Pattern Description:
This is a free crochet pattern for a Moroccan tote bag. The bag uses tapestry crochet to create a nice dense fabric with a beautiful Moroccan pattern. It is worked in spirals throughout, avoiding a noticeable slip stitch seam. The pattern includes instructions for a small base, followed by the body, and is finished with leather handles, a fabric lining, and a magnetic clasp.
Skill Level:
Intermediate – Basic knowledge of tapestry crochet, working in spirals, and reading charts recommended.
Pattern Description:
Create a stunning and durable Moroccan Tote Bag using tapestry crochet. This bag is worked in a continuous spiral for a seamless finish and features a dense, structured fabric with a beautiful Moroccan motif. The design includes a small oval base, a colorwork body, and elegant finishing touches like leather handles, fabric lining, and a magnetic clasp.
Materials:
- Yarn: Cascade Ultra Pima (DK Weight)
- Gold – 2 skeins
- Natural – 1 skein (This yarn provides a lovely shine and smooth finish.)
- Hook: 2.5 mm crochet hook (Creates a dense and sturdy fabric. Note: This may be hard on the hands.)
- Notions:
- Tote leather handles
- Magnetic clasp
- Matching thread (for handles)
- Fabric (for lining)
- Stitch markers or contrasting yarn
Finished Measurements:
- Bag Dimensions: Approx. 36 cm wide x 30 cm tall
- Gauge: 28 sts and 22 rows = 10 cm square in dc (UK terms), worked tightly
Stitches & Abbreviations:
- ch – chain
- st – stitch
- sl st – slip stitch
- dc – double crochet (UK)
Note: Work all body stitches in back loop only (BLO) unless otherwise specified.
Notes:
- The bag is worked in spirals (do not join or turn at the end of rounds).
- Always move up your stitch marker to track the first stitch of each round.
- The tapestry crochet technique is used to carry the unused yarn inside the stitches.
- A chart is used to create the Moroccan motif.
- For a more comfortable experience, take frequent breaks due to the tight gauge.
Pattern Instructions:
Base of the Bag:
- Foundation Chain: Ch 79.
- Round 1: Work 1 dc into the second chain from the hook and place a stitch marker in this stitch. Work 1 dc in each of the next 76 chains. In the last chain, work 4 dc. Turn to work along the opposite side of the chain, work 76 dc. In the chain with the marked stitch, work 3 dc. [Total: 160 sts]
- Round 2: Work increases at the ends to shape the oval. Follow the increase pattern to bring the total stitch count to 168 sts.
- Round 3: Work 1 dc in each st around. [168 sts]
Body of the Bag (Tapestry Crochet):
- From this point forward, continue working in spirals, using the back loop only (BLO) for all stitches.
- Mark the first stitch of this round and use a second stitch marker to track each new round.
- Begin working the colorwork pattern using the tapestry crochet chart:
- Read each round from right to left.
- Carry the unused yarn inside your stitches, even when the round is only one color.
Pattern Chart:
- The chart covers Rounds 1 to 77 of the bag body.
- You will:
- Repeat Rounds 3 to 18 four times
- Then follow the Top Chart for Rounds 67 to 77
- Final Round (77): After completing the last round, work a sl st into the first stitch of the round to close.
Finishing the Bag:
- Fabric Lining:
- Sew a lining using your chosen fabric. (Refer to the linked tutorial in the original source; skip the zipper steps.)
- Make sure the lining fits snugly inside the bag.
- Leather Handles:
- Sew the handles onto the bag before attaching the lining.
- Use a strong matching thread to secure them.
- Magnetic Clasp: Attach the magnetic clasp after installing the lining.
Tips & Techniques:
- Tight Stitches Hack: Try this alternate dc technique to reduce hand strain:
- Insert hook, yarn over and pull up a loop.
- Yarn over and pull through one loop.
- Yarn over and pull through the remaining two loops.
- Hand Comfort Tip: Due to the tight fabric, consider using padded hooks and take frequent breaks to prevent wrist fatigue.
Care Instructions:
- Gently hand wash the tote and lay flat to dry.
- Avoid soaking leather handles.
Optional:
- Add a printable PDF version for your pattern library or gifting.
Download PDF
