Mesh Crochet Tote Bag Free Pattern & Video Tutorial

If you’ve been searching for a stylish, practical, and beginner-friendly project to add to your crochet repertoire, this mesh crochet tote bag is exactly what you need. With its open lacy structure, sturdy construction, and endless customization possibilities, this bag has become one of the most popular crochet makes for good reason. Whether you’re heading to the farmer’s market, the beach, the grocery store, or a weekend brunch, a handmade mesh tote is the kind of accessory that never goes out of style.

In this post, you’ll find a complete free crochet pattern, detailed stitch instructions, a full materials list, helpful tips for beginners, and a walkthrough of the video tutorial so you can follow along at your own pace. Everything is written out step by step so you can get started today — no prior experience with mesh crochet required.

Why You’ll Love This Mesh Crochet Tote Bag

Before we dive into the pattern, let’s talk about why this particular project is so worth your time.

The mesh crochet tote bag is one of those rare projects that looks intricate but is actually quite simple once you understand the basic stitch repeat. The open mesh structure is created using a combination of chain spaces and double crochet stitches, which means if you already know how to chain and double crochet, you already have the skills to make this bag. The repetitive nature of the pattern also makes it wonderfully meditative — once you get into the rhythm, it practically works itself up.

From a practical standpoint, mesh tote bags are incredibly functional. The open weave allows the bag to stretch and accommodate items of different shapes and sizes, and the natural breathability makes it ideal for carrying produce, beach essentials, or anything else that benefits from a little airflow. The structured handles keep everything comfortable to carry, and when finished with the right yarn, the bag is surprisingly durable.

Aesthetically, the mesh design gives your tote an effortlessly boho-chic look that pairs beautifully with summer dresses, linen trousers, or casual weekend outfits. You can keep it classic with natural cotton, go bold with a bright color, or even use a variegated yarn for a gradient effect that practically styles itself.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s everything you’ll want to have on hand before you begin:

Yarn: Approximately 200–250 yards of worsted weight cotton yarn (size 4). Cotton is highly recommended for this project because it holds its shape well, doesn’t stretch out excessively with the weight of your bag’s contents, and comes in a gorgeous range of colors. Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, Paintbox Simply DK, and Paintbox Simply Chunky (held double) are all popular choices. You can also use jute or a cotton-jute blend for a more rustic, earthy look.

Hook: A US size J (6.0mm) crochet hook works beautifully with worsted weight cotton. If your tension runs tight, go up half a size to a J/6.5mm. If your tension is loose, drop down to an I (5.5mm).

Notions: A yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and stitch markers (optional but helpful for marking the beginning of rounds).

Finished Size: Approximately 13 inches wide by 14 inches tall, not including handles. The open mesh structure means the bag can stretch to hold more when needed.

Gauge: Gauge is flexible with this pattern, but for reference, 3 mesh repeats and 4 rows equal approximately 4 inches in the mesh stitch pattern using worsted weight cotton and a 6.0mm hook.

Abbreviations and Stitches Used

This pattern uses standard US crochet terminology.

ch — chain
sl st — slip stitch
sc — single crochet
dc — double crochet
ch-2 sp — chain-2 space
rep — repeat
st(s) — stitch(es)
yo — yarn over

The main stitch used throughout the body of this bag is a simple mesh stitch, which is created by alternating double crochet stitches with chain-2 spaces. It creates an open, grid-like fabric that is both lightweight and visually appealing. If you’ve never worked a mesh stitch before, don’t worry — the video tutorial linked below walks you through every step.

Pattern Notes

This bag is worked in the round from the bottom up. The base is created as a flat oval, and then you join and work upward in continuous rounds to create the body of the bag. The handles are added last, either crocheted directly into the top edge or made as separate chains and attached.

If you’ve never worked an oval foundation before, it might look intimidating on paper, but it’s essentially just a foundation chain with stitches worked on both sides of it. The video tutorial makes this very clear, so don’t skip the first few minutes even if you feel confident about the rest of the pattern.

For color changes, simply join your new color at the beginning of a new round and carry or cut the old color as preferred.

Free Crochet Pattern: Mesh Tote Bag

Step One: The Base

Foundation chain: Chain 21.

