Craving a splash of summer style? Look no further than this adorable watermelon granny square mini bag!
This charming crochet project combines the classic granny square technique with a juicy twist, resulting in a fun and functional accessory that's perfect for warm-weather outings. Whether you're heading to the beach or just running errands around town, this little slice of handmade goodness is sure to brighten your day.
Ready to sink your hooks into this refreshing project? I've got you covered with a complete free pattern, including step-by-step instructions and helpful photos to guide you through every stitch. So grab your yarn and let's dive into this sweet and simple crochet adventure!
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Pin this pattern now to add a juicy pop of color to your summer crochet projects!
Details About Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag
Imagine carrying a slice of summer wherever you go! This watermelon granny square mini bag isn't just cute - it's a tiny crochet marvel.
Each granny square measures about 5 inches (13 cm) across, creating the perfect canvas for our fruity design. We'll be whipping up just two of these squares for the front and back of our bag. When assembled, your finished bag will be a compact 5 x 5 inches (13 x 13 cm). It's just right for stashing your phone, keys, and a bit of lip balm on sunny adventures.
Color-wise, we're embracing classic watermelon vibes. I used a punchy cherry red for the juicy center, crisp white for the refreshing rind, and a rich forest green for the outer edge and strap. But don't be afraid to play! A soft pink center could be charming, or try neon shades for a bold, modern twist. The joy of crochet is making each project uniquely yours.
This little bag isn't just practical - it's a guaranteed conversation starter. Be prepared for admiring glances and questions about where you got such an adorable accessory!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
Let's talk about the good stuff - yarn! For this adorable watermelon bag, we want something that's both soft and sturdy. My absolute favorite for this project is Loopara 4 ply milk cotton yarn. It's got this amazing silky texture that just glides off your hook, and the colors? Vibrant doesn't even begin to cover it!
For our juicy watermelon palette, grab these shades:
- A punchy red for the fruit
- Crisp white for the rind
- Deep green for the outer edge and strap
- Black for those cute little seeds (just a smidge needed!)
As for hooks, I used a 2.3mm for this project. It gives you nice, tight stitches that really make those granny squares pop. If you tend to crochet loosely, you might want to size down to a 2mm. Crocheting tightly? Maybe bump up to a 2.5mm. The key is getting those squares firm enough to hold your goodies without being stiff as a board.
Here's why granny squares are perfect for this bag: they work up quick, they're super customizable (hello, endless color combos!), and they give that classic, cozy vibe we all love. Plus, they're ideal for beginners looking to level up their skills. Win-win, if you ask me!
Materials needed for Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag
- Yarn– Loopara 4ply combed cotton (White 01, Green 07, Green 18, Red 65, Black 90)
- Hook- 2.3mm
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Stitch marker
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- magic ring
- ch - chain
- sc - single crochet
- dc - double crochet
- tr - treble crochet
- hdc - half double crochet
- sl st - slip stitch
- bo - bobble stitch
- FP dc - front post double crochet
- inc - increase
How to Crochet a Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag – Step by Step
How to Crochet Watermelon Granny Squares (Make 2)
Round 1: Using red yarn, create a magic ring. Chain 3, chain 1. Work (double crochet, chain 1) 11 times. Slip stitch to the top of the starting chain-3 to join.
Round 2: Continuing with red, chain 3, chain 1, double crochet in the same stitch. Repeat [(chain 1, double crochet) (chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet)] 5 times. Chain 1, double crochet, chain 1. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-3.
Round 3: With red, chain 3, chain 1. Switch to black, work a bobble stitch, chain 1. Repeat [(Red: chain 1, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1), (chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1) Black: bobble stitch, chain 1)] 5 times Red: chain 1, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1), double crochet, chain 1. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-3.
Round 4: Chain 3, chain 1, double crochet, (chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet), chain 1, double crochet, chain 1. Repeat [(Black: bobble stitch, chain 1, Red: chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1), (double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1), double crochet, chain 1)] 5 times. Black: bobble stitch, chain 1. Red: chain 1, double crochet, chain 1. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-3.
Round 5: Red: chain 3, chain 1, double crochet. Repeat [(chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, (chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet))] 13 times. Chain 1, double crochet, chain 1, double crochet, chain 1. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-3.
Round 6: Chain 3, chain 1. Repeat [(front post double crochet, chain 1) 6 times, (front post double crochet, chain 1, front post double crochet, chain 1)] 8 times. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-3.
Round 7: Switch to white. Chain 3, double crochet increase, treble increase, (3 treble crochets), treble increase, double crochet increase, double crochet, half double crochet, half double crochet, [(5 single crochets, half double crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, double crochet increase, treble increase, (3 treble crochets), treble increase, double crochet increase, double crochet, half double crochet, half double crochet)] 3 times, 5 single crochets, half double crochet, half double crochet, double crochet, slip stitch to top of chain-3.
Round 8: Change to light green. Chain 1, 6 single crochet, 3 single crochet in next stitch. Repeat (21 single crochet, 3 single crochet in next stitch) 3 times. Work 16 single crochet. Slip stitch to first single crochet.
Round 9: Switch to dark green. Chain 2, 8 half double crochet, 3 half double crochet in next stitch.Repedat (23 half double crochet, 3 half double crochet in next stitch) 3 times. Work 17 half double crochet. Slip stitch to top of starting chain-2.
Fasten off and weave in all ends.
