Easy Crochet Backpack for Kids

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Drawstring Preparation
4. Creating the Base of the Backpack
5. Crocheting the Body of the Backpack
6. Making the Envelope for the Drawstrings
7. Inserting the Drawstrings
8. Closing the Envelope
9. Attaching and Joining the Drawstrings
10. Final Touches and Finishing

Article:

How to Crochet a Drawstring Backpack with Blanket Yarn

Crocheting is not just a hobby, it's an art. And what better way to showcase your skills than by creating a beautiful drawstring backpack? In this tutorial, I will guide you through the process of crocheting a drawstring backpack using blanket yarn. This soft and cozy backpack is perfect for kids, particularly toddlers and small children. If you're interested in making a full-size version for older kids or young adults, I'll provide a link to the PDF pattern in the description below. So, let's grab our crochet hooks and get started!

Materials Needed

Before we dive into the instructions, let's gather all the materials that we'll need for this project. Here's a list of what you'll need:

1. Blanket yarn (two different colors)
2. 6mm and 7mm crochet hooks
3. Stitch markers
4. Large sewing needle
5. Scissors

Make sure you have all these materials ready before we proceed to the next steps. Once you have everything, we can move on to preparing the drawstrings.

Drawstring Preparation

The drawstrings are an essential part of our crochet backpack, as they provide the functionality to close and secure the bag. We'll start by choosing the color of yarn for the drawstrings and creating them using a slip knot. For the first drawstring, we'll use a 6mm crochet hook and chain 110 times, leaving a long tail for sewing later. Stretch out the drawstring to a length of approximately 44 inches, adjusting it as needed.

Repeat the same process to create the second drawstring, this time using a 7mm crochet hook with your main color yarn. Chain 21, single crochet in the second chain from the hook, and then single crochet in the remaining 18 chains. In the last chain, add four single crochets in the same space. Single crochet 18 stitches up the other side of the chain and add three more single crochets in the same space as the first single crochet. Slip stitch to the top of the first single crochet to close the round.

Creating the Base of the Backpack

Now that our drawstrings are prepared, it's time to start crocheting the base of the backpack. Start with a chain one and a single crochet in the same space. Place a stitch marker here to identify the end of each round. Single crochet in each stitch all the way around for a total of 44 stitches. Remove the stitch marker, single crochet into the next stitch, and place the marker back. Continue single crocheting for rounds 3 through 18.

Crocheting the Body of the Backpack

With the base complete, we'll now focus on crocheting the body of the backpack. Remember to keep track of the right side and wrong side of your work by placing a stitch marker on the front. Begin with round 19, where we'll be creating an envelope for the drawstrings to go in. Remove the stitch marker, half double crochet in the back loop only of the next stitch, and replace the marker. Continue half double crocheting in the back loop only for each stitch around. Slip stitch to the top of the first half double crochet and chain one.

To create the other side of the envelope, half double crochet in the front loop only of the unused loops from the previous round. There should be a hole for the drawstrings to pass through. Half double crochet in the front loop only of each stitch around, ensuring there are 44 stitches in total. With both sides of the envelope ready, it's time to insert the drawstrings.

Making the Envelope for the Drawstrings

Before we proceed, ensure that your stitch marker is on the outside of the bag. If not, flip it right side out. Take your drawstrings and fold them in half, laying them out to visualize their placement. One loop should be on the left side, and the other loop on the right, with the ends near the bottom of the bag. Place the first drawstring between the two sides of the envelope and pull one end through the hole. Make sure the drawstring ends are even.

Now, pull both ends of the drawstring through one of the half double crochet stitches on the far right side of the bag. Repeat the same process for the second drawstring, but in the opposite direction. The drawstrings should be enclosed within the envelope, and the ends should be on the same side. The appearance should be consistent with the example shown.

Closing the Envelope

Moving on to round 20, we'll slip stitch the two sides of the envelope together, enclosing the drawstrings effectively. Insert your hook into the first front loop only stitch and find the corresponding back loop only stitch across from it. Perform a slip stitch, ensuring you crochet over the drawstrings. Continue slip stitching in each stitch around, enclosing the drawstrings as you go. You should have a total of 44 slip stitches. Slip stitch to the first stitch to close the round, tie off, and weave in your ends.

Attaching and Joining the Drawstrings

The last step is to join the drawstrings at the bottom of the bag. Pull one end of the drawstring through the first and second rows in the corner. Repeat the process on the other side. Now, using a large sewing needle, sew the ends of the drawstrings together, making sure they are secure and continuous. Weave in any remaining ends. Congratulations, you've completed your crocheted drawstring backpack!

Final Touches and Finishing

Now that your drawstring backpack is ready, take a moment to admire your handiwork. You can customize it further by adding embellishments or decorations if desired. Whether you're making this backpack for yourself or as a gift, it's sure to be a treasured item. Remember, practice makes perfect, so keep honing your crochet skills and explore other patterns and projects. Happy crocheting!

Highlights:

1. Learn how to crochet a drawstring backpack using blanket yarn.
2. Perfect for toddlers and small kids.
3. Includes instructions for a full-size version.
4. Step-by-step guide with detailed instructions and visuals.
5. Personalize your backpack with different colors and embellishments.

FAQ:

Q: How long does it take to crochet a drawstring backpack?

A: The time it takes to crochet a drawstring backpack can vary depending on your skill level and the size of the backpack. On average, it may take a few hours to complete.

Q: Can I use a different type of yarn instead of blanket yarn?

A: Yes, you can use different types of yarn for this project. However, keep in mind that the thickness and texture of the yarn may affect the overall look and feel of the backpack.

Q: Are there any specific crochet stitches used in this tutorial?

A: Yes, this tutorial mainly uses single crochet, half double crochet, and slip stitch. It's important to be familiar with these stitches before attempting the project.

Q: Can I adjust the size of the backpack?

A: Absolutely! If you want a larger backpack, you can simply increase the number of stitches in each round or use a bulkier yarn. Conversely, if you want a smaller backpack, decrease the number of stitches or use a thinner yarn.

Q: Can I sell backpacks made using this pattern?

A: Yes, you can sell backpacks made using this pattern. However, please do not distribute or sell the pattern itself as it is protected by copyright.