Ribbed Sweater Hobo/Tote

I recently found an amazing bag picture on the web and it turned out the instructions were only in an obscure japanese mag that would have cost me an arm and a leg to order (not to mention... it's in japanese). Inspired, I decided to improvise a similar one that looks like a nice ribbed sweater.

Keep in mind that this project requires some (simple but unusual) assembly and that since it was improvised, it's not uber-precise. But it works! And it is a pretty forgiving design.

One skein of Bernat Super Value (7 oz) or any other worsted weight yarn
4mm hook - a hook one size smaller than the recommended size.

Fabric for lining, sewing supplies etc. *Please note that the instructions for the lining are not included! Many tutorials are available on the web, though :)

Crocheted in Bernat Super Value, the bag should measure approx. 15 inches wide and 12 inches high. Roomy!

Gauge is not critical for this project.

scblo - single crochet in back loop only
scblo2tog - scblo decrease. Insert hook in back loop of the first stitch, pull yarn, insert hook in back loop of 2nd stitch, pull yarn (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through both loops.

For the decorative touches, slip stitch through fabric + bobbles (instructions are easy to find)

Body

Row 1: Ch 23, ch 1, turn

Row 2: sc in each ch across, ch 1, turn

Rows (3-8): 2 scblo in 1st st, scblo in next 5 st, 2 scblo in following stitch… continue increasing every 5 stitches for the rest of the rows, starting each new row the same way (with 2 scblo in the first stitch, then do 5 scblos etc). * These rows do not end evenly: if you have room for another double do it, if not simply continue with the next row.*Ch1, turn

Rows (9-12): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn

Row 13: Repeat row 3 technique, increasing every 5 stitches

Rows (14-15): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn

Row 16: Repeat row 3 technique, increasing every 5 stitches

Rows (17-20): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn

Row 21: Repeat row 3 technique, increasing every 5 stitches

Rows (22-40): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn
*This forms the first half and center of the bag’s body. Now we mirror our increase rows with decreases to get a symmetrical bag

Row 41: scblo2tog, scblo in next 5 st, scblo2tog… *the same principle as for row 3 applies here. Decrease every 5 st, and if the row ends unvevenly, either decrease if you have room, or don’t.

Rows (42-45): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn

Row 46: Repeat row 41 technique, decreasing every 5 st

Rows (47-48): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn
Row 49: Repeat row 41 technique, decreasing every 5 st

Rows (50-53): scblo in each st across, ch1, turn

Rows (54-59): Repeat row 41 technique, decreasing every 5 st.

Row 60 (*and potentially 61): Check to make sure you end-up with 23 st (one more or less won’t show). Work enough decreases to get that number (you may also add another row if you wish. This design is pretty forgiving.

Fasten off, weave in ends

The area directly underneath the handles (the two dc rows that would be below your armpit when wearing the bag):

Keeping in mind that the ribbing should be vertical, fold the bag the way it would be when finished and locate the center by counting the ribs from the edges.

From that center, use stitch markers to mark an area of 20 stitches ( 10 on each side of the center), in wich you will make:

----

Row 1: Join yarn, 20 sl st in center of bag’s body, ch 2, turn *Note that even though the next row is a dc row, I only chain 2)

Row 2: dc across. Ch 2, Turn.

Row 3: dc across, Fasten off

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Rows 4-5-6: Mirror this on the other side of the bag, repeating rows 1-2-3

The all-around handles

With the bag folded and the ribs vertical, locate the place where you would attach the side points of the bag, basically the ends of the 1st and last rows of the body (this makes a round hole on each side).

Join these points together with the yarn and then start making sc all around the edge of the bag.
When you reach the top of the dc rows, ch 56 (handle1) and being careful not to twist the chain, continue sc along the other side, joining the points of the second side when you reach them.When you reach the top of the back of the bag, ch 56 (handle 2) and continue sc until you are back where you started.

Continue sc around for 2 more rows and when you are back where you started, sl st and fasten off. Weave in ends.

The hole plugs

The bag is almost complete but there are holes at each end. You can either sew them shut with yarn or (and I prefer this technique because it’s prettier), you can join the yarn at the top of the hole and crochet in spiral, making decreases every 3 st, then 2, etc, until the hole closes.
Another way to go about it would be to crochet in the round 2 discs that you can then attach there.

