DIAMONDS TOTE BAG

DIAMONDS TOTE BAG by PLEXTOPATTERN

What is Being Made

The DIAMONDS TOTE BAG is a crocheted tote bag designed by independent designer PLEXTOPATTERN. This project offers two base options: a version with an oval base or a version with a round base. Both styles feature a diamond pattern detail and include long handles for carrying. The bag is constructed using raffia viscose yarn, making it suitable for a structured, textured accessory piece.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

This beginner-level crochet project uses fundamental crochet techniques appropriate for those new to the craft. The primary stitches employed include:

• Double crochet (dc) – the main stitch used throughout the bag construction
• Chain stitch (ch) – used for foundation and shaping
• Slip stitch (slst) – used to join rounds and create seamless transitions
• Magic Ring (MR) – used to begin circular sections without a traditional chain foundation

The pattern involves working in rounds (Rnd) and repeating stitch sequences (rpt) to build the bag structure. Shaping techniques include skipping stitches (sk) to create decreases and increase shaping for the base and body of the tote.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The DIAMONDS TOTE BAG is made using 100% raffia viscose yarn in a worsted weight. Two color options are used throughout the project:

• Main Color (MC) – Natural Dark: 140 grams (approximately 308 meters / 336 yards)
• Contrast Color (CC) – Natural Light: 60 grams (approximately 132 meters / 145 yards)

Total yardage requirements vary by base style. The oval base version requires approximately 180 grams (396 meters / 433 yards) total, while the round base version requires approximately 200 grams (440 meters / 481 yards) total.

Hook and Notions: A 3.00mm crochet hook is required (equivalent to US size C2 or D3). Additional supplies include scissors and a darning needle for weaving in yarn ends.

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 18 double crochet stitches by 6 rows over a 10 x 10 centimeter (4 x 4 inch) swatch. Adjusting hook size is recommended if gauge does not match: use a larger hook if too many stitches appear in the 10cm measurement, or a smaller hook if too few stitches are present.

The finished bag dimensions differ based on the chosen base style:

• Oval Base Version: 43 centimeters (17 inches) tall without handles; 73 centimeters (29 inches) total height including handles; 36.5 centimeters (14.5 inches) wide
• Round Base Version: 51.5 centimeters (20 inches) tall without handles; 81.5 centimeters (32 inches) total height including handles; 36.5 centimeters (14.5 inches) wide

Difficulty Level

This project is rated as beginner-friendly, making it an excellent choice for crocheters new to bag construction. The use of basic stitches and straightforward shaping techniques allows crafters to develop foundational skills while creating a functional, finished accessory.