About This Round Bag with T-Shirt Yarn Pattern
This pattern teaches you how to crochet a round bag using t-shirt yarn (7-9 mm) and a 6 mm hook, including the base, sides, finishing, and a decorative tassel. It includes full round-by-round instructions, helpful tips for working with bulky yarn, and a link to a detailed video tutorial. The finished bag has a chain strap and snap hardware for a polished, wear-ready look.
Designed for beginners, the pattern uses single crochet and simple increases to shape the circle and sides. Detailed assembly steps explain how to join the two parts, attach hardware, and make the tassel.
Why You'll Love This Round Bag with T-Shirt Yarn Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it transforms basic t-shirt yarn into a chic, wearable accessory with minimal supplies. I enjoy how quickly the circle grows with bulky yarn, letting you see progress fast and stay motivated. The assembly and hardware details give the bag a professional look without complicated sewing. I also love that you can customize the strap, tassel, and color to match your style, making each bag truly unique. This project brings me joy because it is practical, fast, and endlessly adaptable.
Switch Things Up
I love recommending color changes for this pattern: try a two-tone base and top trim for a modern contrast, or use a variegated t-shirt yarn for texture and depth.
You can make the bag larger or smaller by changing your yarn weight and hook size; using bulkier yarn and a larger hook creates a chunkier, oversized bag, while thinner yarn gives a smaller, delicate purse.
I often swap the metal chain for a leather strap or a braided yarn strap to change the look from casual to dressy, which also changes the weight and wearability of the bag.
I sometimes add a fabric lining with an inner zip pocket for extra durability and to protect small items; glue-basting and sewing the lining in place works well for a neat finish.
Try swapping the snap closure for a magnetic clasp or a zipper if you prefer a more secure closure; just adjust the placement and reinforce the area with extra stitching.
I like to embellish my bags with crocheted flowers, appliques, or embroidered initials to personalize gifts — these details really elevate a simple design.
If you want a slouchier shape, skip a few side rounds or use less tension while crocheting; for a stiffer bag, add interfacing to the lining or use a denser stitch for the sides.
Experiment with decorative trims: a round of bobble stitches, surface slip stitch accents, or a contrasting edge add character without complicating the pattern.
For an evening version, use metallic or sparkly t-shirt yarn and swap hardware to gold or brass-tone chain to create a special-occasion accessory I love gifting to friends.
Finally, I recommend trying different tassel sizes and styles — a compact tassel or a long dramatic one both look wonderful, and changing tassel color can completely change the bag’s vibe.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Taking the yarn from the middle of the bobbin can cause tangles and tension problems; always take the thread from the outside to keep the yarn untwisted and easy to work with.
✗ Twisting the t-shirt yarn while crocheting makes loops sit uneven and messy; be careful to let the yarn unwind naturally and check frequently for twists, untwisting as needed.
✗ Pulling the working thread too low when crocheting SC will create holes in the fabric; pull the working thread just above the level of the column and hold the hook at an angle for neat stitches.
✗ Forgetting to hide and secure the starting tail after row 2 leaves a visible hole; pull the end through all stitches of row 1 from the wrong side, tighten, strengthen and cut the thread to hide the hole.
✗ Not steaming the circle through a damp cloth can leave ragged edges and uneven shape; steam the circle with an iron through a damp cloth to flatten and shape the base properly.
