How to Line a Crochet Bag and Add Straps
A lining is the finishing touch that makes a crochet bag feel professional. It stops keys and small items slipping through the stitch gaps, protects the yarn and helps the bag hold its shape. This guide shows you how to line a crochet bag by hand, with no special sewing skills, and how to add strong handles.
Do You Need a Lining?
Not always. A tight, firm stitch in cotton can work without one. A lining is worth it when your bag has an open or mesh stitch, when you carry small items, or when you want it to last longer.
What You Need
- Cotton or canvas fabric, which is firm and easy to sew.
- Matching thread and a sewing needle (a sewing machine is optional).
- Scissors, pins and a tape measure.
How to Line a Crochet Bag, Step by Step
- Measure the bag. Measure the width and height of the inside of the finished bag.
- Cut two pieces of fabric. Make each piece the width and height of the bag, plus about 1.5 cm (1/2 in) extra on every side for seams, and 3 cm (1 in) extra at the top for the hem.
- Sew the lining. Place the pieces right sides together and sew the two side edges and the bottom, leaving the top open.
- Fold the top edge over to the wrong side and press, so it is a neat hem.
- Place the lining inside the bag with the wrong sides facing each other, and pin the top edges together.
- Sew the lining in by hand with small stitches just under the top edge, catching only the back of the crochet stitches so the thread does not show on the outside.
Tip: make the lining a little smaller than the bag, so the crochet is not pulled out of shape.
Crochet Bag Strap and Handle Options
| Handle type | Good for | Note |
|---|---|---|
| Crocheted strap | Matching look, tote bags | Work in single crochet for firmness |
| Braided cotton cord | Soft, boho style | Use thick cotton, braid tightly |
| Ready-made handles | Strongest, heavy loads | Sew on with strong thread |
How to Attach Handles So They Do Not Pull Off
- Add an extra round of single crochet around the top opening before attaching the handles.
- Stitch each end of the handle through several rows of the bag, not just the top edge.
- Go over each attachment more than once, so the weight is spread.
Lining a Crochet Bag: FAQ
Can I line a crochet bag without sewing? It is hard. A few hand stitches are enough, and you can use fabric glue or a ready-made bag insert as an alternative.
What fabric is best for lining? Cotton or canvas. They are strong, easy to sew and wash well.
New to bags? Start with the full guide to making a granny square bag, or see how to join granny squares. Ready-made plans are in the crochet bag patterns section.