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Free Crochet Pattern
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Accordion Bag Pattern

Published

Stripey accordion bag crochet in natural colors
4.9Rating
12+ HoursTime
AdvancedSkill
Highlights

What makes it special

Stylish Touch

A chic, multi-color crochet bag with color-block bands and careful seaming to create a sturdy, wearable tote that elevates everyday errands.

Multi-Day Project

A rewarding 12+ hour journey—perfect for dedicated crafters who love detailed work across multiple sections and two bag sizes.

Advanced Level

This project suits experienced crocheters who enjoy foundation cords, color changes, sequence joining, and precision assembly to produce a structured, wearable tote.

About This Accordion Bag Pattern

This crochet pattern creates a stylish, expandable accordion bag with bold color-block bands and a sturdy structure. You’ll work with foundation cords, a sequence of color bands, and careful joining to form a durable tote that stands up to daily use. The design includes both a large and a small version, plus clear assembly steps and finishing tips so your bag looks polished from seam to strap. It’s a satisfying project that blends technique with practical style for gifts or personal flair.

<p>The Accordion Bag pattern yields a structured tote built from stacked color bands and a foundation cord spine. It combines colorwork with careful construction to create a bag that holds its shape and looks polished from every angle.</p><p>You’ll master foundation cords, color changes, band joins, and precise seaming, then assemble the pieces into a finished tote with leather straps for a refined finish. The instructions cover both large and small versions, so you can tailor the bag to your needs.</p><p>Completing this project gives you a practical, high-style bag that pairs well with casual and dressy outfits alike. It’s a great way to showcase multiple yarn colors and your favorite textures in one finished piece.</p>

Close up of band joins and color stripes

<p>As you work, you’ll see the bands align along the body for a clean, geometric look. The process rewards careful counting and consistent tension, and the end result is a sturdy tote with a distinct, modern silhouette.</p><p>Feel free to customize by swapping colorways or adjusting strap length. The pattern is designed to be flexible without compromising the integrity of the construction, so you can make it your own while preserving the accordion effect.</p>

Why You'll Love This Accordion Bag Pattern

<p>I absolutely love this pattern because it blends precise technique with creative freedom. The foundation cords give the structure a solid backbone, while the color bands let me experiment with palettes that suit my mood. I enjoy the rhythm of joining bands and watching the accordion effect unfold as the bag grows. The two-size option makes it incredibly versatile, whether I need a roomy tote or a compact day bag. Finishing—the seam work and leather strap attachment—feels satisfying, turning a simple strip of crochet into a polished, wearable accessory.</p>

Switch Things Up

I love how adaptable this bag is for customization. You can swap colors to fit a mood, season, or gift recipient, using bold brights or muted neutrals for impact.

To make it bigger or smaller, simply adjust the number of color bands or the length of the foundation cord while keeping stitch counts consistent. A longer strap enhances crossbody wear, while a shorter one creates a chic clutch-style tote.

Try different yarn textures—cotton, mercerized cotton, or a cotton/acrylic blend—to alter drape and stiffness. The same construction remains, but the feel and weight shift with fiber choice.

Consider adding a removable lining or a small interior pocket for organization. This can elevate the bag from a simple carryall to a refined everyday essential.

Document your color stories and share progress with friends or online; seeing how others interpret the palette can inspire future projects and expand your crochet horizons.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

Not leaving enough length for the foundation-cord tails; reserve long tails for joining and for securing the bag seam. Skipping stitch markers at color changes can lead to misalignment; place markers at the start of every round and at every band join. Over-tightening when joining bands; maintain consistent tension to avoid puckering and an overly stiff seam. Forgetting to weave in ends as you go; weave ends gradually to keep finishing tidy and avoid bulky joins. Miscounting rounds during band sequences; verify stitch counts after each join to preserve symmetry.

