Crocheting A Bag: T-Shirt Yarn Style

how to crochet t shirt yarn bag

Crocheting a bag from t-shirt yarn is a fun and creative way to make a unique, stylish, and functional bag. T-shirt yarn is great for bags as it works up quickly and can give more structure to the bag than some other yarns. The amount of yarn you will need depends on the size of your bag, your gauge, and the stitch you are using, but you can usually make a decent-sized bag with 200 yards of yarn or less. You can buy t-shirt yarn or make your own by cutting up old t-shirts. If you are making your own, you will need about four t-shirts to make one bag, but this will vary depending on the size of the t-shirts and how thin you cut your strips.

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Choosing your yarn

Choosing the right yarn is a crucial step in crocheting a t-shirt yarn bag. The type of yarn you select will impact the bag's overall look, feel, and durability. Here are some factors to consider when choosing your yarn:

Type of Yarn

The most popular type of yarn for t-shirt yarn bags is, unsurprisingly, t-shirt yarn. This yarn is made from recycled t-shirts and creates a sturdy and structured bag. T-shirt yarn is typically sold in balls or skeins, and you can find it in various colours and patterns. Some popular brands include Lion Brand Fettuccine Yarn and Hoooked Zpagetti yarn. You can also make your own t-shirt yarn by cutting up old t-shirts into strips, but this can be time-consuming and may not yield consistent results.

Alternatively, you can use other types of yarn, such as super bulky yarn or thick wool yarn, to create a similar effect. Just keep in mind that the stretch and structure of the bag may differ slightly from bags made with t-shirt yarn.

Amount of Yarn Needed

The amount of yarn you need depends on the size of your bag and the stitch pattern you're using. For a decently-sized bag, you'll typically need around 120-150 meters or 130-165 yards of yarn. If you're using store-bought t-shirt yarn, this usually translates to about two skeins of yarn. However, it's always a good idea to have some extra yarn on hand in case you need to make your bag bigger or if you make any mistakes.

Colour and Pattern

T-shirt yarn comes in a variety of colours and patterns, so you can get creative and choose a combination that reflects your style. You can opt for solid colours, or you can mix and match different colours and patterns to create a unique look. Some people like to use two colours of yarn to create a contrasting design, while others prefer to work with multiple colours to create a vibrant and eclectic bag.

Yarn Weight and Texture

T-shirt yarn can vary in weight and texture, depending on the type of t-shirts used to create it. Some t-shirt yarn is made from lightweight and stretchy fabric, while others are made from thicker and stiffer material. The weight and texture of the yarn will impact the drape and structure of your bag. If you're looking for a bag with a lot of structure that can stand on its own, opt for a thicker and less stretchy yarn. If you prefer a softer and more flexible bag, go for a lightweight and stretchy option.

Consistency in Yarn Type

When choosing your yarn, it's important to use t-shirts made from the same thickness and type of fabric. Mixing very stretchy lycra fabric with a stiff cotton shirt, for example, will create a wonky and uneven bag. Consistency in the type of yarn you use will ensure that your stitches are uniform and that your bag lays flat when finished.

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The number of t-shirts needed

The number of t-shirts you will need to make a crochet bag depends on several factors, including the size of your bag, the size of the t-shirts, and the stretchiness of the fabric.

For example, the amount of yarn needed to crochet a bag varies depending on the size of your bag, your gauge, and the stitch you're using. Generally, you can make a decently-sized crochet bag or purse with 200 yards of yarn or less. For context, one source's "My Favourite Festival Purse" design required only 131 yards of yarn.

Another source suggests that, if you are using a t-shirt that is about 30 cm wide (12″), each “round” will give you about a meter of yarn (width x 2 x 1.5 {to allow for the natural stretch}). If the usable part of your t-shirt, excluding the hem and the arms, is 30 cm long (12″), and you are cutting 1 cm (roughly 1/2″) strips, you’ll get 30 meters (32 yards) out of one t-shirt. So, you will need at least 4 t-shirts to make one bag.

However, the same source notes that they made two bags to try to answer this question: one bag used less than 3 t-shirts, while the other used 5! Both took about 120–150 meters (130–165 yards) of t-shirt yarn, but they varied greatly in weight.

Therefore, it is challenging to provide an exact number of t-shirts needed for a crochet bag project. The stretchiness of the fabric is also an important factor, as it will impact how much yarn you can create from each t-shirt. It is recommended to use t-shirts made from the same thickness and type of fabric to ensure your bag does not turn out wonky.

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Basic stitches

To crochet a t-shirt yarn bag, you will need to know some basic crochet stitches. Here is a detailed guide to help you get started:

Chain Stitch (ch):

The chain stitch is the most basic stitch in crocheting and is usually the first stitch that beginners learn. It is the foundation for most crochet projects and is used to start new patterns. To make a chain stitch, insert your crochet hook into a slip knot, yarn over, and pull through to create a new loop. Repeat this process to create a chain of the desired length.

Single Crochet Stitch (sc):

The single crochet stitch is another fundamental stitch and is commonly used in various projects, including scarves, baby blankets, and hats. It creates a smooth texture. To make a single crochet stitch, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through to create a loop. You will have two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through both loops, leaving only one loop on your hook.

Double Crochet Stitch (dc):

The double crochet stitch is taller than the single crochet stitch and is often used in different crochet patterns. It creates a more flexible texture. To make a double crochet stitch, yarn over, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, and pull through. You will have three loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through two loops, leaving two loops on your hook. Repeat the process and pull through both loops to create a single loop.

