Granny Square Crochet Bag Pattern (That Stands Up For Itself)
So slight confession. I’m kind of addicted to bags. I guess it’s a girl thing. We like purses. We like decorative ways to carry all our crap around with us. But I also love crochet, and I’ve combined those two loves before and the results have been…disappointing to say the least.
If you’re looking for a way to have structure in your life (in the form of a purse, not actual structure in your real ADHD fueled life, that’s a you problem) and have it be decorative at the same time, you’re in the right place.
Crochet bags collapse, just a law of nature my friend. You make something cute, fill it with your phone and wallet, set it down, and it immediately gives up on life and flops over like it’s had a long day.
I solved it for you. You’re welcome.
This post is a photo guide & planning companion (materials, construction notes, and FAQs).
The full written pattern is available as an instantly downloadable PDF on my site: Get The Ashford Lane Carryall Pattern Here
Prefer to browse first? Keep scrolling for photos and details.
Also, I encourage you to Get my free beginner crochet guide (for when your stitches look wrong and you’re convinced you’re the problem – you’re not)
Heads up: My posts may contain affiliate links! If you buy something through one of those links, you won’t pay a penny more, but I’ll get a small commission, which helps keep the lights on! Thanks!
What’s on this page vs what’s in the PDF
On this page (free companion guide)
- Why I made this bag and why you should too
- Yarn recommendations and hardware links
- Construction overview (generally what is involved in making this)
- FAQs for troubleshooting
In the printable PDF pattern (paid)
- Complete granny square instructions with an unreasonable amount of pics
- Panel joining method with tutorial links
- Blocking guidance (yes, it’s mandatory this time)
- Optional interior lining instructions
- Base attachment walkthrough
- How to attach the actual hardware
- Included are two ways to make handles. One with hardware, one all yarn
- Full construction photos (Again, an unhinged amount of pictures)
The Ashford Lane Carryall. Why did I create her?
I was scrolling Pinterest one night (as one does when avoiding actual responsibilities) and saw a crocheted bag that made me stop mid-scroll. This had structure. It wasn’t drooping. It looked like an actual object you could use in public without explaining yourself. (Or being asked if your granny made it for you)
But it was also the same color combo and granny square pattern I’ve seen 47,000 times. Fine, but boring. I didn’t want boring.
I was hoping for something more like “Holy Shitballs, Batman!”
What I really wanted was a bag that could hold my stuff without turning into a yarn puddle the second I set it down. I was tired of digging around in fabric that had zero structural integrity, getting stabbed by my keys because there was nothing keeping them in place. And I wanted to prove that granny squares don’t have to look dusty and exhausted, or like they just materialized from a time portal from 1968.
I set out on this journey with a hope, and a vision, and after approximately three weeks and lots of cussing, this beauty emerged.
This bag has a purchased base. Real D-ring hardware and handles that clip on and off so you can replace them when they wear out. (Or when you get bored) We also use a construction method that has double-stranded yarn held tight so the whole thing actually keeps its shape instead of collapsing under the weight of a lip balm.
This is intermediate crocheter territory. Which means you’ll need to be comfortable learning one new stitch (the puff in the center of each square) and basic joining without me walking you through every single move like you’ve never held a hook before. If you’ve finished a few projects without rage-quitting halfway through, you’re good. (But of course, I always have you covered and link back to some techniques you might need to brush up on inside the pattern)
Materials Needed: (Here come those affiliate links I was talking about)
Yarn: (Duh) I used Red Heart Super Saver for the whole bag, but use your favorite worsted weight (4) yarn if you don’t like Red Heart.
Hook: 4.0mm (G) for most construction, 5.5mm (I/9) for the optional lining’s starting chain
Hardware:
- Structured bag base from Amazon – or use whatever you want, just know that size changes will affect the rest of the bag
- D-rings – whatever shape makes your socks go up and down
- These handles – or make your own from yarn (instructions included)
Other stuff: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers, (Snacks, Netflix, Babysitter…)
How We Build a Bag (Not Build a Bear!)
You’re going to be making a moderate amount of granny squares to start. Each with the puff stitch in the middle. (This is all spelled out in the pattern)
Once you’ve made all your squares, you join them into panels (front, back, two sides) Then you block them. Yes, actually block them. I don’t usually make blocking mandatory, but this time it is. Unblocked panels are lumpy and harder to work with. Blocked panels have boundaries and cooperate.
May I present exhibit A for your reference. (Left is blocked, right is not)
After blocking, you can add an optional interior lining (crocheted panels that sandwich with the outer squares to add more structure and hide your yarn tails if you hate weaving in ends). Then you join all the panels together to form the bag shape, attach it to the base, add finishing rounds at the top, and crochet the D-rings directly into the edge.
Clip your handles on, and you’re done.
The pattern walks through all of this with an unreasonable amount of photos. You’re not doing anything individually complicated – it’s just when you add them all together it can get a bit overwhelming.
FAQ About The Ashford Lane Carryall
How many squares do I need to make?
26 squares for the outer panels (28 if you’re adding the optional interior pocket). The pattern includes a color layout grid showing exactly where each color goes, and how many squares of each color.
Do I have to use the exact base you linked?
Nope. Use whatever base you want. Just be aware that changing the size or shape will affect how the rest of the bag comes together.
What if I don’t want to buy handles?
There’s an all-yarn handle option in the pattern.
Do I really have to block the panels?
Yes. I’m not usually a “you must do this” person, but unblocked panels are a nightmare to assemble. Blocked panels line up cleanly and don’t fight you. Just do it. I promise it’s not hard.
Can I skip the interior lining?
Yep. It’s optional. The lining adds structure and hides yarn ends, but if you’d rather skip it and just weave in your ends like a responsible adult, go ahead.
What stitches do I need to know?
- Chain (ch)
- Slip stitch (sl st)
- Single crochet (sc)
- Double crochet (dc)
- Double crochet puff stitch (dcps) – explained with photos in the pattern
The pattern also links to my stitch library if you need a refresher.
How do I wash this?
Machine wash cold, tumble dry low. Check your yarn label for specific care instructions, but worsted weight acrylic is pretty forgiving.
Where’s the full pattern?
Right here: Get The Ashford Lane Carryall Pattern
Ready to Make Yours?
This bag looks more complicated than it is. You’re making squares, joining them, blocking them, assembling panels, and attaching hardware. None of that is hard. It’s just methodical.
If you can follow instructions and ask questions when you’re stuck, you’re qualified. The pattern has an unhinged amount of photos. And if you get stuck (you will, it’s fine) or when your brain starts spiraling, email me. I actually respond.
Grab the pattern here and go make a bag that makes people ask you where you bought it.
Want more granny square projects?
Check out my Granny Square Patterns page.
New to granny squares?
Start with my Traditional Granny Square Tutorial.
Need help with joining or borders?
My Project Tutorials & Techniques page has you covered.
If you make The Ashford Lane Carryall, I want to see it. Tag me or drop a comment with your color combo so we can all enable each other.
