A light stretchy bag for groceries, trips to the farmers market or everyday errands.
This market bag is such a fun and practical crochet project. It has that old-school open mesh look, collapses down easily and is easy to adjust to make it just right for your needs
Why You’ll Love This Project:
It makes a useful bag you will actually go to and the open design gives it that relaxed handmade look that is both pretty and practical.
What You Will Need Materials
- Yarn.
- Crochet hook.
- Scissors
- Yarn needle,
- Stitch marker if desired
Choose a yarn and hook size that suits your desired fit and texture.
Best Yarn for This Project
Cotton is a great option for a market bag as it feels sturdy and keeps its shape well. A smooth yarn also helps the mesh pattern come out nicely.
Level of skill
Simple, beginner friendly.
Size & Fit Guide
You can increase or decrease the size of the bag by repeating the body section until you are happy with the width and depth. If you want to carry it by hand or over your shoulder, just change the handle length.
Stitches Used
- Chain stitches
- Simple net-type crochet parts
Preparation Method
Launch the Foundation
Make the bottom part first, then the top. Start at the bottom so the bag has a neat initial shape.
Work the Main Section:
When the base is finished, work up in the open mesh pattern. This creates the bag’s stretchy body and gives it that classic market bag look.
Change the Size
Repeat the main section until you have reached the desired height of the bag. You can stop earlier for a smaller everyday tote or you can carry on for a deeper shopping bag.
Join or Make
As you work up, shape the opening and begin to form the area of the handle.
Edges Finishing
Finish the handles, then tidy up the top edge so it all looks tidy and feels sturdy when in use. All ends weave in good.
Helpful Hints
- Don’t tense, keep your tension relaxed, so the mesh opens up evenly.
- Before finishing, check the length of the handle.
- If you want help keeping track of the start of rounds or sections use markers.
- Weave in ends securely as bags tend to stretch during use.
Mistakes to avoid
- Tightening of the starting segment
- Uneven tension between rows of mesh
- Leaving the bag not deep enough for your needs
- Handles too short or too long.
- Not securing the ends tightly enough
Customisation Suggestions
Opt for stripes, a neutral hue or bright summer shade. You can also lengthen the bag, add a stiffer top edge or sew in a simple lining, for smaller items.
Style Inspiration
Perfect for produce shopping, beach days, library days or as a cute reusable gift bag. It also looks lovely folded into a larger tote to run errands.
How to Care For
Hand wash in cool water if necessary. Shape while wet and lay flat to dry. Do not hang it wet as it will stretch out.
Time Required
This can take anywhere from a few hours depending on your speed, yarn, size and stitch pattern.
Conclusion
This is one of those crochet projects that is simple, useful and easy to make your own. You finish one and want another in a different colour for everyday use.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginners make this bag?
Yes, it looks very approachable for newer crocheters.
Can I make it bigger?
Yes, repeat the body section until you reach your desired size.
What yarn works best?
Cotton is usually a very nice choice for a sturdy everyday bag.
Will the bag stretch?
Yes, mesh bags naturally stretch, especially when filled.
Can I use it for groceries?
Yes, it is a great style for light to medium everyday shopping.
