About This Mash bag Crochet Pattern
This pattern creates a delicate mash-style bag made with soutache cord and loop stitches, finished with circular handles and optional feet. The design emphasizes texture created by loop stitch arcs and a sturdy crocheted bottom. Clear photographic steps and a linked video make the process easy to follow for beginners.
You will crochet the bottom, build the wall-sides with loop-stitch arches, and attach metal ring handles for a professional finish. The pattern includes tips for trimming, steaming, hiding ends and installing optional legs.
Why You'll Love This Mash bag Crochet Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it transforms simple soutache cord into a sophisticated textured bag using approachable stitches. I enjoy the contrast between the sturdy crocheted base and the airy loop-stitch arches β it gives the bag both structure and delicate detail. The process is meditative and rewarding, and the finished bag is stylish and practical. I also love that the pattern is beginner-friendly yet yields a polished result I am proud to gift or sell.
Switch Things Up
I love customizing this Mash Bag by changing cord colors and handle styles to create fresh looks for each season.
I sometimes swap the soutache cord for a thinner cotton cord and a smaller hook to make a delicate mini version perfect for gifts or keychain charms.
I also experiment with bold contrasting colors for the loop stitches and base to highlight the arches as a design feature.
I add embroidered initials or small crocheted flowers to the front for a personalized touch when making a gift.
For a sturdier bag I line the interior with fabric and hand-sew it in place for extra structure and protection of the cordwork.
If I want a more polished finish I use gold or wooden handles instead of metal rings to change the bag's character.
I occasionally add a detachable strap by sewing small D-rings into the inner top corners and attaching a long crocheted or leather strap.
To create a more open, beachy look I leave the arches slightly longer before steaming, making a relaxed, airy silhouette.
I recommend trying different finishing methods: secure ends with heat for synthetic cords, or overcast and weave for natural fibers to preserve look and strength.
When I want a deluxe version I add small metal feet (legs) to the bottom and use a thin interfacing inside the base to keep the bag upright and durable.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
β Skipping stitch markers at the corners will make aligning the wall-sides and handles difficult; place markers in the middle loops at each corner and reference them when joining and adding legs.
β Pulling the soutache cord too tightly can warp the arches and shape of the bag; maintain even, moderate tension and test a small swatch before continuing.
β Forgetting to steam the bottom and arches will result in a floppy final shape; steam through a damp cloth at medium setting to set the stitches and improve structure.
β Not hiding and strengthening the ends leads to loose or unraveled details; weave in ends, tighten the back by pulling the end through the first loop, and secure with gentle heat where recommended.
β Using an incorrect hook size can change the final dimensions and loop spacing; use a 6.0 mm hook as recommended (or 4.0 mm to hide ends) and check gauge before starting.