How Do You Make a Crochet Bag Stiff?

A great way to make a crochet bag stiff is to use a smaller crochet hook or use a dense stitch like the waistcoat stitch. Part of why I used a center single crochet was to make this hobo bag sturdy to reduce stretch.

If the bag you are making is slouchy and you would like to make it more stiff you can try reducing the recommended hook size to tighten up the stitches.

Another way to stiffen a crochet bag is to add a fabric liner. Lining a crochet bag is a popular choice and good idea if you plan to use your crochet bag frequently. This is a perfect way to protect the yarn in the inside of the bag so that nothing gets snagged and pulls your stitches,

How Do You Make a Crochet Bag Base?

There are many different ways to make a bag base. For this bag I am crocheting a flat oval which creates the most functional tote bags. This adds some structure so the bag can sit flat on a surface and is even good for slouchy bag patterns.

Using a flat oval creates the most functional round shape that is best for everyday use. You can watch my video tutorial on how to make a flat oval that I have used many times for some of my other free crochet bags.

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Crochet Bag Pattern

Crochet hook size: 6.5 mm crochet hook

Crochet skill level: Beginner

​This is one of my favorite crochet hobo bag patterns. It comes with a video tutorial, and you can use either Lion brand or any yarn you love. It is beginner-friendly and if you can do a solid color and wide straps if you want to change it up a little.

It’s the perfect size for everyday life. I used this pattern to make my own bag and did a couple of different colors. In my opinion, it’s the perfect bag when it comes to an everyday boho bag for running errands and weekend trips.

I have no doubt you will love this pattern. It’s super easy to follow the pattern and you will get so many compliments from strangers when you are out and about.

Remember, if you need tutorials on basic crochet stitches we have you covered. I highly recommend this as your next project.

Can a Beginner Crochet a Bag?

The Waistcoat Stitch is noted in this pattern as a Center Single Crochet – csc – To create a Waistcoat Stitch (csc), you will work your stitch under the front and back loop between the two posts, (or legs) of the stitch.

Generally, this stitch is worked in the round going through the two posts on the front of the stitch. However, when working in rows, the csc will be worked through the legs on the back of the stitching and then through the posts on the front.

A center single crochet, or waistcoat stitch, is a great way to create a knit like look in crochet. You can use this crochet knit look stitch in the round or in backend forth rows.

For this easy pattern the bag base uses turns while the bag body does not. If you woild like you may choose to not turn in the bag base rows. You would need to use stitch markers so that you know when you begins a new round to make sure you increase properly.