Crochet Bow Messenger Bag That’s Cute & Convertible
Crochet Bow Messenger Bag Free Pattern
The crochet messenger bag free pattern you’ve been waiting for is here! I’m so excited to share this sweet bow-front bag with you because it combines a practical everyday shape with the cutest oversized bow detail. The adjustable strap lets you wear it comfortably as either a shoulder bag or a crossbody, just like the accompanying video tutorial, according to The Spruce Crafts. I kept this written version in navy blue so every piece has one cohesive, polished look. Grab your yarn, your 3.5 mm hook, and a little patience, and let’s make this adorable crochet messenger bag free pattern together!
A Playful Crochet Messenger Bag Free Pattern to Make This Weekend
This crochet messenger bag free pattern makes one structured, bow-front bag with two main panels, a side/bottom gusset, an adjustable strap, an optional front pocket, and a statement bow.
Materials Needed
4 Seasons Yarn, 10-ply: approximately 200 g in navy blue
4 Seasons Yarn, 8-ply: approximately 100 g in navy blue
3.5 mm crochet hook
Tapestry/darning needle with an eye large enough for the yarn
Sewing thread in navy blue
2 adjustable strap buckles/sliders, approximately 2.5–3 cm wide
2 small buttons, optional
Scissors
4 stitch markers or locking pins
Tape measure
A flat surface for measuring and blocking the finished panels
Gauge (Approximate): 18 hdc × 14 rows = approximately 10 × 10 cm when crocheted with the 3.5 mm hook and the working yarn held at the intended tension.
Quantity: 2 identical main panels, 1 continuous side/bottom gusset, 1 adjustable strap, 1 optional pocket, 1 large bow, and 1 bow center band.
Color: navy blue throughout.
Pattern note: The accompanying video uses a 10-ply yarn for the main structure and combines two 8-ply yarns for a thicker working strand. This written pattern keeps the same general construction concept while specifying navy blue throughout for a visually consistent version. The video also demonstrates the adjustable-strap concept and the separate bow construction.
Abbreviations / Terms Used
ch — chain
sc — single crochet
hdc — half double crochet
dc — double crochet
tr — treble crochet
sl st — slip stitch
st/sts — stitch/stitches
inc — increase, meaning 2 stitches worked into the same stitch
dec — decrease
BLO — back loop only
FLO — front loop only
RS — right side
WS — wrong side
sk — skip
rep — repeat
FO — fasten off
PM — place marker
Gusset — the long crocheted piece that forms the bottom and sides between the front and back panels
Working strand — the yarn currently being crocheted
Adjustable slider — the hardware used to shorten or lengthen the strap
What You Should Keep in Mind
Keep your hdc tension firm and even. A loose fabric can make the messenger bag stretch noticeably once you put your phone, wallet, and other everyday items inside.
Check your stitch count at the end of every important row. One missing hdc can gradually make the two panels different sizes.
When joining the gusset, use stitch markers before sewing so the corners of the navy blue panels stay perfectly aligned.
The bow is decorative, but it should not pull on the bag opening. Leave the top edge flexible enough that you can comfortably reach inside.
Free Pattern: crochet messenger bag free pattern
Now we’re ready to build the crochet messenger bag free pattern from the foundation up, one manageable action at a time.
1. Make the Foundation Chain — crochet
Action: Chain 33 with your 3.5 mm hook using navy blue yarn.
Detailed instructions: Make a slip knot and place it on the hook. Yarn over and pull through the loop on your hook to create the first chain. Continue chaining until you have exactly 33 chain stitches. Keep the chains relaxed rather than pulling them tight.
Expected result: You have one straight foundation chain containing 33 clearly defined chain stitches.
Check yourself: Count the V-shaped chain stitches from the hook backward; you should have 33.
2. Work the First HDC Row — crochet
Action: Work 1 hdc into each of the 31 chains across the foundation.
Detailed instructions: Yarn over, insert the hook into the third chain from the hook, yarn over, and pull up a loop so three loops are on the hook. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops to complete the first hdc. Continue with 1 hdc in each remaining chain across.
Expected result: The foundation has become the lower edge of a rectangular panel with 31 hdc stitches.
Check yourself: You should have exactly 31 hdc stitches across the row.
3. Continue the Main Panel — crochet
Action: Work rows 2 through 24 in hdc across.
Detailed instructions: Chain 2 and turn. Work 1 hdc in the first stitch and 1 hdc in every stitch across, finishing with 31 hdc. Repeat this exact row for rows 3 through 24. Do not increase or decrease.
Expected result: You have one straight rectangular panel measuring approximately 18 × 24 cm.
Check yourself: Every completed row should contain 31 hdc stitches, with 24 rows total.
