About This Spike Stitch Tote Bag Pattern
This pattern creates a roomy Spike Stitch Tote Bag worked in the round with a textured spike stitch body and a contrasting top band. You can choose pre-made leather-style straps or crochet long handles for a fully handmade finish. The stitch tutorial and step-by-step rounds are included for a clear, polished result.
Worked in worsted weight yarn with a 3.5mm hook, the bag finishes approximately 15" wide by 12" high. The pattern uses American terminology and includes placement notes for straps and finishing tips.
Why You'll Love This Spike Stitch Tote Bag Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it transforms a simple yarn and hook into a durable, chic tote that you can use every day. The spike stitch creates a lovely, fabric-like texture that feels substantial and looks handmade but refined. I enjoy the flexibility of choosing pre-made straps for a quick finish or crocheting my own handles for a fully crafted piece. Every time I make one, I play with color placement and strap options to match my wardrobe — it keeps the design fresh and fun.
Switch Things Up
I love changing colors for the body and top band to create new looks; try a contrast color band or a tonal gradient for a modern twist.
I often swap worsted weight yarn for a bulky yarn and a larger hook to make a chunkier, more slouchy tote that works as a market bag.
You can make the bag smaller or larger by changing the starting chain from 55 to more or fewer stitches and adjusting increases proportionally.
I sometimes line the bag with fabric for extra durability and to prevent small items from slipping through the texture; a simple cotton lining works beautifully.
Try adding an internal pocket by sewing a small crocheted or fabric pocket to the lining for keys and phone storage.
For a dressier version, use leather straps and brass rivets as shown; you can distress or dye faux leather for a vintage look.
I recommend experimenting with a two-strand carry (crocheting around two strands held together) if you want a stiffer, boxier bag shape for heavier loads.
If you want a mini version, use DK yarn and a smaller hook and reduce the starting chain to create a compact crossbody or small project bag.
I like to add decorative elements like a tassel or a small crocheted flower at the strap join for a personalized touch.
For an eco-friendly option, use 100% cotton or a recycled cotton blend and avoid synthetic straps, or repurpose vintage leather belts for an eclectic finish.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping stitch markers when positioning straps leads to uneven placement; place stitch markers at the 21st, 49th, 94th and 121st stitches to ensure even strap spacing.
✗ Not checking gauge before starting will change the finished size and stitch counts; make a 4"/10cm swatch at spike stitch and single crochet to confirm 19 sts x 18 rows.
✗ Crocheting with inconsistent tension in spike stitches causes puckering or uneven texture; maintain steady, moderate tension and adjust hook size if your spikes are too tight or loose.
✗ Forgetting to crochet around a second strand for extra structure can leave the bag too soft; if you want a firmer bag, start crocheting around another strand of yarn in round 2 as recommended.
✗ Twisting the long chain used for crocheted straps will make them lay awkwardly; after making the CH 100 for a strap, check and untwist the chain before joining and working into it.
