Stouto Creative Crochet Designer - Linda Slabbert

About the Designer

Hi, I'm Linda, the designer behind Stouto Creative Crochet. I create original crochet patterns inspired by colour, texture, and the joy of handmade crafts.

Each pattern is personally designed, written, tested, and photographed to provide clear instructions and an enjoyable crochet experience. My goal is to help crocheters of all skill levels create beautiful projects they can be proud of.

Discover more crochet patterns, tutorials, and creative resources from Stouto Creative Crochet.

Meet the Designer

Yarn Calculator

Estimate the yarn you'll need based on your project size, yarn weight, and stitch pattern.

Upgrade to PDF Pattern
Limited-Time Deals

Promotions & Special Bundles

Take advantage of our maker promotions, volume discounts, and instant digital downloads.

Website Direct Sale Ends: Promotion ends :

35% Raverly Sale

Unlock row-by-row blankets, botanical squares, and wearable patterns with instant PDF delivery.

APPLY COUPON AT CHECKOUT:
No code needed
Etsy Store Exclusive Save 30% Auto

PROMO CODE : STOUTO30OFF

Get 30% off any flower motifs, throw blankets, or cushion patterns on Etsy. Use Promocode .

Open Etsy Store
Over 847 ★★★★★ reviews
Direct PDF Perks Lifetime Access

VIP Maker Direct Delivery Guarantee

  • Instant PDF download link right after purchase
  • Formatted for home printing & tablet row-checkers
  • Free errata notifications and chart expansions
Explore PDF Pattern store
Pattern Notes

Crochet Skills Required for Pattern

As you make this project, you'll practise several useful crochet techniques, including:

  • Working in the round
  • Magic Ring
  • Half Double Crochet
  • Double Crochet
  • Front Post Double Crochet (FPdc)
  • Back Loop Only stitches (BLO)
  • Colour changes
  • Joining rounds
  • Constructing crochet bags

Even if you've never made a crochet bag before, this project is a great introduction to structured bag construction.

Project Size Information

Finished Measurements

Using the recommended yarn and hook size:

Bag Body (Laid Flat)

  • Width: 26 cm (10¼")
  • Height: 26 cm (10¼")

Including Straps

  • Height: 105 cm (41¼")

Finished size will vary slightly depending on your yarn, hook size, and crochet tension.

Construction & Joining Guide

This crochet tote bag is made in three separate pieces before being assembled.

You'll crochet:

  • One Front Panel
  • One Back Panel
  • One Long Strap

The strap forms both the bag base and the handles, giving the finished tote excellent strength.

The Front Panel features the colourful Sunshine motif.

The Back Panel is worked as a solid circle using your chosen background colour.

If you would prefer the Sunshine motif on both sides of your bag, simply crochet two Front Panels instead of making a solid back panel.

Both panels are worked in joined rounds with the right side facing you throughout the project.

Creating the Sunshine Design

The Sunshine motif begins with a simple circular centre before gradually introducing textured stitches that form raised sun rays.

The first four rounds are worked in a single colour.

From Round 5 onwards, new colours are introduced to build the sunshine effect.

The outer rounds create the beautiful rainbow border that makes this bag such a cheerful project.

You can follow the rainbow colours shown in the sample or customise the palette to suit your own style.

Pattern Variations

One of the best things about this pattern is how easy it is to customise.

Rainbow Tote

Follow the pattern exactly as written to recreate the colourful sample.

Striped Tote

Change colour every round after Round 9 to create bold stripes.

Solid Colour Tote

Use one colour throughout for a timeless everyday handbag.

Double Sunshine Tote

Crochet two Sunshine panels instead of making one plain back panel.

This creates a colourful design on both sides of the bag.

Resizing & Border Guide

Resize Your Crochet Bag

Need a larger beach bag?

Want a smaller handbag?

This pattern can easily be adjusted.

To Make a Larger Bag

Continue working additional increase rounds after the final pattern round.

Each new round increases by 12 stitches while maintaining the established stitch pattern.

Remember to make both panels the same size.

You'll also need to adjust the strap length to fit the larger circumference.

To Make a Smaller Bag

Simply stop after the round that gives you your preferred size.

For example:

  • Round 8 creates a smaller handbag.
  • Round 10 creates a medium tote.

