The Claire Tote Bag by Amy Drossner

The Claire Tote Bag

Crochet
March 2021
Aran (8 wpi) ?
The bottom will ultimately measure between 6.5” x 4” and 7” x 4.25,” depending on the yarn.
5.0 mm (H)
235 - 280 yards (215 - 256 m)
US
English
This pattern is available as a free Ravelry download

This is a small, uniquely designed tote bag that is flat on the bottom, has squared sides, and is worked all in one piece - no cutting or sewing pieces together. It is ideal for carrying one-skein projects, a book and reading glasses, a snack and drink, etc. For carrying heavier items, consider placing a piece of plastic canvas or cardboard cut to fit on the bottom to support the additional weight.

Exact gauge isn’t important for this pattern. The final bag will be around 8”-9” tall by around 7”-7.5” wide by around 4” deep. Exact dimensions depend on yarn, a crocheter’s tension, etc.

This is an intermediate level pattern. The bottom is easy, the bottom edging is a bit tricky, and the first rows of the body are a bit challenging, but after row 3 of the body, it gets easier and the rows just repeat over and over.

Use any heftier worsted weight or aran weight yarn. You want the yarn to be a sturdier worsted weight to help the tote bag maintain its structure. Thinner worsted weight has a lot of drape and won’t hold structure well. If the sturdiness and drape effect aren’t important to you, then of course go for it if that is what you have. You’ll still have a beautiful tote bag in the end.

Aesthetically, solid colors, heathers, and yarn with long, gradual color changes will look best. Busy variegated yarn, or yarn that has short, sudden color changes, will not look ideal with the stitch pattern or the texture that this bag has. Again, you will still have a beautiful bag in the end, so go for it if that is what you have to work with.