Straps and Finishing
- Rnd 26: Ch 1, sc in each dc and each ch-2 space around. Join. (60 sts)
- Rnds 27-28: Ch 1, sc in each st around. Join. (60 sts)
- Strap 1: Ch 1, sc in next 10 sts, ch 60, skip 10 sts, sc in next 20 sts. Join.
- Strap 2: Ch 1, sc in next 10 sts, ch 60, skip 10 sts, sc in next 10 sts. Join.
- Rnd 29: Sc in every sc and every ch of the straps to create a thick, reinforced border. Join.
- Fasten off and weave in all loose ends securely with a tapestry needle.
Care & Washing Instructions
- Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle to preserve fiber integrity.
- Lay the bag flat on a towel to air dry, reshaping it while damp to ensure the base remains circular.
- Do not iron or bleach, as this will damage the cotton fibers and weaken the structure of the straps.
Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid
Maintain consistent tension throughout the mesh rounds to ensure your holes remain uniform in size. Using a stitch marker at the start of every round is helpful, as the mesh stitches can be difficult to track if you get distracted. When weaving in your ends, run the yarn tail through the solid stitches of the base or the top border rather than the open mesh gaps, as this prevents the ends from popping out under tension. If you want to adjust the size, add or subtract rounds from the mesh section, but be aware that adding more length will require more yarn and may lead to extra sagging when the bag is fully loaded.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use acrylic yarn for this project?
While possible, acrylic yarn is prone to stretching under weight. If you choose to use it, expect the bag to grow significantly longer after the first time you carry heavy items.
Is this pattern suitable for a total beginner?
Yes. The project uses basic stitches and the mesh is very forgiving if you lose count by a single stitch in a large round.
How do I change the handle length?
Simply increase or decrease the number of chains when creating the straps in Rnd 28. Ensure you keep the same number of chains for both sides to maintain symmetry.
Can I sell the bags I make from this pattern?
You are welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern, provided you credit the design. Please do not sell or redistribute the written instructions themselves.
Pin for later!
Your finished garland brings a handmade touch to the dark season that store-bought decorations simply cannot match. You might try swapping the classic black yarn for a deep purple or a metallic silver thread to adjust the mood of your display. Please share a photo of your hanging creation on social media so others can see your color choices. I encourage you to click through to my main archive page if you want to find more seasonal home decor ideas for your collection.
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