Round 1: Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 2 sc in the first stitch. Sc in each of the next 18 chains. Work 4 sc in the last chain (you are now rounding the end of the oval). Rotate your work and sc along the other side of the foundation chain, working 1 sc in each of the next 18 chains. Work 2 sc in the final stitch. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (44 sc total)

Round 2: Ch 1. Work 2 sc in each of the first 2 stitches. Sc in the next 18 stitches. Work 2 sc in each of the next 4 stitches. Sc in the next 18 stitches. Work 2 sc in each of the final 2 stitches. Join with a sl st. (52 sc total)

Round 3: Ch 1. Work (sc, 2 sc) in the next 2 stitches. Sc in the next 18 stitches. Work (sc, 2 sc) in the next 4 stitches. Sc in the next 18 stitches. Work (sc, 2 sc) in the final 2 stitches. Join with a sl st. (60 sc total)

You should now have a nicely rounded oval base. If you’d like a slightly larger or sturdier base, work one additional round of sc without increasing around the full oval.

Step Two: Transitioning to the Mesh Body

Round 4 (transition round): Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in the same stitch. Ch 2, skip 2 sts, dc in next st. Repeat from to around, ending with ch 2, skip 2 sts. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3. (20 mesh spaces)

This is the round that sets up your mesh pattern. Take your time here and make sure your chain-2 spaces are even and your tension is consistent. This will make all subsequent rounds easier.

Step Three: The Mesh Body

Rounds 5–22: Ch 3 (counts as first dc), dc in the ch-2 sp from the previous round, ch 2. Repeat from to around. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch-3.

You will repeat this same round 18 times. It may seem like a lot, but each round works up quickly, especially once you’ve found your rhythm. At this point in the pattern, all you’re doing is working a dc into each chain space and chaining 2 as you go — it really is that simple.

After round 22, your bag body should measure approximately 13–14 inches in height. If you’d like a taller bag, simply continue repeating the mesh round until you reach your desired height. If you prefer a shorter, more structured tote, you can stop at round 18 or so.

Step Four: The Top Border

Round 23: Ch 1, sc evenly around the entire top edge of the bag, working 2 sc into each dc and 1 sc into each ch-2 space. Join with a sl st. (approximately 60 sc, depending on your mesh count)

Round 24: Ch 1, sc in each sc around. Join with a sl st.

Round 25: Ch 1, sc in each sc around. Join with a sl st.

Fasten off and weave in ends on the border before attaching handles.

Making the Handles

You have a few options for handles, depending on the look and durability you want.

Option 1 — Crocheted Chain Handles: These are the easiest and quickest option. Simply attach your yarn to the top edge of the bag at a point approximately 4 inches from the center front. Chain 60 (or more for a longer shoulder strap). Skip the same number of stitches you would naturally need to skip to position the second attachment point about 4 inches from the other side of center. Sl st to attach. Work 2 more rows of sc along the handle chain for added sturdiness. Repeat on the back of the bag.

Option 2 — Reinforced Crocheted Handles: For a sturdier handle that will hold heavier loads without stretching, work the handle chain as above, but then work sc back and forth in rows along the handle until it is about 1 inch wide. This creates a flattened, ribbon-like handle that distributes weight more evenly and holds its shape over time.

Option 3 — Rope or Leather Handles: If you prefer a more polished look, you can skip the crocheted handles entirely and thread a length of cotton rope or attach leather bag handles through the top border of the bag using a lark’s head knot or by sewing them securely. This is a great option if you want your bag to have a more structured, boutique-style finish.

Video Tutorial Walkthrough

For those who learn best by watching, there is a companion video tutorial to this pattern that walks you through every step in real time. Here’s what you’ll cover in the video:

The tutorial starts with a brief introduction to the materials and shows you exactly how to hold your yarn and hook for optimal tension when working with cotton. Many crocheters find that cotton behaves differently from acrylic or wool, and a few quick tips at the start of the video can save you a lot of frustration.

From there, the video walks you through building the oval base, paying particular attention to the increases at each end that give the base its rounded shape. This is probably the trickiest part of the entire pattern, and seeing it demonstrated in real time makes a huge difference.

