Looking for the perfect crochet project for summer? A crochet coastal market tote is stylish, practical, and beginner-friendly. Whether you’re heading to the farmers market, beach, picnic, or vacation, this lightweight mesh tote is roomy enough for groceries, beach towels, fresh flowers, and everyday essentials.
In this tutorial, you’ll learn how to crochet a coastal market tote using simple stitches and an easy mesh pattern. This free crochet pattern includes detailed written instructions, making it perfect for confident beginners and intermediate crocheters.
For more chic inspiration, check out these summer crochet projects to have you lookin lit!
Why You’ll Love This Crochet Market Tote
Unlike plastic shopping bags, a handmade crochet tote is reusable, durable, and folds flat inside your purse when not in use.
This tote is:
- Lightweight
- Stretchy mesh design
- Beginner-friendly
- Perfect for summer vacations
- Eco-friendly
- Great handmade gift
- Works up quickly in a weekend
Skill Level
Easy Beginner – You can make this bag!
If you know how to make:
- Chain (ch)
- Slip Stitch (sl st)
- Single Crochet (sc)
- Double Crochet (dc)
Finished Size
Approximately
- Width: 15 inches (38 cm)
- Height: 16 inches (41 cm)
- Strap Drop: 11 inches (28 cm)
The mesh fabric stretches once filled.
Materials
- 250–300 yards worsted weight cotton yarn (Category 4)
- 5 mm (H/8) crochet hook
- Stitch marker
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Recommended Yarn
Cotton yarn provides excellent durability and prevents stretching.
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- st = stitch
- sp = space
- rep = repeat
Gauge
4 in × 4 in
14 dc × 8 rows
Gauge isn’t extremely important since this is a market tote.
Pattern Overview
The tote is crocheted in four sections:
- Base
- Mesh body
- Upper edging
- Handles
Step 1: Crochet the Base
Chain 41.
Row 1
Starting in the second chain from hook,
Sc across.
(40 sc)
Chain 1 and turn.
Rows 2–10
Sc across.
Repeat until you have a rectangle measuring approximately
15 × 4 inches.
Fasten off.
This sturdy base helps the tote hold heavier items.
Step 2: Crochet Around the Base
Attach yarn to one corner.
Work evenly around all four sides.
Crochet:
- 40 sc along first edge
- 10 sc along side
- 40 sc
- 10 sc
Join with a slip stitch.
You should have approximately 100 stitches.
Step 3: Begin the Mesh Body
Round 1
Chain 4.
Skip one stitch.
Dc in next stitch.
Repeat:
Chain 1, skip one stitch, dc in next stitch
Continue around.
Join with slip stitch.
Round 2
Slip stitch into chain space.
Chain 4.
Dc into next chain space.
Repeat around.
The beautiful mesh pattern begins to form.
Step 4: Continue the Mesh
Repeat Round 2 for 22–26 rounds, depending on your desired bag height.
The tote should measure approximately 16 inches tall.
The mesh stretches beautifully once filled.
Step 5: Reinforce the Top
To strengthen the opening:
Crochet 3 rounds of single crochet.
This prevents the bag from stretching excessively.
Step 6: Make the Handles
Mark two handle openings.
Each opening should measure about 6 inches.
Handle Round
Sc until first marker.
Chain 35.
Skip handle stitches.
Continue sc around.
Repeat for second handle.
Join.
Step 7: Strengthen the Handles
Work 4 rounds of single crochet around each handle opening.
This creates sturdy straps that comfortably support groceries and beach essentials.
Step 8: Finish
Fasten off.
Weave in all loose yarn ends.
Lightly steam block if desired.
Your coastal tote is complete!
Beginner Crochet Tips
Choose cotton yarn instead of acrylic to prevent the tote from stretching too much under weight.
Keep your stitches loose while working the mesh rounds to create a flexible, expandable bag.
Use stitch markers to keep track of the beginning of each round.
If your handles feel too thin, simply crochet two extra rounds of single crochet around them.
Care Instructions
To keep your tote looking beautiful:
- Hand wash in cool water
- Use mild detergent
- Avoid bleach
- Lay flat to dry
- Reshape while damp
- Do not wring
Cotton yarn softens beautifully after washing.
Perfect Uses for Your Market Tote
Your finished crochet tote is ideal for:
- Farmers market shopping
- Beach vacations
- Grocery shopping
- Library books
- Knitting or crochet projects
- Picnic supplies
- Pool days
- Travel carry-on
- Everyday purse alternative
Its stretchy mesh construction expands to fit surprisingly large loads while remaining lightweight and easy to carry.
Final Thoughts
A Crochet Coastal Market Tote is one of the most useful and stylish summer crochet projects you can make. Its timeless mesh design, durable cotton construction, and roomy interior make it perfect for everything from beach days to farmers market trips. Even if you’re new to crochet, this pattern uses only basic stitches and repetitive rounds, making it an enjoyable project you’ll finish in just a few evenings.
Once you’ve completed your first tote, experiment with different colors, stripes, or decorative tassels to create unique bags for yourself, friends, and family. Handmade market totes also make thoughtful gifts for birthdays, Mother’s Day, vacations, or housewarming celebrations.
Happy crocheting, and enjoy carrying your beautiful handmade coastal tote wherever your summer adventures take you!
Trendy, Affordable Sewing Patterns for All Sizes
Tie Shoulder Jumpsuit Pattern
Palazzo Pants Sewing Pattern
Pocket Overall Romper Pattern
Wrap Maxi Skirt Sewing Pattern
Tie Back Top Sewing Pattern