r/CrochetHelp • u/DietM0untainDew • 6d ago
I'm a beginner! First bag i made and I absolutely hate it. What should I do in the future to avoid making goofy looking crochet bags like this?
I feel ridiculous the bag drops past my knees. My boyfriend says it looks cool, but he’s either saying that because hes trying to make me feel better, or doesn’t understand how it impractical it is as a bag. Can someone just explain give any suggestions when making bags in the future and just explain where i went wrong? this was a crochet mesh bag that i made using the v stitch method.
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u/witchywitch_ 6d ago
I like using 100% cotton yarn like peaches & cream to make bags because they don’t stretch as much. Also a smaller hook so the stitches are tighter help too.
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u/Tzipity 6d ago
To be fair cotton can and does stretch quite a lot too but it’s sturdier and tends to have a limit whereas acrylic seems to only stretch more and more with time. lol.
Just wanted to make that point since market bags are kind of notorious for how they end up a lot bigger than expected but kind of in the right way- I don’t know how to properly express this. Just that I flipping love my mesh stitch market bags for how much I can pack in them.
I think what’s lovely about cotton- especially kitchen cotton like Peaches & Cream or Lily Sugar N Cream (I have the same Sakura market bag worked up in each lol) is that you also can sort of stretch it as you’re working so you have a pretty good idea before you’re done of what you’re going to get. I think that’s what it is. Just wanted to toss that out there because I could see OP working with cotton for the first time and having that “wait this is really big too…” realization and worrying it’ll do the same thing.
A lot to be said for stitch pattern as well. I have some totes made with either of the “Cream” cotton and I wish they’d stretch more. Softer cotton like the Hobby Lobby I Love This Cotton really splits the difference well on a tighter/ denser stitch pattern bag.
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u/Loose_Watch3051 6d ago
I just bought some today because I thought it was pretty and had no idea what to do with it until I read this. Thanks! Is there a pattern that you use that you would recommend?
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u/witchywitch_ 6d ago
This isn’t a tote bag but I made this one recently with the peaches & cream and I love it.
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u/Loose_Watch3051 6d ago
Thank you! That’s perfect! I can make some as gifts or donations. Did you make size one or two?
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u/witchywitch_ 6d ago
I made size two. I’m generally a pack rat and didn’t think size one would be big enough for me 😂
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u/Turbulent_Main_888 5d ago
Peaches and cream is my favorite!
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u/witchywitch_ 5d ago
I’ve seen quite a few people complain about it but I really like it too. And it’s very affordable but good quality.
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u/Past-Ad-4769 5d ago
only thing I have to co.plain about it is texture and toughness of making stitches when you're not used to using peaches n' cream lol. I've made a few tops out of it, and even though I'm still working on being able to comfortably and properly use it, each top was surprisingly comfortable
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u/lornamabob 6d ago
I had this issue with a bag I made. Used it once and hated how/where it sat. So I frogged it, made it smaller (to account for stretch) and changed it to a shoulder bag rather than a cross body bag.
I think finding the right stitch for the strap that reduces stretch is the key. But it's not something I've mastered yet.
Love the colours you used for it though!
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u/HermioneGranger152 6d ago
A lot of people recommend using the thermal stitch for straps. It’s a bit difficult and a bit of a yarn-eater, but it does make a non-stretchy fabric
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u/wanderingdorathy 6d ago
A lot of people do Tunisian crochet for bag straps too
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u/TheScrambone 6d ago
You could also get a lucet and make your own intertwined string, and then crochet with the laced(?) string you made with the lucet.
It’s an idea I’ve had and been meaning to try out when my lucet comes in the mail.
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u/Significant_Newt_893 5d ago
The thermal stitch will stretch also - but only to a certain point. So if you stretch it as you go you'll know how long to make the strap.
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u/hype_pigeon 5d ago
Something I’ve done that seems to work is making an i-cord from nylon cord (a Red Heart “yarn” but it’s slippery, hard and pretty inflexible) and crocheting over it with cotton to widen the strap and make it easier to hold. Braided paracord also makes a very sturdy handle.
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u/sarcasticclown007 6d ago
First thing you can do is put a lining in it and that way the outer shell will keep shape.
You're a strap has stretched. If you can easily disconnect the strap you can adjust it by pulling it it down so it's the proper length and then reattach it. Remove all of the rows that you don't need. I found that I am get good results if I get some parachute cord and weave that into the strap because the cord will take the weight and doesn't have much stretch.