4. Fasten Off the First Panel
Action: Fasten off the first panel after row 24.
Detailed instructions: Cut the working yarn, leaving a tail of approximately 15 cm. Yarn over with the remaining loop and pull the yarn completely through the loop. Tighten gently and leave the tail available for weaving in later.
Expected result: The first rectangular navy blue panel is complete and no longer attached to the working yarn.
Check yourself: The top edge should have 31 visible stitches and should not unravel when gently handled.
5. Make the Second Main Panel
Action: Repeat the 33-chain foundation and 24-row hdc rectangle to make a second identical panel.
Detailed instructions: Make ch 33, then work 31 hdc across the foundation and 24 total rows of 31 hdc, using the same 3.5 mm hook and navy blue yarn. Fasten off with a 15 cm tail.
Expected result: You have two matching rectangular panels, each approximately 18 × 24 cm.
Check yourself: Place the panels directly on top of each other; their four corners and side edges should align.
6. Start the Side-and-Bottom Gusset
Action: Chain 9 to begin the gusset.
Detailed instructions: Make a slip knot with navy blue yarn and chain 9. Keep the foundation chain firm but flexible because this strip will become the depth of the bag.
Expected result: You have a 9-chain foundation for a narrow gusset strip.
Check yourself: Count 9 chain stitches before beginning the first hdc row.
7. Crochet the Gusset Length
Action: Work 70 rows of 7 hdc across the gusset foundation.
Detailed instructions: Chain 2 and turn. Work 1 hdc in the third chain from the hook and 1 hdc in each remaining chain for 7 hdc. Continue with rows 2 through 70 by chaining 2, turning, and working 1 hdc in each of the 7 stitches. Keep the edges straight and the row height consistent.
Expected result: You have a long, narrow navy blue strip approximately 5 cm wide and 70 rows long.
Check yourself: The strip should be long enough to run from the bottom corner, around both sides, and back along the bottom of the two main panels.
8. Position the Gusset
Action: Align one long edge of the gusset with the bottom edge of the first main panel.
Detailed instructions: Lay the first panel flat with its right side facing upward. Center the middle of the 70-row gusset along the bottom edge of the panel and use stitch markers to hold the two corners in position.
Expected result: The gusset follows the bottom edge of the panel with equal amounts extending upward toward both sides.
Check yourself: The gusset should meet the bottom-left and bottom-right corners symmetrically.
9. Join the Gusset to the First Panel
Action: Slip stitch the gusset to the first panel along one bottom edge.
Detailed instructions: Insert the hook through the next gusset stitch and the corresponding stitch on the panel at the same time. Yarn over and pull through both pieces and the loop on the hook to make one sl st. Continue one sl st per matching stitch until the bottom edge is joined.
Expected result: The gusset is securely connected to the bottom edge of the first panel.
Check yourself: The seam should sit flat with approximately 31 evenly spaced joining points.
10. Join the Gusset Around the First Panel
Action: Continue slip stitching around both sides of the first panel until you reach the opposite bottom corner.
Detailed instructions: Match one gusset stitch to one panel stitch at a time. At each corner, keep the gusset flexible and avoid skipping stitches. Continue until the gusset reaches the opposite bottom edge, leaving the remaining bottom edge ready for the second panel.
Expected result: The gusset forms a U-shaped border around the bottom and two sides of the first panel.
Check yourself: The three joined edges should lie flat without puckering.
11. Attach the Second Panel
Action: Slip stitch the second panel to the exposed edge of the gusset.
Detailed instructions: Place the second panel over the open side of the gusset with the right sides facing inward. Match each panel stitch to its corresponding gusset stitch and work 1 sl st through both layers. Continue around the three open edges.
Expected result: The bag body is completely assembled with a defined 5 cm depth and an open top.
Check yourself: The two panels should be parallel and the side seams should line up evenly.
12. Finish the Top Border
Action: Work one complete round of sc around the open top edge.
Detailed instructions: Attach navy blue yarn at one top corner. Work 1 sc into each stitch across the front, 1 sc across each side edge of the gusset, and 1 sc across the back edge. Join with a sl st to the first sc.
Expected result: The opening has a neat, firm single-crochet border.
Check yourself: The top edge should feel noticeably more stable than the unbordered fabric.
13. Crochet the Optional Pocket
Action: Make a 21-chain foundation and work 18 hdc across for 12 rows to create the front pocket.
Detailed instructions: With navy blue yarn, chain 21. Work 1 hdc into the third chain from the hook and 1 hdc in each remaining chain for 18 hdc. Chain 2, turn, and work 18 hdc across for a total of 12 rows. Fasten off with a 15 cm tail.
Expected result: You have a small rectangular pocket measuring approximately 10 × 8 cm.
