Rose City Tote – Granny Square Bag (Free Crochet Pattern)

This stylish tote is made from classic granny squares and finished with sturdy straps. It’s roomy, durable, and perfect for everyday use.

Materials

• Yarn A (main color): DK weight (e.g., Hobbii Universe) – approx. 2 cakes
• Yarn B (contrast): DK cotton (e.g., Hobbii Rainbow 8/8) – approx. 4 skeins
• 4 mm crochet hook
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle
• Tape measure
• Steamer or steam iron (optional, for finishing)

Finished Size

• Width: ~16 inches
• Length: ~17.5 inches
• Handle length: ~18 inches

Gauge

• 1 granny square = 8 inches (after 9 rounds)

Abbreviations

• ch = chain
• dc = double crochet
• sc = single crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• sp = space
• RS = right side
• WS = wrong side

Notes Before You Start

• Each square is worked in the round.
• Change colors every 2 rounds.
• Instead of cutting yarn at color changes, carry it along the wrong side.
• You will make 8 total granny squares.

Step 1: Make the Granny Squares (Make 8)

Round 1 (RS)

1. With Yarn A, create a magic ring.
2. Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
3. Work:
   • 2 dc, ch 2
   • (3 dc, ch 2) 3 times
4. Close ring.
5. Join with sl st to top of ch-3.
6. Turn.

Round 2 (WS)

1. Ch 3, 2 dc in same corner space.
2. In each corner space:
   • (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)
3. In last corner: 3 dc, ch 2
4. Switch to Yarn B and join with sl st.
5. Turn.

Round 3

1. Ch 3, 2 dc in same corner.
2. Work 3 dc in each side space between clusters.
3. In each corner:
   • (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)
4. Join and turn.

Round 4

1. Continue building sides:
   • 3 dc in each space
2. Corners remain:
   • (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)
3. Switch back to Yarn A.
4. Join and turn.

Round 5

Repeat the same pattern:

• 3 dc in each space
• Corners: (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc)

Rounds 6–9

• Continue pattern exactly the same.
• Change color every 2 rounds.
• Finish Round 9 with Yarn A.
• Fasten off.

Each square should measure ~8 inches.

Step 2: Join the Squares

Layout:

• Arrange squares 2 high × 4 across.

Joining options:

• Join-as-you-go (preferred)
• OR seam with whip stitch afterward

You should now have a tube shape.

Step 3: Close the Bottom

1. Lay the tube flat.
2. Align bottom edges.
3. Using Yarn A, whip stitch across to close the base.

Step 4: Top Edge (Part 1)

Round 1:

1. Join Yarn A at any seam.
2. Ch 1, sc in same spot.
3. Work:
   • sc in every stitch
   • sc in each seam space
4. Join with sl st.

Rounds 2–4:

• Ch 1, sc around
• Join each round
• Fasten off after Round 4

Step 5: Mark Strap Placement

1. Lay bag flat.
2. Mark the center stitch on front and back.
3. From each center, measure 6.5 inches across.
4. Place markers on both sides.

Step 6: Create the Straps

Row 1:

1. Join Yarn A at first marker.
2. Ch 1, sc across to second marker.
3. Turn.

Rows 2–4:

• Ch 1, sc across
• Turn each row

Strap Extension:

1. Ch 1, sc 7 stitches only
2. Turn
3. Repeat until strap measures 8 inches

Fasten off.

Repeat:

• Go back and repeat for the second side
• Then repeat entire process on opposite side of bag

You will now have 4 strap pieces.

Step 7: Join the Straps

1. Pair the 2 front straps → whip stitch together
2. Pair the 2 back straps → whip stitch together

Now you have 2 complete handles

Step 8: Finishing

1. Using Yarn A:
   • sc around entire handle edges
   • sc around bag opening
2. Stretch handles gently
3. Weave in all ends

Final Touch

• Lightly steam block the bag
• This softens stitches and improves shape

You’re Done!

You now have a durable, stylish granny square tote perfect for everyday use—groceries, shopping, or travel.