Are you looking for a project that beautifully blends fashion with function? This delightful crochet mini backpack is the perfect accessory for days when you want to carry just the essentials without a bulky bag. With its sturdy construction, charming striped design, and practical drawstring closure, it’s a must-have for your handmade wardrobe.
Whether heading to a farmers market, taking a summer stroll, or meeting friends for coffee, this hands-free bag keeps your valuables secure and adds a textured touch to your outfit.
Finished Size
6.25″ W × 7″ H × 4.25″ D (does not include hanging loop or straps)
Gauge
In single crochet (sc): 13 sts + 15.75 rows = 3″
Construction Overview
This mini backpack is constructed in clever parts. You’ll begin by crocheting two identical base pieces, which are seamed together (with optional plastic canvas for stability). The body is worked in continuous rounds directly onto the base, creating a seamless structure. Finally, you’ll attach the hanging loop, straps, and a drawstring with a slide closure.
Supplies
- Yarn: Worsted Weight #4, 100% Mercerized Cotton. Main Color (MC): Cream (~260 yds), Contrast Color (CA): Sage Green (~100 yds)
- Hook: G/6/4.00mm crochet hook
- Notions: Measuring tape, locking stitch markers, scissors, yarn needle
- Optional: Plastic Canvas (2 pieces, 4″ W × 6″ L) for base stiffening
Stitches & Abbreviations
- ch(s) — chain(s)
- sl st(s) — slip stitch(es)
- sc — single crochet
- st(s) — stitch(es)
- Rnd(s) — round(s)
- RS/WS — right side/wrong side
- SM — stitch marker
- Rep — repeat
Special Stitches
Standing Single Crochet: Begin with a slip knot on your hook, insert hook into indicated stitch, yo, pull up a loop, yo and draw through both loops. Creates a clean, seamless start.
Pattern Instructions
Base (Make 2)
Row 1: With CA & 4.00mm hook, ch 17. Working into back hump of chain, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (16 sts)
Rows 2–30: Ch 1, sc in each st across. Turn.
Base #1: Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Base #2: Do not fasten off. Continue to Assembly.
Base Assembly
Optionally cut 2 plastic canvas rectangles slightly smaller than your base. Layer the bases with canvas between them. Pin together with stitch markers.
Seaming Rnd 1: Working through both layers around perimeter — sc in each st along short edges (16 sts each), sc in side of each row along long edges (30 sts each), plus 1 extra sc at each corner. Join with sl st. (96 sts)
Body
Note: Most rounds are worked in continuous spiral. Use stitch marker for first stitch.
Rnd 1 (RS): With CA, join with sc in corner st. Sc in each st around. Do not join. (96 sts)
Rnds 2–3: Sc in each st around. Do not join.
Rnd 4: Sc in each st around. Join with sl st. Change to MC.
Rnd 5 (MC): Sc in each st around. Do not join.
Rnd 6: Sc around. Join with sl st. Change to CA.
Rnd 7 (CA): Sc around. Join with sl st. Change to MC.
Rnd 8 (MC): Sc around. Join with sl st. Change to CA.
Rnd 9 (CA): Sc around. Join with sl st. Change to MC. Fasten off CA.
Rnds 10–33 (MC): Sc in each st around. Do not join.
Rnd 34: Sc around. Join. Change to CA.
Rnd 35 (CA): Sc around. Join. Change to MC.
Rnd 36 (MC): Sc around. Join.
Rnd 37 (Eyelets): Sc 10, ch 3, skip 3, sc 5, ch 3, skip 3, sc 14, ch 3, skip 3, sc 2, ch 3, skip 3, sc 15, ch 3, skip 3, sc 5, ch 3, skip 3, sc 11, ch 3, skip 3, sc 9, ch 3, skip 3, sc 1. Join.
Rnd 38: Sc in each st and ch around. Join. Change to CA.
Rnds 39–40 (CA): Sc around. Join.
Rnd 41: Sl st in each st around. Fasten off invisibly.
Hanging Loop
Row 1: With MC, ch 25. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (24 sts)
Row 2: Ch 1, sc across. Fasten off with 10″ tail.
Straps (Make 2)
Create a crochet rope/icord with MC, approximately 17″–18″ long. Leave 12″ tail for sewing.
Drawstring
Make a thinner rope/icord with MC, 24″ long. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Assembly & Finishing
Hanging Loop: Fold in half. Sew short edges to upper center back of backpack.
Straps: Sew one end of each under the loop. Sew opposite ends to bottom corners.
Drawstring: Starting at front center eyelet, weave in and out through all holes. Knot each end.
Drawstring Slide
Row 1: With MC, ch 4, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (3 sts)
Rows 2–8: Ch 1, sc across. Turn. Fasten off. Wrap around both drawstring ends and sew closed.
Styling Tips
Pair this mini backpack with a flowing linen dress for boho vibes, or over a tee and denim shorts for a casual sporty look. The cream and sage stripes complement both earthy tones and bright colors!
Quick Reference Notes
- Use 100% mercerized cotton for best durability and stitch definition
- Keep tension tight for shape retention
- Check gauge early — adjust hook size to match 6.25″ base width
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