Terracotta Stripe Market Bag

About This Pattern

This tote is worked in the round from the flat base up, using a simple mesh stitch for the body that creates a stretchy, open-weave texture. The stripe pattern alternates every 4 rounds. The handles are worked separately as I-cord chains and then stitched on securely.

Note: Use 100% cotton for best results — it's machine washable and holds the open mesh shape beautifully.

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BASE

The base is worked flat in rows, then joined to work in the round.

1. With Terracotta, ch 41.
2. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. (40 sc) Ch 1, turn.
3. Rows 2–8: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn.
4. After Row 8, do not turn. Work sc evenly around all 4 sides of the rectangle, placing 3 sc in each corner. Join with sl st to first sc.

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BODY — Mesh Stitch in the Round

The mesh is worked as: *ch 1, skip 1, dc in next; rep from * around.

Rounds 1–4 (Terracotta)

1. Rnd 1: Ch 4 (counts as dc + ch 1), skip 1, *dc in next, ch 1, skip 1; rep from * around. Join to 3rd ch of beginning ch-4.
2. Rnds 2–4: Ch 4, *dc in next dc, ch 1; rep from * around. Join.

Rounds 5–8 (Cream)

Switch to Cream. Repeat mesh stitch for 4 rounds.

Continue Stripe Pattern

Continue alternating 4 rounds Terracotta / 4 rounds Cream until bag measures 13 inches from base. End with a Terracotta stripe.

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TOP EDGING

With Terracotta, work 2 rounds of sc around the top opening.

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HANDLES (Make 2)

1. With Terracotta, ch 60.
2. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. (59 sc)
3. Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st. Fasten off.

Attach: Fold handle in half along its length and pin to the inside of the bag, positioned approx 5 inches from each side seam. Stitch securely through all layers several times.

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FINISHING

Weave in all ends. Give the bag a light damp blocking if desired. Load it up and head to the market!