Easy Crochet Tutorial: Make Your Own Small Drawstring Bag
Table of Contents:
- Introduction
- Materials Needed
- Making the Magic Ring
- Row 1: Creating the Base
- Row 2: Working in a Spiral
- Rows 3-4: Increasing the Stitches
- Rows 5-16: Working in a Spiral
- Rows 17-19: Creating Drawstring Spaces
- Adding Drawstrings
- Attaching Pom-poms and Finishing Touches
Article:
How to Make a Cute Drawstring Bag: A Step-by-Step Guide
Are you a fan of handmade accessories? Do you love crochet projects that are not only fun to make but also practical and stylish? If so, then you're in luck! In this tutorial, we will show you how to create a cute drawstring bag using basic crochet stitches. This versatile bag can be used to hold small items or even be given as a thoughtful gift. So grab your crochet hooks and let's get started!
Materials Needed
Before we dive into the project, let's gather all the materials you'll need:
- Yarn: Choose a four-ply yarn in your preferred color.
- Crochet Hook: Use a five-millimeter crochet hook for this project.
- Stitch Marker: This will help you keep track of the first stitch.
- Scissors: You'll need these to cut the yarn.
- Drawstrings: Prepare two cords of equal length for the bag closure.
- Pom-poms: Optional, but they add a cute touch to the drawstrings.
- Handmade Tag: If desired, you can attach a handmade tag for extra elegance.
Now that we have everything we need, let's begin!
Step 1: Making the Magic Ring
To start our drawstring bag, we will create a magic ring. This technique allows us to work in a spiral, eliminating the need for slip stitches at the end of each row. Here's how you can make a magic ring:
- Hold the end of the yarn in your hand, leaving a small tail.
- Wrap the yarn around your index and middle fingers twice, forming a loop.
- Insert your crochet hook underneath the first loop and grab the working yarn.
- Pull the yarn through the loop, creating a new loop on your hook.
- Tighten the ring by pulling the tail end of the yarn.
Step 2: Row 1 - Creating the Base
Now that we have the magic ring, let's work on the foundation row. For the first row, we will be creating ten half double crochets on the magic ring. Follow these steps:
- Insert your crochet hook into the magic ring.
- Yarn over and pull through the ring, creating three loops on your hook.
- Yarn over again and pull through all three loops, completing the half double crochet.
- Repeat this process nine more times until you have ten half double crochets in total.
- Close the magic ring by pulling the tail end of the yarn.
Step 3: Row 2 - Working in a Spiral
In this project, we will be working in a spiral, meaning we won't end each row with a slip stitch. Instead, we will continuously work in a continuous spiral. Here's how you can proceed with Row 2:
- Start by creating two half double crochets on the first stitch of Row 1.
- Mark the first stitch with a stitch marker to keep track.
- Continue working two half double crochets on each stitch throughout this round.
- Remember not to end the round with a slip stitch but continue working in the spiral.
Step 4: Rows 3-4 - Increasing the Stitches
In Rows 3 and 4, we will increase the stitches to shape the base of our drawstring bag. Follow these instructions for each row:
- Mark the first stitch with a stitch marker.
- Work two half double crochets on the first stitch.
- Work one half double crochet on the next stitch.
- Repeat this pattern of two half double crochets followed by one half double crochet until the end of the row.
- Continue working in this pattern for both Rows 3 and 4.
Step 5: Rows 5-16 - Working in a Spiral
For the next twelve rows (Rows 5 to 16), we will be working only one half double crochet on each stitch. This will form the body of our drawstring bag. Here's what you need to do:
- Mark the first stitch with a stitch marker for Row 5.
- Work one half double crochet on each stitch of the previous row.
- Repeat this pattern for Rows 6 to 16.
- Remember to keep the stitch marker to count the number of rows completed.
Step 6: Rows 17-19 - Creating Drawstring Spaces
Now that our bag's body is complete, we will create spaces for the drawstrings. Follow these steps to form the drawstring spaces:
- Chain three to serve as the first double crochet.
- Chain one, skip one stitch, and do a double crochet in the next stitch.
- Repeat this pattern of chaining one, skipping one stitch, and doing a double crochet until the end of the row.
- Close Row 17 with a slip stitch on top of the chain three.
- Repeat this pattern for Rows 18 and 19.
Step 7: Adding Drawstrings
With the drawstring spaces completed, it's time to attach the drawstrings to the bag. Here's how you can do it:
- Prepare two cords of equal length as drawstrings.
- Attach one drawstring on each side of the bag.
- Make sure the drawstrings are positioned in opposite directions for proper closure.
- Tie the ends of the drawstrings using a crochet hook.
- Attach pom-poms to the ends of the drawstrings for an extra touch of cuteness.
Step 8: Attaching Pom-poms and Finishing Touches
To add extra charm to the drawstring bag, attach pom-poms to the ends of the drawstrings. Simply tie the pom-poms to the drawstrings and trim any excess string. And there you have it—a cute drawstring bag ready to be used or gifted!
In conclusion, making a drawstring bag using crochet techniques is a rewarding and enjoyable project. With just a few basic stitches and some creativity, you can create a practical and stylish accessory that will impress others. So go ahead and give it a try—crochet your way to a beautiful drawstring bag!
Pros:
- Practical and functional accessory
- Suitable for gifting
- Customizable with different yarn colors and pom-pom styles
- Can be made with basic crochet skills
Cons:
- Requires crochet skills and familiarity with basic stitches
- Pom-pom attachment may require additional materials and techniques
Highlights:
- Create a cute drawstring bag using basic crochet stitches
- Step-by-step guide with detailed instructions and tips
- Use versatile materials and personalize the bag with pom-poms
- Perfect for gifting or as a stylish accessory
- Enhance your crochet skills while creating a practical item
FAQ:
Q: Can I use different yarn weights for this project?
A: While it's recommended to use a four-ply yarn, you can experiment with different yarn weights to achieve a desired texture and size for your bag. Just adjust the hook size accordingly.
Q: Is this project suitable for beginners?
A: This project is ideal for beginners with basic crochet skills. The step-by-step instructions provide clear guidance, and the repetitive stitches make it easy to follow along.
Q: Can I add additional embellishments to the bag?
A: Absolutely! Feel free to get creative and add your personal touch to the drawstring bag. Embellishments like buttons, beads, or embroidery can enhance its appearance.
Q: Can I make the bag larger or smaller?
A: Yes, you can adjust the size of the bag by increasing or decreasing the number of stitches in the base and body rows. Just remember to maintain the same pattern and proportions throughout.
Q: How long does it take to complete this project?
A: The time required to complete the drawstring bag depends on individual crochet speed and experience. On average, it should take a few hours to a day to finish the project. Take your time and enjoy the process!