Sunwashed Citrus Market Tote Free Crochet Pattern

Sunwashed Citrus Market Tote Free Crochet Pattern

Carry a slice of summer wherever you go with this vibrant, textured market tote! Crocheted in juicy citrus tones of tangerine, lemon yellow, and cream, this sturdy yet lacy bag is perfect for farmers' market hauls, beach days, or everyday errands. The open-stitch V-stitch pattern creates a beautiful, breathable grid that shows off your produce while remaining strong enough for heavy loads. Best of all, this pattern is beginner-friendly and works up quickly with worsted weight cotton yarn. Let's dive in and create your new favorite summer accessory!

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (e.g., Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton) in 3 colors:
  • Tangerine (MC) – approx. 300g
  • Lemon Yellow (CC1) – approx. 150g
  • Cream (CC2) – approx. 100g
• Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook
• Gauge: 14 dc x 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in pattern stitch
• Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers (optional)

Special Stitches

Before we begin, let's review the two special stitches used in this pattern:

• V-stitch (V-st): (dc, ch 1, dc) all worked in the same stitch or space.
• Shell stitch: 5 dc worked in the same stitch (not used in this pattern, but good to know for variations).

Step-by-Step Instructions

Bottom of Bag

Worked in continuous rounds from the bottom up.

Round 1: With MC, make a magic ring, ch 3 (counts as dc), 11 dc in ring, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (12 dc)

Round 2: Ch 3, dc in same st, 2 dc in each st around, join. (24 dc)

Round 3: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next st, *2 dc in next st, dc in next st* repeat around, join. (36 dc)

Round 4: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 2 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 2 sts* repeat around, join. (48 dc)

Round 5: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 3 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 3 sts* repeat around, join. (60 dc)

Round 6: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 4 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 4 sts* repeat around, join. (72 dc)

Round 7: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 5 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 5 sts* repeat around, join. (84 dc)

Round 8: Ch 3, dc in same st, dc in next 6 sts, *2 dc in next st, dc in next 6 sts* repeat around, join. (96 dc)

Your circular base should now measure approximately 8-9 inches in diameter. If it's curling, your tension may be too tight; if it's ruffling, too loose.

Body of Bag

Round 9: Ch 3 (counts as dc), skip next st, V-st in next st, skip next st, dc in next st, *skip next st, V-st in next st, skip next st, dc in next st* repeat around, join with sl st to top of ch-3. (24 V-sts, 24 dc)

Round 10: Ch 3, V-st in ch-1 space of first V-st, dc in next dc, *V-st in ch-1 space of next V-st, dc in next dc* repeat around, join. (24 V-sts, 24 dc)

Rounds 11-20: Repeat Round 10. Work even, maintaining the pattern. The bag will begin to take on its beautiful lacy texture as it grows upward.

Round 21: Ch 1, sc in each st and ch-1 space around, join with sl st to first sc. (96 sc)

Round 22: Ch 1, sc in each st around, join. Fasten off MC.

Your bag body should now measure approximately 10-11 inches tall from the base. The sc rounds at the top create a sturdy edge that will hold its shape beautifully.

Straps (Make 2)

Row 1: With CC1, ch 8, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. (7 sc)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across.

Rows 3-80: Repeat Row 2 until strap measures approximately 30 inches (76 cm) or your desired length. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Tip: To check your strap length, hold one end at the side seam of your bag and drape it across your body to the other side. Adjust the number of rows as needed for your preferred drop length.

Assembly

1. Fold each strap in half lengthwise with the right sides together. Using a yarn needle and the long tail, whip stitch the long edges together to create a sturdy, rounded strap. This doubles the thickness and creates that beautiful braided look.
2. Attach one end of each strap to the inside of the bag at the side seams. Using the long tail and yarn needle, sew securely through the sc rounds at the top of the bag. Make sure to catch both layers of the folded strap for maximum strength.
3. Repeat for the other ends of the straps, ensuring they are not twisted. The straps should curve gracefully from the sides of the bag.

Finishing

Weave in all ends carefully with your yarn needle, making sure to secure them well. Give your bag a gentle steam block if desired to even out the stitches and enhance the drape.

Optional: For extra durability and to prevent small items from falling through the open stitches, you can add a fabric lining. Simply cut a piece of cotton fabric to fit the inside of the bag, sew the sides, and hand-stitch it to the top edge.

Tips for Success

• Keep your tension consistent throughout the pattern, especially when working the V-stitch rounds. This ensures an even, professional-looking fabric.
• Use stitch markers at the beginning of each round to help you keep track of your place, especially during the increase rounds.
• Cotton yarn has no give, so if you're between sizes, size up your hook rather than down.
• Block your bag after finishing to help the stitches settle and the bag hold its shape.

And there you have it – your very own Sunwashed Citrus Market Tote! This bag is as functional as it is beautiful, with a roomy interior that expands to hold all your summer essentials. The vibrant colors will brighten any outfit, and the sturdy cotton construction means it will last for seasons to come. Whether you're heading to the farmers' market, the beach, or just running errands around town, this tote is sure to become your go-to summer companion.

Happy crocheting, and enjoy carrying a little slice of sunshine wherever you go!