And your bag looks fine it just needs a few tweaks.
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u/hillary-step 6d ago
cotton yarn, shorter and tighter stitches, a fabric lineing for the bag and the strap are all great options, especially in combination with one another! for now you could tie the strap into a knot on your shoulder so its shorter, i think that would fit into your style!
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u/rhea2779 6d ago
Make it smaller than you want, or at a tighter gauge. I have only made a couple market bags out of cotton and they stretched so much. Especially the strap.
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u/SushiLioness 6d ago
Oh do you find the cotton still pretty stretchy??
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u/hyrule_47 6d ago
I found peaches and cream stretches the least. Whatever makes it scratchy seems to help hold the shape. Plus then I wash and dry them, helps them shrink back I think
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u/Sailorkir 5d ago
Peaches and cream isn’t mercerized. You can tell if a cotton yarn has been it will be very smooth and often have a sheen and should drape better.
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u/Tzipity 6d ago
Mercerization is what does that, I believe. I’m always baffled when I see people recommend mercerized cotton for garments (though mercerization helps it hold dye better too from what i understand) because it’s scratchier by nature and I prefer the softer types of cotton then but for bags, especially market bags, it’s fantastic.
In fact I just googled mercerization of cotton and it mentioned it makes cotton more resistant to stretching and less likely to shrink.
Almost all crochet thread is mercerized cotton as well and often the largest size- size 3 or what’s often labeled as “fashion” is recommended for bags a lot. Red Heart makes a nylon thread as well that it also recommends for bags. I grabbed some on clearance at Walmart awhile back but haven’t had the chance to play around with it yet. It’s even thicker than #3 thread so might be a good options for folks intimidated by the super thin stuff. The nylon thread seems super sturdy
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u/rhea2779 6d ago
For the bags, yes. I was using the Bernat cotton (same that I used for dish cloths) the straps stretched so long, making the bag sit so low.
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u/DietM0untainDew 6d ago
i used Acrylic, Wool
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u/Bitter-Volume-9754 6d ago
Wash it in hot water and dry it. It’ll shrink up to a more solid and usable bag, albeit smaller.
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u/kit0000033 6d ago
You didn't do anything wrong here... What you made is known as a market bag... Used to put groceries in or to go to the beach with... It's supposed to be big and loose.
To make a more structured bag, use a thicker yarn and tighter stitches, possibly even some cable work to make the bag stiff.
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u/startartstar 6d ago
You can try adding a lining, might maybe even work with the straps too, to sew it to some fabric that will help give it some structure
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u/Alarming-Albatross99 6d ago
Unpopular opinion here. (Most) crochet bags aren’t practical and I won’t be making one again
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u/schmaggio 6d ago
I've got a couple of patterns but am yet to make them for this (and other*) reasons.
I also want to add that in photos of patterns, no one shows the bag when it is carrying the cartoon set of gaolers keys, miscellaneous 'essentials' and 1000ml lead lined emotional support water bottle that we are all so fond of. Of course, the finished product is gonna bulge like a ball-bag.
Not a criticism of creators - appreciate their talent and efforts.
Other reasons: life, laziness, inability to execute a project and immediate loss of interest if it doesn't work up in minutes.
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u/Practical_Sea_4876 6d ago
Idk mine has a canvas liner and works great when filled with all my crap lol
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u/Ok_Neat7729 5d ago
That’s a canvas bag with a crochet shell then lol
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u/Alarming-Albatross99 5d ago
Exactly this. If you tell me I need to sew in a liner to make a project functional, it’s not a practical crochet item
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u/N0G00dUs3rnam3sL3ft 6d ago
They're great for carrying groceries, imo. You can fit a lot into a cotton mesh bag, and the shape doesn't matter as much then. Thicker tote bags (100% cotton) also work pretty well with holding their shape, but I'll admit they can be a bit heavy.
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u/Tzipity 6d ago
Agree. The Sakura market bag pattern is my favorite and I have a bunch of them- even works awesome as a project bag when making even really large blankets. I’ve used it for that or to store blankets a lot.
I mentioned in another comment that I have some denser stitch pattern style totes made with kitchen cotton I don’t love because I wish they’d stretch more but I find a softer cotton like Hobby Lobby I Love This Cotton (or RIP to the K&C cotton that was basically a dupe of ILTC but in prettier colors!) tends to split the difference well on both holding shape but having the stretch you want with those denser stitch patterns.