The transition round from the flat base into the mesh body is shown clearly and slowly, with close-up shots of exactly where to insert the hook and how to count your chain-2 spaces. Once you see this transition once, you’ll understand the logic of the entire pattern.

The mesh rounds themselves are shown in real time for about two full repeats, with an explanation of the stitch pattern so you can continue confidently on your own. The video then resumes when the body is complete and walks you through the top border and handle attachment.

By the end of the video, you’ll have a fully finished bag and a clear understanding of the mesh stitch pattern that you can apply to future projects.

Tips for Success

A few things that will make your experience with this pattern smoother and more enjoyable:

Blocking your finished bag makes a noticeable difference in the final appearance. Cotton responds beautifully to wet blocking — simply soak the finished bag in lukewarm water, gently squeeze out the excess, and lay it flat to dry over a form (a folded towel stuffed inside works perfectly). Blocking opens up the mesh spaces and evens out your tension for a more polished, professional look.

If your base curls or cups as you work, it usually means your tension is too tight. Try going up a hook size or making a conscious effort to loosen your chains in the foundation.

Stitch markers are your friends in this pattern. Placing one at the beginning of each round helps you keep track of where you are and makes counting much easier, especially in the mesh rounds where it can sometimes be hard to tell one round from the next.

If you’re making this bag as a gift, consider making a simple fabric lining using an old pillowcase or coordinating cotton fabric. A lining prevents small items from falling through the mesh, adds structure to the bag, and gives the inside a lovely finished look. It’s a simple sewing project that takes about 30 minutes and makes a big difference.

Customization Ideas

One of the best things about this pattern is how easily it adapts. Here are a few ideas to make your mesh tote your own:

Stripes are an easy way to add visual interest — simply switch colors at the beginning of a new round every two or four rounds. Because the mesh rounds are so simple, you can focus entirely on your color choices without worrying about complex stitch counts.

For a more bohemian feel, try using a natural cotton twine or jute yarn. The texture is slightly rougher than soft cotton, but it adds an earthy, organic quality to the bag that looks beautiful with neutral tones and wooden handles.

Adding fringe along the bottom edge or at the base of the handles is a quick embellishment that completely transforms the look of the bag. Cut lengths of yarn, fold them in half, and attach them with a lark’s head knot through the base stitches for a playful, festival-ready fringe effect.

For a smaller version — perfect as a gift bag, produce bag, or kids’ market bag — simply reduce your foundation chain to 11 stitches and work fewer rounds in the body section. The proportions stay the same; the bag just comes out smaller.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different yarn weight? Yes, absolutely. If you use a bulky weight yarn (size 5 or 6), your bag will work up faster and have a chunkier look. Just adjust your hook size accordingly and expect slightly fewer rounds to reach the same height. DK weight yarn will give you a finer mesh and a more delicate appearance — lovely for a small market bag or gift bag.

How do I wash my finished bag? Most cotton yarns are machine washable on a gentle cycle in cold water, but always check the yarn label to be sure. Reshape while damp and lay flat to dry to maintain the bag’s shape.

My mesh is uneven — what am I doing wrong? Uneven mesh is almost always a tension issue. Try to consciously relax your grip on the yarn and hook, and make sure your chain-2 spaces are consistent in size throughout each round. It may take a round or two to find your rhythm, but it usually evens out as you go.

Can I sell items made from this pattern? Yes! You are welcome to sell finished items made from this free pattern. A credit or link back to this page is always appreciated but not required.

Final Thoughts

The mesh crochet tote bag is one of those patterns that earns a permanent spot in your rotation. It’s quick enough to finish in a weekend, versatile enough to suit almost any style, and practical enough to use every single day. Once you’ve made one, you’ll find yourself reaching for it constantly — and fielding questions from friends who want one of their own.

Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter looking for a satisfying mindless project or a newer crafter ready to try something a little more adventurous, this bag is the perfect choice. Work through the pattern at your own pace, follow along with the video whenever you need a visual reference, and don’t be afraid to put your own spin on the design.

Happy crocheting — and enjoy your beautiful new bag!