This project didn’t go exactly to plan, but I have to admit that the end result is much better than my mind envisioned!

If you like to make and use your own bags for shopping, but don’t like to have them all loose in your bag, then this deisng is one to test out.

When I was first deciding on this one I was going to make the pocket as part of the bottom of the bag. But as I was making it I realised that it was going to bother me to always have one of the parts of the pocket be the wrong way out when the bag was in use. So I changed my mind on how to make it.

I began with a square – or in this case a hexagon, as it was closest to being round. I’ve then used one of them to form the base of the bag and two more to form a pocket. The pocker I’ve stitched inside to the top so that it forms a pouch for keys or anything else that is small that you might have when you’re shopping, or that might be too small for the string bag. It’s based off a design that I have purchased made from fabric.

The bag istself isn’t super big, but is the perfect size for small shopping purchases or to use as a lunch bag for work that you can then ‘pocket’ into your work tote afterwards.

To make the string bag section I’ve used a chain 5, skip 3 and then single crochet (UK double crochet) into the next stitch for the first round. This requires a count in multiples of 4 for the edge of the square. Round 2 onwards I have slip stitched to the middle of the ch5 and then chained 5 and then single crochet (UK double crochet) into the next chain 5 space. The top is all single crochet with handles but you could also finish it off with a draw string instead of the handles.

The pocket squares I have joined together on 5 sides and then attached to the inside at the top of the bag.

This was a relatively quick make and makes for a fun project for market stalls or to gift. You can get creative with the square and colours. I would recommend using a cotton yarn. The one I have used is a DK weight or 8ply yarn and I’ve used 4 colours and the equivalent of 3 balls of yarn.

If you love the idea of playing with granny squares, trying new combinations, and feeling creatively supported — my Granny Square Club is a lovely place to land.

It’s a low-pressure, joy-filled space where progress matters more than perfection.

You can find all the details here

Seona x