Crochet pattern for two elegant and practical mesh bags.

I adapted this pattern from a wonderful 1930s pattern I inherited from my Great Aunt Winifred.

This is not your average bag and has been carefully designed with a number of important features:

• The bag folds in on itself and is
  secured with a drawstring, so you can easily keep it in your handbag,
  glovebox, etc. without it getting
  tangled.
• The handles are broader than usual, to avoid them cutting in to
  your hands.
• The mesh is closer at the bottom of the bag to support the
  contents.
• The mesh in the top part of the bag adjusts to better accommodate the contents.

And in addition to all the practicalities, it’s pretty and elegant! You have the option of adding beads to further embellish your bag. 1930s ladies knew how to look smart!

Unlike most ‘string’ bags, this one is easily nice enough to give as a gift.

Two patterns are included in the document you will receive, for the two most useful sizes of bag:

• a small bag that is perfect for a drink and sandwich, a paperback, or small crochet project, at approximately 26cm (10”) across the top. It is about 8cm (3¼”) across when tucked into itself. It also makes a delightful bag for a child.
• a regular bag that is great for all occasions, at approximately 45cm (17½”) across the top rim. It is a compact 10cm (4”) across when tucked into itself. It can also be made with a long (shoulder) strap.

To complete the small bag, you will need:

• 120m (130yards) of a No.5 crochet cotton or 3ply (fingering or sock) yarn of your choice.
• a 2.5mm (B/1 - C/2) crochet hook

To complete the regular bag, you will need:

• 230m (250yards) of a 4ply (sport-weight) yarn of your choice.
• a 3mm (C/2 - D/3) crochet hook

However, by using different hooks and yarn weights you will be able to make a bag of the size of your choice.

For both projects, you can add beads to embellish the drawstrings (optional).

Important feature of this crochet pattern:
This crochet pattern includes BOTH a detailed ‘tutorial-style’ set of instructions with over 50 colour photos, AND a succinct unillustrated pattern using standard crochet conventions.
I have developed this style because I find I like to see a lot of detail the first time I work a pattern, but if I then work the same piece again, I don’t need the pictures, etc, and indeed they can get in the way when I just want a quick reminder of what I’m doing. The PDF is also structured so that the succinct version, with an area for your own notes, is on a single page, making it easy to just take one sheet of paper with you if you have printed it out for quick reference on the move.

This pattern is available in UK or US crochet terminology - both files will be available to you on purchase, just choose whichever you prefer to use.

The UK pattern names yarns currently available in the UK that are suitable for this pattern.

Once purchased, this pattern remains the copyright of Little Conkers. You may not reproduce all or any part of this pattern. Please do not sell items made from this pattern, without express prior permission (which is usually granted) and credit.