Materials:
- 3mm polyester macrame floss (or any other preferred thread)
- Crochet hook 5mm
- Metal rings (optional for narrowing the sides)
- Zipper (optional for added security)
- Lid lock (optional)
- Scissors
- Needle
Pattern:
Base and Sides:
Foundation Chain:
- Make a starting knot and chain 11.
- From the second chain, make single crochet (SC) stitches across the row for a total of 10 stitches.
Rows:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Continue making single crochet stitches for a total of 18 rows.
Creating the Side Stitches:
- Chain 1, and then make single crochet stitches along the side of the rows.
- Skip the first row; start making SC from the second row to the last row.
- You should have a total of 18 stitches along this side.
Increasing and Shaping:
- Single crochet in the first 4 stitches.
- In the next 2 stitches, make 2 increases (4 stitches on top of 2 stitches).
- Single crochet in the next 4 stitches.
- Continue with 18 stitches along the other side.
- This results in a total of 48 stitches around the piece.
Second Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make single crochet in each stitch around (48 stitches in total).
- Ensure you make the last stitch above the chain of the beginning of the first row.
Third Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make 22 single crochet stitches.
- Make the first increase, then 2 SC, and then the second increase.
- Continue with 22 single crochet stitches (50 stitches in total).
Fourth Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make a steady row of 50 single crochet stitches.
Fifth Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make 22 single crochet stitches.
- Make the first increase, then 4 SC, and then the second increase.
- Continue with 22 single crochet stitches (52 stitches in total).
Sixth Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make a steady row of 52 single crochet stitches.
Seventh Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make 22 single crochet stitches.
- Make the first increase, then 6 SC, and then the second increase.
Continue with 22 single crochet stitches (54 stitches in total).
Eighth Row:
- Chain 1, turn.
- Make a steady row of 54 single crochet stitches.
- This completes the side piece.
Adjusting Size:
- You can control the size of the bag by adjusting the starting chain and the number of rows. Follow the same steps with increments in the middle.
Making the Second Side Piece:
- Create another piece identical to the first side piece. Do not cut the thread after completing the second piece.
Middle Section:
Foundation Chain:
- Make a starting knot and chain 20.
Rows:
- Make 59 rows of single crochet stitches.
Assembly:
Attaching Pieces:
- Attach the side pieces to the middle section using slip stitches.
- Ensure the number of rows of the middle section is greater than the number of stitches on the last row of the side pieces to allow for proper alignment.
Edging:
- Make a row of slip stitches around the edge of the bag. This is important for finishing and adding structure.
- Cut the thread and close the row with a slip knot.
Narrowing the Sides (Optional):
- Use metal rings to narrow the sides if desired.
Cover:
Foundation Chain:
- Chain 24.
Rows:
- Make 21 rows of single crochet stitches.
- Make slip stitches all around the cover for added finish.
Additional Security (Optional):
- Add a zipper in the opening of the bag.
- Install a lid lock if desired.
Attaching the Cover:
- Attach the cover to the body of the bag using slip stitches.
Final Touches:
- Weave in any remaining ends.
- Ensure all components are securely fastened.