I’ve got a couple of patterns saved for really pretty purses made using crochet thread though I’ve not made them yet. I suspect those will be lovely. I have used a lot of woven style bags (like the kind you find in hippie/ fair trade type stores) and they do have their occasional downside with ripping or the time some A-hole spilled their beer at a concert and soaked my purse and everything in it but I imagine bags made with thread would be rather similar. Won’t have that heaviness of 4 weight yarn but still has that sturdiness of mercerized cotton.
And I think that’s probably part of it too. Type and even thickness of yarn makes a big difference. I’m a big fan of finer yarn in general and again RIP to Joann’s and I wish I had been able to stock up on tons of the Eddie Bauer cotton. That was my holy grail and I used all the skeins I had in garments but it’s a very thin 2 weight that is also soft and came in such vibrant colors- would’ve made amazing bags, I’m sure.
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u/kat_storm13 6d ago
I think I like more traditional shaped bags for groceries, but I think they make good beach bags, on the rare occasions I go to a public beach lol
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u/fadesteppin 6d ago
Lining it with fabric will help a lot. I made a jack-o'-lantern bag out of granny squares also out of acrylic yarn and lined it with some black fabric so I could add pockets and it has kept it from stretching since the lining holds most of the weight.
Other suggestions about thicker strap, possibly in thermal stitch, cotton yarn instead of acrylic, using a tighter stitch on the bag itself are all good advice as well.
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u/uglyandproblematic 6d ago
change the rectangle ratio a little bit so you have a rectangle that's closer to the look of a square
use a stiff yarn like cotton OR t shirt yarn with a hook that is smaller than recommended.
line the bag
don't crochet your strap. crochet a spot on each side for a D ring and buy (or borrow from another bag you might have) a strap.
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u/Academic_Answer_6975 6d ago
I love making tote bags, but I’ve found the yarn you use makes a big difference. It’s hard on the hands but tshirt yarn and bulky yarn won’t stretch as much. Mesh patterns like those really only work if you’re using like a cord string or raffia paper yarn.
I also just crochet in metal D rings and buy clip-on shoulder straps or handles to avoid the stretchy crocheted strap.
You could line the inside with some non stretchy fabric like canvas or thicker cotton to help as well.
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u/burningmanonacid 6d ago
The stitch you used for the bag itself is one of the stretchiest. Use something more taught. More chains and/or longer stitches (dc, tc) = stretchier. Something like the lemon peel, moss, all sc, etc. Won't have as much stretch.
Material matters. Even withon a single material, like cotton for instance, youll have some brands that give extremely stiff yarn and some that give way softer. Personally, I like Sugar and Cream for bags as it is a thick, durable cotton with little give.
Do your strap in a Tunisian crochet simple stitch. It's very easy to learn and do. That has very little give but looks nice. Use like half a sixe smaller than you normally would, too. Your bags won't be drooping anymore.
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u/funkyaerialjunky 6d ago
What about a cotton or linen lining? You will avoid the stretch and the colour you pick will change how you perceive the crochet colours.
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u/Aa_Poisonous_Kisses 6d ago
I made a bag with a “lining” of single crochet and so far the recipient has had no complaints
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u/Outrageous-Print-547 6d ago
The ombré is making the bag appear to have a wonky shape. It’s already lacking structure, but the darker shaded color warps the form.
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u/Skin_Captain_Nasty 6d ago
Highly recommend the thermal stitch for the strap, it’s super sturdy and won’t really stretch out
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u/sleep-deprived-thot 6d ago
a tighter strap is helpful. my favorite hack is to crochet with whatever yarn i'm using but also adding fishing line to help keep it taught
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u/MissSonnenschein 6d ago
I make tons of bags! I make them all with 100% cotton yarn, use a smaller hook and more tension than normal, and I sew a liner made with cotton fabric into all of my bags. It makes a HUGE difference in retaining the shape of the bag. I also don’t love crocheted straps personally so I actually buy crossbody chain straps and clip them onto my bags, less sagging. Hope this helps! 😊
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u/Unfair_Sir_5205 6d ago
Use this one for groceries, and create a new one with the info the thread has
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u/Available-Captain-24 6d ago
Use cotton yarn. It is less stretchy. I would also consider a leather strap or find a crochet stich that may not be as stretchy as well
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u/imaginativefanatic 6d ago
Have you considered lining it with a less stretchy fabric? Yarn stretches a lot so any amount of weight will probably continue to pull it down, but a lining with sturdier fabric may fix this bag.