Decorative touches

I made the horizontal bar with 3 rows of slip stitches through the fabric, and then made two bobbles and attached them on each side. (You can easily find these techniques on the web if you don’t know them already)

I added a cotton lining with a few pockets: you can also find instructions for this easily on the web. This bag REALLY benefits from a lining, else it will stretch and take the shape of every object you put inside. I was surprised myself at how a simple lining solves this problem. Just watch out for the measurements: keep the opening tight enough to fit the fabric but lose enough to accommodate the stretch of the bag. Make sure you have a 3-dimentional box-type bottom so you have room to fill your bag!

Enjoy this unusual pattern!

Note: For other images please go to:
http://www.flickr.com/photos/28478581@N07/

Additional Options:
Try this pattern in different colors!
Beaded trim or your favorite decorative pins or appliques found at most craft stores.

--Lion Brand Yarn—Lion Suede (3 oz/122 yds/85g per ball)
--2 balls #126 (coffee)
--Size J10/6mm or size needed to obtain gauge
--Tapestry Needle
--Purse Handles (found at most craft stores)
--Floral Pin or Appliqué (found at most craft stores)
--Matching Accented Scarf (found at most clothing stores)

Body Length = 7 inches
Body Length with Overturned Edging = 9 inches
Base Length = 8 inches

14 sc = 4 inches; 8 sc rows = 2.5 inches

Everyday Handbag with Fashion Applique and Scarf

Option: A different variation on metallic can be achieved by using Patons Brilliant Yarns Line with the same hook size listed in the pattern.

Bottom
Rnd 1 Ch 3, sl st in 3rd ch from hook to form a ring
Rnd 2 Ch 1, sc in ring, 5 more sc in ring, join to the first sc made [6 sc]
Rnd 3 Ch 1, sc in same stitch, another sc in same stitch, 2 sc in each stitch around, join to the first sc made[12 sc]
Rnd 4 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [18 sc]
Rnd 5 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 2 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 2 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [24 sc]
Rnd 6 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 3 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 3 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [30 sc]
Rnd 7 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 4 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 4 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [36 sc]
Rnd 8 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 5 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 5 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [42 sc]
Rnd 9 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 6 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 6 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [48 sc]
Rnd 10 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 7 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 7 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [54 sc]
Rnd 11 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 8 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 8 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [60 sc]
Rnd 12 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 9 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 9 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [66 sc]
Rnd 13 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 10 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 10 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [72 sc]
Rnd 14 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 11 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 11 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [78 sc]
Rnd 15 Ch 1, 2 sc in same stitch, sc in next 12 sc, *2 sc in next sc, sc in next 12 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made [84 sc]

Body
Rnd 16-–40 Ch 1, sc in each sc around, join to the first sc made
Rnd 41 Ch 1, sc in front loop of same stitch, sc in each front loop around, join to the first sc made
Rnd 42--45 Ch 1, sc in each sc around, join to the first sc made
Rnd 46 Ch 1, sc in same stitch, sc in the next 11 sc, *decrease over the next 2 sc, sc in the next 12 sc*, repeat from * to *, join to the first sc made
Rnd 47 Ch 1, sc in same stitch, sc in each sc around, join to the first sc made
fasten off

Handle Straps--Make 4
Row 1 Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each sc across, turn

Attaching Handles
Fold bag in half, laying flat measure sides and center handles, place markers on each side to where handles would be attached. Repeat for the opposite side.

Using a dress pin, place one end of handle strap 1 on inner lining, 1/2 inches below the top opening of bag. Fold the handle strap through the purse metal loop and attach another pin to hold handle in place. Repeat for each side of handle. Sew the handle straps in place by using a tapestry needle and yarn.

Finishing
Weave in ends using a tapestry needle.

Care Instructions
Hand wash only
Roll in a towel and let air dry
Do not iron

Anyone living in Posadas could tell where this bag's name comes from, mainly because of the distinctive colors. I made it for myself more than a year ago, but ended up giving it to a dear friend from college, Rosalba.
The yarn, obviously, comes from recycled market bags, but don't be fooled. I'm into recycling, of course, yet, this project has more to do with the fact that I´m kind of a cheap hooker who can't afford to buy fancy yarn for fancy projects.
I featured this pattern in Spanish on http://curupisa.blogspot.com.

Yarn made from recycled plastic bags.
Use two skeins: a big one with mixed colours, made out from bags with writings (colour A) and a smaller one (colour B) made from plain colour bags (to tell you the truth, I didn’t pay attention to the amount of bags I used).
I used a 6mm hook (USA J/10, UK 4)

18''(45 cm) high.
16'' (40 cm) wide at the top.

