Method Tote
Back with another crochet tote for all of your summer adventures! This colorful bag is inspired some of the season’s hottest designer looks and comes together using a simple formula that keeps it looking scrappy without any guesswork or ends to weave in. Scroll down to read more about the inspo and for the free pattern, click here to purchase the printer-friendly PDF, or click here for the full yarn kit with pattern included.
Crochet is still going strong as a trend in the fashion world, and I find it so fun and exciting to see the craft on the runway. From lace dresses to filet tops and all sorts of accessories, it's definitely a hot commodity these days. One specific trend I've been seeing *everywhere* from high end designers and more mainstream mid-range stores is a scrappy crochet tote for summer 2026. It gives off a crafty, handmade look while still maintaining a cool, chic vibe that reads both bohemian and somehow elegant.
Check out my inspo here:
Miu Miu
Coach
Gap
Conean
Nunoo
Guanabana
I absolutely love a scrappy look like this, and if you look at much of my earlier work you can see it in many of my designs, both knit and crochet. It can be a bit more difficult to write patterns for these types of designs because it's more of an organic, imprecise technique, so I've steered away from it over the years--but if I'm being honest, I would love to design more pieces that have this feel.
Check out a couple of my favorite scrappy projects:
This pattern is part of the "Purposeful Patterns" initiative - a series of designs benefiting a variety of causes. $1 from the sale of each Armor Scarf pattern will be donated to the ACLU, the chief organization committed to defending and preserving constitutional rights and individual freedoms in the United States. Donate directly to the ACLU here.
+ DESCRIPTION
This super thick, soft, sturdy, one-piece knitted monster easily slips over the head and acts as a poncho, scarf, cowl, and hood in one. It is a one piece wonder and all you will need to keep you warm this winter!
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level knitting pattern, and the techniques involved are knit, purl, kfb, and working in the round. All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
one size fits all
Width: 16"/40.5cm
Circumference: 32"/81cm
Height: 32"/81cm
Cowl Height: 18"/46cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern without consent.
One of the most time consuming and elaborate pieces in my shop, the Sherpa Coat exemplifies every fiber and texture in the book. Inspired by the rugged winds and bohemian spirit of the great Sherpa – the world’s most elite and venturesome mountaineer, this coat embodies a wanderer’s heart and the spiritual, mystical power of adventure and exploration.
This is an intermediate crochet pattern and the techniques used are single crochet, half double crochet, slip stitch, bobble stitch, and loop stitch. Pattern contains detailed instructions and a photo tutorial for both bobble stitch and loop stitch, as well as instructions for two sizes.
Dimensions of finished garment:
Length: 22”/55.9cm
Width across back: 18”/45.7cm (S/M), 21”/53.3cm (M/L)
Sleeve length: 16”/40.6cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
The pattern and photographs of this garment are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern.
When I set out to design this bag, I wanted it to appear random and scrappy, but have a very clear set of directions. I also wanted to avoid the agony of a million different ends to weave in at all of these color changes. Enter tapestry crochet! This technique allows you to effortlessly change color without cutting or rejoining your yarn. You are simply crocheting over all of the other unused colors and picking up the next one as soon as you need it. As a bonus, this technique makes for an extra sturdy bag because you have all of these additional lengths of yarn running under all of the stitches, almost like you're crocheting over a rope, that give it so much added stability, strength, and density. It's such a wonderful way to crochet a bag! With the addition of pre-made handles, this bag is runway-ready and super durable.
Interested in more tapestry crochet projects? Check out these designs:
The perfect use of a mini skein set, this cozy lightweight cowl can be worn season after season to effortlessly elevate any look. The playful houndstooth stitch adds texture and intrigue to the rows of colors that meander across the fabric and the bias shaping adds even more visual interest.
Shop the yarn here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Circumference: 25”/63.5cm
Back depth: 11”/28cm
Front length to point: 23.5”/60cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Double crochet
Sc2tog decrease
Changing colors
Tapestry crochet
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
This pattern is part of the "Purposeful Patterns" initiative - a series of designs benefiting a variety of causes. $1 from the sale of each Gridline Cloth pattern will be donated to the National Parks Conservation Association, a non-profit organization with a mission to protect and enhance America's National Park System for present and future generations. Donate directly to the NPCA here.