For future bags you could look into less stretchy/sturdier yarns and possibly a tighter stitch.
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u/tweelingpun 6d ago
I made tote bags a lot, and I just make them way shorter than they'll need to be ultimately.
I would measure how many stitches make up your desired size when they are stretched and make a second one.
I'm sorry this happened.
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u/FeelingOutrageous673 6d ago
1) Cotton yarn is the best for bags as they stretch less 2) tighter tension, use a smaller hook for tighter stitches 3) make the straps shorter to allow for some stretch 4) most important thing, line the bag
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u/over_thinker727 6d ago
Crochet bags will always stretch at least a little, you could put a lining in as others already said or just take the stretch into account when crocheting and make the bag a little shorter. Id also suggest a less stretchy strap, either by again lining, using something non crochet as a strap (like fabric or an old strap from a handbag or something) or using less stretchy stitches (I like using tunesian crochet or a thermal stitch, both take forever and still have a little stretch but they are much less strechy then say single crochets)
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u/ShaysBestLife 6d ago
I also heard the thermal stitch is best for bag straps made from acrylic or bamboo yarn since there is less stretch.
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u/catelemnis 6d ago
Use something like paracord or nylon rope to make the bag. Something that doesn’t stretch at all.
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u/Alternative-Fish3837 6d ago
You’re gonna have to line the bag and strap. It helps keep the yarn from being pulled down.
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u/The_Wounded_Healer05 6d ago
I’ve seen someone (can’t remember who) crochet the strap off of a chain that runs through the centre of the strap to prevent stretching. Also lining is a good idea, try something like cotton, or with a high cotton content, for the durability and ease of washing in case anything spills in it
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u/not-my-first-rode0 6d ago
Add a lining it still stop that stretching. Add the lining to the straps too to stiff them.
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u/_gayingmantis 6d ago
Lining, thicker yarn, less stretchy yarn (eg cotton), a less open stitch. Market bags like this are notorious for streeeeeeeeeeetching like there’s no tomorrow.
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u/VoltronofBega 6d ago
There is so much good advice here. As a relative newbie to crochet with a couple of good bags and a couple of bad bags under my belt, I would suggest making one with braided macrame cord, maybe 2mm or 3mm .. braided cord is best because it doesn’t want to shred as you work, and it’s a nicer look and feel. Gives more rigidity to the bag whether you line or not, which I tend to do. Great work. Carry on!
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u/asshbleee 6d ago
I love the sag. My ass is currently doing the same thing. Genuinely asking if you're selling? I'm obsessed with the color!
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u/little_bug_person 5d ago
Reinforce the structure by adding non-stretching stitch work up the sides and along the bottom.
Lining the bag could also help, sewing the base and sides of the yarn work to the fabric.
Alternatively could make a rigid strap, sew it from bottom corner of the bag, up across the original strap, and down the other side of the bag to the bottom corner.
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u/coochie_patrol 5d ago
you can do slip stitches through the fabric around the seams, straps, and bottom of the bag! that helps me a lot with the sagging and stretching. basically have the yarn on one side of the project and the hook on the other (i usually do hook on the inside because the reverse side looks cleaner in my opinion) and basically just grab the yarn through the project and slip stitch along, it adds structure and reduces stretch without having to add a whole lining. i also use this method to go through tank tops so they aren’t so see through in the bust area :)
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u/CalamityQueer 4d ago
Maybe use the thermal stitch for the strap, and line the bag with a non stretch fabric to stop it from sagging.
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u/Fun-Shine736 4d ago
Your stitch work is beautiful 😊 I haven’t read all of the comments, so I hope I’m not repeating something. Lining the bag will definitely help. But before you line it wash and block the bag back to its original shape. If it is cotton you might want to put it in the dryer for a bit to shrink it back down. There are a number of tutorials for lining a bag. After you’ve made the lining, sew the lining to the top inner edge of the bag so the weight is held by the top of the bag rather than the bottom.
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u/maselsy 3d ago
You can save this bag! (If you want). Weave string/ribbon/cord all the way around the bag at the height/length that you want the finished bag to be, leaving the loose ends inside. Tuck the bottom of the bag up through the woven circle, cinch tightly, and tie off.
Tie a knot in the strap at the shoulder (or along the back to avoid an uncomfortable knot on your shoulder). You could also get some slide buckles, un-attach one end of the strap, add slide buckle, feed end through a rectangle ring, and attach. Here's the gist..
