This gorgeous lavender purple drawstring bucket bag is about to become your new favorite accessory project. The ribbed texture creates those beautiful vertical lines you see running from base to top, and the chunky t-shirt yarn gives it that structured, boutique-worthy look. If you can work single crochet and basic chains, you can absolutely make this bag. I promise.
I designed this crochet pattern specifically to look far more impressive than it actually is to construct. The “complicated” ribbing? It is just single crochet worked in the back loop only. The drawstring top? Simple chain stitch cords threaded through eyelets. You have got this.
Why This Crochet Bucket Bag Pattern Works So Well
The bucket bag silhouette has staying power for good reason. It holds more than you expect, cinches closed to protect your belongings, and transitions effortlessly from farmers market runs to dinner out. This crochet tutorial walks you through creating one in a soft lavender purple that feels fresh and modern.
T-shirt yarn is the secret weapon here. This thick, tubular cotton yarn creates substantial fabric that holds its shape without any lining or interfacing. One skein typically runs about 100 yards, and the chunky gauge means this bag works up in just a few evenings.
The silver metal hardware elevates the entire piece. Those chunky rings at the top combined with a chain strap give this handmade bag a designer feel. People will genuinely ask where you bought it.
Skill Level
This pattern is intermediate beginner friendly. You should feel comfortable with:
- Working in continuous rounds
- Single crochet stitch
- Working in back loops only
- Increasing stitches
- Basic finishing techniques
If you have made a hat or simple amigurumi before, you are ready for this project.
Materials Needed for Your Crochet Bucket Bag
Yarn:
- 2 skeins t-shirt yarn or tube yarn in lavender purple, approximately 200 yards total
- Weight: super bulky (size 6)
- Recommended brands: Hoooked Zpagetti, Bobbiny T-Shirt Yarn, or Lily Sugar’n Cream Tube yarn
Hook:
- 9mm or 10mm crochet hook (adjust based on your tension)
Notions:
- 2 metal O-rings, approximately 1.5 inches (38mm) diameter
- 1 decorative chain strap, 24 to 36 inches long with lobster clasps
- 2 metal grommets, 12mm interior diameter (optional but recommended)
- Grommet setting tool if using grommets
- Stitch marker
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Gauge:
8 single crochet stitches and 9 rows = 4 inches in back loop only single crochet
Gauge matters for this project. Too loose and your bag will be floppy. Too tight and it will not have that soft drape at the top.
Finished Dimensions
- Height: approximately 9 inches (not including strap)
- Width at widest point: approximately 8 inches diameter
- Base diameter: approximately 6 inches
Abbreviations and Stitch Definitions
Let me walk you through every stitch abbreviation before we start. No guessing allowed.
Ch = chain: yarn over, pull through loop on hook. This creates your foundation and is used for the drawstring cord.
Sc = single crochet: insert hook, yarn over and pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), yarn over and pull through both loops. This is your main stitch for the entire bag.
BLO = back loop only: instead of inserting your hook under both loops at the top of the stitch, you only go under the back loop (the one furthest from you). This creates those gorgeous ribbed vertical lines.
Inc = increase: work 2 single crochet stitches into the same stitch. For example, if I say “inc in next st,” you put 2 sc into that one stitch.
Sl st = slip stitch: insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook in one motion. Used for joining.
St(s) = stitch(es)
Step by Step Crochet Pattern Instructions
Part 1: The Circular Base
The base is worked flat in continuous spirals, starting from a magic ring. Use a stitch marker to track your round beginnings.
Round 1: Create a magic ring. Work 6 sc into the ring. Pull tail to close. Do not join. (6 sts)
Round 2: Inc in each st around. (12 sts)
Round 3: *Sc in next st, inc in next st* repeat around. (18 sts)
Round 4: *Sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st* repeat around. (24 sts)
Round 5: *Sc in next 3 sts, inc in next st* repeat around. (30 sts)
Round 6: *Sc in next 4 sts, inc in next st* repeat around. (36 sts)
Round 7: *Sc in next 5 sts, inc in next st* repeat around. (42 sts)
Round 8: *Sc in next 6 sts, inc in next st* repeat around. (48 sts)
Your base should measure approximately 6 inches across. If it is smaller, go up a hook size. If larger, go down.
Helpful tip: The base might want to ruffle or cup slightly. Blocking with steam after completion will flatten it perfectly.
Part 2: The Ribbed Body
Here is where the magic happens. By switching to back loop only stitches, you create that stunning vertical ribbing effect without learning any new techniques.
Round 9: Working in BLO only from this point forward, sc in each st around. Do not join. Continue working in a spiral. (48 sts)
Rounds 10 through 30: Sc in BLO of each st around. (48 sts each round)
This section creates approximately 7.5 inches of ribbed body. The vertical lines form automatically as you work.