With a modern and on-trend windowpane checker stitch pattern, this dishcloth is the perfect host/hostess gift any time of year.
Shop the yarn here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Width: 14”/35.5cm
Length: 18”/46cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Double crochet
Tapestry crochet
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
A free version of this pattern can be found on my blog here.
The multi-textural Resonance Wrap is a two-way fade triangle scarf with brilliant color combining opportunities. Fading from light to dark in opposing directions coupled with a unique pebbled texture makes for a mesmerizing fabric that will catch everyone’s eye.
Shop the full kit here.
SIZES
One size
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Length to point: 28”/71cm
Width: 62”/157.5cm
DIFFICULTY LEVEL
Easy
SKILLS
Single crochet
Half double crochet
Slip stitch
Increasing along an edge
Changing colors
All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
SELLING FINISHED ITEMS
Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically.
HELP
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
This pattern is part of the "Purposeful Patterns" initiative - a series of designs benefiting a variety of causes. $1 from the sale of each Berkshire Dishcloth pattern will be donated to the Natural Resources Defense Council, a non-profit international environmental advocacy group working to safeguard the earth—its people, its plants and animals, and the natural systems on which all life depends. Donate directly to the NRDC here.
+ DESCRIPTION
With a modern take on a classic gingham or check pattern, the Berkshire Dishcloth adds a sophisticated handmade touch to any kitchen.
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are the single crochet stitch and the single crochet 2 together decrease.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Width: 14”/35.5cm
Length: 18”/46cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this design are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from this pattern are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
You can find a free version of this pattern on the blog here.
+ DESCRIPTION
This dapper unisex scarf makes a subtle statement with its oversized silhouette and classic houndstooth fabric. The mesmerizing soft striping looks so intricate but is actually achieved with only two simple stitches!
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their Ferris Wheel and Touch of Alpaca yarns. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is a beginner level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, double crochet, and working in tapestry crochet to carry along an unused color.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Width: 16”/41cm
Length: 82”/208cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this garment are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern without consent. For more information, please visit the policies here.
You can find a free version of this pattern on the blog here.
+ DESCRIPTION
Subtle shaping and simple colorwork achieved with tapestry crochet give the Verona Basket Tote its sturdy structure and make it the perfect companion for the farmers’ market, a picnic in the park, or a casual stroll through the streets.
This pattern is part of a collaboration with Lion Brand Yarn Company using their Rewind yarn. To purchase a kit please visit their site here.
+ SKILLS
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet, single crochet through the back loop, slip stitch, working in the round, and tapestry crochet.
All patterns are written in standard US terms.
+ SIZING
Width: 14”/36cm
Length: 13”/33cm
Strap length: 24”/61cm
*A link to download the pattern will be sent upon payment completion. This link will expire after 24 hrs.
The pattern and photographs of this garment are the property of Two of Wands. This pattern and design are subject to copyright, and are for personal, non-commercial use only. You may not distribute or sell this pattern or any items created using the directions in this pattern without consent. For more information, please visit the policies here.
I've used tapestry crochet in many other designs, but never with this many colors at a time. While the technique is fairly simple once you get the hang of it, there are some tricks to keeping your stitches nice and even and for managing all of the various colors without getting them tangled. I stumbled across this wonderful youtube video by Marion Verloop that demonstrates the indigenous Colombian Wayuu mochila technique, which involves a lot of color changes to produce a bold and intricate geometric pattern, and I think it beautifully explains all of these tips to help you perfect your tapestry crochet.
Watch the youtube video here.
Once I had landed on the concept and the color story using my new cotton/superwash merino blend Cottino yarn, I needed a way to write the pattern whereby it would still look scrappy but also have some sort of formula that was easy to replicate. I came up with the idea to use a word with its individual letters representing a series of numbers that could be repeated over the body of the bag. I loved the word "method" since this is an actual method of working, but also because the letters spanned a wide breadth of the alphabet, so the lengths of the color changes would be both small, medium, and long. I also wanted to choose a word with an even number of letters (6) to offset the odd number of colors I had chosen (5). This would allow the color changes to look even more randomized because it would take a longer time for the entire series to be repeated, and each color would get a chance to be featured along each segment of the series. I decided to multiply each letter's numeric value by two in order to make the color changes a little longer.