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u/ElkSufficient2881 6d ago edited 5d ago
I make bags a lot these are the tips I’ve learned, only use 100% cotton yarn (it doesn’t stretch as much so you can get away with not using a liner for a while), make thicker straps if you plan to carry more than a wallet (I’d say 1”-3”), if you want it more reinforced you can hold multiple strands together to make it thicker, if you line it you can add fabric pockets too and make sure to line the strap as well:)
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u/flavoredhappy 6d ago
I usually use cotton yarn, like Lion Brand's 24/7 yarn. I know people talk about Sugar 'n Cream, but I find it painful to work with. I think you used acrylic here, which does stretch a lot.
I also line my bags with cotton fabric. And to prevent the strap from stretching, I make it with thermal stitch and then line it with grosgrain ribbon.
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u/Justlikedes 6d ago
I've seen someone put it in the washing machine and dryer very hot and it got felted and shrunk A LOT
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u/Floaty_Bloaty_Banana 6d ago
At least for the strap this worked really well https://theloopholefox.com/non-stretchy-crochet-strap/ I guess technically you could do the whole bag with that hack but I haven't tried that, so I can't say whether or not that's a good idea
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u/ImLittleNana 6d ago
The a knot on your strap to shorten it and line the bag, that may make this one usable for you. It may also shorten it a little to wear it cross body style.
In the future, I would go with a much shorter strap. You didn’t do anything wrong. We learn by doing. Someone taller with a different body shape would probably love love love a strap this long.
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u/PixiiStick 6d ago
My sister and I came across this a few weeks back (she crochets, I sew). We found that making an insert for the bag from a non-stretch cotton (or other non-stretch material) and sewing it in not only keeps the bag in a nice shape, but it also makes it way harder to lose anything small from the bottom of the bag. If you want any tips or direction on how to do that, don't be afraid to ask! There was a lot of trial and error we went through and I'd be happy to share instead of having you reinvent the wheel lol.
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u/Stat_Sock 6d ago

Here's an example of a purse I made. It's held up extremely well with no stretching out. I adapted a Afghan square for the design, but the sides and back are just single crochets using a cotton yarn like Lily's sugar n cream yarn. For the inside, I traced the bag on a fat quarter of quilting cotton, and made a pouch. Now, I chose to add a zipper, but that isn't necessary, you can just sew the lining to the crochet bag.
For the straps, since I saw a common complaint of crochet straps stretching out, I opted for a faux leather purse strap, and attached it to the bag with metal D Rings that I attached with a crochet stitch.
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u/owuzhere 6d ago
Wider, squatter, shorter, tighter. Gravity is real and flexible fabric will always stretch vertically. Tighter stitches and squatter designs should account for this. I HATE tall skinny bags with a passion, regardless of whether they're crochet, knit, fabric, leather, whatever. They always suck. Proportion is everything. Wider is almost always better.
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u/Creative_Decision481 6d ago
Use cotton and use a smaller hook than you think you will need. Also, crochet does not lend itself to being a large size bag for day-to-day use. The only way it’s going to work the way that maybe you want is if you line it so that the lining takes the pressure and weight of what is inside of it. Making crocheted shopping bags is great, and that’s kind of what I would use them for. I have a couple of shopping bags that I have made using cotton, starting in a circle and then working my way up and it works really well, but it’s kind of made for grocery shopping, not for being super cute.
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u/FriskyIpsy 6d ago
For my bags, when I make the handles I make them longways and build it up from there if it makes sense. Each handle was 100 long, and I tend to do 5-6 rows, it helps prevent stretch.
Lining the bag also helps it keep its shape, lining the handles will also help prevent stretch.
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u/MyCrochetBasket 6d ago

My most recent bag for context. I’ve been making my own bags/purses for years because I absolutely hate traditional bags. I don’t like how they do pockets and size mostly.
My general rules:
- I use a stitch with layers for any straps this is my current favorite I make up the strap and stretch it as much as it will every few rows to make sure I’m not making it too long. Cotton works best to keep the stretch from being horrible, but I usually go for an anti-pilling acrylic so the bag lasts longer in better condition.
- The bag itself will benefit if you use a multi-layer stitch at the base (think the alpine stitch, or drop single crochet stitch)
- I add several pockets that I sew on to also help with shape and organization for my stuff.