10 sc and 10 rows= about 4''/10 cm.

You can find great tutorials anywhere on how to make yarn from plastic bags.

Starting with skein A, make a circle of 5 ch.
1st. round: 1 ch and 10 sc. Close this and all rounds with a sl st.
2nd rnd: 1 ch. and 2 sc on each sc. Close.
3rd. rnd: 1 ch., *1 sc over first sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
4th. rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc over first 2 sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
5th.rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc on next 3 sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
6th.rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc over next 4 sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
7th. rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc over next 5 sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
8th. and 9th rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc over next 6 sc, 2 sc on next one*. Repeat * across round.
10th. 13th. rnd: sc on each st.
14th. rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc, 1 ch, skip 1 sc*, repeat.
15th. to 17th rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc on each ch, 1 ch, skip each sc*, repeat.
18th. to 19th. rnd: use skein B. 1 ch, *1 sc on each ch, 1 sc on each sc*, repeat.
20th. to 30th. rnd: with skein A, like rounds 14 and 15.
31st. to 32nd. rnd: like rounds 18 and 19, using colour B.
33rd. to 36th. rnd: with skein A, like rounds 14 and 15 c.
34th rnd: 1 ch., 1 sc on each st.
35th rnd: 1 ch, *1 sc on the next 22 st, 20 ch, skip next 16 sc*, repeat once.
36th and 37th rnd: 1 ch, 1 sc on each st across to the end.
Fasten off. Weave in end.

This is a pattern I came up with, to protect my new toy... A Casio EXILIM digital Camera. I received it in the mail and didn't have a cover to protect it. I made my own.
The cozy is made of left over yarns in my stash.
It is a good gift idea and works up in less than half an hour.

Cascade 220 (Light Teal)
LionBrand Homespun (Black)

Approximate Length 4"
Approximate Width 3"

3 sc and 3 rows = 1" (approximately) in heavier yarn.

Crochet Hook Size: US K / 6.5 mm (For Homespun)
US D / 3.25 mm (For Cascade 220)

Abbreviations:
Single Chain (sc/ scs) (I directed a video to demonstrate the stitch which is available from you tube - left handed and right handed)
Half Double Crochet (hdc) (Video available here on you tube.)
Chain (ch)
Inches ( " )

I worked the cozy in two yarn weights Heavier (Color A - Homespun) and Lighter (Color B - Cascade)

(Note: The pattern can be adopted to fit any camera/ cellphone/ Mp3 music player etc simply by checking the dimensions of the object it is being made for and then increasing the base chain numbers accordingly.)

* With Color A and K hook ch 11, turn. (11th chain will count for turning.)
* SC in the second chain from hook, * sc across to the end (total 10 scs). Ch 1 turn
* Repeat from * till the piece is exactly double the width of the camera. (My camera is 3.5", so my rectangular piece measured 7"). Bind off A.
* Join the Color B in the last sc of the previous row. Fold the rectangular piece in half and start sc through both layers from this corner down to the sides (Both layers of the piece will be joined on the sides using this edge.) then the bottom and then the corner of the other side. We now have a nice edge around 3 sides of piece. Use 1ch or 2scs to turn corners.
* Now we will work on the open edges in the round. ch 1, 2 scs with B in each sc of A (Total 40 scs around.) Join in the first ch1 using slip stitch.
* * ch 2, hdc in each sc around. Join with slip st to the first ch2. (total 40scs around.)
* Repeat from * for 3 more rows.
* ch2, 3hdc in the next 3scs, 1ch and skip next sc, *4hdc in the next 4 scs, 1ch and skip next sc. Repeat from * to the end. Join with slip stitch to the first chain 2. Bind off. The holes created in the last row will be used for the closure string.

To make the closure string

* Take Color B, 4 times the actual length that will be required for the pouch edge leaving two ends of atleast 2-4" each.
* Fold the length of B in half and secure one end. (I put the folded end in one of my toes) and twist it between your palms.
* Once the half length is twisted hold both ends together (thus resulting in another half fold of the already half length) and free the other end. The yarn will self twist to form a nice cord.
* Now thread this cord through the holes created in the last row of the cozy alternating drawing direction. (From outside to inside once and visa versa till the end.)
* Join the loose ends together with a knot to form a loop.

