Crochet Along: Create Your Own Stylish Ladies Shopping Bag

Crochet Along: Create Your Own Stylish Ladies Shopping Bag

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Supplies Needed
3. Step 1: Bottom Portion of the Bag
   • Chaining and Stitching
   • Yarn and Hook Size
   • Weaving in Ends
4. Step 2: Center Section of the Bag
   • Joining and Double Crochets
   • Shell Stitches
5. Step 3: Top Portion and Handle of the Bag
   • Attaching the Top Portion
   • Adding the Handle
6. Finishing Touches
   • Blocking
   • Optional Embellishments
7. Conclusion

Step 2: Center Section of the Bag

In this step, we will be focusing on the center section of our ladies tote and shopping bag. If you followed step 1, you would have already completed the bottom portion of the bag. Now, let's dive into the center section.

To begin, we will join and chain three. These chain three stitches will act as our first double crochet. Next, we will stitch two more double crochets in the same stitch as our chain three, giving us a total of three double crochets in that stitch.

Moving on, we will skip the next two stitches and stitch three double crochets in the following stitch. This skip and stitch pattern will be repeated throughout the row. The idea is to create clusters of three double crochets in each stitch, with two skipped stitches in between.

Continuing this pattern, we will work our way around the bag, skipping two stitches and stitching three double crochets in the next stitch. This will give our bag a textured and visually appealing center section.

Once we have completed stitching our way around the bag, we will join back to the top of our initial chain three with a slip stitch. This will secure our stitches and prepare us for the next step.

For row 6, we will be stitching our shell stitches in the spaces between our shell stitches from the previous row. A shell stitch consists of three double crochets in the same space. We will repeat this pattern, stitching a shell stitch in between each set of shell stitches, all the way around the bag. This will further enhance the texture and design of our bag.

Moving on to row 7, we will repeat the same pattern as row 6. This means we will again stitch our shell stitches in the spaces between the shell stitches from the previous row. This repetition will create a consistent and visually pleasing center section.

After completing row 7, we will move on to row 8, where we will stitch one double crochet in each of the double crochets around the bag. This row will give us a solid row of double crochets, adding stability to our bag's design.

For rows 9 and 10, we will repeat row 8. This means we will continue to stitch one double crochet in each of the double crochets around the bag, maintaining the solid double crochet pattern. By doing this, we will have three rows of solid double crochets in total.

At this point, the pattern suggests stopping, but if you want your bag to be longer, you can repeat rows 5 to 10 one more time. This will give you additional rows of granny style stitches and solid double crochets. Feel free to customize the length of your bag according to your preferences.

Once you have completed the desired length of the center section, it's time to move on to the next step – part 3 of our bag. In part 3, we will learn how to even out the bag and add the top portion and handle. Stay tuned for the final installment of our ladies tote and shopping bag crochet along!

Pros:

• The center section adds texture and visual interest to the bag.
• The repeating pattern is easy to follow and creates a cohesive design.
• The option to customize the length of the center section allows for personalization.
• The step-by-step instructions make it easy for beginners to follow along.

Cons:

• The repetition of rows 5 to 10 may become monotonous for some crocheters.
• The pattern does not provide guidance on resizing the bag for different dimensions.

Highlights:

• Learn how to create a textured and visually appealing center section for your tote or shopping bag.
• Follow step-by-step instructions to stitch shell stitches and solid double crochets.
• Customize the length of the center section according to your preferences.
• Prepare for the next step of adding the top portion and handle to complete your bag.

FAQ:

Q: Can I use a different yarn weight for this project? A: The pattern suggests using medium weight (number four) yarn, but you can experiment with other yarn weights as long as you adjust your hook size accordingly.

Q: How long does it take to complete the center section? A: The time it takes to complete the center section depends on your crochet speed and the desired length of the section. It can range from a few hours to a couple of days.

Q: Can I add embellishments to the center section? A: Absolutely! You can get creative with your bag by adding embellishments such as buttons, flowers, or appliques. This will give your bag a unique touch.

Q: Can I resize the bag for a smaller or larger project? A: While the pattern does not provide specific instructions for resizing the bag, you can experiment with different yarn weights and hook sizes to achieve the desired dimensions. Remember to make a gauge swatch before starting to ensure the correct sizing.

Q: Can I use this pattern for a different type of bag? A: Yes, you can adapt this pattern for different types of bags by adjusting the length and width of the various sections. Get creative and make it your own!