Crochet Stylish Natural Beach Tote Bag Free Pattern
Introduction
This crochet beach tote is the perfect project for anyone who wants a stylish, natural-looking bag without a complicated pattern. Made from worsted weight raffia yarn in a warm natural shade, it has that effortless, sun-kissed look that pairs beautifully with everything from swimwear to a simple summer dress. The bag works up in plain single crochet, so even a confident beginner can finish it in a few evenings. It feels sturdy and structured in the hand, holds its shape when filled, and the generous 12-inch square body easily carries a towel, a book, sunscreen, and a water bottle.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight raffia yarn, natural color, approximately 250–300 yards (one skein is usually enough)
- Hook: 5.0 mm (US size H)
- Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, 4 stitch markers
- Finished size: Approximately 12 inches wide x 12 inches tall (excluding handles); handles add about 10 inches
Abbreviations
- ch: chain — a series of loops that starts your work
- sc: single crochet — the basic short stitch used throughout this bag
- sl st: slip stitch — a joining stitch that pulls through without adding height
- st(s): stitch(es) — one completed loop on your hook or in your fabric
Gauge
16 single crochet stitches x 18 rows = 4 inches (10 cm). To check, crochet a small swatch in single crochet and measure a 4-inch section; if your stitches are larger, go down a hook size, and if smaller, go up.
Tips Before You Start
- Raffia yarn can split, so work with a slightly relaxed tension and keep your hook tip pointed downward as you pull through.
- Count your stitches at the end of every round — the body stays at 124 stitches, and losing or adding one will throw off the handle placement.
- Place your four stitch markers before you begin the handles so both handles line up evenly and the bag hangs balanced.
- Keep your turning chains loose and consistent so the base edges stay straight and the bag sits flat.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Base of the Bag
Row 1: Ch 51, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across, ch 1, turn (50 sts).
Rows 2–12: Sc in each st across, ch 1, turn (50 sts per row; 12 rows total).
Do not fasten off; continue to work in rounds along the sides and bottom of the base.
Body of the Bag
Rnd 1: Sc evenly around the base, working along the long sides and short ends; place 3 sc in each corner to maintain shape, join with sl st to first sc (124 sts — 50 sts on each long side + 12 sts on each short end + 3 sc in each of 4 corners).
Rnds 2–25: Sc in each st around, join with sl st to first sc (124 sts per round).
Fasten off.
Handles
Mark handle positions: On the top edge of the bag, count 20 sts from one side seam and place a marker for the first handle end. Skip 20 sts and place a second marker for the other end of the same handle. Repeat on the opposite side for the second handle, ensuring symmetry (each handle spans 20 sts, with 20 sts between handles on each side).
First handle, Row 1: Attach yarn at the first marker with a sl st, ch 1, sc in same st and in next 19 sts, ch 1, turn (20 sts).
Rows 2–40: Sc in each st across, ch 1, turn (20 sts per row).
Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Sew the last row of the handle to the bag at the second marker, forming a loop. Repeat for the second handle.
Securely sew the ends of each handle to the inside of the bag at the marked points, reinforcing with extra stitches.
Assembly and Finishing
Weave in all ends with the yarn needle, working them through the inside of the fabric so they disappear into the raffia texture. Check that both handles are sewn firmly at all four attachment points and add a few extra stitches if any feel loose. To block, lightly mist the bag with water, shape it into a neat square, and let it dry flat away from direct heat. This helps the base sit flat and the sides stand upright.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Add a fabric lining in a bright print for extra structure and to keep small items from slipping through the stitches.
- Work the final body round in a contrasting natural tone, such as sand or cream, for a subtle color-blocked edge.
- For a sturdier handle, crochet the 40 rows with two strands of raffia held together, or add a second row of sc along each handle edge for extra thickness.
