Vintage Retro Checkered Sunset Tote - Free Pattern

Vintage Retro Checkered Sunset Tote - Free Pattern

Introduction

Capture the essence of a warm sunset with this vintage retro-inspired crochet tote featuring a bold checkered pattern. Perfect for adding a touch of nostalgia to your everyday style, this bag is both functional and fashion-forward. Whether you're heading to the beach or running errands, this tote will be your new favorite accessory!

Materials Needed

• 200g of Medium weight (Worsted) yarn in the following colors:
  • Burnt Orange
  • Deep Red
  • Golden Yellow
  • Soft Cream
• 5.0 mm crochet hook
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends

Step-by-Step Instructions

Base

1. With burnt orange yarn, make a magic ring.
2. Round 1: Chain 1 (Ch 1), then make 6 single crochet (sc) into the ring. Join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the first sc. (You should have 6 stitches)
3. Round 2: Ch 1, then make 2 sc in each stitch around. Join. (You should have 12 stitches)
4. Round 3: Ch 1, then (sc in the next stitch, 2 sc in the next stitch) around. Join. (You should have 18 stitches)
5. Continue increasing in this manner until you have a base of 72 stitches. To do this, follow the pattern of increasing every other round until you reach the desired stitch count.

Body

1. Change to deep red yarn. Work 1 round of sc in each stitch around. Join.
2. Begin the checkered pattern:
   • With golden yellow, sc in the next 6 stitches.
   • With soft cream, sc in the next 6 stitches.
   Repeat this sequence around the entire round.
3. Continue working in rounds, alternating colors every 6 stitches to maintain the checkered pattern for a total of 20 rounds.

Handles

1. With burnt orange, attach the yarn to any stitch on the top edge of the bag.
2. Ch 1, then sc in the next 10 stitches.
3. Ch 50 for the handle, skip 20 stitches, then sc in the next 20 stitches.
4. Ch 50 for the second handle, skip 20 stitches, then sc in the remaining 10 stitches.
5. For the next round, sc in each stitch and chain around.
6. Work 3 more rounds of sc in each stitch around to create sturdy handles.
7. Fasten off and weave in all ends using the tapestry needle.

Finishing

1. If necessary, block the bag to shape it properly.
2. Optional: Add a fabric lining for extra durability and a polished look.

Now you have your very own Vintage Retro Checkered Sunset Tote! Enjoy showcasing your handmade creation and the compliments that come with it!