This handmade crochet tote bag combines dense black crochet frames with recycled clear plastic bottle bottoms and cheerful daisy motifs. The result is a sturdy, eye-catching shoulder bag that feels both practical and playful — perfect for market days, beach trips, or adding a bit of sunshine to your daily carry.
Description
This unique tote is built as a 3×3 grid of square panels framed in solid black crochet. The top and bottom rows feature clear plastic bottle bottoms (the ridged bases) that act as transparent “windows,” while the middle row is filled with three dimensional white crochet daisies with bright yellow centres. The bag is finished with two long black crochet straps attached by metal rings, a small wooden-button loop closure at the top centre, and a neat black border all around. The plastic panels keep the bag lightweight yet structured, while the dense crochet frame gives it strength and a polished look. Ideal for anyone who loves upcycled fashion with a fresh, floral vibe.
Finished Size (approximate)
- Width: 28–32 cm / 11–12.5 in
- Height (body): 28–32 cm / 11–12.5 in
- Strap length: 55–65 cm / 22–26 in each (comfortable shoulder length)
- Depth: roughly the thickness of the bottle bottoms + crochet frame
Materials
- Yarn: Worsted or aran-weight cotton or cotton-blend in black (main colour)
- Small amounts of white and yellow yarn for the daisies
- Hook: 4.0 mm or 4.5 mm (or size needed for a firm fabric)
- 9 clear plastic bottle bottoms (cleaned and trimmed to similar size)
- 2 metal O-rings or D-rings for the straps
- 1 small wooden button
- Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers
Abbreviations (US terms)
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- FO – fasten off
Pattern Notes
- The bag is constructed by crocheting firm square frames around each plastic bottle bottom, then joining the nine squares into a 3×3 grid.
- Daisies are worked separately and sewn onto the middle-row panels.
- Straps are made as dense tubular or flat crochet cords and attached via metal rings.
- A firm tension is essential so the frames hold the plastic pieces securely and the bag keeps its shape when loaded.
- The plastic bottle bottoms provide natural structure and transparency — choose bottles of similar diameter for an even look.
Step-by-Step Overview
- Prepare the plastic bases: Clean and trim nine plastic bottle bottoms to the same size.
- Crochet the frames: Work a dense single-crochet (or waistcoat stitch) square around each plastic base, creating a neat black border that holds the plastic firmly in place. Make nine identical framed squares.
- Join the grid: Arrange the squares in three rows of three. Join them with single crochet or slip-stitch seams so the top and bottom rows show clear plastic and the middle row is ready for flowers.
- Add the daisies: Crochet three white daisy motifs with yellow centres. Sew one daisy securely onto the centre of each middle-row panel.
- Finish the body: Work a continuous black border around the entire 3×3 panel for a clean edge and extra strength. Add a small crochet loop and wooden button at the top centre for closure.
- Make and attach the straps: Crochet two long, sturdy straps. Attach metal rings to the top corners of the bag and secure the straps through the rings.
- Finishing: Weave in all ends, check that the plastic pieces are secure, and gently block the bag if needed so the squares sit flat and even.
Care Instructions
Wipe the plastic panels with a damp cloth. Hand wash the crochet parts gently in cold water with mild detergent if needed. Do not wring or scrub. Reshape while damp and lay flat to dry away from direct heat or sunlight. Do not tumble dry or iron. The wooden button and metal rings can be wiped clean with a soft damp cloth.
