Add a burst of bohemian charm to your summer wardrobe with this eye-catching Big Granny Square Tote Bag! Featuring one oversized granny square in a stunning mandala-inspired pattern, this bag combines retro flair with modern functionality. The rich terracotta border beautifully frames the playful blues, yellows, and corals, while the braided strap and fun tassels add that perfect boho touch.
Ready to create your own statement piece? I'll walk you through each step with detailed photos and clear instructions. Whether you're a confident beginner or seasoned crocheter, this free pattern will help you create a unique bag that's sure to turn heads!
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Pin this stunning mandala-inspired granny square tote bag pattern - the perfect blend of boho vibes and practical style!
Details About Big Granny Square Tote Bag
Let me tell you about the details of this stunning mandala bag! The design features five squares in total - four vibrant mandala squares measuring 10 inches (26 cm) each for the main panels, and one solid terracotta square for the base. Each mandala square works from a yellow center outward in beautiful rounds of color - red, lilac, and sky blue - all beautifully framed with a terracotta border.
When assembled, your finished bag will measure approximately 18 inches (46 cm) wide and 14 inches (35 cm) tall, with a braided strap adding 12 inches (31 cm) - perfect for comfortable shoulder carrying. The squared bottom provides stability and helps the bag stand up on its own, making it ideal for shopping trips or beach days.
For the color palette, I've chosen warm, sunset-inspired hues, but this pattern is perfect for experimenting with your own color stories! Try a beachy combination of navy base with aqua, sand, and seafoam for the mandala, or create a summer meadow feel with an olive base and rose, lilac, and buttercup details. A boho-chic version could feature a brown base with terracotta, mustard, and cream, while a desert sunset palette might combine a rust base with coral, gold, and blush tones. Remember, this is your creation - choose colors that tell your story and make you smile every time you carry your bag!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
We absolutely recommend Loopara 5-ply milk cotton yarn for this project. Not only does it provide excellent stitch definition for those beautiful mandala details, but it also offers just the right amount of structure while maintaining flexibility. The milk cotton blend creates a fabric that's durable enough for a bag while remaining soft to the touch.
For this mandala design, you'll want a main color for your border and base (I used terracotta), plus four coordinating colors for your mandala pattern. What makes this pattern special is how the colors flow from the center outward, creating that mesmerizing mandala effect. Look for colors with good contrast so each round stands out distinctly.
For hooks, We suggest use a 3.0mm and a 6.0mm hook - this creates a nice, tight fabric that's perfect for a bag. The key is getting a fabric that's firm enough to hold its shape but not so tight that it loses drape. Try a test swatch first - you want your stitches tight enough that small items won't slip through but loose enough for the bag to move naturally when carried.
Materials needed for Big Granny Square Tote Bag
- Yarn– Loopara 5ply combed cotton
- Hook- 3.0mm and 6.0mm
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Stitch marker
- Lining cloth
- Decorative beads
- Positioning clip
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch - chain
- sl - slip stitch
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- sh - shell stitch
Big Granny Square Tote Bag Layout
This layout shows how to arrange and join five granny squares - four colorful mandala-style squares forming the sides and one solid terracotta square as the base. The arrows indicate the seaming direction, establishing the bag's three-dimensional structure.
How to Crochet Big Granny Square Tote Bag – Step by Step
Note: The tutorial uses different yarn colors for the crocheting and assembly processes. You can choose whatever color you like. If you’re not crazy about our color palette, I put together two color-changing techniques that I use for all of my projects. Let me show you how to make these color transitions smooth and professional so you can bring your unique, creative vision to life.
How to Crochet the Regular Square (Make 5)
Round 1: Magic ring. Chain 3 (counts as first dc), chain 1, (dc, chain 1) 7 times in ring. Slip stitch to join in top of chain-3.
Round 2: Chain 1, (sc, 7 dc) 4 times. Slip stitch to join in first sc.
Round 3: (Chain 3, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc), [chain 5, (dc, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc)] 3 times, chain 5. Slip stitch to join in top of chain-3.
Round 4: Chain 1, (sc, 7 dc) 8 times. Slip stitch to join in first sc.
Round 5: (Chain 3, chain 1, dc), chain 5, [(dc, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc), chain 5, (dc, chain 1, dc), chain 5] 3 times, (dc, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc), chain 5. Slip stitch to join in top of chain-3.
Round 6: Chain 1, (sc, 7 dc) 12 times. Slip stitch to join in first sc.