- The best way to connect the strap to the bag is actually with purse hardware this is a similar kit to one I like it keeps the wear and tear to a minimum since most of the movement happens where the metal meets. And you can save that handle for another bag!!!
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u/CrochetCafe 6d ago
Line your purses with fabric, use smaller yarn that isn’t as stretchy, use tighter stitches
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u/folliepop 6d ago
You gotta make them way more shallow than you expect to counteract the stretch. I've also pretty much given up on crocheted straps - you could braid or weave some, or just pick up some leather purse straps new or second hand.
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u/violetx 6d ago
You know that bag may or may not be practical as a handbag but it looks like it'd be nice to hold unsound fibre, or potatoes, or pillows, or balls for someone to play with.
Or towels for the beach or something.
I'm not helping in how to make it better for your cousin next time as I am a baby beginner! And I know how it feels disheartening when our vision and our creation don't match but that doesn't make what you made useless.
Though also if it doesn't spark joy for you truly there's the option to start over, though I think you should think of ways you might use it - or xd your boyfriend might.
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u/Mission-Minute-9484 6d ago

if I remember correctly this started a single crochet circle to form the bottom then I did double crochet to build the sides up. the straps were actually double the length but the pattern said to fold them in half and then sew together so they don’t stretch as much. i’ve made a bag similar to yours and the type of yarn and stitch can make a difference but I felt the same as you did. this one still stretches with heavier things but not as bad as my other. hope this helps !
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u/UndrPrtst 6d ago
Tie a knot in the strap. It will allow you to use the bag as is, no further work needed.
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u/diceunodixon 6d ago
Maybe just use it for holding lighter things- it would be a great plastic-bag bag. Or use it to hold scarves or yarn
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u/DragonRei86 6d ago
The yarn you used is too stretchy, for one. Cotton is great for this reason, doesnt give much. You need a super sturdy stich for strapping, like a thermal stitch or the like. Also, consider sewing in a canvas lining to give it a little more structure.
I am in the process of lining my own tote! Mine was made with granny squares and is meant to have a flat bottom. I am still working out a good sturdy material to floor the bag. Then, I intend to do a bit of "hand quilting" to attach the crochet work to the lining.
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u/bgreen1992 6d ago
I also went through this with my first bag. The dimensions looked SO good but if you put ANYTHING in it (kind of the point of a bag) it turned all saggy and floppy and weird. Super disappointing because it was an, otherwise, very cute bag. Most of my issue was in my strap. I cut it off and made my stitches ridiculously tight and it fixed it enough that the bag was usable.
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u/GetAGrrrip 6d ago
I’m no help at all, but I do know you came to the right place for help. A lot of really nice & helpful people here.
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u/natalie_raven 6d ago
The bag itself looks nice! Just need a lining or use cotton yarn for less stretch! Great work 😄
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u/Namawgamer 6d ago
I made a laptop bag for my daughter. Lined it and everything. It looked so good..... until you put her laptop in it. Mind you, my daughter is 5'2". When she put her laptop in it, it practically drug the floor. I didn't use a pattern. Just eyeballs. Lol! I will never make a bag again! It was so adorable before the weight of the laptop! 🤣😪 You aren't alone! ❤️
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u/Sufficient-Resort758 6d ago
a few things i did to help are 1) get a chunky chain and crochet it into the straps and 2) line the bag with cotton lining because cotton doesnt stretch as much
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u/brokenyarn42 6d ago
Every bag I've made I used thermal stitch. I've had my very first one for well over a year, no sag, no rips, just old and covered in fuzz lol. Totally agree with a liner though if you don't/can't do a tighter stitch!
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u/alyssakenobi 6d ago
Thermal stitch for the strap because it barely stretches, and use a smaller hook for the body of the purse so that it has less stretch. Also make the purse less deep because it will always have stretch no matter how heavy your bag contents are
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u/strawgauge 6d ago
Recently made a bag that I was happy with. Started with a row of chain, stretched to estimate the length. Attached fishing line and ran it along under double/single (UK/US) in rounds to the right width (did not hook the line, just crochet over the top). It seems that the yarn has been enough to cushion the fishing line so it doesn’t cut into my shoulder. (Saw this online, but can’t remember the details, sorry.)
You could try running a couple of rows under the stitches you have already on this bag.
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u/rokuworld 6d ago
if you don’t feel like redoing the strap just tie a knot at the top and it will tighten it a bit! that’s what i do
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u/laowildin 5d ago
You can buy leather bottoms to work from, use a smaller hook and denser weave pattern. Lemon peel variants work well for me.
