If you love crochet bags with a classic handmade look, this simple gingham tote bag is a wonderful project to add to your collection. The finished design combines three colors of worsted/medium-weight yarn to create a charming gingham effect, while the construction remains straightforward enough to follow with confidence.
This pattern creates a practical tote with a body measuring 12 inches by 12 inches. The gingham pattern is worked by alternating colors every five stitches, giving the bag its distinctive checked appearance. Rather than cutting the yarn whenever the color changes, the unused color is crocheted over as you work, which keeps the color transitions organized and reduces the number of ends that need to be woven in later.
The original design is worked using US crochet terminology and includes a simple pair of crocheted straps. Once the body is finished, the straps are sewn onto the bag, the remaining ends are woven in, and the tote is ready to use.
What Makes This Gingham Tote Special?
Gingham is one of those patterns that works beautifully across different seasons. The checked effect can look playful, classic, rustic, or modern depending on the colors selected. In this project, Kale, Sage, and Ivory are combined to create a soft, nature-inspired palette.
The bag is also surprisingly versatile. Its finished 12-inch by 12-inch body gives it a useful everyday shape, while the crocheted straps provide a comfortable way to carry it. Because the body is constructed in rounds, the project develops from a simple foundation chain into a complete bag without requiring separate front and back panels.
Another appealing feature is the color-changing technique. The pattern alternates yarn colors every five stitches, creating blocks that line up to form the gingham effect. Understanding where and how to make those color changes is the key to achieving the intended appearance.
Materials You Need
Before beginning, gather all of the supplies listed in the original pattern. Having the three yarn colors ready is especially helpful because the body relies on frequent color changes.
- Worsted/Medium Weight (4) Yarn: Kale – Color A
- Worsted/Medium Weight (4) Yarn: Sage – Color B
- Worsted/Medium Weight (4) Yarn: Ivory – Color C
- 4.5mm Crochet Hook
- Scissors
- Darning Needle
- Stitch Marker
The original pattern notes that a stitch marker is not personally used for this project, but it can be useful if you are a beginner or tend to lose track of where a round begins.
Gauge and Finished Measurements
Gauge is an important checkpoint before you commit to the full project. The specified gauge is:
- 4-inch square = 8 stitches wide x 8 rows tall
- Stitch used for gauge: Double crochet
The finished body of the bag measures:
- 12 inches x 12 inches
Keeping the gauge information in mind is useful because crochet tension can vary considerably from one person to another. If you are making the project according to the original specifications, use the stated hook and yarn information and pay attention to your stitch tension throughout the work.
US Crochet Terms and Abbreviations
This pattern uses US crochet terms. The abbreviations used in the instructions are:
- Ch = Chain
- St(s) = Stitch(es)
- Sl st = Slip stitch
- Hdc = Half Double Crochet
- Dc = Double Crochet
- Rep = Repeat
One additional pattern note is important: the turning chain 1 does not count as a stitch in this pattern. Stitch counts are shown between angle brackets in the original instructions.
Starting the Body of the Tote
The body begins with a chain of 48. The first round establishes the oval foundation around which the rest of the tote will be worked.
Foundation and Round 1
With Color A, chain 48.
Round 1: With color A hdc in the 2nd ch from the hook, hdc in each ch until you have 1 ch left, when you come to last ch, work 5 hdc into that one ch, now you will be working on the other side of your chain, hdc each ch until you have 1 ch left, work 4 hdc into that last ch. Sl st into first hdc of the round. <100>
This first round is worked around the foundation chain rather than simply across one side of it. After reaching the end of the chain, the stitches turn around the opposite side, creating the foundation needed for the bag’s continuous body.
A stitch marker can be used here to help identify the beginning of each round. This is optional, but it may be particularly useful when you are learning to recognize the starting point in a circular or oval construction.
Round 2: Establishing the Base
Round 2: Ch 1, turn your work, hdc in each st until the end of the round. Sl st into the first hdc of the round. <100>
At this stage, the base has been established with 100 stitches. Take care not to accidentally add or lose stitches as you work around the entire round. The stitch count is an especially useful checkpoint before moving into the gingham section.
Creating the Gingham Effect
The signature feature of this tote begins in Round 3. From this point, the colors are changed every five stitches. The technique is repeated through the central section of the bag, with different color combinations creating the gingham blocks.
The most important principle is to avoid cutting the yarn after every color change. Instead, crochet over the color that is not currently being used by laying it across the stitches as you work. When the next color is needed, it is picked up during the final part of the appropriate stitch.
Round 3: Beginning the Color Blocks
Round 3: Ch 2, turn your work, *dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color B and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, dc 5 and before you finish your 5th pick up color A and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, *rep until the end of the round. Sl st into the first dc of the round. <100>
You will repeat the alternating yarn colors every five stitches. This five-stitch rhythm is what creates the regular blocks that characterize the gingham appearance.
