About This By Your Side Basket Bag Pattern
This pattern creates a roomy, striped basket-style tote crocheted in Paintbox Yarns Recycled Crafty Pots. It features simple single (double) crochet rounds worked flat around a rectangular base with integrated handles. Perfect for market trips, beach days, or everyday carry, the bag combines functionality with pretty color transitions.
The instructions use US terminology with UK equivalents given in brackets, and the pattern includes full round-by-round shaping for the base and body. You'll finish by weaving in ends and blocking the bag to shape for a neat result.
Why You'll Love This By Your Side Basket Bag Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it turns recycled-style yarn into a beautiful, practical tote that you can use every day. I enjoy how the simple repeating rounds create a satisfying rhythm while the stripes add instant visual interest. The integrated handles are neat and sturdy, so the bag feels durable yet soft. It is versatile to customize with your favorite colorways and makes a thoughtful, handmade gift.
Switch Things Up
I love customizing this bag by changing the stripe sequence to suit my wardrobe, using bold color blocks for a statement look.
I sometimes swap the recommended yarn for a slightly bulkier recycled cotton and use a larger hook to make a chunkier, more structured tote.
To create a smaller version perfect for a child or a mini bag, I use a lighter weight yarn and a smaller hook, adjusting stitch counts to maintain proportions.
I also add a lining for extra durability; I machine-stitch a fabric lining and hand-sew it inside for a tidy finish that prevents items catching on the crochet fabric.
For extra security, I sew on a magnetic snap or a button closure at the top center to keep belongings safe while carrying the bag.
If I want longer shoulder straps, I simply extend the ch 50 handle chains when creating the handle openings and join as instructed for a comfortable fit.
I like to embellish with a small crocheted flower or an embroidered initial on one side to make each bag unique and gift-ready.
Try adding a base insert or lightweight cardboard covered in fabric to the bottom to keep the bag upright and more structured for grocery runs.
Experiment with texture by alternating rows of front loop only single crochet (flo) as shown in round 10 to add a subtle ridge to the surface.
I often make a matching pouch using the same yarn leftovers to keep small items tidy inside the tote, using the same base shaping but working fewer rounds for a compact pouch.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping stitch markers during the base increases can distort the shape; place lockable stitch markers exactly as instructed to mark increases and move them up each round.
✗ Not counting stitches after increases will cause uneven rounds and incorrect shaping; count your stitches at the end of each round to confirm the stitch total.
✗ Crocheting with inconsistent tension makes the bag edges ripple or sag; maintain an even, moderate tension and check gauge before starting to ensure correct sizing.
✗ Failing to secure handle joins properly can cause the straps to pull away under weight; when joining the handle chain back to the base, remove markers as you work and make a secure slip stitch join at the original handle bottom.