Round 7: (Chain 3, chain 1, dc), chain 2, sc, chain 2, (dc, chain 1, dc), chain 2, sc, chain 2, [(dc, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc), [chain 2, sc, chain 2, (dc, chain 1, dc)] 2 times, chain 2, sc, chain 2] 3 times, (dc, chain 1, dc, chain 3, dc, chain 1, dc), chain 2, sc, chain 2. Slip stitch to join in top of chain-3.
Round 8: Chain 1, 8 sc inc, (chain 2, 12 sc inc) 3 times, chain 2, 4 sc inc. Slip stitch to join in first sc.
Round 9: Chain 3, 15 dc, [(2 dc, chain 2, 2 dc), 24 dc] 3 times, (2 dc, chain 2, 2 dc), 8 dc. Slip stitch to join in top of chain-3.
Crochet Big Granny Square Tote Bag Assemble
How to Assemble the Bag
Step 1: First, we need five granny squares. The bottom square will be in solid color. The petals are infinitely enlarged according to steps 5 and 6. Make these squares using a 3.0mm hook. Place your squares according to the picture and attach stitch markers.
Step 2: Following the arrows in the picture of step 1, we'll join squares using the mattress stitch. Insert hook through the center stitch of corner motifs. Match stitches one-to-one. Place the wrong sides together. Pick up the inside half of each stitch. Keep working yarn below hook. Maintain loose tension to preserve bag shape.
Step 3: Secure each row with a slip stitch.
Step 4: Complete flat seaming, fasten off, weave in ends.
Step 5: Measure bag layout, adding 2-3cm margins.
Step 6: Mark and cut lining fabric.
Step 7: Turn bag and lining wrong sides out. Fold lining along marked lines.
Step 8: Use invisible seam to attach the lining.
Step 9: Continue until complete.
Step 10: Follow the arrows in the picture for final assembly using mattress stitch.
Step 11: Weave in all ends.
How to Make the Straps (Make 2)
Step 1: Using a 6.0mm hook and all six bag colors. Leave a long tail, and make a knot. Pull the working loop through knot.
Step 2: Insert the hook through the front loop. Yarn over and pull through.
Step 3: Repeat to the desired length. Leave a long tail, and fasten off.
Step 4: Thread one strap through each side and knot securely.
How to Make the Tassels (Make 4)
Step 1: Cut 12cm lengths of all six colors.
Step 2: Prepare the desired quantity of strands. Using 5-ply yarn, make a chain of 12 slip stitches. Leave long tails.
Step 3: Place the chain in the center of the mixed strands. Split 5-ply yarn into 2-ply.
Step 4: Wrap the right side several times. Secure with a knot, and trim ends.
Step 5: Flip the tassel, and find the center chain. Wrap the upper portion several times. Secure with a knot, trim lower ends.
Step 6: Thread 5 beads onto the top of the chain.
Step 7: Attach to both sides of the bag.
Tips: Place and pin squares carefully before seaming to ensure proper alignment. Keep even tension while joining to create smooth, professional seams. Reinforce all strap attachments and corners for durability.
How to Join Granny Squares
While I've used one simple joining method in this pattern, you might find another technique that better suits your style. I'm excited to share my comprehensive guide on 11 Ways to Join Granny Squares with you! I've detailed every method I know and love - each brings its own special touch to your finished piece. Let me help you discover which one works best for you!
How to Weave in Ends Crochet Granny Square
The secret for professional-looking granny squares is all about how you weave in those ends. I'm sharing 3 ways to weave in ends with you! These are techniques I've perfected over years of crocheting and use in all my projects. I'll show you exactly how I secure my ends to make sturdy, polished pieces that last. Trust me, once you master these finishing methods, your granny squares will look absolutely stunning!
Care and Cleaning Instructions
Daily Care Tips
Give your mandala tote a gentle shake after each use to prevent dust and debris from settling into the stitches. For quick cleaning, spot clean with a soft brush. Remember to empty all pockets - small items love to hide in those shell stitches!
Washing Methods
Since this bag is made with cotton yarn, hand washing is best. Use cool water and mild soap, gently squeezing without wringing or twisting to maintain the bag's shape. Lay flat to dry in a shaded area, and reshape while damp to keep those beautiful shell stitches defined.
Storage Suggestions
Store your tote flat or gently stuffed with acid-free tissue paper to maintain its shape. A cotton pillowcase makes a perfect storage bag - it protects from dust while letting the yarn breathe. Avoid plastic containers that can trap moisture and affect the yarn's texture. For long-term storage, keep away from direct sunlight to preserve those beautiful colors!
What’s Next?
Love this stunning mandala tote design? Share this free pattern with your crafty friends on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter! Perfect for summer crafting and a beautiful way to showcase your crochet skills. Your creative friends will adore it!
