Get ready for your next trip to the farmer's market or grocery store with this reusable cotton produce bag. Reusable produce bags are great for cutting back on our plastic use. Best of all, these bags are washable, sturdy, and will expand to hold more produce than you might expect.

How This Bag Is Made

• Bag is worked in joined rounds from the bottom up.
• Bag begins with a solid circle at its center, followed by double crochet spokes to create an attractive and sturdy base.
• A lacy shell stitch pattern creates the sides.
• Simple stitches shape the top brim, while creating the holes through which a drawstring can be threaded.
• Add a drawstring to ensure that your loose fruits and veggies stay put. Customize your bag by choosing between two styles of drawstring. For those who would like to make their own cord, instructions are given for crocheting one quickly and easily. For those who prefer a readymade cord, instructions are included for installing a paracord drawstring with push-button cord lock.

Pattern is written in US crochet terms.

Skill Level: Confident Beginner

Concentration Level
Little concentration required. Straightforward and uncomplicated stitching.

Stitches Used
Chain(s), single crochet, half-double crochet, double crochet, V-stitch, shells, and fans.

Techniques Used
Adjustable ring method, working in the round, and working into chain spaces.

Finished Measurements (approximate size after blocking)
12 inches (30.5 cm) wide across top edge x 10 inches (25.4 cm) tall, measured flat

Light (CYC #3) Weight Yarn
126 - 136 yards (115 - 124 m)

The sample shown here was made with a H/8/5.00 mm crochet hook and Patons Grace light (DK) weight mercerized cotton yarn (1¾ oz/136 yds/50g per ball) in the color #62008 Natural. The project requires 1 ball of this yarn.

Suggested Yarn Substitutes
Sample was made with light-weight cotton yarn, but feel free to substitute the light-weight yarn of your choice. Because results may vary, crocheting a gauge swatch with your alternative yarn is recommended.

While a bit of stretch is normal with cotton mesh bags, some cotton yarns stretch more than others—Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, for example, has shown to stretch more than expected when used for this pattern. In general, the stretch should be minimal as long as the bag isn’t overloaded.

If you prefer a sturdier, less stretchy result, consider using a linen, flax, or hemp yarn (or a cotton blend that includes one of these fibers) in a similar weight. These plant-based yarns tend to provide more structure and may be a better fit for heavier produce.

Additional Tools and Materials
Size H/8/5.00 mm crochet hook or size needed to obtain gauge
Tapestry needle
Bead with ⅜ inch (1 cm) hole (optional for crochet drawstring)
#425/3mm-diameter paracord: 34 inches (0.86 m), available from Paracord Planet, https://www.paracordplanet.com/paracord/425-paracord/ (optional for readymade drawstring)
2-hole cord lock with 3mm or larger holes, available from Paracord Planet, https://www.paracordplanet.com/two-hole-cord-locks-multiple-colors/ (optional for readymade drawstring)
Lighter or Super Glue (optional for readymade drawstring)
Scissors

Gauge
Rnds 1–6 = 5 inches (12.7 cm) in diameter 

PATTERN INCLUDES
• A 9-page premium pattern pdf with professional full-color photographs.
• List of abbreviations used, plus detailed instructions for special stitches and techniques.
• Detailed instructions and photo tutorial for crocheting a simple and attractive cord.
• Instructions for prepping and installing a readymade paracord and cord lock.
• Tips for what to do if you think you might run out of yarn.

This Pattern Comes with Additional Resources to Help You Along
• Pattern support. Feel free to contact me if you have any questions. I’m always happy to help!

Videos

How to Make an Adjustable Ring (aka Magic Circle)

FAQs

Do you have any recommendations for cleaning crochet mesh bags like this one?

Yes! You will find tips for how to care for your crochet market and produce bags here.