Again, both panels should be crocheted to the same size before assembly.

Perfect For

This crochet bag makes a wonderful:

  • Market bag
  • Beach bag
  • Everyday handbag
  • Crochet project bag
  • Library bag
  • Shopping tote
  • Gift bag
  • Handmade birthday gift
  • Mother's Day gift
  • Summer accessory

Its sturdy construction makes it practical enough for daily use while still showcasing beautiful crochet texture.

Crochet Blanket Sizes
Quick Stitch Guide

US Stitch Terminology : Abbreviations

LoveCrafts

Upgrade to PDF Pattern
Step by Step

Sunshine Rainbow crochet market bag with long shoulder strap

Crocheting the Strap

Once you've completed the required starting chain, count 96 chains from the beginning and place a stitch marker.

This marker indicates where the bag base ends and the handle begins.

Row 1

  • Chain 1.
  • Work 1 hdc into the second chain from the hook.
  • Continue working 1 hdc into every chain.
  • Chain 1 and turn.

Row 2

  • Chain 1.
  • Work 1 hdc through the front two loops of every stitch.
  • Chain 1 and turn.

Row 3

Repeat Row 2.

Row 4

Repeat Row 2.

Fasten off.

⚠️ This pattern is for personal use only. Please do not copy or redistribute.

Pattern Update Notice

Previous buyers can request an updated PDF, or use the free instructions on this page.

Request PDF Pattern Update

Already purchased this pattern?

If you previously purchased the PDF version and an update is available, you can request the latest version at no extra cost.

We regularly update patterns to fix errors, improve instructions, and enhance clarity.

Request an update
Use the form below to request your updated PDF.

Please include:
• Order Number
• Platform (e.g. Etsy, Ravelry, Website)
• Email used at checkout
• Pattern name (if multiple)

Once verified, your updated pattern will be sent to your email.

Processing time: 24–48 hours

Important:
• Updates apply only to previously purchased patterns
• Ensure details are correct to avoid delays
• Check spam/junk folders if you don’t see a reply
• Refer to the pattern page for the latest version info
• Unfortunately, I cannot reimburse or replace patterns purchased through fraudulent or unauthorised sites
• However, I will do my best to assist you in reporting such sites to help prevent further scams

Why updates matter:
Updates may include corrections, clearer instructions, added notes, and improved formatting to make your crochet experience easier.

Contact Details
Contact person
Order Details
Please supply your order number of your previous purchase.
Where did you purchase the pattern?
https://stoutocrochet.etsy.com
https://www.ravelry.com/stores/stoutos-stuff-designs
https://www.lovecrafts.com/en-us/user/Stouto-Creative-Crochet
https://stoutocrochet.patternbyetsy.com
https://stouto.co.za/stouto-pattern-store
https://stouto-crochet.myshopify.com
Please add details below
Select the store where you bought the pattern.
If your purchase is not from a listed store, it may not be an authorised source, as I only sell my original patterns on the platforms shown. Please complete the form with the store name so I can help check and investigate if it may be a fraudulent listing.
If your purchase was not made from one of the listed stores, please enter the full website link here. This helps us identify and investigate the source of the listing.
Pattern Details
Type in the pattern name to find the relevant pattern, if you unsure, you can complete the next field below
Or type in the pattern name listed on the top left corner of the pdf pattern file.
What Other Crocheters Say

This pattern hasn’t been reviewed yet.

Be the first to share your experience and help other crocheters.

Post a Review
Frequently Asked Questions

Is this crochet bag suitable for beginners?

Yes.

If you're comfortable working basic stitches in the round and following colour changes, you'll find this an enjoyable project. The step-by-step tutorial explains each round clearly.

What yarn works best?

Cotton is the most popular choice because it produces a strong, durable fabric with very little stretch.

Bamboo and nylon blends also work beautifully.

Can I make the bag larger?

Absolutely.

Simply continue the increase pattern for additional rounds before assembling the bag.

Remember to adjust the strap length to fit the larger panels.

Can I use one colour?

Yes.

The Sunshine design looks wonderful worked in a single colour if you prefer a more minimalist style.

Can I make this a crossbody bag?

Yes.

The pattern includes chain counts for crossbody-length straps, making it easy to customise the finished bag.