Sunburst Meadow Circle Bag: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Boho-Chic Essential

Carry a burst of sunshine with this vibrant, textured circle bag that blends retro charm with modern boho flair. The sunflower-inspired motif and adjustable strap make it a delightful, eye-catching accessory for any season. Whether you're heading to a farmer's market, a beach day, or a casual brunch, this handmade bag adds a cheerful pop of color to any outfit. Best of all, it's a beginner-friendly project that works up quickly with basic single crochet stitches.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies. This pattern uses simple, readily available materials, making it perfect for a weekend project.

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn in three colors:
  • Sunflower Yellow (Yarn A) – for the main body and straps
  • Warm Brown (Yarn B) – for contrast stripes
  • Cream (Yarn C) – for alternating bands
  Approximate total yardage: 200g (about 400-450 yards). Cotton yarn is recommended for durability and stitch definition.
• Crochet Hook: 4.0 mm (G/6) crochet hook
• Other Tools: Yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, stitch markers (optional but helpful), and a tape measure.
• Optional: Button or magnetic snap for closure, blocking mats and pins.

Gauge & Size

Gauge: The first two rounds of the circular base measure 2.5 inches (6 cm) across. This gauge is crucial for achieving the correct bag size. If your gauge is off, adjust your hook size accordingly.

Finished Dimensions: The base measures approximately 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) in diameter. The bag height is about 8-9 inches, with straps measuring 18-23 inches (adjustable).

Step-by-Step Instructions

This pattern is worked in a continuous spiral for the bag body, which creates a seamless, professional look. Do not join rounds unless specifically noted. Use a stitch marker to keep track of your rounds.

Bag Body (Worked in Continuous Spiral)

Round 1: With Yarn A, make a magic ring. Work 6 single crochet (sc) into the ring. Pull the tail to close the ring tightly. (6 stitches)

Round 2: Work 2 sc in each stitch around. (12 stitches)

Round 3: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next stitch* repeat from * to * around. (18 stitches)

Round 4: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 2 stitches* repeat around. (24 stitches)

Round 5: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 3 stitches* repeat around. (30 stitches)

Round 6: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 4 stitches* repeat around. (36 stitches)

Round 7: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 5 stitches* repeat around. (42 stitches)

Round 8: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 6 stitches* repeat around. (48 stitches)

Round 9: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 7 stitches* repeat around. (54 stitches)

Round 10: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 8 stitches* repeat around. (60 stitches)

Round 11: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 9 stitches* repeat around. (66 stitches)

Round 12: *2 sc in next stitch, sc in next 10 stitches* repeat around. (72 stitches)

At this point, your base should measure about 8.5 inches (21.5 cm) across. If it's significantly smaller or larger, check your gauge and adjust your hook size if needed. Now, change to Yarn B.

Round 13: Working in the back loops only, sc in each stitch around. (72 stitches) This creates a crisp, neat edge that defines the base of the bag.

Round 14: With Yarn B, sc in each stitch around. (72 stitches)

Round 15: Change to Yarn C. Sc in each stitch around. (72 stitches)

Round 16: With Yarn C, *sc in next 5 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch* repeat around. (84 stitches) – This increase begins the gentle flare of the bag body.

Round 17: With Yarn C, sc in each stitch around. (84 stitches)

Round 18: Change to Yarn A. Sc in each stitch around. (84 stitches)

Round 19: With Yarn A, *sc in next 6 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch* repeat around. (96 stitches)

Round 20: With Yarn A, sc in each stitch around. (96 stitches)

Round 21: Change to Yarn B. Sc in each stitch around. (96 stitches)

Round 22: With Yarn B, *sc in next 7 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch* repeat around. (108 stitches)

Round 23: With Yarn B, sc in each stitch around. (108 stitches)

Round 24: Change to Yarn C. Sc in each stitch around. (108 stitches)

Round 25: With Yarn C, *sc in next 8 stitches, 2 sc in next stitch* repeat around. (120 stitches)

Round 26: With Yarn C, sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 27: Change to Yarn A. Sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 28: With Yarn A, sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 29: Change to Yarn B. Sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 30: With Yarn B, sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 31: Change to Yarn C. Sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Round 32: With Yarn C, sc in each stitch around. (120 stitches)

Fasten off and weave in the end securely. Your bag body is complete!

Straps (Make 2 Pieces)

These straps are simple, sturdy, and comfortable to wear. You can adjust the length to your preference.

Row 1: With Yarn A, chain 90 (or your desired length for the strap, approximately 18-23 inches). Sc in the 2nd chain from the hook and in each chain across. (89 stitches)

Row 2: Chain 1, turn. Sc in each stitch across. (89 stitches)

Fasten off and weave in the ends. Repeat this process to create a second identical strap.

Assembly

Now it's time to bring your bag together. This step is simple and requires just a yarn needle.

1. Lay your bag flat with the opening facing you. Identify the two opposite sides of the bag opening.
2. Take one strap and attach one end to one side of the bag opening. Use a whip stitch or slip stitch to secure it firmly. Ensure the strap is centered and evenly spaced.
3. Attach the other end of the same strap to the opposite side of the bag opening, making sure it's not twisted.
4. Repeat the process with the second strap, attaching it to the remaining two sides of the bag opening. This creates a crossbody or shoulder bag with two straps for added support.
5. Weave in all loose ends securely with your yarn needle.

Finishing Touches

Your Sunburst Meadow Circle Bag is almost ready! Here are a few final steps to make it perfect.

1. Optional Closure: If you'd like a closure, sew a button or magnetic snap inside the bag opening. Position it so it aligns when the bag is closed.
2. Blocking: Lightly block the bag to shape if needed. Wet block by misting the bag with water and shaping it on a flat surface. Allow it to dry completely. This helps even out the stitches and gives the bag a professional finish.
3. Final Check: Give your bag a gentle tug to ensure all seams are secure. Trim any excess yarn.

Congratulations! Your Sunburst Meadow Circle Bag is ready to carry. This vibrant, handmade accessory is sure to turn heads and bring a little sunshine wherever you go. Enjoy your new boho-chic essential!