Tips: As you work on your watermelon granny squares, maintain consistent tension throughout to ensure your squares are the same size. When changing colors, leave long tails to weave in securely later for a neater finish. Try to keep your chain spaces even in size for a more polished look. If you're unfamiliar with the bobble stitch, practice it a few times before starting the main project.
How to Crochet a Strap (Crab Stitch Cord)
Leave long tail. Chain 2, single crochet in 2nd chain from hook, turn. Repeat [Single crochet in left 2 strands, turn] to desired length. Chain 1, fasten off, weave in ends.
How to Crochet a Watermelon Pendant (Make 1)
Round 1: Create a magic ring. Chain 1, work 7 single crochet into the ring. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 2: Increase in each stitch around, making 7 increases. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 3: (Single crochet in one stitch, increase in the next stitch) Repeat this sequence 7 times. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 4: Repeat (Single crochet, increase, single crochet) 7 times. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 5: Repeat (3 single crochets, increase) 7 times. Slip stitch to join, chain 1.
Round 6: Repeat (2 single crochets, increase, 2 single crochets) 7 times. Slip stitch to join, fasten off.
Round 7: Switch to white yarn. Chain 1, repeat (5 single crochets, increase) 7 times. Slip stitch to join, fasten off.
Round 8: Using a single strand of black yarn, embroider watermelon seeds onto the red portion of the pendant.
Round 9: Using green yarn folded in half for thickness, chain 1. Work an increase, then 22 single crochet, then another increase. Slip stitch to join, fasten off. Weave in ends. (Note: Stuff with poly-fil halfway through this round for a plump appearance.)
Round 10: Chain 30, slip stitch to join, fasten off. Weave in ends.
Tips: When working on your watermelon pendant, remember to keep your tension consistent for a uniform shape. The magic ring at the start should be pulled tight to avoid a hole in the center. When changing colors, leave long tails for secure weaving later. For the seed embroidery, use small, evenly spaced stitches for a realistic look. When stuffing with poly-fil, add it gradually for an even distribution. The final chain of 30 creates a loop for hanging - adjust the number of chains if you want a longer or shorter loop. Lastly, take care to weave in all ends securely to ensure your pendant stays intact with use.
Crochet Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag Assemble
How to Join Watermelon Granny Square Panels
Step 1: Use slip stitch join. Mark joining positions with stitch markers.
Step 2: Insert hook through all loops of one side, slip stitch. Keep tension loose to maintain shape.
Step 3: Insert hook through all loops of other side, slip stitch.
Step 4: Continue joining, matching stitches.
Step 5: Join three sides, leaving top open.
Step 6: After joining, single crochet around the bag opening for reinforcement.
How to Sew Fabric Piece
Step 1: On one side of opening, single crochet into gaps of first 3 rows.
Step 2: Work 3 single crochets, chain 1, turn. Repeat for 6 rows.
Step 3: Leave long tail, fasten off.
Step 4: Sew flap, reinforcing with a second pass. Knot and weave in ends on inside.
How to Assemble Watermelon Granny Mini Bag
Step 1: Work chain 4, 3 single crochets in 2nd chain from hook, chain 1, turn. Repeat for 8 rows. Leave long tail, fasten off.
Step 2: Thread strap through Fabric piece, fold. Wrap the strap fabric piece around the two straps, sew, weave in ends.
Step 3: Knot one strap end.
Step 4: Sew other end to bag exterior, reinforcing with multiple stitches.
Step 5: Hang the crocheted watermelon pendant on the bag, and the whole watermelon bag is finished!
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 Change Colors in a Granny Square
Are you looking for a different color palette? I totally get it—it’s why I love crochet! 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 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
To maintain the quality and appearance of your Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag, implement these daily care practices. After each use, gently remove any surface debris with a soft, dry cloth. Allow the bag to air out in a well-ventilated area before storage to prevent odor accumulation.
Regularly inspect for loose threads and trim them carefully with small scissors to maintain the bag's integrity. Handle the bag with care to avoid stretching or damaging the crochet stitches, particularly when placing items inside or carrying it.
Washing Methods
When cleaning is necessary, follow these methods to preserve your bag's structure and color. For minor soiling, spot clean with a damp cloth and a mild, pH-neutral soap. For more thorough cleaning, hand wash in cool water with a gentle detergent suitable for delicate fabrics. Submerge the bag and gently agitate to clean. Rinse thoroughly with cool water until all soap residue is removed.
Avoid wringing or twisting the bag, as this can distort the crochet work. Instead, press out excess water gently and reshape while damp. Air dry flat on a clean, absorbent towel, away from direct sunlight or heat sources to prevent color fading and fiber damage.
Storage Suggestions
Proper storage is crucial for maintaining your Watermelon Granny Square Mini Bag's shape and appearance. Ensure the bag is completely dry before storing. To preserve its form, lightly stuff the bag with acid-free tissue paper. Store in a cool, dry environment, protected from direct sunlight to prevent color fading. If available, use the original dust bag, or alternatively, a cotton pillowcase to shield from dust and potential snags.
Avoid long-term hanging storage, as this can lead to strap stretching and bag distortion. Instead, store the bag flat or standing upright in a clean, spacious area. By following these storage guidelines, you'll help ensure your crochet bag remains in excellent condition for future use.
What's Next
Share this watermelon granny square mini bag tutorial on your favorite social platforms! Whether it's Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter, spread the crochet joy. Your friends might just find their next crafting project, and you'll be supporting handmade creativity. Let's make the crochet community bloom!
