Notes
This crochet pattern is designed for people with advanced beginner to intermediate 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 schematics for the sides and strap, providing comprehensive guidance. It also uses the Marguerite pattern by MobiusGirl as a base for the bottom, with some adaptations to suit a mochila-style bag bottom. You can find the free pattern here: https://mobiusgirldesign.com/margueritemotif/
Instructions for optional embellishments are included, offering creative freedom.

Throughout the pattern 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 may be a visible jog at the end of some rows, as each row ends one stitch higher than it begins. To hide the jog as much as possible, follow the written instructions for finishing the row for Rows 10 and 36.

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. If your bottom starts to curve upwards like a cup, consider reducing tension or using a larger crochet hook. Conversely, if it becomes wobbly, increase tension or switch to a smaller hook size.

For additional assistance and tutorials on crocheting mochila bags, I recommend checking out Marion Verloop’s YouTube channel at https://m.youtube.com/c/MarionVerloop. I strongly advise reading through the entire pattern before starting to ensure a clear understanding of all instructions. Happy crocheting!

Stitches Used/ Abbreviations (US)
ch: chain stitch
st: stitch
sc: single crochet
scblo: single crochet in back loop only
scblo incr: single crochet back loop increase
scblo decr: single crochet back loop decrease
rsc: reverse single crochet (also known as the crab stitch)
yo/yu: yarn over/yarn under

Materials List

• Cotton in 2 colors of your choice. I used Durable Lifestyle cotton (worsted), 50 gr/1.8 oz (88m/96y) in red (3 balls) and gray (2 balls). Alternatives would include Lion Brand Pima Cotton, Debbie Bliss Cotton DK or Knit Picks Dishie. Check https://yarnsub.com for more suggestions.
• 2.5mm hook
• 3mm hook
• 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 23 stitches and 22 rows with 3mm hook in scblo pattern for a 10x10cm/4x4” swatch results in a finished bag that measures about 20x17cm or 8x6¾“.

Bag measurements
Diameter: 17cm/6¾“
Height: 20 cm/8”
Strap: 148cm/58”

Other sizes
The pattern is designed for a compact-sized bag featuring 5 pattern repeats, with each repeat containing 30 stitches. If you’re an advanced crocheter looking to customize the bag’s size, it’s essential to work with a stitch count for the sides that’s a multiple of 30. Simply adapt the bag’s base accordingly until you achieve the desired stitch count.