Welcome! Today we’re looking at a Crochet Mesh Bag, a light, open-weave carry-all that works for market trips, beach days and everyday errands.
What makes this bag special is its open mesh body, which lets you see everything inside and keeps the bag airy on warm days. The sturdy, slightly rounded base and the simple strap give it a relaxed, put-together look that goes with almost anything.
This project suits anyone who enjoys a satisfying, practical make. It is a lovely way to practise working in the round and to end up with a bag you will reach for again and again. The full step-by-step tutorial is in the video, and this page is here to help you prepare and finish well.
In this post
Skill Level
Easy. The stitches are repetitive and the construction is straightforward, so it is a great next step after your first few projects.
Mesh Bag Related Posts:
- Crochet Basic Stitch Fabric: A Simple and Versatile Foundation
- Crochet Mini Hearts: A Sweet and Lovable Handmade Accent
- Crochet Phone Pouch Case: A Cozy and Practical Accessory
Materials
- Yarn: a medium weight (category 4) cotton or cotton-blend yarn works beautifully. Cotton holds its shape well, which helps the mesh stay open and the base stay firm.
- Hook: a size that suits your yarn, usually around 4 mm to 5 mm for a medium-weight cotton, so the fabric is firm enough to hold items.
- Scissors and a yarn or tapestry needle for weaving in ends.
- Stitch markers to keep track of your rounds and the start of each round.
- Optional: a contrasting yarn in a second colour if you want to add a stitched or tied detail to the straps.
Stitches and Abbreviations
- ch: chain. Yarn over and pull through the loop on your hook to make a foundation of chains.
- sc: single crochet. Insert the hook, yarn over, pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through both loops.
- dc: double crochet. Yarn over, insert, pull up a loop, then work off two loops twice.
- sl st: slip stitch. Insert the hook, yarn over, and pull through both the stitch and the loop on your hook, used for joining and neat finishing.
Pattern Notes
- US crochet terms are used throughout.
- Mesh work looks loose and uneven at first, so do not worry if the holes seem irregular before you add the handles.
- Keep your tension even, since tight stitches can make the mesh stiff and the bag harder to fill.
- You can adjust the size by working more or fewer rounds, so check the finished width against an item you plan to carry.
- Blocking can even out the mesh and help the edges sit straight, so keep this in mind before you finish.
How It’s Made
- Start with the base, worked in the round until it is a flat, sturdy circle or oval.
- Build up the sides, working upward so the body grows into the open mesh pattern.
- Shape the body into a bag, keeping the walls even as you go.
- Create the top edge, finishing the rim so it stays neat and firm.
- Make the handles, which are worked separately and then attached to the top of the bag.
- Attach the handles securely to the body, checking that they sit evenly on both sides.
- Weave in all loose ends for a tidy finish.
Watch the video for the exact rounds and stitch placement.
Assembly and Finishing Tips
Weave your ends through the back of the mesh rather than along the outside, so they stay hidden and secure. When attaching the handles, use a sturdy sewing or whipstitch method and work back and forth a few times so the join can carry weight.
If the top edge ripples, a gentle block will help it sit flat and straight. Pin the bag into shape and let it dry fully before using it.
Make It Yours
Try a two-tone bag by switching colours for the base and the handles. A soft pastel or a natural cream tone gives a fresh, summery feel. You could also make a smaller version as a pouch for a phone or a sunglasses case, or a larger one for beach trips. A mesh bag also makes a thoughtful handmade gift for a friend who loves to shop at the market.
Happy crocheting, and we would love to see your finished bag. Share your project once it’s done and keep making!
Tutorial and photos of this mesh bag by: mahum 🎀.