Maker's Notes

When I made this bag, I used worsted weight cotton yarn in a natural beige with a 3.5 mm hook. The project spanned about 16-20 hours across multiple sessions. Beginners often stumble at maintaining consistent tension through the foundation cord sections and aligning the color-band joins; I suggest marking color changes and counting rounds carefully. The large bag's belly grows with each color band, so take time to shape and adjust as you go. The strap attachment can be fiddly at first, but once you eyeball the anchor points, it becomes quite straightforward.

I tried a substitution: I swapped the main yarn for a DK weight and kept the same hook size; the finished bag was smaller, around 20 cm tall, and had a much denser feel. Adjusting the number of bands or rows restored the original proportions. The color blocks remained vibrant due to the denser weave, but the overall drape changed. If you substitute, be prepared to recalculate the seam allowances and strap length to keep the bag balanced.

Accordion Bag Pattern

This crochet pattern creates a stylish, expandable accordion bag with bold color-block bands and a sturdy structure. You’ll work with foundation cords, a sequence of color bands, and careful joining to form a durable tote that stands up to daily use. The design includes both a large and a small version, plus clear assembly steps and finishing tips so your bag looks polished from seam to strap. It’s a satisfying project that blends technique with practical style for gifts or personal flair.

Advanced 12+ Hours
Pattern at a glance
Skill level
Advanced
Time to make
12+ Hours
Hook size
3.5 mm (E)
Yarn weight
Worsted / #4
Finished size
Approx. 28 cm long x 18 cm tall (11 in x 7 in)
Gauge
Gauge not specified in the pattern; estimation: 12 sc x 12 rows = 4x4 in with 3.5 mm hook using Worsted weight yarn
Yarn used
600 g total main color yarn (approx 1800 m)

Materials Needed

Main Fabric
  • 01
    Worsted weight cotton yarn (main color and accent colors) - 5-7 colors total
  • 02
    Color A (Beige/Cream) - 100-150g
  • 03
    Color B (Green) - 50-100g
  • 04
    Color C (Taupe) - 50-100g
  • 05
    Color D (Brown) - 40-80g
  • 06
    Color E (Other accent) - 40-80g
  • 07
    Leather cord for straps: Large bag 90 cm (36 in); Small bag 60 cm (24 in)
  • 08
    Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers
Tools Required
  • 01
    Crochet hook size 3.5 mm
  • 02
    Yarn needle for sewing
  • 03
    Scissors
  • 04
    Stitch markers
  • 05
    Leather string or cord for straps (90 cm for the large bag, 60 cm for the small bag)

— Part 1 :

Base Row :

The first base row of BAND 01 is crochet by ‘Foundation cord’.

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the foundation cord as shown in the picture, turn. (251)

ROW 2-5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (251)

ROW 6 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, fasten off. (251)

Info :

Leave long tails for sewing Band 01 to Band 02 later.

— Part 2 :

Base Row :

Leave a 4m/158inch long tail and crochet foundation cord 251, turn. (251)

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the foundation cord, turn. (251)

ROW 2-5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (251)

ROW 6 :

Place BAND 01 (foundation row facing up) in front of BAND 02. Sc in each sc of these two bands together and fasten off. This creates a join.

Info :

Weave in all ends and prepare for band 02 join in Part 3.

— Part 3 :

Base Row :

Leave a 2m/79inch long tail and crochet foundation cord 131, turn. (131)

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the back loop of the foundation cord, turn. (131)

ROW 2-5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (131)

ROW 6 :

Place BAND 01 (foundation row facing up) in front of BAND 02. Sc in each sc of these two bands together and fasten off. (131)

Info :

Continue joining bands as shown; 251 stitches in large version, smaller in small version.

— Part 4 :

What it looks like when BAND 01 & BAND 02 are joined :

Observe alignment of the stitches between bands and how the two colors sit flush when joined.

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the back loop of both bands; join 2 bands together and continue.

ROW 2-5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (251)

ROW 6 :

Place BAND 03 in front of BAND 02; twist and join; continue as instructed.

