Crochet Market Tote Bag Pattern (Free)

Materials and gauge

• 350 to 450 m worsted-weight cotton or cotton blend
• 4.5 mm hook, or size needed for firm single crochet
• Two stitch markers and a blunt yarn needle
• Optional removable fabric pouch for small groceries

Gauge is not critical, but the solid base should feel sturdy: approximately 16 single crochet stitches and 17 rows per 10 cm. If you can easily see daylight between base stitches, use a smaller hook.

Abbreviations

US terms: ch (chain), sl st (slip stitch), sc (single crochet), dc (double crochet), st (stitch), and sp (space). Chains in the mesh count as part of the repeat.

Free crochet market tote pattern

Oval base

1. Chain 45. Sc in the second chain from the hook and in the next 42 chains.
2. Work 3 sc in the final chain. Rotate and sc in the next 42 unused loops along the underside of the foundation.
3. Work 2 sc in the starting chain and place a marker. (90)
4. Round 2: Mark the three stitches at each rounded end. Sc along the straight sections and work 2 sc in each of all three marked stitches at both ends. (96)
5. Round 3: Mark the six stitches at each rounded end. Sc along the straight sections and repeat (sc, 2 sc in next) three times across each marked end. (102)
6. Rounds 4-6: Sc around without increasing. The base should lie flat.

If the base cups, add one more increase round. If it ripples, remove the last increase round or use a smaller hook.

Mesh body

1. Work one round in back loops only to define the base edge.
2. Next round: Ch 4 (counts as dc, ch 1), skip 1, then work (dc in next stitch, ch 1, skip 1) around. Join with a slip stitch in the third starting chain.
3. Following round: Slip stitch into the first chain space, ch 4, then work (dc in next chain space, ch 1) around. Join.
4. Repeat the last round until the body measures 29 to 31 cm from the base.

Reinforced rim and handles

Work 2 rounds of single crochet, placing one sc in each double crochet and each chain space. Mark the center of the front and back. Measure 8 cm to either side of each center and place four handle markers.

Sc to the first marker, chain 45, skip to the next marker, and continue in single crochet. Repeat on the opposite side. On the next round, work one sc in each rim stitch and 50 sc around each chain handle. Work one final single-crochet round, fasten off, and weave the tail through at least 5 cm of dense fabric.

Tips & troubleshooting

The filled tote stretches too far

Shorten the mesh section and add another dense rim round. Cotton stretches less than acrylic. A removable fabric pouch also supports small or heavy contents.

The handles feel narrow

Work 2 or 3 additional rounds over the handles, or sew a strip of cotton twill tape to their inner surface. Reinforce the four points where each handle meets the rim.

My oval base twists

Check that increases are spread across both rounded ends rather than stacked in one stitch. Steam or wet block the base flat before beginning the mesh.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I make the tote with acrylic yarn?

Yes, but acrylic usually stretches more under groceries. Use a firm gauge, shorter handles, and consider a lining.

How can I make a smaller produce bag?

Begin with chain 21, work the same oval logic, and stop the mesh at about 24 cm. Keep the rim dense so the opening holds its shape.

Related guides

Add structure with the bag lining and hardware guide, compare boho bag constructions, or make a smaller crossbody pouch.