Add a handmade touch to your summer style with the Starburst Summer Crochet Tote Bag by Hannah of @hannahdaisycrochet.
This eye-catching bag features textured starburst granny squares paired with a bold striped back panel, creating a fun and practical accessory perfect for beach days, shopping, or everyday use.
Finished Size:
Approximately 16 inches wide × 17 inches tall (excluding handles)
Materials & Tools
Yarn:
- 100% cotton Aran weight yarn (recommended: Hobbii Rainbow Cotton 8/8)
- 9 colors (1 ball each) for squares and stripes
- Base color (e.g., Natural White): approx. 5 balls
Hook:
- 4.5 mm crochet hook
Other Supplies:
- Scissors
- Darning needle (for weaving in ends and seaming)
- Tape measure
Pattern Information
- Written in UK crochet terms
- Front panel = 16 starburst granny squares (4 × 4 layout)
- Back panel = solid treble crochet with rainbow stripe section
- Turn (flip) your work between rounds for texture
- Aim for varied color placement for a vibrant finish
Starburst Granny Square (Make 16)
Each square should measure ~9 cm after completion.
Round 1 – Center Circle
- Using Color A, ch4, then sl st into the first chain to form a ring.
- Ch3 (counts as 1 treble).
- Work 11 treble (tr) into the ring.
- Join with sl st and fasten off.
Total: 12 stitches
Round 2 – First Expansion
- Turn your work. Join Color B between any two stitches.
- Ch3, then 1 tr in same space.
- Work 2 tr in each gap around.
- Join and fasten off.
Total: 24 stitches
Round 3 – Starburst Texture
- Turn your work again. Join Color C between clusters.
- Ch3, then 2 tr in same space.
- Work 3 tr in each gap around.
- Join and fasten off.
Total: 36 stitches
Round 4 – Squaring the Circle
- Join base color in any gap.
- Ch4 (counts as 1 stitch).
- In the same space, work:
- 2 double treble (dtr), ch2, 3 dtr → forms a corner
- In next two spaces: 3 tr in each
- Repeat around:
- (Corner → 3 tr → 3 tr)
- Join and fasten off.
You now have a square.
Back Panel
Base Section
- Using base color, ch62
- Row 1: Work 1 tr in 2nd chain from hook and across (61 sts)
- Rows 2–11: Ch3, turn, tr across
Rainbow Stripe Section
- Rows 12–21:
- Change color every row
- Continue treble crochet across (61 sts per row)
Final Section
- Rows 22–34:
- Return to base color
- Continue treble crochet rows
Handles (Make 2)
- Using base color, ch6
- Row 1: Work 5 half treble (htr) across
- Rows 2–73:
- Ch2, turn, htr across
- Length should be approx. 27 inches
Assembly Instructions
1. Join Front Squares
- Arrange squares in a 4 × 4 grid
- Use invisible seaming or whip stitch
- Ensure edges align evenly
2. Add Border
- Join base color at any corner
- Work granny clusters (3 tr) evenly around the entire panel
- Add extra stitches at corners if needed to keep edges flat
3. Attach Front & Back Panels
- Place panels right sides facing each other
- Sew together along:
- Left side
- Bottom
- Right side
- Leave top open
4. Attach Handles
- Position handles evenly on inside of bag
- Leave about 1 inch overlap at attachment points
- Sew securely with reinforced stitches
Tips for Best Results
- Keep tension consistent for even squares
- Block squares before assembly for a cleaner finish
- Use stitch markers to align panels and handles
- Cotton yarn helps the bag hold shape and stay breathable in summer
This project is perfect for both beginners ready to level up and experienced crocheters looking for a relaxing, colorful make.
