The “Sweet Season Bag” is a delightful take on the ubiquitous plastic bag. Borrowing the plastic bag’s shape and construction but replacing the material with an ecofriendly cotton lace, this tote provides a reusable alternative that’s fresh and chic.

The bag is worked in one piece from side to side. Assembly is based on the construction used to make the plastic shopping bags we see in stores. After the bag body is seamed lengthwise, the mesh fabric on each side is folded inward to create a gusset. The bottom edge is single-crochet seamed, keeping the gusset folded in place. Finally the handles are folded in line with the sides and seamed at the top. Locking stitch markers are used to help point out the location of gusset folds.

This cheery market bag will make shopping easier and more enjoyable. The double-thick fabric makes the handles both attractive and durable. With its mesh fabric and generous depth, this small bag can hold a lot!

Skill Level
Confident Beginner

Finished Measurements
10.5 inches (26.5 cm) wide x 13 inches (33 cm) long x 4 inches (10 cm) deep, excluding handles

Materials
We Crochet Curio No. 3 lace weight 100% mercerized cotton (295 yds/270 m; 3.5 oz/100 g per ball): 2 balls of #28000 White
This yarn is Oeko-Tex Certified Standard 100. To learn more, visit www.oeko-tex.com.
Size E/4/3.5mm crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
6 rustproof locking stitch markers
Tapestry needle

Gauge
19 sts and 11 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) blocked

Although gauge isn’t critical for this project, gauge swatch instructions are provided in case you would like to check your gauge first.

PATTERN INCLUDES
• Photos of finished project.
• List of abbreviations used.
• Schematic.
• Photo tutorial with written instructions for bag assembly.
• Reduced stitch chart for bag front and back.
• Reduced stitch chart for gusset.
• Row Tracker Diagram and Checklist to help you keep track as you go!

This pattern listing includes 2 downloadable files:
(1) Main Pattern PDF presents the pattern in a 2-column layout with color photos, stitch charts, schematic, and row tracker.
(2) Print- and Screen-Friendly PDF: An additional pdf presents the pattern in a simplified 1-column layout. All text is in black. Assembly photo tutorial will render well in black and white printing. All photos contain alternate text.

Stitches Used
Chain(s), slip stitch, single crochet, and double crochet

Pattern written in US crochet terms.

This pattern was tested by Ana-Maria, Odette Blaak, Nicole Bryant, Jane Dixon, Debbie Field, and Lee Smith

Technical editing by Randy Cavaliere