Project

Crocheted Blue Summer Bag

Crochet this open, airy bag that's perfect for a trip to the beach, park, or farmer's market.

Photography: Emily Kate Roemer

Source: Martha Stewart

Introduction

These bags, designed by Silke Stoddard, are crocheted using a unique South American pineapple fiber. Their open stitches and natural fiber make them perfect for a trip to the beach, park, or farmer's market.

If you're a beginner, use our basic crochet how-to as a guide. Stitched in loose treble crochet, this project works up quickly.

Finished Size:

10" wide x 14" long

Gauge:

4 stitches and 1 row = 1 inch

Abbreviations:

St(s) = stitch(es)
Ch(s) = chain stitch(es)
Sc = single crochet
Tr = treble crochet

materials

Three 1-ounce skeins of Fique yarn in Steel Blue, from habutextiles.com

One crochet hook U.S. size F (3.75mm)

Yarn needle

steps

Ch 45.
Row 1: Tr into the fifth ch from hook, then tr across the row. Ch 4, turn.
Continue in treble crochet until you've worked 34 rows. Work should measure 28".
Fold the rectangle in half, top edges together, and stitch along both sides of the bag.
To strengthen the edge of the bag, sc one row around the top.
Count 10 sts in from the outside top edge of the bag. Insert crochet hook into that st and ch 44. Count 10 sts in from the other end of that same side. Insert the needle into that st, sc to connect the handle to the bag, and continue in sc for 2 rows to form the handle. Finish off and weave in ends.
Repeat for second handle on the opposite side of bag.
Gently steam and pull into shape.