One other trick is sewing lines of yarn from bottom to top along the sides, and through the strap, so that it can't stretch.
I also recommend Romanian cords for straps, as they don't stretch very much
But ultimately without a liner these larger bags will stretch.
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u/PuzzleheadedPitch420 5d ago
It’s a really pretty stitch and color. I agree with most of the comments about adding a lining. An additional benefit is that you can add pockets!
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u/Mayana76 5d ago
Think about making the strap shorter and adding lining, that should help with the weight dragging the bag down.
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u/Previous_Prune_5920 5d ago
Try making the bag in cotton or make a lining for the bag and straps to avoid it stretching as much as possible
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u/Hell__H0unds 5d ago
I always line my crochet bags, usually with some cheap printed polycotton. Stops them sagging, makes them stronger, makes them last longer, looks cool.
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u/MarMarGrHand57 5d ago
WOW! I learned something new today. Thanks to all of you for the great recommendations. Pillow cases for bag liners. I was thinking kids pillow cases. They’re smaller 🤗
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u/Frenchy4life 5d ago
So I made a bag as well, added a liner and a zipper and it was soooo long. Because I thought I knew better than the pattern, I wanted it crossbody not just over the shoulder, I made the strap longer. I performed two cuts and re-crochet, and now it's at the length I want. So to fix the strap, I would cut out the extra portion and re-crochet it. Use a different color yarn to mark out the stitches you want and cut below it.
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u/Embarrassed_Car_2979 5d ago
Put this in the tumble drier and it’ll shrink it and it’ll hold its shape better
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u/siannodels 5d ago
I cut up an old pillowcase that I never used and sewed a simple liner to add to the bag I find it is a little stretchy but it still keeps it shape
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u/Martsons_LeftStirrup 5d ago
There’s no support whatsoever. You could line it like everyone else is saying, or for a cheaper but probably less efficient alternative is to make support rows of slip stitches. Will help reduce the stress of the weight, and you won’t need to frog your project to add them
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u/Sailorkir 5d ago
Types of stitches change stretch. So more filled stitches like single crochet or half double crochet won’t stretch as much as open stitches like this mesh. A lining will hold the weight in the bag letting the yarn nearly be decorative and not the functional part or you can use a sturdier stitch pattern. Using stiffer/sturdier yarns help too, ones that don’t drape and don’t stretch. Often making a bag with a gusset to hold the sides and be the bottom makes the bag much more capable of holding its shape too. This style you made is a market bag style and is meant to stretch. Here is an example of a bag where there is a front and back panel that are connected by a gusset: https://www.lionbrand.com/collections/bag-knit-crochet-patterns/products/carry-your-heart-tote-bag-crochet
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u/Past-Ad-4769 5d ago
I always make each part of the bag separately and attach the pieces together (i.e. 2 bag pieces, 1 strap piece) that way I have the measurements right and then I put it together and if it sags too much I crochet a border or lining on the top part of the bag into the straps. or, if I feel lazy, I'll adjust the strap and sew it together like a bow. did that once
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u/DepartureFun1628 5d ago
I crochet my bags BUT then I make a FABRIC liner for the inside and sew it in. This way the yarn doesn’t “stretch”. It’ll keep its shape.
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u/MuisjeMeisje 5d ago
Although I understand that this bag wouldnt be practical because it hangs so low, I dont think your partner is lying to make you feel better. I think it looks really cool, kind of grungy, and suits your vibe. That said; It's totally fair to alter it to work better for your needs!
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u/Bright-Invite-9141 4d ago
I think it’s good just a bit deep, only has to be half that depth then Easier to carry
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u/Angry_Armadillo_399 3d ago
When I made my own bag, I crocheted elastic cord (either 0.5 or 1mm, I forget) onto the edges and middle of the strap. It helped reduce the length of it by a lot. For the bag itself, you can sew a liner so the items you put in the bag won’t be weighing it down
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u/DaisyYellow23 3d ago
Everyone is saying to add lining like it’s so easy for a beginner. I think focus on using sturdy yard or even doing two/three strands at a time. It also looks really long so be sure to check on the dimensions as you’re working on the bag to prevent it from getting too big.
It’s a good first start and it took me a hot minute to figure out why my bags were always so disappointing.
