Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag

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The Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag is my first pattern that ventures into knit-look crochet lace. It's quickly become a favorite fabric with its simple repeats and gorgeous crochet texture! This beautiful bag is worked in rounds from the bottom up with simple stitches. For more magical creations, check out the Enchanted Hat and the All Cabled Up in Sunshine Socks!

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How do you create knit-look lace stitches with a crochet hook?

Take a peek at the Magical Crochet Stitches Course! The Journey Under the Sea Bag is one of many patterns included!

So, how is this done? I assure you, with a crochet hook. You may have seen this style of stitch before, but only in knit. After lots of time experimenting, I finally figured out how to easily replicate this stitch in crochet. How these stitches lean reminds me of ocean waves which is how this bag got its name. This crochet bag pattern has written and video tutorials to guide you through each important step.

You can now buy a bundle of all the patterns from
the Magical Stitches Course on Etsy; click here!

What are Magical Crochet Stitches?

Get the knit look with the crochet hook! This is a method of strategically using crochet stitches in unique increases and decreases, resulting in a knit-look mimic.

This is still a crochet fabric, however! It's unique on its own and can't be duplicated in the same way in knit. The beautifully textured fabric created for the Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag has the ability to look lacy but still creates a dense and sturdy fabric for a bag.

Journey Under The Sea Bag Construction

The Journey Under the Sea Crochet Bag is worked from the bottom up. This has a simple 7-round repeat to create the wave look, and it’s with stitches you probably already know. No surprise tricks here! I think you might be shocked at what an easy, relaxing project this is.

I have included two styles of charts, one being a knitter-style chart for those who understand knit charts. The charts will be worked from right to left for each round and repeated until the end of the round.

Are there more magical stitch patterns?

Yes! And even more on the way. I am addicted to this new method, and the swatches are taking over my house. Check out all the patterns in the Magical Stitches Course on my blog:

• Swirls on the Water Crochet Bag
• If The Slipper Fits Crochet Floor Pouf
• Cinderella's Knit-Look Crochet Pumpkin Pattern
• Happily Ever After Crochet Clutch Pattern
• Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag
• All Cabled Up In Sunshine Socks
• Royal Antler Crochet Mock Cable Bag
• Enchanted Crochet Hat

Why You Should Use Cotton Yarn & Possible Substitutes:

When it comes to making crochet bags, it's important to use a yarn that will hold up to the intended use. This is why I find cotton yarn to be the best option, as it has little stretch and creates a firm fabric. This will reduce any stretching over time as the bag is used to carry objects.

I love using WeCrochet Dishie Yarn because it's softer than most cotton yarns, but still a strong cotton. Here are some other substitutes I recommend:

Lily Sugar'n Cream Worsted
Premiere Home Cotton Yarn
Cascade Yarns Nifty Cotton

The Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag pattern is now available for purchase outside the Magical Stitches course on Ravelry & Etsy

Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag Intro Video

Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag Supplies:

Crochet Hook:

H (5.0 mm) Crochet Hook

Notions:

Removable stitch markers if needed
Yarn needle to weave in ends
Scissors

Yarn & Yardage:

WeCrochet Dishie
100% Cotton, 190yds/100g
Small Bag: 255yds (2 Balls)
Large Bag: 465 yds (3 Balls)

Abbreviations/Stitches:

blo - back loop only
ch - chain
rnd- round
sc - single crochet
ssc - split single crochet
sl st - slip stitch
st(s) - stitch(es)

Gauge:

14 sts x 19 rows = 4x4 inches in body stitch pattern, Rnds 2-8.

How to Crochet a Gauge Swatch:

Working a gauge swatch will let you know if you will have the correct sizing for this pattern. It will also help you practice the stitches used in this project and improve your stitch work for a flawless look.
Are you struggling to match the gauge? Check out the blog post on What is Crochet Gauge and How To Fix It

Skill Level:

Intermediate

Size/Measurements:

Laid Flat:
Small Bag: 10.5” wide by 10.5 inches tall
Large Bag: 13” wide by 13” tall

Journey Under The Sea Crochet Bag Notes:

The Journey Under the Sea Crochet Bag is worked from the bottom up. This has a simple 7-round repeat to create the wave look, and it’s with stitches you probably already know. No surprise tricks here! I think you might be shocked at what an easy, relaxing project this is.

