General information:

This is a 6 pages PDF pattern + links to video tutorials + photo tutorials + written tutorials.

The Only the Essentials Shoulder Bag is the perfect introduction to Tunisian crochet. Designed with absolute beginners in mind, this pattern teaches all the essential techniques you need to get started… without investing in Tunisian crochet hooks or committing to a larger project like a scarf or pullover. The pattern includes instructions for recreating the bag shown in the photos, as well as guidance for customising the size and proportions, and/or use any yarn in your stash!

Skill Level:
Absolute Beginner

Sizing:
The final size for the version in pattern is:
18 cm in width, 11 cm in height for the bag; and the total length of the strap is 65 cm
Instructions are given to produce the bag in any desired measure.

Hooks:
4.5 mm straight crochet hook - or hook recommended for your yarn of choice.

You can either use a straight crochet hook (ie, with no ergonomic handle) or a tunisian crochet hook (of any style - you won’t need a long cable) that is of the recommended size for the yarn of your choice.

Yarn:
aran-weight yarn

I used two strands held together: one strand of sportweight yarn, Drops Baby Merino (50 g = 175 m, 100% superwash merino) in Cream, and one strand of DK-weight yarn, Sublime Soya Cotton (50 g = 110 m, soya/cotton blend) in Dark Tan. Held together, create an aran-weight yarn.

Feel free to experiment with different yarn combinations by holding multiple strands together, or use a single strand if you prefer - recommended for absolute beginners.
Aim for at least a DK weight, whether achieved with one strand or multiple strands held together. For a quick, satisfying project, I recommend using chunky-weight yarn, or aran-weight yarn.

I used roughly
Drops Baby Merino: 25 g, around 80 m
Sublime Soya Cotton: 38 g, around 110 m

Construction:
The Only the Essentials Tunisian Crochet Bag is worked in one piece. Begin by chaining a length equal to your phone (or the longest item you plan to carry) plus a few extra centimetres. Continue repeating the row pattern until the panel, when folded in half, is of the desired height. Then, the shoulder strap is added directly into the body on one side, and the second end is instead seamed into the bag body.

For any questions, or if you need help at any stage, please contact me at @o_layarn on insta or email me at lolla.olayarn@gmail.com

follow me on instagram at @o_layarn and download this pattern for free, using the code o_layarn