I want to decorate my kitchen with strawberries. That´s why I needed a berry-like grocery bag. Here it is, one of my very first patterns

Yarn: Schachenmayr, nomotta, “Catania“, Llg. 125 Meter/ 50 Gramm
50 gram red, 100 gram green

hook: size 3,5 (european size)

as you wish, netting will stretch

no gauge needed, make bag as big as you want (keep in mind it will stretch a lot)

ch=chain
sl=slipstitch
sc=single crochet
dc=double crochet
tc=triple crochet

Bottom (red):
4 ch, with sl in first ch make a ring
Begin every round with 3 ch instead of first dc and end with sl in 3nd ch of round
round 1: 3 ch , 12 dc in ring,
round 2: work in dc, in every 2nd dc of round 1 make 2 dc.
round 3: work in dc, in every 3rd dc of round 2 make 2 dc.
round 4: from round 4 to 9 increase dc by making 2 dc in 4th, 5th … dc of round before (easy, eh?)
round 10: dc in every stitch with no increases.

“leaves” (green):
(the leaves are optional, if you don’t like them continue with “bag”)

round 1: *10 ch, make sl in 5th dc of round 10*, repeat * to *
round 2: around every ch-loop of round 1 make: 1 sc, 3 dc, 3 tc, 3 dc, 1 sc

(For the orange version of the bags I made 2 rounds like round 1, that gives a more fuzzy effect)

Bag (green):
round 1:
Make the “tunnel” for the draw string:
3 ch (for 1st dc), *1 dc in 2nd dc of round 10 of bottom (the 2 rounds of the “leaves“ are not continued any further!), 1 ch*, Repeat from * to *
round 2: 3 ch (for 1st dc), 5 ch, 1 sc around next ch of round below, *5 ch, 1 sc into second dc of round below, 5 ch, 1 sc second dc of round below*, repeat from * to *.
Repeat Row 2 until bag is the desired size: Around each ch-loop work one sc followed by 5 ch, 5 ch, 1 sc, and so on.

The bag will be very stretchy, so you only need to make a bag with 2/3 of desired size.

If you want to get a bigger bag, work 7 ch instead of the 5 ch loops.

Edge:
round 1(green) : 3 ch (for 1st dc), *2 dc around ch-loop, 1 dc into sc of round before*, repeat from *to*, finish round with sl into 3rd ch of beginning.

Leaves on top (green) (these are optional, if you don´t want leaves on top, continue with round 2 of edge:)
round 1 leaves: 8 ch, 1 sl in 4th sc of round below, repeat

round 2 leaves: around each ch-loop work 1sc, 3 dc, 4 tc, 3dc, 1sc
(or work a second round like round 1 for fuzzy effect)

Continue working next round into first round of edge ( in red)
If there is already a stitch in the round below (from the leaves), work second stitch in same stitch:
round 2: 3 ch, 1 dc in each sc of round below, finish round with sl in 3rd ch of beginning
round 3-4: 3 ch, 1 dc in each dc of round below, finish round with sl in 3rd ch of beginning

Handles (red):
Lay bag flat to half, 4 centimeter from right edge work 5 sc on upper edge, continue in rows until desired length, fix handle 4 centimeter from left edge.
Work second handle the same way

Make a draw string: Make a ch ribbon 80 centimeter long and work sl over the complete length. Pull thread through the “tunnel” of round 1 bag. Attach a Drawstring Slide, available at a Notions Counter or Fabric Store

I have translated this pretty easy pattern as good as I could.. If anything is not clear or wrong, please feel free to contact me and leave a comment. I enjoy postive feedback as well ;-)

A little pouch for makeup, crochet tools, change, whatever! Worked in a spiral after the orange base, close with a zipper or even some lightweight Velcro.

-Olympus Herbs
(100% cotton, 96yds each, crochet thread size #20)
1 ball MC
1 ball CC

-steel crochet hook 2.00mm

approx 3.5" wide

NOTE: You can work this project in any yarn, any hook! Heavier weight yarns and a larger hook will produce a larger pouch. Be sure to use a hook size that gives you a tight crochet stitch.

9.5 sc = 1"

Working the increase rounds of this pattern, you will not join to the ch 1 stitch at the beginning of the round, you will skip the ch 1 and join to the first sc of each round (makes for a cleaner looking join). After increases are finished you will work in a continuous spiral instead of joining rounds.