— Part 5 :

BASE ROW :

Leave a 4m/158inch long tail and crochet foundation cord 251, turn. (251)

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the foundation cord, turn. (251)

ROW 2-5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (251)

ROW 6 :

Sc 60, place BAND 11 in front of BAND 01; seam and fold to shape the bag body, then fasten off.

— Part 6 :

Assemble :

Seaming BAND 01: Use the same color yarn as BAND 01; fold the bag in half (inside facing out) and seam the edge of the body part of the bag.

Seaming BAND 12 :

Use the long tail left at the end; seam the edge of the body part of the bag; weave in all ends and shape as shown in the picture.

— Part 7 :

BAND 01 :

BASE ROW: Leave a 2.4m/95inch long tail and crochet foundation cord 169, turn. Leave the markers on the 40th stitch from the end on both sides.

ROW 1 :

Ch 1, Sc from the second ch from hook and work through the foundation cord, turn. (169)

ROW 2-4 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (169)

ROW 5 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, fasten off. (169)

BAND 02 :

BASE ROW: Leave a 1.3m/51inch long tail and crochet foundation cord 89, turn. (89)

ROW 2-4 :

Ch 1, Sc in each sc across, turn. (89)

ROW 5 :

Place BAND 01 (foundation row facing up) in front of BAND 02. (Align 41st sc of BAND 01 to the first sc of BAND 02, and crochet 2 BANDS together.) Sc 40, fold inside out sc 9 and fold back to the original and sc 60, fasten off. (89)

— PART 7 (CONT) :

Continue with BAND 03 to BAND 11 following the same joining logic; ensure to mirror for a balanced small-size bag.

— PART 8 :

ASSEMBLE :

You can follow the Large bag pattern to seam the body and attach the strap; place the strap ends overlaying 15 stitches long, seam both sides of the edge. Put the drawstring into the bag, tie up and finish.

Assembly Instructions

  1. Attach BAND 01 seam to the body edge; align 61st stitch of BAND 01 to the first stitch of BAND 02; sew bands together with a whipstitch.
  2. Seam BAND 12 to the opposite edge; weave in ends; shape the bag by folding as shown in the pictures.
  3. Sew the strap ends onto the bag edges, aligning evenly and finishing securely.
  4. If lining is desired, insert beforefinal seam and secure to maintain clean edges.
  5. Block lightly if needed to set the fabric and ensure the accordion panels behave correctly.

Important Notes

  • Use the long foundation-cord tails to anchor and sew the bands to the body for a clean finish.
  • Count stitches carefully when joining multiple bands to maintain symmetry.
  • Weave in all ends as you go to avoid a bulky finishing session.
  • Tune strap length to your preferred wear style; heavier yarn may require longer straps for comfortable wear.
  • Store pieces flat while waiting to assemble to prevent distortion of the bands.

<p>This Accordion Bag pattern brings a playful yet practical tote to life with color-block bands and sturdy construction. It’s a satisfying project that results in a durable bag you’ll reach for again and again. </p><p>Whether you gift it or keep it for yourself, the bold stripes and clean lines make a statement wherever you go. Happy crocheting! </p><p>With a little patience, your bag will become a timeless accessory that adapts to every season and style. Enjoy the process and wear your handiwork with pride. </p>

Good to know

You ask, we answer

The large bag measures approximately 28 cm wide by 18 cm tall, with a strap suitable for comfortable shoulder wear.

Yes, you can use different yarn weights, but the final size and weight will change. Use the recommended hook size and adjust strap length accordingly.

This pattern is advanced; basic knowledge of foundation cords, color changes, and joining techniques is helpful for best results.

Expect 12-20 hours across several sessions, depending on your pace and how closely you follow the color-joining sequences.

There is a smaller size included and simplified color-band sequences; start with the small version to build confidence before attempting the full bag.

Inside view showing banded panels
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