Half Double Crochet Stitch (hdc):

The half double crochet stitch is a combination of the single and double crochet stitches. It works well for projects like blankets, scarves, and textured bags. To make a half double crochet stitch, yarn over, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, and pull through. You will have two loops on your hook. Yarn over again and pull through all three loops to create a single loop.

Treble Crochet Stitch (tr):

The treble crochet stitch is the tallest stitch on this list, and it involves repetition, working up quickly to create loose blankets with open, lace-like patterns. Once mastered, you can create double treble and triple treble crochet stitches. To make a treble crochet stitch, yarn over twice, insert your hook into the next stitch, yarn over again, and pull through. You will have three loops on your hook. Yarn over and pull through the first two loops, then yarn over again and pull through the next two loops. Repeat this process until you have a single loop on your hook.

Slip Stitch (sl st):

The slip stitch is a versatile basic stitch that can be used in many ways. You can use it to connect the last stitch of a row to the first stitch, create invisible flat stitches, decorate crocheted items, or give a clean finish to the edges of your crochet fabric. To make a slip stitch, insert your crochet hook into the next stitch, yarn over, and pull through both the stitch and the loop on your hook.

With these basic stitches, you can start experimenting with different patterns and creating your own crochet projects, such as a t-shirt yarn bag.

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Creating the bag's base

Once you have your supplies, you can start by cutting your t-shirts into strips to create your yarn. The width of your strips will depend on the desired thickness of your yarn. Keep in mind that the size of your t-shirts and the stretchiness of the fabric will affect how much yarn you get and the size of your bag.

Now, you're ready to start crocheting! Using your first colour of yarn, create a foundation chain by chaining 15 stitches. Then, turn your work and single crochet across the second chain from the hook. Repeat this process for the next two rows.

To create the base of the bag, you will now work in a spiral instead of turning your work. Single crochet across, then stitch three single crochets in the last stitch to create a corner. Continue working in the round, stitching two single crochets along the short edge, three single crochets in the next space to create another corner, and then single crochet across. Repeat this process to create a total of four corners.

After you've made the four corners, slip stitch into the first stitch to join the round and complete the base of the bag. Now, you can switch to your second colour of yarn. Single crochet in the back loop only all the way around, creating a ridge that will help the bag sit flat. Continue single crocheting in this manner for a total of five rounds or until you run out of yarn.

Finally, switch back to your first colour of yarn and single crochet for four more rounds. Finish off by slip stitching around once to create a neat edge. And that's it! You've created the base of your t-shirt yarn bag.

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Adding handles

Option 1: Using Leather Handles

This method involves using leather straps and rivets to create a sophisticated and sturdy handle for your bag. Here are the steps:

  • Gather your supplies: a leather strap (approximately 50" long and 1.5" wide), 16 gold rivets and rivet tools, a hammer, a leather punch, and a 4" square of plastic canvas.
  • Use the leather punch to gently score the leather and mark the placement of four holes in both ends of the strap. Punch all the holes once you're happy with the marks.
  • Cut the plastic canvas into four squares, each large enough to cover the width of your strap and the height of your holes.
  • Now, you will create a "sandwich" of your supplies to attach the first strap. Place a rivet post on your work surface, then place the leather strap on it with the right side facing down. Stack the crocheted bag on top, with the right side facing down as well.
  • Place one canvas square on top of the bag, threading the rivet post through the hole in the plastic grid.
  • Place the rivet cap on top of the post, squishing all the layers in between. You may need to press the rivet together with your fingers first.
  • Place the small, wider metal cylinder tool below the bottom rivet cap, making sure the concave side is on the cap. Place the long, thinner cylinder on the top cap as well.
  • Hammer the rivet a couple of times until it feels stable and connected. Repeat this process for each hole in your leather strap.

Option 2: Crocheting Handles

If you prefer, you can also crochet your own handles for your t-shirt yarn bag. Here are the steps:

  • Start by working a series of chain stitches. The length of this chain will be the length of your purse handles. For example, chain 126 with a 3.5 mm hook and work 8 rows to achieve a width of 1.6"/4 cm. The number of rows will determine the width of your handle.
  • After reaching your desired width, slip stitch across both edges to smooth them out. These edges will be sewn onto the purse later.
  • Place stitch markers approximately 2"/5 cm from each edge. The area between the stitch marker and the edge will not be whip stitched and will remain flat for sewing onto the purse.
  • Pinch the sides of the handle together and whip stitch the edges shut to form a tube. To minimize stretching, you can place a piece of cord, macrame rope, or ribbon inside the handle and whip stitch around it.
  • Sew the rope into place inside the handle, then sew the handle onto your purse. Place the handles approximately 4.75"/12 cm from the top and 2.75"/7 cm from the sides.

Option 3: Using Faux Leather Handles

Another option is to use faux leather handles, which can be found in craft stores. Here are the steps:

  • Gather your supplies: two faux leather purse handles, black thread, and a large needle.
  • Attach the handles to your bag using hot glue to keep them in place temporarily.
  • Stitch through the holes of the handles with doubled-up thread for added security. Do not rely solely on the hot glue, as it may not hold the weight of the bag over time.

Now you have a beautiful and functional t-shirt yarn bag with handles!

Frequently asked questions

The amount of yarn needed varies depending on the bag size, your gauge, and stitch type. Generally, 200 yards of yarn or less is sufficient for a decent-sized crochet bag.

Yes, T-shirt yarn is excellent for crochet bags as it adds structure and works up quickly.

You can purchase T-shirt yarn online from sites like Amazon or Wool Warehouse, or in craft stores like Joann and Hobby Lobby.

Yes, you can use regular yarn, but the bag will stretch slightly less.

You can attach handles by first tacking them in place with hot glue and then stitching them securely with doubled-up thread.

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