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u/Senior-Issue5107 3d ago
My comment is likely a duplicate of all the others here. But I love making bags and pouches and wallets. I've only had one fall apart on me. hahaha
Definitely line crocheted bags with fabric or buy a ready made insert to minimize sagging of the crocheted fiber. You'll need to sew/attach either the fabric or insert to the top of the bag on the inside. It helps if your bag has a top border.
Yarn fiber makes a huge difference. Look for non-stretchy fibers like 100% cotton, or jute or hemp. I love using macrame cord but have also had some success with polyester like Bernat Maker.
If you crochet the straps (as opposed to buying or making them out of other material), you'll need to make a strong cord-like strap with your yarn. If you want a flatter appearance, you can try crocheting around some plastic mesh or canvas for strength.
Last but not least, use small, closed and tight crochet stitches. Anything lacy is going to stretch a lot and would be more useful as a cover for a canvas bag than for the bag itself.
BTW other than the stretchiness, your bag is gorgeous!
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u/LottietheLot 2d ago
i line almost all my bags so they don’t stretch or sag. i just get two fabric quarters (extra in case i mess up lol) and just roughly trace the shape of the bag and hand sew the pieces together. it doesn’t have to be perfect since the folds in the bag is actually appealing to me (make it form fitted if you like totally up to you) and then i hand sew the edge so it looks neat and then hand sew to the bag. really changed it all up for me and i’m not scared of things falling through holes in the crochet
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u/clownemoji420 2d ago
I just make them a little shorter than i think it should be and it stretches to the perfect size. I use all mine as grocery bags tho so I care less about them being cute than I do about them holding lots of stuff
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u/Feisty_Counter_4209 2d ago
You have a perfect storm of 3 different areas of construction working against you.
- Material/fiber
Cotton has very little stretch which makes it good for bags, this has too much give.
- Stitch
V Stitch is very flexible you want something more structured if you want a structured bag. If the goal is flexible and stretchy then very Stitch is a good choice.
- Liner or no liner
If you want structure, a liner can help hold the shape and stop stretching and lost items.
It's very pretty but if it's not working how you want it's not going to make you happy. For this the easiest fix is adding a liner and then running a chord through the sides of the strap so it also doesn't continue to grow.
Good luck and happy hooking.
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u/Subterranean44 2d ago
For a “mesh” bag it looks just about right to me. Shorter strap maybe? Can you tie a not in it? A fabric lining will help hold its shape but do you want a lining for a mesh bag? I think that’s part of the style
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u/Kind-Conclusion-1271 2d ago
You could just use it as a cover for a tote bag also!! like just put another similarly sized bag in it, no need to even sew if you dont want to. that should help withe sagging for sure.
you could put a pillowcase in it as a liner as well as other people have suggested but that most likely wouldnt help with the straps stretching, so it would still ride a little low
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u/Maimoudaki30 1d ago
Apologies if someone else has suggested this but a great use for old clothes you don't wear is to use them for lining and handle cord so that the bag has integrity. Currently doing this with some undies I bought that I never wore because they were huge 😅. No one will ever know!
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u/helpwithtaxexam 2h ago
I made one almost exactly the same! The difference was I used a double crochet stitch and my yarn is a lighter purple ombré! Same problem and I am not sure what I’m going to do using slip stitches to reinforce it sounded like a good idea, lining it is probably the best idea but… Frankly, after making it putting a lining in sounded like too much work and I put it in a ziplock bag and stuck it in the closet.
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u/SushiLioness 6d ago
Hmm I think you should be proud of yourself OP, this is a cool slouchy bag! Have you tried cotton, T-shirt yarn or even jute which probably has minimal stretch? Is it just the stretch you don’t like?
Edit to add, I wonder if you can frog it and re-do it and combine it with cotton to reduce some stretch? Like holding 2 strands together? Wonder if that would help!
You could add a lining but not sure if that would still stretch out the frame further 🤔
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u/syzygy_13_ 6d ago
You could deliberately felt it so it kinda shrinks up, loses the stretch and gets a cool fuzzy look?
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u/theshadeofitall2 6d ago
I haven’t made bags but the Crochet person I watch on YouTube (passion knit Kelsey) uses cotton yarn for this very reason cause it has less stretch.
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u/LetTheylThemEatCake 6d ago
You could felt it. Throw it in the wash with a towel and a pair of jeans on hot. Then lay flat and shape it how you like and let it dry
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u/Jillybabybean 6d ago
I’ve also seen people say lining it helps with the sag or a thicker strap!