The Dune Drifter Duffel: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Bohemian Travel Bag

Introducing the Dune Drifter Duffel

Escape the ordinary with this generously sized, textured duffel bag, perfect for a weekend getaway or a trip to the farmer's market. The combination of a sturdy Tunisian crochet base and a soft, woven-like stitch creates a bag that is both durable and beautifully tactile. This free pattern will guide you through creating a bohemian, travel-ready accessory that stands out with its modern, organic aesthetic.

Materials Needed

To create your Dune Drifter Duffel, gather the following materials:

• Yarn: Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton (100% mercerized cotton; 100g/186 yds) in 3 colors:
  • Color A (Sand) - 4 skeins
  • Color B (Terracotta) - 2 skeins
  • Color C (Sage) - 2 skeins
• Hooks:
  • US Size J/10 (6.0 mm) Tunisian crochet hook with a 32-inch cable
  • US Size J/10 (6.0 mm) standard crochet hook
• Gauge: 14 Tunisian simple stitches and 12 rows = 4 inches in Tunisian Simple Stitch (Tss) with Color A
• Other: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers (optional)

Step-by-Step Instructions

Notes

The bag is worked in two main pieces: the front/back panel and the base/side panel. The Tunisian crochet hook is used for the main body to create a dense, sturdy fabric. The standard hook is used for the edging and handles.

Panel 1 (Front/Back - Make 2)

With Color A and Tunisian hook, ch 36.

• Row 1 (Forward Pass): Insert hook in 2nd ch from hook, yo, pull up a loop. Repeat across. (36 loops on hook)
• Row 1 (Return Pass): Yo, pull through 1 loop on hook. *Yo, pull through 2 loops on hook.* Repeat from * across. (1 loop remains on hook)
• Row 2 (Forward Pass): Skip first vertical bar, *insert hook under next vertical bar, yo, pull up a loop.* Repeat from * across. (36 loops on hook)
• Row 2 (Return Pass): Repeat Row 1 Return Pass.

Repeat Row 2 for pattern until piece measures 14 inches from beginning, ending with a return pass. Fasten off.

Panel 2 (Base and Sides)

With Color A and standard hook, ch 12.

• Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (11 sc)
• Row 2-60: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (11 sc)

Fasten off. This creates a long rectangle that will form the bottom and sides of the duffel.

Assembly

1. With Color B and standard hook, single crochet the two main panels to the long edges of the base/side rectangle. The base/side rectangle will curve around the bottom and up the sides. The 14-inch sides of the main panels will be sewn to the 60-row length of the base/side rectangle. Use a whip stitch or single crochet seam.
2. Once the body is assembled, you will have a tube-like shape. The top edges of the main panels will be open.

Top Edging

With Color B and standard hook, join yarn to any top edge stitch. Work 1 round of sc evenly around the top opening. Join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off Color B.

Join Color C. Work 1 round of sc. Fasten off Color C.

Join Color A. Work 1 round of sc. Do not fasten off.

Drawstring Casing

• Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in each st around. Join with sl st to top of ch-3. (approx 120 dc)
• Round 2: Ch 3, dc in each st around. Join. Fasten off.

Drawstring (Make 2)

With Color B, cut 4 strands of yarn, each 60 inches long. Fold in half and twist tightly. Fold in half again to create a twisted cord. Knot the ends. Repeat for second cord.

Weave one cord through the dc casing from one side, and the other cord from the opposite side. Knot the ends together on each side.

Handles (Make 2)

With Color A and standard hook, ch 80.

• Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (79 sc)
• Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (79 sc)

Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Fold each handle in half lengthwise and whip stitch the long edges together to create a sturdy strap. Sew the ends of each handle securely to the inside of the bag, approximately 4 inches apart on each side.

Finishing

Weave in all ends. Block the bag if desired to even out stitches. Your Dune Drifter Duffel is now ready for your next adventure!