About This Checker It Out Crochet Bag Pattern
This pattern creates a roomy, textured crochet bag worked from a simple 6-row chart using two contrast colors. The bag measures approximately 12" x 12" x 3" (excluding the strap) and features a long integrated strap and finished side panels. It uses Caron Coconut Cakes for a colorful variegated effect and a second solid contrast for checker detail.
Youll work the Chart Pattern across the Bag Base, Front and Back Panels, and Strap & Sides, then join pieces together with single crochet seams. The instructions include full chart notes, finishing steps, and tips for carrying color to maintain even gauge.
Why You'll Love This Checker It Out Crochet Bag Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because its an effortless way to make a stylish, functional bag using just two yarn colors. The charted checker pattern gives a designer look with minimal complexity, so I can create something that looks sophisticated without complicated stitches. I enjoy how the Caron Coconut Cakes colorways blend into soft gradients, making each bag unique. Sewing the panels together is satisfying and fast, and the finished tote is sturdy enough for everyday use. This pattern always makes great gifts because its quick to make yet looks professionally finished.
Switch Things Up
I love customizing this bag by swapping the Caron Coconut Cakes for a solid bulky yarn to create a chunkier, cozier tote.
I sometimes lengthen or shorten the strap by continuing the charted repeats until the strap reaches my preferred length—just watch the chart row count and keep markers on each end.
I often add a fabric lining for extra strength and to protect small items from slipping through the stitches; you can sew a simple cotton lining and hand-stitch it in place.
Try changing Contrast A or Contrast B to create high-contrast checkerboards, subtle tonal stripes, or seasonal palettes like autumn hues or pastels for spring.
I like to add a zipper or magnetic snap closure at the top for security; attach it after joining panels so the edges meet evenly.
For a decorative finish, add tassels or pom-poms at each strap join, or crochet a small external pocket and sew it to the inside or outside of the front panel.
If you want a smaller keychain version, use lighter weight yarn and a smaller hook, decreasing the chain counts proportionally to maintain the chart repeat.
Consider swapping the single crochet join for an exposed seam using slip stitch or mattress stitch for a different look—just be consistent on both sides.
I sometimes experiment with adding a row of surface crochet along the top edge before joining to give the bag a contrasting trim that pops.
For added durability, use a strand of matching sewing thread with your joining yarn when working through both thicknesses during finishing; this strengthens seams without changing appearance.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the chart note about carrying color can cause uneven edges; always carry the unused color across the top of the previous row and work sts around it to maintain even gauge.
✗ Not placing stitch markers on the Strap ends may cause incorrect alignment later; place markers on each end of the last row when instructed to help match corners during assembly.
✗ Using a different hook without checking gauge will alter the bag size significantly; make a gauge swatch of 16 sc and 16 rows = 4" in Chart Pat before starting and adjust hook size as needed.
✗ Joining pieces without aligning corners can result in twisted or lumpy seams; pin pieces together, align corners carefully, and join with single crochet through both thicknesses for an even finish.