One thing I wasn't expecting but ended up LOVING, is that because this process requires you to count your stitches to maintain the color change formula, it becomes a form of meditation. I have become so used to working on the go and stitching while also watching tv, reading, listening to an audio book, replying to emails, and many other multi-tasking scenarios, that I forgot how it felt to be really connected to my project. It's totally different from needing to focus because you're following a complicated stitch chart or working out some difficult math on a new design--this is a simple numeric repeat that really doesn't require any mental weight, but helps you to stay focused and connected to your crochet. In a world where we are constantly distracted and being fed a million short form stressors online all day, I found this project so grounding and almost like a nervous system reset. I am really looking forward to replicating this process in some future designs as well!
I love the way the fabric ends up looking like a hand dyed yarn was used. You'll have a few spots of color pooling, some parts that look completely random, and others that look like they might have a bit more of a repeat. If you were to make a bigger or smaller tote with the same formula, the fabric would looks totally different because the full repeat would be over a different number of stitches--this is what happens with hand dyed yarn as well when you're working across different sizes of a sweater, for example. While you can follow my M-E-T-H-O-D formula, you could also try choosing your own word, or multiplying the letters' numeric values by more or less than two in order to switch up the sequence a bit. You could even work with less or more colors. If you do choose your own word or change the number of colors, just make sure to offset them by selecting a word with an even number of letters and an odd-numbered color combo or vice versa. Lastly, note that changing the number of colors may result in a different gauge and the need to size your hook up or down.
I really wanted to keep this bag looking super polished and chic, so I opted for pre-made handles that came with easy screw on rivets. It took less than 2 minutes to attach them and I think it looks so professional! I compiled a bunch of options for handles in my Amazon storefront if you're looking for some choices.
Check out my top picks for purse straps here.
Looking for more color combo options? Check out my other top picks:
Dove, Tomato, Sedona, Cider, Peony
Goose Down, Limestone, Teddy, Jam, Wisteria
Goose Down, Dove, Sweatshirt, Onyx, Ranger
Teddy, Limestone, Goose Down, Dusk, Cider
Dill, Ranger, Teddy, Limestone, Goose Down
Powder, Azul, Sailor, Sweatshirt, Racquet Club
This is an easy level crochet pattern and the techniques involved are single crochet through the back loop only, tapestry crochet, and working in un-joined spiral rounds.
MATERIALS
1 skein each Lion Brand Yarn Cottino in colors Mineral (614-176L), Straw (614-157AZ), Poppy (614-133BK), Eucalyptus (614-175Q), and Turmeric (614-158T) for colors A, B, C, D, and E
(DK, weight 3; 296yds/270m per 3.5oz/100g skein)
Size US E/4 (3.5mm) crochet hook
Removable stitch marker
Tapestry needle
2 purse straps, approx. 23-28”/58.5-71cm long, with metal rivets
GAUGE
23 sts + 18 rounds = 4”/10cm in sc tbl in the round working over 4 alternate colors
FINISHED DIMENSIONS
Width: 12.25”/31cm
Height: 14”/35.5cm
ABBREVIATIONS
*All Two of Wands patterns are written in standard US terms.
Ch – chain
Rep – repeat
Rnd(s) – round(s)
Sc – single crochet
Sc tbl – single crochet through the back loop only
Sl st – slip stitch
St(s) – stitch(es)
NOTES
Bag is worked from the base up in un-joined, spiral rounds. Do not join at the end of each round. Use a removable stitch marker to keep track of beginning of round. Each round of base increases 3 sts at either end (total of 6 sts per round). Chart is provided for base increase rounds. Colors change in a repeating sequence, and tapestry crochet is used to carry the unused colors across the work on all rounds so they are all available for the next color change. To do so, simply lay the unused colors on top of the previous round and crochet over them. To change colors, work the final yarn over of the last stitch of the sequence section with the new color. The stitch count sequence is based on the word M-E-T-H-O-D, whereby each letter represents its number in the alphabet multiplied by 2 (M=13x2, E=5x2, T=20x2, H=8x2, O=15x2, D=4x2). The 6-part stitch sequence and 5-color repeat are intentionally offset, causing the colors to rotate through each section. Over time, this allows each color to cycle through every part of the sequence, creating a constantly shifting fabric.