I have included two styles of charts, one being a knitter-style chart for those who understand knit charts. The charts will be worked from right to left for each round and repeated until the end of the round.

Special Stitches:
Split Single Crochet (ssc): This stitch is also known as the waistcoat stitch. This stitch is worked as single crochet but where the hook is inserted is the only difference. The hook will be inserted between the ‘V’ of the stitch.

Insert hook between the legs of the stitch (on the back of work, the hook should be under the horizontal bar and between the upside-down ‘V’ shape as well), yarn over, pull up a loop to the height of a single crochet, yarn over, pull through both loops on hook. Keep your hands loose and comfortable. If your hands start to hurt, then the tension of the stitch is too tight. When entering the stitch, pull up the loop a bit more than you normally would, it will give the ‘V’ more space for the next round and make working the ssc comfortable. Watch a Video Tutorial of the Split Single Crochet

Journey Under the Sea Bag Written Crochet Pattern

Journey Under the Sea Bag Bottom

Rnd 1:

Inside Magic Circle, sc 8, do not join and work continuously. Place st marker in the first stitch of each round. (8) sts

Rnd 2:

2 sc in each stitch around. (16) sts

Rnd 3:

2 sc in first, sc in next, *2 sc in next, sc in the next st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (24) sts

Rnd 4:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 2 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 2 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (32) sts

Rnd 5:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 3 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 3 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (40) sts

Rnd 6:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 4 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 4 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (48) sts

Rnd 7:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 5 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 5 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (56) sts

Rnd 8:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 6 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 6 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (64) sts

Rnd 9:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 7 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 7 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (72) sts

For size small, stop here and skip to Bottom of Bag Finishing.

Rnd 10:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 8 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 8 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (80) sts

Rnd 11:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 9 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 9 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (88) sts

Rnd 12:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 10 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 10 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (96) sts

Rnd 13:

2 sc in first, sc in each of the next 11 sts, *2 sc in next, sc in each of the next 11 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round. (104) sts

Bottom of Bag Finishing

Rnd 1:

Sc in each stitch around. (72, 104) sts

Rnd 2:

Ssc in each stitch around.

Journey Under the Sea Bag Body

Rnd 6:

*Ch 2, sc in ch space, ssc in each of the next 4 sts, skip next st, ssc in next 2 sts*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round.

Rnd 7:

*Ch 2, sc in ch space, ssc in each of the next 5 sts, skip next st, ssc in the next 1 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round.

Rnd 8:

*Ch 2, ssc in ch space, ssc in next 6 sts, skip the next 1 st*; repeat from * to * until the end of the round.

Repeats:

Repeat Rnds 2-8 until the desired height of the bag minus 1.5 to 1.75 inches for top trim and handle. For the small bag, there are 4 repeats; for the large bag, there are 6 repeats.

Journey Under the Sea Bag Top

Rnd 1:

Sl st in each stitch around, only placing 1 sl st per ch 2 space. (72, 104) sts

Rnd 2-3:

Blo sc in each stitch around.

Rnd 4:

*Blo sc 10 (18), ch 16, skip 16, blo sc 10 (18)*; repeat from * to * around.

Rnds 5-7:

Blo sc in each stitch around. For the larger size, add one or two more rows if desired.

Finishing:

Fasten off and use an invisible join. Weave in ends, block, and enjoy!

Crocheted bags are incredibly versatile and stylish accessories that blend functionality with charm. They come in various sizes, shapes, and designs, making them perfect for everything from casual outings to elegant events. Their handcrafted nature adds a personal touch, and they can be customized to suit any color preference or purpose.

Totes like the Boho Grocery Bag are perfect for shopping or taking to the public market; smaller bags like the Herringbone Clutch can elevate your date-night style; and modern cross-body bags like the Summer House Bag are ideal for when you need your hands free.

To care for a crocheted bag, gently hand wash it in cool water with mild detergent, reshape it while damp, and allow it to air dry flat. Proper care ensures these durable and unique bags remain beautiful and functional for years to come.

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