Crochet Pattern: Two-Tone Chevron Tote Bag

 A Two-Tone Chevron Tote Bag is a stylish and functional accessory that uses the classic chevron (or ripple) stitch pattern in two contrasting colours to create a striking visual effect. The chevron pattern is formed by alternating increases and decreases, creating peaks and valleys.

Common Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

Abbreviation	Stitch/Action
ch	Chain
st(s)	Stitch(es)
sl st	Slip Stitch
sc	Single Crochet
hdc	Half Double Crochet
dc	Double Crochet
MR	Magic Ring/Magic Circle (sometimes used for flat bases)
inc	Increase (usually 2 or 3 stitches into one to form a peak)
dec	Decrease (working 2 or 3 stitches together to form a valley)
sk	Skip
sp	Space (e.g., ch-1 sp)
WS	Wrong Side
RS	Right Side
FO	Fasten Off (cut yarn and pull through loop)
( )	Work instructions within parentheses into the same stitch or space.
[ ]	Repeat instructions within brackets a specified number of times.
*** ***	Repeat instructions after asterisk as indicated.

Individual Design: Counting Stitches (Example Chevron Pattern)

The chevron pattern typically works in multiples of a certain number of stitches, plus an additional amount for the turning chain or to establish the base. A common chevron pattern uses dc stitches, forming a "mountain" (increase) and a "valley" (decrease) over a set number of stitches.

Let's assume a basic chevron pattern where:

• Peak: (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in one stitch (or 3 dc in one stitch)
• Valley: dc2tog or sk 2 sts
• Repeat Section: A set of stitches between a peak and a valley.

For a tote bag, you will typically start with a foundation chain that is a multiple of your chevron repeat, plus extra chains for turning and symmetry. You'll work in rows for the base, then often join and work in continuous rounds for the body of the bag.

1. Base of the Bag (Optional - Flat Oval Base)

A flat oval base provides a sturdy foundation.

• Foundation Chain: Ch 41 (adjust for desired width; this example is for 4 chevron repeats on the sides, with turns).
• Rnd 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 38 ch, 3 sc in last ch. Turn to work along the other side of the foundation chain. Sc in next 38 ch, 2 sc in last ch, sl st to first sc. (82 sc)
• Rnd 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in same st, sc in next 38 sts, 2 sc in next 3 sts, sc in next 38 sts, 2 sc in last st, sl st to first sc. (88 sc)
• Continue increasing at the ends of the oval until the desired base size is reached. The final stitch count of the base must be a multiple of your chevron pattern repeat. For this example, let's say the final base has 120 stitches.

2. Body of the Bag (Chevron Pattern)

Work in continuous rounds, changing colours for each band or a few bands. Let's use a 12-stitch repeat for the chevron.

• Set-up for Chevron: Join new colour. Ch 3 (counts as first dc).
• Rnd 1 (Colour A): (Using the 120 stitches from the base)
• Work a dc in the next 2 sts.
• Peak: (2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in next st.
• Work a dc in the next 4 sts.
• Valley: Sk 2 sts.
• Work a dc in the next 4 sts.
• Repeat from * across the round (total of 10 repeats for 120 sts). Sl st to top of beg ch-3. (120 sts + 10 ch-2 sps).
• Rnd 2 (Colour A): Ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in ch-2 sp, dc in next 4 sts, sk 2 sts, dc in next 4 sts; rep from * to end. Sl st to top of beg ch-3.
• Colour Change: FO Colour A. Join Colour B in the starting stitch of the next round.
• Rnd 3 (Colour B): Ch 3, dc in next 2 sts, *(2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc) in ch-2 sp, dc in next 4 sts, sk 2 sts, dc in next 4 sts; rep from * to end. Sl st to top of beg ch-3.
• Rnd 4 (Color B): Repeat Rnd 3.
• Continue: Alternate colours every 2-4 rounds, repeating the chevron pattern, until the bag reaches the desired height.

Count Tip: The total stitch count (excluding chain spaces in the peaks) should remain consistent in each round to maintain the shape. The "sk 2 sts" in the valley balances the "2 dc, ch 2, 2 dc" (or equivalent increase) in the peak.

3. Top Edging

Once the bag body is the desired height, a simple edging provides a clean finish and reinforces the top.

• Edging Rnd 1: Using one of your colours (or a new accent colour), ch 1, sc in each dc and in each ch-sp around. (This smooths out the peaks and valleys). Sl st to first sc.
• Edging Rnd 2-3: Ch 1, sc in each sc around. Sl st to first sc.

4. Handles

Handles can be crocheted directly or sewn on.

• Crocheted Handles (Example):
• Determine placement for 2 handles. Mark 4-6 stitches for each handle attachment point (2 points per handle).
• Attaching Rnd: Ch 1, sc around to the first handle mark. Ch 60-80 (for handle length). Sk the stitches designated for the handle base and sc into the next marked stitch. Continue sc around to the next handle mark, ch 60-80, sk stitches, sc into the next marked stitch. Sc to end, sl st.
• Handle Reinforcement: Work 1-2 more rounds of sc, working into the sc stitches and around the ch-stitches of the handle loop to reinforce.

Finishing Instructions

1. Fasten Off (FO): After the last stitch of your handles or final edging, cut the yarn, leaving an 8-10 inch tail. Pull the tail completely through the last loop on your hook to secure the knot.
2. Weave in Ends: This is crucial for a neat finish, especially with colour changes. Thread each yarn tail onto a tapestry needle. Weave the tail through the wrong side (inside) of the corresponding colour’s stitches. Weave in a few directions over 1-2 inches to secure it completely and hide it.
3. Blocking (Optional): Lightly block the bag to help the chevron pattern lie flat and define the shape. Dampen the bag, gently stretch it to shape, and pin it to a flat surface. Allow it to air dry completely.
4. Lining (Optional but Recommended): For added durability and to prevent small items from falling through crochet gaps, sew a fabric lining into your tote bag. This also gives the bag a more polished look.

Tips for a Successful Two-Tone Chevron Tote Bag

• Yarn Choice: Use medium to heavy weight yarn (worsted, aran, or bulky) for a sturdy bag. Cotton or cotton blends are excellent as they hold shape well and are durable. Acrylic is also fine, but may have more drape.
• Consistent Tension: Maintaining even tension is vital for a clean, consistent chevron pattern. Practice the stitch before starting the bag.
• Colour Contrast: Choose two colours that have a good contrast to make the chevron pattern "pop." Complementary colours or one bright and one neutral often work well.
• Stitch Markers: Use stitch markers to mark the "peaks" (increase stitches) and "valleys" (decrease points) in each round. This helps you keep track of the pattern and prevents mistakes, especially when changing colours.
• Working in the Chain-2 Space: Many chevron patterns use a ch-2 sp at the peaks. Always ensure you work the peak increases into this chain space, not just a stitch, for a cleaner V-shape.
• Handle Placement: Before permanently attaching or crocheting handles, put the bag on a hanger or stand and eyeball the placement. Ensure they are evenly spaced and comfortable to carry.
• Yarn Ends Management: When changing colours, carry the inactive yarn up the inside seam of the bag (if working in the round) or weave it in carefully, rather than cutting and rejoining for every single colour change, to minimise ends.
• Test Swatch: Always crochet a small swatch of the chevron pattern with your chosen yarn and hook to check your gauge and ensure you like the look of the pattern.