Keep your tension consistent. If you tend to crochet tightly when tired, take breaks. Inconsistent tension will show in the ribbing.
Round 31: This round creates the eyelet row for your drawstring. *Sc in BLO of next 5 sts, ch 2, skip 2 sts* repeat around. End with sc in remaining sts if needed to complete the round. (6 eyelets created, 36 sc, 12 ch)
Rounds 32 and 33: Sc in BLO of each st and in each ch space around. (48 sts)
Part 3: The Top Band
The top band returns to working through both loops for a cleaner edge that holds the hardware securely.
Round 34: Sc through both loops in each st around. (48 sts)
Round 35: Sc in each st around. (48 sts)
Round 36: Sl st in each st around. Fasten off, leaving a 6 inch tail for weaving in.
Part 4: Creating the Drawstring Cord
You will make two separate cords that thread through the eyelets from opposite sides.
Cord 1:
Ch 70. Sl st in second ch from hook and in each ch across. Fasten off, leaving 4 inch tails at each end.
Cord 2:
Repeat the same instructions. Ch 70, sl st across, fasten off.
Alternative method: If you prefer, you can finger knit or braid strips of t-shirt yarn for a slightly different look. The chain and slip stitch method matches the bag texture best.
Part 5: Attaching Hardware
This step transforms your handmade crochet bag into something that looks straight off a boutique shelf.
Installing grommets (recommended):
Position two grommets on opposite sides of the bag, approximately 1 inch below the top edge. Follow your grommet tool instructions to set them securely. The grommets provide a clean hole for attaching your O-rings and prevent the fabric from stretching out of shape with use.
Attaching O-rings:
Thread a short length of matching yarn through the grommet and the O-ring. Tie securely on the inside of the bag. Alternatively, use small split rings or jump rings to connect the O-ring to the grommet.
If skipping grommets:
You can crochet directly around the O-rings and sew them to the bag body. Work 12 sc around each O-ring, then whip stitch the crocheted ring cover to the bag at the desired position.
Adding the chain strap:
Clip your chain strap to both O-rings using the attached lobster clasps. The chain length is personal preference. A 24 inch chain creates a shoulder bag. A 30 to 36 inch chain allows crossbody wear.
Part 6: Threading the Drawstring
Take Cord 1 and thread it through the eyelets starting at the front of the bag, going in and out around the entire circumference. Both ends should exit at the front.
Take Cord 2 and thread it through the same eyelets, but start from the back of the bag. Both ends should exit at the back.
When you pull both cords simultaneously, the top cinches closed evenly from both sides.
Creating the tassel:
Gather all four cord ends at center front. Cut 6 strands of yarn, each about 8 inches long. Fold them in half and wrap the folded loop around all four cord ends. Use a separate strand to wrap tightly below the fold, creating a small gathered tassel. Trim ends evenly.
Finishing Your Crochet Bucket Bag
Weave in all remaining ends using your yarn needle. For t-shirt yarn, I recommend weaving through at least 2 inches of stitches and doubling back for security.
Blocking (optional but worth it):
Fill the bag with plastic grocery bags or tissue paper to shape it. Steam lightly with an iron held 2 inches above the surface. Allow to dry completely before removing the stuffing.
Care instructions:
Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent. Reshape and lay flat to dry. Remove hardware before washing if possible.
Customization Ideas
Color variations: This design looks stunning in neutrals like cream, tan, or gray. For a bold statement, try coral, emerald, or classic black.
Size adjustments: For a larger bag, continue increasing in the base until you reach 60 stitches, then work more rounds in the body section.
Strap alternatives: Swap the chain for a crocheted strap, leather strap, or bamboo handles for completely different vibes.
Add a lining: Sew a simple fabric lining to protect small items from slipping through the stitches.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
Bag is too stiff: Your tension may be too tight. Try going up one hook size.
Bag is floppy: Your tension is too loose, or the yarn is too thin. Go down a hook size or hold two strands together.
Ribbing is not visible: Make sure you are consistently working in the back loop only. Working through both loops creates smooth fabric instead of ribs.
Eyelets are too small: Skip 3 stitches instead of 2 when creating the eyelet round.
You Made It
I hope this lavender purple drawstring bucket bag crochet pattern brings you as much joy to make as it did for me to design. There is something so satisfying about creating a functional, beautiful accessory with your own hands.
Thank you for trusting me with your crafting time. That genuinely means so much.
I would absolutely love to see your finished bucket bag. Tag me on Instagram or share in my Facebook group. Seeing your color choices and styling ideas is the best part of sharing patterns.
Now go show off that gorgeous bag. You earned it.
