About this pattern
This crochet pattern is designed for people with intermediate to advanced crochet skills. While the stitches involved aren’t overly complicated, achieving an even tension and being able to work with multiple strands of yarn is crucial. The pattern is presented as both written text and in the form of graphs for the bottom, sides, and strap, providing comprehensive guidance. Instructions for optional embellishments are included, offering creative freedom.

Throughout the pattern, except for the setup rounds for the bottom, single crochet stitches are worked in the back loop only, using a yarn over/yarn under technique to ensure neat alignment. Mochila bags are crocheted in a continuous round, eliminating the need for slip stitch closures. Please be aware that there will be a visible jog at the end of some rows, as each row ends one stitch higher than it begins. To minimize the visibility of the jog, carefully follow the instructions in the text description. Alternatively, you can use the separate schematic provided.

To maintain a flat circular shape for the bottom, the increases are staggered between rows i.e. they are made at a different point in each row.

Materials

• Mercerized cotton in 5 colors of your choice. I used Durable Coral (50gr/1.8oz, 125m/137y) in the colors Fuchsia, Light Green, Navy, Peach and Royal Blue—2 balls of each color.
• 1.5mm hook (steel hook 8 US) (steel hook 4½ UK) 2mm hook ( steel hook 4 US, but also has other names) (14 UK)
• Stitch markers Tapestry needle to weave in ends
• Optional: seed beads, stopper beads or drawstring slider, kumihimo disc or knitting spool

Gauge
Exact gauge isn’t crucial but will affect the final size of the bag. A gauge of 36 stitches and 20 rows with a 2mm hook in scblo pattern for a 10x10cm/4x4” swatch results in a finished bag that measures about 24x18cm or 9.5x7”.