Make this Christmas the one where you carry your gifts in a handmade bag. This crochet Christmas bag pattern makes a cozy red, white and green plaid tote with braided handles and silver jingle bells that jingle softly as you walk. It is a festive crochet holiday tote you will want to bring out every December.
Why this Christmas crochet bag is so special
- Classic holiday plaid: red, white and green is timeless and fits every Christmas outfit.
- Braided handles: a pretty, textured detail that sets this bag apart from a basic tote.
- Silver jingle bells: a cheerful finishing touch that makes people smile.
- Made with chunky yarn: a thick yarn means the bag works up quickly, which is a big help when the holidays are close.
- A reusable alternative to wrapping paper: fill it with gifts and give it away, or keep it for your own Christmas shopping.
- Instant PDF download: start your holiday crochet project right away.
A crochet Christmas tote pattern you can start today
This is a digital crochet tote bag pattern in PDF format. You download it as soon as you buy, and you crochet the bag yourself, so nothing is shipped. The materials list and the finished size are shown on the Etsy listing, so you can check them before you buy. Patterns are written in either US or UK terms, so look at our US vs UK crochet terms chart before you begin.
Ways to use a crochet Christmas tote
- A festive shopping bag for Christmas markets
- A handmade gift bag for a loved one’s presents
- A bag to carry food and gifts to a family dinner
- A seasonal item for your craft fair table
- A thoughtful handmade present for a crochet fan
Tips for crocheting a plaid Christmas bag
- Pick your reds and greens carefully. Hold the skeins side by side in daylight, since some reds and greens clash.
- Keep the yarn organized. Plaid uses several colors, so winding small balls or using bobbins keeps things tidy.
- Choose a sturdy yarn. A bag needs to hold its shape under the weight of gifts. See our guide to the best yarn for crochet bags.
- Attach the bells securely. Sew them on with strong thread, and check them well if the bag will be used by children.
- Consider a lining. It protects small gifts and keeps the bag in shape. See how to line a crochet bag.
- Start early. Christmas crochet projects take time, so beginning in October or November leaves room for gift-making.
Frequently asked questions
Is this a finished Christmas bag? No. It is a digital PDF crochet pattern, so you crochet the bag yourself and nothing is shipped.
Where can I find the materials list and bag size? Check the Etsy listing, or message the shop with your questions before you buy.
I am new to crochet. Where do I start? Read our beginner guide to crochet and try a free pattern first. For the whole process, see how to make a granny square bag.
Can I give it as a Christmas gift? Yes. Many crocheters make a handmade bag as a gift, filled with presents. Start in autumn so it is ready in time, and see our crochet Christmas gift ideas for more bags to make.