Check yourself: The pocket should have 18 stitches across and 12 rows high.
14. Sew the Pocket in Place
Action: Sew the pocket to the center of the front panel.
Detailed instructions: Position the pocket approximately 3 cm below the top border and centered horizontally. Thread the tapestry needle with navy blue yarn and sew through the side and bottom edges of the pocket and the corresponding front-panel stitches, leaving the top edge open.
Expected result: The pocket is firmly attached and remains open at the top.
Check yourself: Slide a finger into the pocket from the top to confirm the opening was not accidentally stitched closed.
15. Make the Adjustable Strap
Action: Chain 121 for the adjustable strap.
Detailed instructions: Using navy blue yarn, make a slip knot and chain 121 stitches. This gives approximately 105 cm of finished strap length after the strap is worked into a compact fabric. Keep the chain tension even from beginning to end.
Expected result: You have a long chain suitable for a shoulder-to-crossbody strap.
Check yourself: The chain should measure approximately 105–110 cm when laid flat without stretching.
16. Reinforce the Strap
Action: Work 4 rows of hdc across the strap chain.
Detailed instructions: Work 1 hdc into the third chain from the hook and 1 hdc in each chain across, giving 119 hdc. Chain 2 and turn. Work 119 hdc across for rows 2 through 4. Fasten off and leave a 25 cm sewing tail.
Expected result: The strap becomes a flat, sturdy strip approximately 3.5–4 cm wide.
Check yourself: Fold the strap gently lengthwise; it should feel firm rather than floppy.
17. Thread the Adjustable Hardware
Action: Thread one end of the strap through the adjustable slider.
Detailed instructions: Pass one short end of the navy blue strap through the center bar of the adjustable slider. Fold approximately 5 cm of the strap back onto itself so the slider sits securely against the folded section.
Expected result: The strap passes cleanly through the slider and can move when pulled.
Check yourself: Pull the free strap gently; the slider should allow the strap length to change.
18. Secure the Strap Ends
Action: Sew the two strap ends securely to the side seams of the bag.
Detailed instructions: Position one strap end at each side seam, approximately 2 cm below the top border. Use the tapestry needle and navy blue sewing thread to make several horizontal and vertical passes through the strap and side seam. Reinforce each attachment with a tight box-and-cross stitch before weaving in the thread ends.
Expected result: The adjustable strap is securely attached to both sides of the messenger bag.
Check yourself: Hold the empty bag by the center of the strap and gently lift it; the attachment points should remain flat and secure.
19. Crochet the Large Bow
Action: Make a 41-chain foundation and work 18 rows of hdc to form the bow rectangle.
Detailed instructions: Using navy blue yarn, chain 41. Work 39 hdc across the foundation, then chain 2 and turn. Continue with 39 hdc per row until you have 18 rows. Fasten off with a 30 cm tail.
Expected result: You have a large rectangular bow piece measuring approximately 20 × 13 cm.
Check yourself: The rectangle should have 39 stitches across and 18 rows, with straight parallel edges.
20. Cinch the Bow Center
Action: Wrap the long yarn tail tightly around the exact center of the bow rectangle.
Detailed instructions: Fold the rectangle accordion-style so the center gathers while the two sides fan outward. Using the 30 cm navy blue tail and tapestry needle, wrap the yarn around the center several times, pulling firmly enough to create a defined waist without cutting through the crochet fabric, according to Martha Stewart Crafts.
Expected result: The rectangle becomes a recognizable three-dimensional bow with two rounded-looking loops.
Check yourself: Both bow sides should be approximately equal in size when viewed from the front.
21. Make the Bow Center Band
Action: Crochet a 13-chain center band and work 4 rows of sc.
Detailed instructions: With navy blue yarn, chain 13. Skip the first chain and work 1 sc into each remaining chain for 12 sc. Chain 1, turn, and work 12 sc across for four total rows. Fasten off with a 20 cm tail.
Expected result: You have a narrow strip approximately 2.5 cm wide that will cover the bow’s cinched center.
Check yourself: The band should wrap around the gathered bow center without stretching excessively.
22. Secure the Bow Center
Action: Wrap and sew the center band around the cinched bow.
Detailed instructions: Place the center band around the gathered middle of the bow so its short ends meet at the back. Use the tapestry needle and navy blue tail to sew the two short ends together securely. Keep the front of the bow smooth and evenly gathered.
Expected result: The bow has a clean, finished center with no exposed cinching thread on the front.
Check yourself: The center band should stay snug when you gently lift the bow by one loop.
23. Attach the Bow to the Front
Action: Sew the completed bow securely to the upper center of the front panel.
