BLO

Extended Body :

Crochet 6 rounds sc BLO

Finishing :

Finish crocheting on side as described in variant 1

Attach Handles :

Sew leather handles directly to bag

Assembly Instructions

  • Steam or block both completed granny squares to ensure they are the same size and lay flat for easier assembly
  • Join the first granny square to the long rectangular side piece using slip stitches, working through both layers carefully
  • After completing the first join, turn the work and complete nine single crochet stitches before attaching the second square
  • Attach the second granny square with slip stitches, ensuring alignment matches the first square for a symmetrical bag
  • Work single crochet all around the top edge of the bag to create a stable, even opening
  • Complete six rounds of single crochet in back loop only around the bag body, making sure to catch the third loop for extra stability
  • Choose your preferred handle variant and follow those specific instructions for either crocheted chains, button-on handles, or sewn leather straps

Important Notes

  • 💡Always count your chain-3 at the beginning of each round as one double crochet to maintain correct stitch counts
  • 💡Tighten your magic ring very firmly before continuing to prevent holes in the center of your granny squares
  • 💡When working back loop only rounds, be sure to catch the third back loop for added structure and stability
  • 💡Steam or block your granny squares before assembly to ensure they match in size and shape perfectly
  • 💡Use stitch markers to track your handle placement, ensuring they are evenly spaced on both sides of the bag
  • 💡The rectangular side piece should be crocheted with consistent tension to maintain an even width throughout all 109 rows
  • 💡Don't cut your cord until instructed, especially when transitioning between pieces during assembly

This timeless Granny Square Bag pattern celebrates the beauty of traditional crochet while creating something wonderfully practical for modern life. The classic granny square motif gets a fresh update when transformed into a spacious, structured bag that you'll reach for again and again. With three handle options to choose from, you can customize this project to perfectly match your style or create multiple versions as thoughtful handmade gifts. The detailed instructions and helpful photos guide you through each step, making this intermediate project both achievable and enjoyable. 🧶 Happy crocheting! 🛍️✨

You ask,

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FAQs

What size will my finished bag be?

Using 3mm polyester cord and a 5mm hook, your finished bag will measure approximately 15 inches (38 cm) high and 14 inches (36 cm) wide. However, the final size can vary depending on your personal tension, the thickness of your cord, and which yarn you choose. Thicker cord will create a larger bag, while thinner cord makes a smaller version.

Can I use regular yarn instead of cord?

Absolutely! While this pattern was designed using polyester cord, you can substitute cotton, acrylic, or any yarn you prefer. Just remember that using traditional yarn instead of cord will create a softer, more flexible bag that may not hold its shape as firmly. Choose a worsted or bulky weight yarn for best results with the 5mm hook.

Which handle variant should I choose?

Each variant offers different benefits! Variant 1 with crocheted chain handles gives you a fully handmade bag with coordinating handles. Variant 2 with button-on handles allows you to swap handles for different looks. Variant 3 with sewn leather handles creates a more polished, professional finish. Choose based on your preference and intended use.

Why do I need to crochet into the third back loop?

Crocheting into the third back loop when working back loop only creates extra stability and structure for your bag. This technique helps the bag maintain its shape better and prevents it from becoming too floppy or stretching out with use. It's what gives this bag its sturdy, professional finish.

How do I keep my granny squares the same size?

Maintaining consistent tension throughout both squares is key. Count your stitches carefully at the end of each round to ensure accuracy. After completing both squares, steam or block them to the same measurements before assembly. If one square is slightly larger, you can adjust your tension or use a smaller hook for the second one.

Can I make the bag larger or smaller?

Yes! To make larger granny squares, simply continue the pattern by adding more rounds with 4 additional double crochets on each side per round. For the rectangular side piece, add or subtract rows to match your desired bag depth. Just remember to adjust your cord requirements accordingly.