For tips on how to work tapestry crochet with multiple colors, including how to keep stitches even and avoid tangling the yarns, please visit: https://youtu.be/BS2t9lE57ZM?si=vJrcYatSAvt1e8rV
For links to several options for purse straps, please visit my Amazon storefront here: https://www.amazon.com/shop/twoofwands
PATTERN
Assign each of your 5 colors a letter A, B, C, D, and E and place them in front of you in this alphabetical order. Change colors according to the following sequence of stitch counts: 26, 10, 40, 16, 30, 8. For example, the first 12 color changes will be:
26 sts in color A
10 sts in color B
40 sts in color C
16 sts in color D
30 sts in color E
8 sts in color A
26 sts in color B
10 sts in color C
40 sts in color D
16 sts in color E
30 sts in color A
8 sts in color B
BASE
With color A, ch 41. Refer to chart for base increase rounds or follow instructions below. Working tapestry crochet over all other colors, begin with color A and change colors according to the stitch sequence outlined above throughout.
Rnd 1: Starting in 2nd ch from hook and working into the back bumps of each ch, sc to end of row, sc twice more into the end ch (3 sts total in this ch), continue around other side of ch and starting in the next ch, sc in the tops of each ch (under both legs of the “v”) to end of round, sc twice into starting ch (3 sts total in this ch). Do not join here or throughout. Place marker for beginning of rnd. (82 sts) Note: It should be tight and somewhat difficult to work into the tops of each ch on the second half of the round. This is intentional and will prevent a gap at the bottom of the bag.
Rnd 2: 2 sc tbl in 1st st, sc tbl 38, 2 sc tbl in each of next 3 sts, sc tbl 38, 2 sc tbl in last 2 sts. (88 sts)
Rnd 3: 2 sc tbl in 1st st, sc tbl 39, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next st) three times, sc tbl 38, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next st) twice. (94 sts)
Rnd 4: Sc tbl 2, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 40, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 2 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 40, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 2, 2 sc tbl in last st. (100 sts)
Rnd 5: Sc tbl 1, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 41, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 3 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 41, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 3, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 2. (106 sts)
Rnd 6: Sc tbl 4, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 42, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 4 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 42, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 4, 2 sc tbl in last st. (112 sts)
Rnd 7: Sc tbl 1, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 43, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 5 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 43, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 5, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 4. (118 sts)
Rnd 8: Sc tbl 6, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 44, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 6 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 44, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 6, 2 sc tbl in last st. (124 sts)
Rnd 9: Sc tbl 1, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 45, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 7 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 45, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 7, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 6. (130 sts)
Rnd 10: Sc tbl 8, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 46, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 8 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 46, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 8, 2 sc tbl in last st. (136 sts)
Rnd 11: Sc tbl 1, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 47, (2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl in next 9 sts) twice, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 47, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 9, 2 sc tbl in next st, sc tbl 8. (142 sts)
BODY
Rnd 12: Sc tbl around.
Rep rnd 12 until work measures 12”/30.5cm from base (rnd 11).
Sl st the final st to flatten out the top edge.
Fasten off.
Secure and weave in all ends.
STRAPS
Lay bag flat and place markers 5”/13cm apart along the top edge on both front and back of the bag (4 markers total).
Line up the straps with the markers so that there is one strap on each side, and secure with rivets.
Purchase the printable, ad-free pattern here.
Purchase the kit from Lion Brand here.
Don't forget to share your projects made using Two of Wands patterns on Instagram with the hashtag #crewofwands to get featured on my page and be in the running for monthly pattern giveaways!
Join the Crew of Wands Facebook group to connect with other makers of Two of Wands patterns for help with techniques and pattern related questions.
The patterns and photographs of items on this site are the property of Two of Wands and are for personal, non-commercial use only. These patterns files are protected by US copyright, and you may not distribute or sell them electronically or physically. Small batch sales of finished pieces made from these patterns are permitted, but seller must use their own photographs and credit must be given to Two of Wands as the designer.