When changing colors, do not cut the yarn. Lay the unused yarn color across the stitches and crochet over it as you continue. This keeps the unused strand available for the next color change.
Round 4: Alternating the Blocks
Round 4: Ch 2, turn your work, *dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color A and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color B and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, *rep until the end of the round. Sl st into the first dc of the round.
Notice that the color sequence reverses in this round. Maintaining the correct sequence is essential because the alternating blocks are responsible for the visual gingham effect.
Rounds 5 and 6: Introducing Ivory
Round 5: Ch 2 with color B and turn your work, *dc 5 and before your finish your 5th dc pick up color C and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color B and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, *rep until the end of the round. Sl st into the first dc of the round. <100>
Round 6: Ch 2, turn your work, *dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color B and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, dc 5 and before you finish your 5th dc pick up color C and pull through the last 2 loops on your hook, *rep until the end of the round. Sl st into the first dc of the round. <100>
Rounds 5 and 6 bring Color C, Ivory, into the pattern alongside Color B, Sage. Together with the earlier rounds, these color sequences create the repeating structure of the bag.
Repeating Rounds 3–6
Once Rounds 3 through 6 are complete, the same four-round sequence is repeated until you reach Round 24.
Repeat rounds 3-6 until round 24.
This is the longest portion of the project, so it is a good place to develop a steady rhythm. Since the same four-round sequence is repeated, checking your color order at the beginning of each new round can help keep the pattern organized.
Rather than focusing only on the overall appearance, use the stitch count and five-stitch color blocks as checkpoints. The original pattern uses 100 stitches for the relevant rounds, so maintaining that count is an important way to confirm that the body is progressing correctly.
Finishing the Main Body
After completing the gingham section through Round 24, the bag transitions into a solid-color finishing section.
Round 25
Round 25: With color A ch 2, turn your work, dc in each st until the end of the round. Sl st into the first dc of the round. <100>
This round creates a solid double-crochet border at the top of the gingham section and prepares the tote for its final round.
Round 26
Round 26: Ch 1, sl st in each st until the end of the round. Sl st into the first sl st of the round. <100>
The original pattern notes that the first photo shows the dc row by itself, while the second photo shows the dc row together with the slip stitch row. This makes the finishing sequence easier to visualize.
The finished side of the fabric is also flexible in terms of appearance. The original maker turned the bag inside out because that side was preferred visually, but either side is fine. This means you can choose the side you like better once the body is complete.
After Round 26, fasten off.
Making the Tote Straps
The straps are made separately from the bag body. Each strap is constructed from a foundation chain followed by two rows of half double crochet.
Strap 1
Ch 81.
Round 1: Hdc in the 2nd ch from the hook, hdc in each ch until the end of the chain. <80>
Round 2: Ch 1, hdc in each st until the end of the row. <80>
Fasten off.
Repeat the same instructions for the second strap.
When making the second strap, follow the same stitch counts and construction as the first. Keeping both straps worked to the same specifications helps maintain a balanced finished tote.
Attaching the Straps
Once both straps are finished, they are sewn directly to the bag. The original pattern does not introduce an additional complicated attachment technique; the final construction simply involves sewing the straps to the tote body.
Take a moment to check the positioning of both straps before completing the sewing. Symmetry is especially noticeable on a tote bag, so comparing one side with the other as you work can help you achieve the intended finished appearance.
After sewing the straps to the bag, weave in your ends with the darning needle. Once the loose ends are secured, the tote is complete.
Helpful Tips for the Gingham Color Changes
The color-change section is the part most likely to require extra attention, especially if you are new to working with multiple colors. The pattern’s instructions provide a very specific method: change colors every five stitches and do not cut the yarn when switching between the active and inactive colors.
- Count in groups of five: The color changes are organized around five-stitch sections.
- Do not cut the yarn at each change: Keep the unused color available for its next appearance.
- Crochet over the unused strand: Lay the color you are not currently using across the stitches as you work.
- Change before completing the fifth stitch: The new color is picked up and pulled through the last two loops of the fifth stitch.
- Check the sequence: Rounds 3 and 4 use Colors A and B, while Rounds 5 and 6 use Colors B and C as specified.
These checkpoints are useful because a color mistake can become more noticeable as additional rounds are worked. If something looks incorrect, reviewing the most recent five-stitch color block is often a better starting point than unraveling a large section immediately.
Beginner Checkpoints Before Moving On
For a smoother experience, pause at several points throughout the project and compare your work with the pattern information.
- After Round 1, the stitch count should be 100.
- After Round 2, the stitch count should be 100.
- Rounds 3–6 are built around alternating color sections of 5 stitches.
- Round 5 has a stitch count of 100.
