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Nothing says timeless elegance quite like a handmade crochet tote bag. This beautiful blue and white shell stitch crochet tote combines classic craftsmanship with a modern color palette, creating a stylish accessory that’s perfect for shopping, work, beach days, or everyday use. Featuring eye-catching shell motifs, sturdy handles, a structured base, and a spacious lined interior, this tote is both practical and beautiful.
Whether you’re an experienced crocheter or an adventurous beginner looking for a rewarding project, this detailed guide will walk you through creating your own stunning crochet tote.
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Tote
This tote is designed to be durable while maintaining a soft handmade appearance.
Its highlights include:
- Elegant shell stitch texture
- Thick, sturdy handles
- Spacious interior
- Structured rectangular base
- Perfect for everyday use
- Stylish two-color design
- Great handmade gift idea
The shell stitch creates an impressive textured fabric while remaining surprisingly easy once the pattern repeat is established.
Finished Size
Approximately:
- Width: 14 inches (36 cm)
- Height: 12 inches (30 cm)
- Depth: 5 inches (13 cm)
- Handle Drop: 9 inches (23 cm)
The size can easily be adjusted by changing the starting chain and adding more shell rows.
Materials
Choose durable yarn for the best structure.
You’ll need:
- 400–500g Blue cotton cord yarn
- 250–300g White cotton cord yarn
- 4.5 mm or 5 mm crochet hook
- Stitch markers
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Magnetic snap (optional)
- Fabric lining (optional)
- Zipper pocket (optional)
- Decorative tassel (optional)
Recommended Yarn
Medium-weight cotton yarn works beautifully.
Popular choices include:
- Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton
- Paintbox Cotton Aran
- YarnArt Macrame Cotton
- Drops Paris
- Lily Sugar’n Cream
Cotton provides excellent stitch definition while helping the bag maintain its shape.
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- st – stitch
- sp – space
- rep – repeat
- sk – skip
Pattern Notes
The shell stitch uses repeating groups.
Alternate colors every row for the classic blue and white appearance.
The finished fabric becomes thicker after several rounds, making it perfect for bags.
Gauge
16 dc × 9 rows = 4 inches
Gauge isn’t extremely important for bags, but consistent tension helps maintain shape.
Color Sequence
Repeat:
- Row 1 – Blue
- Row 2 – White
- Row 3 – Blue
- Row 4 – White
Continue throughout the project.
Base of the Bag
Chain 41.
Round 1:
Work single crochet across.
Place 3 sc in each corner.
Continue around opposite side.
Join.
Round 2:
Work sc around.
Increase evenly at corners.
Round 3–8:
Continue working in rounds until the base measures approximately:
14 × 5 inches.
Building the Sides
Without increasing, begin working upward.
Switch to shell stitch.
The bag naturally forms vertical walls.
Shell Stitch Pattern
Foundation
Skip 2 stitches.
Work:
- 7 dc into next stitch
Skip 2 stitches.
Single crochet into next stitch.
Repeat around.
Join.
Second Shell Row
Slip stitch into center.
Work shells inside previous shell valleys.
Repeat around.
Alternate yarn colors each round.
Continue until bag reaches desired height.
Continue Until
Bag height reaches:
12 inches.
You may continue several extra rounds if you’d like a larger market tote.
Top Edge
Work:
Round 1:
Single crochet around.
Round 2:
Half double crochet around.
Round 3:
Crab stitch (reverse single crochet)
or
Simple single crochet border.
This strengthens the opening.
Making the Handles
Make 2.
Chain approximately 70.
Work:
Row 1:
Single crochet.
Rows 2–8:
Single crochet across.
Fold slightly while attaching for thicker handles.
Attaching Handles
Position handles:
Approximately 4 inches apart.
Sew securely using yarn needle.
Go over attachment points multiple times.
These areas receive the greatest stress.
Optional Fabric Lining
A lining greatly increases durability.
Cut fabric slightly smaller than bag dimensions.
Sew side seams.
Insert into bag.
Hand stitch around the upper edge.
Add a Zipper Pocket
Cut pocket fabric.
Install zipper.
Sew inside lining.
This creates secure storage for:
- Phone
- Wallet
- Keys
- Cosmetics
Magnetic Closure
Center the magnetic snap.
Reinforce with small fabric squares.
Install before attaching the lining.
Decorative Tassel
Wrap yarn around cardboard 40–50 times.
Tie securely.
Trim evenly.
Attach gold hardware or crochet loop.
Hang from one handle.
Blocking
Lightly steam block.
Do not flatten the shell texture.
Allow to dry completely before use.
Customization Ideas
Try different color combinations:
- Navy & Cream
- Sage & Ivory
- Black & White
- Dusty Rose & Beige
- Mustard & Cream
- Teal & Sand
- Lavender & White
- Coral & Natural
Skill Level
Intermediate
Confident beginners can also complete this project with patience.
Estimated Time
Approximately:
- 12–18 hours
depending on speed and experience.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water.
Reshape while damp.
Lay flat to dry.
Avoid machine drying.
Store flat to preserve structure.
Styling Ideas
This versatile tote pairs beautifully with:
- Summer dresses
- Linen outfits
- Denim jackets
- Beachwear
- Casual weekend clothing
- Farmers’ market trips
- Office essentials
Its classic shell texture gives it a sophisticated handmade look suitable for every season.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can beginners make this bag?
Yes. If you’re comfortable with basic stitches like single crochet and double crochet, you can learn the shell stitch quickly.
Can I make it larger?
Absolutely. Increase the starting chain and work additional shell rows to achieve your desired size.
What yarn is best?
Cotton yarn is highly recommended because it offers excellent durability, stitch definition, and structure for everyday use.
Do I need to line the bag?
A lining isn’t required, but it improves durability, prevents stretching, and helps keep small items from slipping through the crochet fabric.
Can I wash it?
Yes. Hand washing with mild detergent and laying it flat to dry will keep your tote looking its best.
Final Thoughts
This Blue & White Shell Stitch Crochet Tote Bag is the perfect combination of elegance, durability, and handmade charm. Its textured shell stitch creates a stunning visual effect, while the sturdy construction makes it practical for everyday use. Whether you’re crafting it for yourself, giving it as a thoughtful gift, or adding it to your handmade shop, this tote is sure to become a favorite project. With endless color possibilities and customizable details like a fabric lining, zipper pocket, or decorative tassel, you can easily make each bag uniquely your own. Happy crocheting!