Detailed instructions: Center the bow horizontally above the pocket and approximately 3 cm below the top border. Use the remaining navy blue sewing tail to sew through the back of the bow center and into the front-panel stitches. Make several passes through the center rather than stitching through the outer loops.
Expected result: The bow is securely attached while both loops remain full and dimensional.
Check yourself: Lift each bow loop gently; the center should remain anchored while the loops retain their shape.
24. Finish and Shape the Bag
Action: Weave in every remaining yarn and sewing end.
Detailed instructions: Thread each remaining navy blue tail onto the tapestry needle and weave it through the backs of several nearby stitches. Change direction once or twice to lock each end in place, then trim the excess close to the fabric without cutting the stitches.
Expected result: The bag has a clean interior and exterior with no loose tails.
Check yourself: Turn the bag inside out and confirm that no yarn ends are hanging freely from the seams.
25. Test the Adjustable Carrying Length
Action: Adjust the slider until the strap sits comfortably at crossbody length.
Detailed instructions: Pull the free section of the navy blue strap through the adjustable slider until the bag hangs approximately at hip height. Then shorten it again until it sits comfortably under the arm as a shoulder bag. Check that the strap moves smoothly without catching.
Expected result: The bag can switch between shoulder and crossbody carrying positions.
Check yourself: You should be able to change the strap length without unpicking or moving any stitches.
Quick Reference
Here is the crochet messenger bag free pattern at a glance so you can quickly check your numbers while crocheting.
Section Foundation Main Stitch Rows Final Count / Size
Main panel 1 ch 33 hdc 24 31 sts × 24 rows
Main panel 2 ch 33 hdc 24 31 sts × 24 rows
Gusset ch 9 hdc 70 7 sts wide
Top border — sc 1 round around opening
Pocket ch 21 hdc 12 18 sts × 12 rows
Strap ch 121 hdc 4 119 sts × 4 rows
Bow ch 41 hdc 18 39 sts × 18 rows
Bow center ch 13 sc 4 12 sts × 4 rows
Approx. finished body — — — 24 × 18 × 5 cm
Approx. strap length — — — 105 cm
The accompanying video uses an adjustable strap specifically so the finished bag can transition between shoulder and crossbody wear.
📺 Watch the Video Tutorial
Final Thoughts
And there you have it — your very own crochet messenger bag free pattern in beautiful navy blue! I absolutely love how the oversized bow turns a practical everyday bag into something with a little personality. The adjustable strap is my favorite functional detail because you can switch from shoulder to crossbody whenever you feel like it. Before using your bag, give the panels and bow a gentle steam block from a short distance to even out the stitches; don’t press the iron directly onto the crochet. I hope you loved making this as much as I loved designing it!
Tips for a Better Experience
Reinforce the strap attachment: The strap takes more stress than any other part of this crochet messenger bag free pattern, so don’t skimp on the extra box-and-cross stitches at the side seams.
Keep the bow centered: Before sewing it permanently, use two removable stitch markers to mark the horizontal center of the front panel. This makes positioning the large bow much easier.
Make the pocket optional: If you prefer a cleaner front, leave the pocket off. For a practical everyday version of this crochet messenger bag free pattern, the pocket is especially handy for cards, earbuds, or keys.
Customize the strap length: The written version uses approximately 105 cm of finished strap, but you can add or remove foundation chains if you want your crochet shoulder bag free pattern version to sit higher or lower.
FAQ
What is included in this crochet messenger bag free pattern?
This crochet messenger bag free pattern includes two main panels, a depth-forming gusset, optional front pocket, adjustable strap, large bow, center band, and finishing instructions.
How can I wear this crochet messenger bag free pattern?
The adjustable strap lets you use the crochet messenger bag free pattern as either a shoulder bag or a crossbody messenger bag. The approximate 105 cm strap gives you room to adjust the carrying position.
What yarn works best for this crochet messenger bag free pattern?
For this crochet messenger bag free pattern, use a firm 10-ply yarn for the main structure and the specified navy blue 8-ply yarn combination for the thicker decorative sections. Keeping the yarn weight consistent helps the panels hold their shape.
This design can also be useful if you’re searching for a crochet shoulder bag free pattern, a crochet shoulder purse free pattern, a crochet crossbody messenger bag pattern free, or a crochet messenger bag pattern free with a more decorative finish. If you prefer video instruction, the embedded tutorial is the best companion for visualizing the adjustable strap, side construction, pocket, border, bow, and assembly sequence.
Image Consistency Check
All step prompts have been written as a single continuous navy blue project, with the project state progressing chronologically from foundation chain through panels, gusset, pocket, adjustable strap, bow, assembly, and final adjustment. Stitch counts, component quantities, hook size, construction order, and visible future-state restrictions have been kept consistent throughout.
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