Ideal for those with basic knitting experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.
Takes 5-7 hours, making it an enjoyable project to finish over a couple of days.
Everyday comfort with practical charm, designed for both functionality and style through changing seasons.
The pattern uses chunky acrylic yarn and a 6mm hook, making it work up quickly while creating a sturdy fabric. The join-as-you-go technique eliminates bulk and creates seamless connections between squares, giving your finished bag a professional polished look.
I absolutely love how this pattern transforms simple granny squares into something so functional and stylish. The join-as-you-go technique is a game-changer because it saves so much time on assembly and creates such clean, professional-looking seams. I'm particularly fond of how you can customize the color scheme to match your personal style, whether you go bold and bright like the example or choose a more subtle palette. The chunky yarn makes this project satisfying to work on because you see progress quickly, and the final bag is sturdy enough for real everyday use. Plus, there's something deeply satisfying about creating something beautiful that's also genuinely practical.
I love experimenting with this pattern because there are so many ways to make it uniquely yours. One of my favorite variations is creating an ombré effect by choosing several shades of the same color family and arranging them from light to dark across the granny squares.
You could also try a monochromatic version using different textures of yarn in the same color, or go wild with a rainbow explosion of colors for a truly eye-catching bag. I've even seen crafters use variegated yarn for the main color and solid accent colors for the squares, which creates a beautiful watercolor effect.
For a more sophisticated look, try working the entire bag in neutral tones like cream, grey, and charcoal, or embrace cottage-core vibes with soft pastels. If you want to add extra personality, consider embroidering the centers of your granny squares with flowers or other motifs, or adding decorative buttons to the corners.
Another fun modification is making the straps longer for a crossbody style, or shorter for a classic handbag look. You could even replace the crocheted straps with leather handles for a modern mixed-media aesthetic. The beauty of this pattern is that the basic structure is so versatile, you can adapt it to match any style from boho to minimalist.
Create your own stylish and practical granny square tote bag with this comprehensive crochet pattern. This charming design features colorful granny squares on the front panel joined together to form one large decorative square, paired with a classic single granny square back. Perfect for carrying your essentials, this bag combines traditional granny square techniques with modern functionality. The pattern includes detailed instructions for creating the squares, joining them seamlessly, and constructing sturdy straps that make this tote both beautiful and durable for everyday use.
Ch4, ss into first ch to join and make a ring
Ch 3 (counts as first tr), 2tr into ring, (ch 2, 3tr) into ring 3 times, ch2, ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Join new colour in ch-2 sp, ch3 (counts as first tr), (2tr, ch2, 3 tr) in same ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr, ch2, 3tr) into next ch-2 sp, ch1; repeat from * twice more, ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Join new colour into any corner ch-2 sp, ch3 (counts as first tr), (2tr, ch2, 3tr) into same ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1 *(3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1; repeat from* twice more ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Join yarn A into any ch-2 sp, ch3 (counts as first tr), 2 tr, ch2, 3tr) into same ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1 *(3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1; repeat from* twice more, ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Make 4 squares joining as you go to form a square
Crochet your first square up to round 4 (square 1)
With your next square (square 2) start round 4, leaving the corner unfinished. (Your corner should be 3 tr, chain 2, 3 tr). Stop after the first 3 tr
Ch1, Ss into the adjoining corner of square 1, to join the two squares. Finish corner as usual with 3tr
Ss into next ch-1 space of Square 1. *3tr as usual into square 2, ss into next ch-1 sp of square 1. Repeat from * once
Repeat steps 2-3 to join the other corner. Then finish square 2 as you normal would (see round 4)
Repeat the same steps as before, creating an 'L' shape with the squares
Finish square as you normally would
Repeat the same steps for one side
When you get to the second corner of this square, 3tr as usual, then ss into the corner of the square above, then ss into the corner of the square to the left
Finish the other side of the square, joining as you go like before
Finish the square like you normally would
Your 4 joined granny squares now become 1 large granny square. You will work 1 row around like you would with a standard square. Where two squares join make one cluster of 3
Join yarn in any ch-2 corner space, Ch3 (counts as first tr), 2 tr, ch2, 3tr) into same ch-2 sp, ch1, *3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 space, ch1, 1tr into next ch-2 sp, 1 tr into space where two squares join, 1tr into next ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 space, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1; repeat from * twice more, then, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 space, ch1, 1tr into next ch-2 sp, 1 tr into space where two squares join, 1tr into next ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 space, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr into next ch-1 sp, ch1, ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Ch4, ss to first ch to join and made a ring
Ch 3 (counts as first tr), 2tr into ring, (ch 2, 3tr into ring) 3 times, ch2, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), (2tr, ch2, 3 tr) in same ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr, ch2, 3tr) into next ch-2 sp, ch1; repeat from * twice more, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, *(3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1; repeat from* twice more, then, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, *3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1; repeat from * twice more, then, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, *(3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 3 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1; repeat from * Twice more, then, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 4 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, repeat from * Twice more, then, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, 3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 2 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 5 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, repeat from * Twice more, then, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 2 times, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 2 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 6 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, repeat from * Twice more, then, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 3 times, ss into top of beg ch3 to join
ch3 and turn (counts as first tr), 2tr into same ch-1 sp, ch1, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 3 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, * (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 7 times, (3tr, ch2, 3tr) in next ch-2 sp, ch1, repeat from * Twice more, then, (3tr in next ch-1 sp, ch1) 3 times, ss into top of beg ch3 to join. Fasten off
Sew together the front and back pieces, along 3 sides. Wrong sides together, matching up the stitches, using a whip stitch
Join yarn in any st along the top edge, ch3 (counts as first tr), Tr into each st around. Fasten off. (74tr)
Working on the top edge of the front, Join yarn 12 stitches from the left side. Ch3 (counts as first tr throughout), tr into the next 4 sts, *ch3 and turn, tr into next 4 st; repeat from * for 28 more rows. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail to sew the strap on the other side. (Total of 30 rows)
Sew the other end of the strap to the right side top edge of the front, join the strap on the 12th st from the right and sew together, matching the stitches
Repeat the same as the front for the back strap
Sew or weave in the ends
This stunning granny square tote bag pattern combines classic crochet techniques with modern practicality, creating a bag that's as functional as it is beautiful. The colorful front panel featuring four joined granny squares offers endless customization possibilities, while the continuous back square provides structural stability. With detailed join-as-you-go instructions and sturdy strap construction, you'll create a professional-looking bag perfect for everyday adventures. 🧶 Happy crocheting! 🌈✨
While the pattern calls for chunky weight yarn with a 6mm hook, you can adapt it to other yarn weights. Just be aware that using thinner yarn will create a smaller bag, and thicker yarn will make it larger. Always make a test square first to check your measurements and adjust accordingly.
Join as you go is a technique where you connect granny squares during the final round of crocheting rather than sewing them together afterward. This creates seamless joins without bulk, saves time on assembly, and gives your project a more professional polished appearance.
Absolutely! You can create a larger front panel by joining 6 or 9 squares instead of 4, and increase the back square size by adding more rounds. Just remember to adjust your strap positioning and yarn quantities accordingly.
Consistent tension is key. Check your first square against the measurements given (approximately 13.5cm after round 4). If it's too small, try a larger hook; if too large, use a smaller hook. Making all squares with the same tension will ensure they fit together perfectly.
Yes! Adding a fabric lining is a great way to reinforce the bag and prevent items from poking through the crochet stitches. Simply cut fabric to match the bag dimensions plus seam allowance, sew it into a pouch, and hand-stitch it to the inside of your finished crochet bag.
