Granny Square Bag Pattern

Before You Get Started

Here are a few helpful things to know before you begin your granny square bag:

• This is an easy-level pattern using basic granny square construction.
• The bag is made with 12 joined squares, plus simple panels for structure and bamboo handles.
• You can substitute raffia yarn with worsted cotton or acrylic for a more relaxed texture.
• Ideal for adventurous beginners or seasoned crocheters wanting a fun and fast finish.

What You Need

Yarn

• 1 x Wool and The Gang – Ra Ra Raffia in the color Lilac.
• 1 x Wool and The Gang – Ra Ra Raffia in the color Ivory White.
• This raffia is 100% paper.
• 100 gram = 250 m / 273 yards Double knitting/light worsted.
• Yarn weight – Worsted weight/Aran/10 Ply.

Hook

• 5 mm (US H/8) crochet hook.

Notions

• Scissors
• Yarn needle
• Tape measure
• 2 x Bamboo bag handles

How Many Granny Squares Do You Need For A Bag?

Most granny square bags require 12 to 14 squares, depending on their size and layout.

For this tote bag:

• 12 squares are used (6 per side)
• Each square is approx. 4”–5”, depending on your tension
• You’ll also create side and bottom panels for depth and structure

Tip: Choose larger squares for faster assembly or smaller ones for intricate detail.

What Yarn To Use For A Granny Square Bag?

Choosing the right yarn ensures durability and style. Here are great options:

• Worsted Acrylic: Budget-friendly, washable, durable.
• Cotton: Strong, structured, breathable — perfect for summer totes.
• Wool Blends: Great for a cozy, luxe feel in fall/winter.
• Raffia (like Ra Ra Raffia): Lightweight, crisp, ideal for beachy bags.
• Bamboo: Silky and soft, best for drapey, elegant textures.
• Variegated/Self-Striping: Create effortless color changes with no yarn swapping.

Choose yarn based on your desired look — matte and sturdy or soft and drapey.

Are Granny Squares Back In Style?

Yes — granny squares are hotter than ever!

Once seen as retro, they’re now a crochet fashion staple.

From runways to Pinterest boards, designers are reimagining the granny square in fresh, modern ways.

Why they’re trending:

• Bold color combinations
• Vintage charm meets DIY energy
• Versatility in garments, bags, and accessories

Whether you’re new to crochet or returning to your hooks, this bag is a stylish way to celebrate tradition with a twist.

Granny Square Bag Pattern Instructions

Grab the ad-free printable PDF pattern in my shop here.

Pattern Notes

Skill Level: Easy / Advanced Beginner

Gauge: 14 dc + 6 rows = 4” square

Finished Size:

• Width: 16”
• Height: 10”
• Girth: 4”

Abbreviations

This granny square bag pattern is written in US crochet terms.

You can grab a free list of US and UK crochet terms here.

• ch – chain
• ch-sp – chain space
• dc – double crochet
• sc – single crochet
• sl-st – slip stitch
• RS – right side
• Rep – repeat
• WS – wrong side

Make 12 Granny Squares

With the US H8/5 mm Crochet hook…

Make 12 Squares

With the first color, ch 4, sl-st in the first ch to form a ring.

Round 1: Ch 3, 2 dc in the ring, (ch 3, 3 dc in ring) 3 times, ch 3, join with a sl-st in top of first ch 3, fasten off.

Round 2: Join 2nd color in any corner 3 ch-sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, ch 3, 3 dc in same sp, ch 3, (3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc in next sp, ch 3) 3 times, then join with a sl-st in top of first ch 3, fasten off.

Round 3: Join 3rd color in any corner 3 ch-sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, ch 3, 3 dc in same sp, ch 3, (3 dc in next space between 3 dc groups, ch 3, 3 dc, ch 3, 3 dc in next 3 ch-sp) 3 times, 3 dc in next sp between 3-dc groups, ch 3, join with a sl-st in top of first ch 3, fasten off with a sl st.

Join The Squares Together

• Weave in the loose ends from the colors of the granny squares before you begin.
• With the wrong side facing you, sew the squares together through the top loops only.
• This will show a neat seam on the right side of the work.
• Weave in any loose ends.

Make two panels of 6 squares each (see square bag layout/diagram below).

The First Border

• When you have your two bag panels of 6 granny squares each, you will then single crochet a border around all of them in Color 2 (Lilac).
• sc into each stitch working 2 sc in each corner space.

The Second Border

• When you have completed the first border in Color 2 – you will then complete another border in Color 1.
• sc into each stitch working 2 sc in each corner space.

The Side Panels x 2

• With Color 1 (Ivory White) ch 37,
• Row 1: sc into the 1st ch from hook, sc to the end of the row, ch 3, turn,
• Row 2: Work 1 dc into the next ch, work in dc to the end of the row, ch 3, turn,
• Rows 3-6: Continue to rep row 2 for 4 more rows (at the end of Row 6, ch 1, turn,)
• Row 7: sc to the end of the row.
• Fasten off.

The Bottom Panel x 1

• With Color 1 (Ivory White) ch 57,
• Row 1: sc into the 1st ch from hook, sc to the end of the row, ch 3, turn,
• Row 2: Work 1 dc into the next ch, work in dc to the end of the row, ch 3, turn,
• Rows 3-6: Continue to rep row 2 for 4 more rows (at the end of Row 6, ch 1, turn,)
• Row 7: sc to the end of the row.
• Fasten off.

Finishing/Making Up

• Join the side panels and bottom panel seams using the mattress stitch.
• Seam with the right sides facing you.
• Seam the edges of one panel first to the side panels and bottom panel (as you can see in the diagram below), and then to the second panel.

Bag Handles

• With the right side of the bag panel facing you, select the center 16 stitches at the top of the bag and insert your hook, with Color 2 – Lilac, single crochet along those 16 sts.
• Work 5 more rows of sc.
• Fasten off, leaving a length of around 16 inches for seaming.
• Place the handle into the flap and fold it over.
• Thread a darning needle with the tail end of Color 2 and start to seam along the edge, in and out through the corresponding holes.
• Stitch through the first hole and the second hole a couple of times to strengthen the edge stitches.
• Make sure you are seaming into the bag border so that the handle will be secure. (see photos for reference on page 12)
• When you reach the end, push your needle in and out of the end stitch and the next stitch a couple of times to make it secure before fastening off and weaving in the loose ends.
• Repeat on the other side for the other bag handle.

FAQs + Extra Tips

→ Can I line the bag?
Yes! Add a simple fabric lining to secure small items and strengthen the shape.

→ Can I use scrap yarn?
Absolutely. Great for stash-busting — just make sure yarns are a similar weight.

→ What’s the best handle alternative?
Use crocheted handles, thrifted bag handles, or macrame cords.

→ Can I sell what I make?
Yes, feel free to sell finished items. Just don’t sell or repost the pattern or my photos.

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