- Round 6 has a stitch count of 100.
- Repeat Rounds 3–6 through Round 24.
- Round 25 has a stitch count of 100.
- Round 26 has a stitch count of 100.
- Each strap begins with Ch 81.
- Each strap has 80 stitches in Round 1 and Round 2.
Common Things to Watch While Crocheting
One of the simplest ways to keep this project neat is to avoid rushing through the repetitive portions. The gingham effect depends on consistent five-stitch color blocks, so maintaining the rhythm is more important than working quickly.
If you are using a stitch marker, place it in a way that helps you recognize the beginning of the round. If you prefer not to use one, pay particular attention when joining with the slip stitch at the end of each round.
Another useful habit is to check the color you should be holding before beginning each five-stitch section. Because the project uses three colors, it is easy to accidentally continue with the wrong strand if the yarns become tangled or if attention shifts during a repetitive section.
Finishing the Bag Neatly
Once the straps are sewn on, the final finishing step is weaving in the ends. Use the darning needle to secure the loose yarn tails so that the finished tote looks clean and polished.
The original pattern’s construction is intentionally uncomplicated: complete the body, make two identical straps, sew them onto the body, weave in the ends, and the project is finished.
Because the bag can be viewed from either side, you can also decide which side of your crocheted fabric you prefer visually. The original maker chose to turn the bag inside out because that appearance was preferred, but either side is acceptable.
Quick Project Reference
- Project: Gingham Tote Bag
- Yarn: Worsted/Medium Weight (4)
- Color A: Kale
- Color B: Sage
- Color C: Ivory
- Hook: 4.5mm crochet hook
- Gauge: 4-inch square = 8 stitches wide x 8 rows tall in double crochet
- Finished body: 12 inches x 12 inches
- Foundation chain: Ch 48
- Body Round 1: 100 stitches
- Body Round 2: 100 stitches
- Gingham section: Repeat Rounds 3–6 through Round 24
- Round 25: 100 stitches
- Round 26: 100 stitches
- Each strap foundation: Ch 81
- Each strap: 80 stitches per row
Final Look at the Finished Tote
After the last ends have been woven in and the straps are securely sewn into place, the simple gingham tote is ready to become an everyday handmade accessory. The combination of the checked body and solid finishing edge gives the project a recognizable gingham character without making the construction unnecessarily complicated.
The beauty of this project comes from the combination of a practical tote shape and a visually interesting color pattern. Once the technique is understood, the repeated five-stitch color blocks create a satisfying rhythm, while the final solid rounds provide a clean transition toward the finished edge.
For anyone who enjoys handmade bags, this project is also a useful opportunity to practice working in rounds, maintaining stitch counts, changing colors cleanly, carrying unused yarn, and assembling separately crocheted components.
Frequently Asked Questions
What crochet terms does this pattern use?
The pattern uses US crochet terms. Its listed abbreviations include Ch, St(s), Sl st, Hdc, Dc, and Rep.
Does the turning chain 1 count as a stitch?
No. The pattern specifically states that the turning ch 1 does not count as a stitch.
How many stitches are in the body?
The body is worked with a stitch count of 100 for the specified rounds, including Round 1, Round 2, Round 5, Round 6, Round 25, and Round 26.
How often are the colors changed?
The gingham section alternates yarn colors every 5 stitches.
Should I cut the yarn every time I change color?
No. The pattern specifically instructs you not to cut the yarn when changing colors. Instead, crochet over the color that is not currently being used by laying it across the stitches as you work.
How many straps does the tote have?
The tote has two straps. Each strap begins with Ch 81 and is worked to 80 stitches across each of its two rows.
Do I need a stitch marker?
A stitch marker is optional. The original pattern notes that one is not personally used, but it can be helpful for beginners or anyone who has difficulty keeping track of where each round begins.
Which side of the bag should face outward?
Either side is fine. The original maker preferred the appearance of the bag turned inside out, but this is a matter of visual preference and does not change the construction.
Ready to Make Your Gingham Tote?
This crochet gingham tote brings together a straightforward bag construction and a classic checked color effect. With a 48-chain foundation, a 100-stitch body, a repeating four-round gingham sequence through Round 24, and two simple crocheted straps, the project offers a clear progression from beginning to end.
The key to the design is consistency. Keep the stitch counts accurate, maintain the five-stitch color changes, carry the unused yarn instead of cutting it, and check the color sequence as you move through the repeating rounds. Once the main body is complete, the solid finishing rounds and two straps bring the project together.
With its 12-inch by 12-inch finished body and three-color gingham design, this tote makes a charming handmade accessory that can be enjoyed throughout the year. Gather your Kale, Sage, and Ivory worsted/medium-weight yarn, pick up your 4.5mm hook, and work through the pattern one checkpoint at a time.