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Crochet Guides for Granny Squares and Bags

Everything you need to go from your very first square to a finished bag, in short, friendly, step-by-step guides. Read them in order, or jump to the one you need.

Step 1

How to Crochet a Granny Square

Your first square, with a diagram for every round. Read →

Step 2

How to Join Granny Squares

Four easy methods, and the best one for bags. Read →

Planning

How Many Granny Squares for a Tote Bag

A simple formula and a size chart. Read →

Yarn

Best Yarn for Crochet Bags

Cotton, weight and ply, made simple. Read →

Step 3

How to Make a Granny Square Bag

From a pile of squares to a finished tote. Read →

Finishing

How to Line a Crochet Bag

Lining and strong handles, by hand. Read →

Reference

US vs UK Crochet Terms

Every stitch name side by side. Read →

Gifts

Crochet Christmas Gift Ideas

Handmade bags to give, and a plan to finish in time. Read →

Your Path From First Square to Finished Bag

New to crochet? Read the guides in this order and you will go from a single granny square to a bag you can carry, one small step at a time.

1. Learn the stitches: how to crochet a granny square, with diagrams for every round.
2. Understand your pattern: the US vs UK crochet terms chart, plus hook and yarn conversions.
3. Pick your yarn: the best yarn for crochet bags and the right hook for each bag type.
4. Plan the size: how many granny squares for a tote bag, with charts by square size and bag size.
5. Put it together: how to join granny squares, then how to make a granny square bag.
6. Finish like a pro: how to line a crochet bag and add handles that never pull off.

Ready for Your First Pattern?

Once you can make and join squares, a pattern does the planning for you. Good first bags are the chunky granny square tote (big squares, quick finish), the granny square drawstring bag (small and beginner friendly) and the classic granny square tote. Making gifts this year? See our crochet Christmas gift ideas.