Step 1: The Base of the Bag
We’re going to start with the base of the bag.
This will be a flat circle that will later become the bottom of your Halloween bag.
Magic Circle: Begin with a magic circle (or a chain 4, slip stitch to form a ring).
Round 1: Chain 2 (this does not count as a stitch), make 12 double crochets (dc) into the ring. Join with a slip stitch to the first dc. (12 sts)
Round 2: Chain 2, 2 dc in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch. (24 sts)
Round 3: Chain 2, dc in the next stitch, 2 dc in the next stitch. Join with a slip stitch. (36 sts)
Round 4: Chain 2, dc in the next 2 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Join with a slip stitch. (48 sts)
Round 5: Chain 2, dc in the next 3 stitches, 2 dc in the next stitch. Join with a slip stitch. (60 sts)
Keep going until your base is the size you want for your bag.
I usually stop at around 72 stitches, but you can make it larger or smaller depending on your needs.
Step 2: Building the Body
Now that the base is complete, let’s work on the body of the bag.
This is where you can get creative with your colors and patterns!
Round 1: Chain 2, dc in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch. (72 sts, or your final base stitch count)
Round 2-12 (or desired height): Continue with dc in each stitch around, joining with a slip stitch at the end of each round.
Here’s where you can switch colors for some spooky stripes! Alternate between your main color and the accent color every few rows.
I like to do two rounds of orange followed by two rounds of black to keep that Halloween spirit alive.
Step 3: Creating the Handles
No bag is complete without some sturdy handles! Here’s a simple way to add them:
Handle Round 1: After you’ve reached your desired bag height, chain 2, dc in the next 10 stitches, chain 20 (this will be the handle), skip 20 stitches, dc in the next 20 stitches, chain 20, skip 20 stitches, dc in the last 10 stitches. Join with a slip stitch.
Handle Round 2: Chain 2, dc in each dc and each chain stitch around. Join with a slip stitch.
And voilà! You’ve got yourself some handles.
Step 4: Adding the Spooky Face (Optional)
What’s a Halloween bag without a spooky face?
This part is optional but adds a fun twist to your project.
For the Eyes:
Magic Circle: Start with a magic circle in black yarn.
Round 1: Chain 2, make 8 dc into the circle. Pull tight and join with a slip stitch.
Round 2: Chain 2, 2 dc in each stitch around. Join with a slip stitch.
Make two of these and sew them onto your bag.
For the Mouth:
Chain 15: Fasten off and shape into a smile. Sew onto the bag.
You can also add a nose, fangs, or whatever spooky elements you desire!
This is your chance to get creative and make your Halloween bag one of a kind.
Step 5: Finishing Touches
Before you declare your Halloween bag complete, take a moment to weave in any loose ends with your tapestry needle.
Give the bag a good stretch to ensure everything is in place.