About This Delilah Boho Bag Pattern
This pattern creates the Delilah Boho Bag — a textured, decorative shoulder bag with a layered mandala-style front panel, sturdy top edge and long strap. The design blends cluster stitches, arches and framed motifs to build a distinctive boho texture. The pattern includes photo references for each round to help you match shaping and stitch placement while you work.
You will make the circular motif then work joining rows and top edging before crocheting the long strap and attaching fringe. The finished bag is decorative yet functional, perfect for everyday use or gifting.
Why You'll Love This Delilah Boho Bag Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it combines decorative stitches with practical construction to make a bag you will actually use. The layered petals and arches create so much beautiful texture that I find endlessly satisfying to crochet. I enjoy how the design lets me play with negative space and surface detail without being overly complicated. Every time I make one I find small ways to personalize the look through color and fringe length, which keeps this project fresh and fun.
Switch Things Up
I love changing the color palette on this design to give each bag a new personality; try deep rusts and teal for autumnal vibes or soft pastels for a spring look.
You can make the bag bigger or smaller by switching yarn weight and hook size; thicker yarn and a larger hook will make a chunkier, larger bag.
Try adding a lining with a coordinating fabric for extra durability and to keep small items from slipping through the decorative stitches.
Change the fringe length or style — knotted fringe, trimmed tassels, or no fringe at all will dramatically alter the final feel.
I sometimes embroider small accents onto the central motif after blocking to personalize each piece.
Swap the long strap for shorter handles to turn it into a handbag rather than a shoulder bag; attach handles at the same joining points shown in the photos.
Play with contrast edging colors to make the decorative arches and petals pop against the panel background.
For a festival-ready piece, add beads to the fringe or tiny charms sewn into the strap for a playful finish.
I recommend testing one motif with a sample yarn before committing to a full bag if you plan big color changes.
Consider adding a zipper beneath the top edge for extra security, stitching it in before finishing the top edge rounds.
If you prefer a sturdier strap, crochet two strips and quilt them together or insert interfacing between a folded strip and top-stitch it closed.
You can create matching accessories like a small coin pouch from a reduced-radius motif to make a coordinated set.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Ignoring the photo guide for stitch placement can cause mis-shapen petals and arches; follow each round photo closely to match stitch positions.
✗ Skipping a stitch count check after complex rounds will lead to uneven edges; count stitches at the end of key rounds and adjust as needed.
✗ Working with inconsistent tension makes the motif ripple or pucker; keep consistent tension and block the panel if necessary to even out shape.
✗ Attaching the strap without pinning can result in lopsided placement; pin and measure carefully before sewing the strap to the bag.
