About This Checker It Out Crochet Bag Pattern
This pattern creates a 12" x 12" crochet tote worked in a simple charted single crochet pattern using Caron Coconut Cakes. The bag features a long, sturdy strap and worked panels that are joined for a neat, finished look. The design uses two contrast colors carried alongside each row for a tidy, even texture and charming multicolored effect.
Youll use a chart pattern for consistent stitch placement and carry colors along the row for clean color changes. The pattern includes clear joining and finishing instructions to assemble the base, sides, and front/back panels.
Why You'll Love This Checker It Out Crochet Bag Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it turns a simple single crochet chart into a vibrant, textured bag that looks much more complex than it is. I enjoy how the color-carrying technique keeps edges tidy and creates a consistent gauge across panels. The long strap construction makes the bag comfortable to wear and easy to customize for length. Sewing the pieces together is satisfying and fast, so you get a beautiful handmade accessory without a huge time investment.
Switch Things Up
I love customizing this bag with different color combinations; swapping the two contrast colors instantly changes the mood and makes each bag unique.
I sometimes use a solid color cake instead of two contrasts for a tone-on-tone look that highlights texture rather than color contrast.
To make a smaller or larger bag, I change the starting chain and number of repeats in the chart, keeping the chart sequence intact while adjusting width and height.
I often alter the strap length by stopping earlier or continuing the chart until the strap reaches my desired shoulder length, adding or removing marker placements as needed.
For a sturdier base I add a lining or insert a cut-to-size piece of plastic canvas or interfacing between the base layers before joining.
I like to add pockets to the inside by crocheting small rectangles and sewing them to the panel before final assembly for phone or keys.
Want a different handle style? Make two short handles and attach them to the top instead of a long strap to convert the bag to a handheld tote.
I sometimes embellish the finished bag with tassels, pom-poms, or small crocheted flowers to give it a playful accent.
Try using a hook one size smaller for a denser, more durable fabric if you plan to carry heavier items in the bag.
I recommend experimenting with carrying only one color occasionally to create subtle stripes or block effects within the chart for added variety.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Carrying the unused color loosely can create uneven tension and sloppy edges; carry the inactive yarn across the top of the previous row and work stitches around it for even gauge.
✗ Forgetting to place stitch markers at strap ends or panel corners makes joining tricky; place markers at each end of the last strap row to align panels accurately during assembly.
✗ Skipping the gauge check can lead to a bag that is too big or too small; make a 4" gauge swatch of the chart pattern and adjust hook size to match 16 sc and 16 rows = 4".
✗ Not fastening off or finishing color transitions correctly causes loose tails and unraveling; when changing color work to last 2 loops, draw new color through both loops, then continue in the new color and weave ends securely.
