How to crochet a chunky yarn handbag with built in handles

Warm Storytelling Introduction

There’s something magical about that feeling when you carry something you made with your own two hands. 💕 I remember the first time I pulled my freshly crocheted handbag over my arm – it felt like I was wearing confidence and creativity all at once. It all started with a cozy afternoon, some chunky yarn, and a dream to learn how to crochet a chunky yarn handbag with built in handles. I wanted a purse that was both functional and full of personality – something I could take to the market, the beach, or brunch with the girls. 🌼 What I didn’t expect was how EASY and satisfying the whole project would be. If you’ve been itching to try your hand at a chic, beginner-friendly project, this is for you. Let me walk you through this DIY crochet summer tote step by step – and don’t worry girl, I’ve got your back through every stitch. 🧵💖

Project Overview – What It Is & Who It’s For

This project is an ideal fit if you’re just starting your crochet journey and want to whip up something practical and adorable in a weekend. It’s a beginner crochet handbag pattern that turns out stylish and sturdy thanks to that deliciously thick yarn. Whether you’re making it as a gift 🎁, or a statement piece for sunny days out, the simple PDF pattern makes it extra easy to follow. Just download, print, and stitch along with me!

Materials You’ll Need

Keep it simple, babe! Here’s what you’ll need to bring your crochet beach bag with handles to life. I used soft but durable cotton-blend bulky yarn – but don’t stress, just use what you’ve got. 🙃

• 2 skeins of chunky or bulky yarn (I used size 6 cotton blend)
• 6.5 mm crochet hook (or size needed for your yarn)
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch marker (optional, but helpful!)

Techniques Used – Don’t Worry, It’s Easy!

This pattern is super beginner-friendly. 💪 I designed it with simple stitches to make your first chunky yarn crochet bag tutorial feel easy as pie. Here’s what we’ll use:

• Single crochet (sc): The true workhorse of crochet! Great for making a solid, tight structure.
• Back loop only (BLO): Gives your bag that cute ribbed effect – ideal for texture lovers. 😉
• Slip stitch (sl st): Used to join rows cleanly.

Creative Styling & Use Ideas

This bag was born to shine in the sunshine! Think of it as your go-to for beach days, weekend markets, sunny strolls, and carefree brunch dates. 🌿 If you’re feeling glam, you can even add a fabric bow or a tassel charm on the handle. Want it extra versatile? Try stitching it in a neutral color like oat or sand for a minimal chic look, or go full summer vibes with coral, lemon, or turquoise. 🍋💙

This roomy little beauty fits your phone, sunnies, and wallet perfectly — and the built-in handles mean no worrying about attaching hardware. It’s also adorable as a crochet gift set for your bestie’s birthday or your cousin’s bridal shower. 💍

Hand-Trendy Pro Tips

Okay bestie, here’s the inside scoop from me to you. 💌

• Mark your rounds: Trust me, your life will be easier with a stitch marker to track your handles and turning chains.
• Keep it tight: Use a slightly smaller hook if your stitches feel too loose – it helps the structure of the bag stay firm.
• Watch your count: My first try ended up lopsided… whoops! 😂 I started counting stitches at the end of each round and boom — perfection. 🌟

Oh — and if you want it a wee bit bigger, just add 2-4 more starting chains and adjust the rounds accordingly. It’s totally customizable!

Behind the Design – The Heart Part

This pattern came to me one lazy Sunday morning in spring. The sun was peeking through the window, my yarn stash was calling, and I wanted to make something quick, fun, and useful. 🌸 I designed this crochet handbag pattern using bulky yarn with simplicity and sass — something anyone could make and love. The best stitch for crochet purses (the back loop single crochet!) adds such cute texture, and it really holds its shape well without lining or fuss.

I don’t know about you, but making something useful from just some yarn and a hook still feels like magic to me. ✨ This tote was born on a slow morning … and now it’s part of so many of my bright days out. I hope it becomes part of yours too. 💖

Matching Patterns You’ll Love

Did you fall in love with this tote? Then girl, you’ve gotta check out my Mini Coin Purse Pattern – made with the same yarn vibe and perfect for popping into your new bag 👛💫. It’s tiny, adorable, and sews up in under an hour!

Full Video Tutorial For This Project ✨