This pattern uses a simple 2-way stitch using a double-ended crochet hook to create an adorable backpack using pre-made hardware (purse base, straps and closures). Any chunky yarn will work for this stitch, but I recommend using flat ribbon, zpagetti, tape or tshirt yarn as they work well with the vertical loops created in this stitch. The vertical flat stitch created in this pattern is similar to the Gobelin stitch in needlepoint or the full stitch in Tunisian crochet. But rather than work with Tunisian forward and reverse passes, we will combine these steps into one 2-way stitch using both ends of the hook. I have created a companion video to demonstrate this stitch. It is quite easy once you get the hang of it. This pattern will describe how to crochet the basic bag using a stiff, oval purse base. I then provide the instructions I used to apply the hardware in the backpack kit. If you use different hardware than the ones I attached to my bag, then you will need to adjust the instructions for your particular need. But, several of the DIY kits come with similar hardware, so hopefully my instructions will be useful to you.

A video demonstrating the stitch is also linked in the pattern.

As written the completed bag is 10” (25cm) wide across the front, 9” (22.5cm) tall and opens approximately 7”(17.5cm) deep. The bag is about 10”(25cm) wide and 11”(27.5cm) tall from base to top of handle.

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