How to Crochet the Bonjour Belle Market Bag: A Step-by-Step Tutorial

Looking for a stylish and eco-friendly crochet project? The Bonjour Belle Market Bag is the perfect choice. This beautiful bag is not only practical for grocery shopping or beach trips but also a fun and rewarding project for crocheters of all skill levels. In this step-by-step tutorial, we'll guide you through the entire process, from choosing the right yarn to finishing the bag with a sturdy strap.

The Bonjour Belle Market Bag features an open lace pattern that stretches to hold your items while remaining lightweight. It's a great way to reduce plastic bag usage and add a handmade touch to your daily routine. Let's get started!

Materials You'll Need

To crochet the Bonjour Belle Market Bag, you'll need a few basic supplies. First, choose a sturdy yet soft yarn. For this project, we recommend using a cotton or cotton-blend yarn that can hold its shape and withstand regular use. A medium worsted weight yarn works well for a durable bag. You'll also need a crochet hook in the appropriate size for your yarn—typically a size H/8 (5mm) or I/9 (5.5mm). Other essentials include a tapestry needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and stitch markers to keep track of your rounds.

If you want to add a pop of color or a personal touch, consider using a variegated yarn like Ice Cream® Yarn for a fun, striped effect. Alternatively, a solid color like Hometown® Yarn in a neutral shade creates a classic, timeless look.

• Yarn: Medium worsted weight cotton or cotton-blend (approx. 250-350 yards)
• Crochet hook: Size H/8 (5mm) or I/9 (5.5mm)
• Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers

Step 1: Starting the Base

Begin by making a magic ring. This will form the center of the bag's base. Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet), then work 11 double crochets into the ring. Pull the tail to close the ring tightly, and join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain. You should have 12 double crochets total.

For the next round, chain 3 (counts as double crochet), then work 2 double crochets in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch to the top of the chain. You'll now have 24 stitches. Continue increasing in this manner for a few more rounds until the base reaches your desired diameter. A typical market bag base is about 6-7 inches wide.

• Tip: Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round to avoid losing your place.

Step 2: Working the Sides

Once the base is complete, it's time to work the sides. Chain 3 (counts as double crochet), then double crochet in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch. Repeat this round until the bag reaches your desired height. For a standard market bag, aim for about 10-12 inches from the base.

To add visual interest, you can incorporate a lace pattern. For example, try a simple mesh stitch: chain 3, skip 2 stitches, double crochet in the next stitch, chain 2, skip 2 stitches, and repeat. This creates an open, airy fabric that's perfect for a market bag. Continue the pattern until the sides are tall enough.

• Optional: Add a contrasting stripe by switching colors every few rounds. Ice Cream® Yarn works beautifully for this.

Step 3: Creating the Strap

Now for the strap. You can make a single long strap that goes across the bag or two shorter handles. For a single strap, chain a length of about 40-50 stitches (adjust based on your preferred strap length). Then single crochet back along the chain, working into the back bumps for a clean look. Continue single crocheting back and forth until the strap is as wide as you like—typically 2-3 inches.

Attach the strap to the bag by sewing the ends securely to the inside of the bag, opposite each other. Make sure the strap is centered and evenly attached. Weave in all ends with a tapestry needle.

• Tip: For extra durability, reinforce the strap attachment points with a few extra stitches.

Step 4: Finishing Touches

To finish, weave in any remaining ends and trim excess yarn. If desired, you can add a lining to the bag for extra strength and to prevent small items from falling through the mesh. Simply cut a piece of fabric to match the bag's dimensions, sew it into a pouch, and hand-stitch it inside the bag.

Your Bonjour Belle Market Bag is now ready to use! It's perfect for grocery runs, farmers' market trips, or as a stylish everyday tote. The open weave allows the bag to stretch and accommodate bulky items while remaining lightweight and easy to fold.

• Care instructions: Hand wash in cold water and lay flat to dry to maintain shape.

We hope you enjoyed this step-by-step tutorial for the Bonjour Belle Market Bag. It's a wonderful project that combines style and sustainability. For more inspiration, check out our Wanderlust Mittens (Crochet) pattern for a matching accessory. Happy crocheting!