Midnight Black Boho Shell Bag Free Crochet Pattern

This Midnight Black Boho Shell Bag is a stylish and versatile accessory featuring beautiful shell stitches. It's perfect for everyday use or a night out. The pattern is enjoyable to work through, as it combines simple stitches like double crochet and slip stitch.

This pattern is suitable for crocheters with an intermediate skill level. You'll learn how to create the shell stitch, work with lining fabric, and sew on handles, giving you a well-rounded project experience.

Why You'll Love This Bag

• Stylish design – perfect for any outfit or occasion.
• Intermediate skill building – learn and practice shell stitches and bag assembly.
• Quick project – complete it in approximately 6.5 hours.
• Functional and chic – an ideal handmade accessory for daily use.

Skill Level: Intermediate

To crochet this bag, you'll need to know:

• ch – chain
• dc – double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• sc – single crochet
• sk – skip
• sp – space
• shell – 5 dc in the same stitch/space (this is the new stitch you’ll learn!)

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• dc – double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• sc – single crochet
• sk – skip
• sp – space
• shell – 5 dc in the same stitch/space

Size and Gauge

• Finished Dimensions of the Bag: 30.5 × 25.4 cm (12 × 10 in)
• Finished Dimensions of Each Handle: 3.8 × 61 cm (1.5 × 24 in)
• Gauge: 12 shell stitches and 10 rows = 10 cm (4 in).

To check your gauge, make a small swatch in the main stitch pattern. If not met, adjust the hook size accordingly.

Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.

How to Crochet a Midnight Black Boho Shell Bag (Step by Step)

Body of the Bag

The body of the bag is crocheted in rows with shell stitches.

1. Foundation Chain:
   Make a chain of 40.

2. Row 1:
   In the 4th ch from the hook, [dc in the next ch, sk 1, (shell in the next ch)] repeat until the end of the row, ending with a dc in the last ch. (19 shells + 1 dc = 40 sts).

3. Row 2:
   Ch 3 (counts as first dc), turn. Shell in the next shell, sk 1; repeat to the end. Finish with a dc in the turning chain. (20 shells)

4. Row 3:
   Ch 3, turn. Shell in the next shell, sk 1; repeat to the end. Finish with a dc in the turning chain. (20 shells)

5. Rows 4–15:
   Repeat Row 3 until you have completed a total of 15 rows.

6. Add Dimensions:
   After completing 15 rows, you should have approximately a height of 25.4 cm (10 in) in your bag body.

7. Edging:
   Ch 1, sc around the entire top opening of the bag, placing 2 sc in each shell stitch and 1 sc in between each shell. Join with sl st to the first sc.

Handles

The handles are simple single crochet strips made separately.

1. Make 2 Handles:
   Using the 6.0 mm hook, ch 75.

2. Row 1:
   Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. (74 sts)

3. Rows 2–6:
   Ch 1, turn, sc across. (74 sts)

4. Finish:
   Cut yarn and leave a long tail for sewing the handles to the bag.

Assembly & Finishing

Now, let's put your bag together!

1. Attaching the Handles:
   Position each handle approximately 7.6 cm (3 in) from each side seam of the bag's top edge. Using the long tails, securely sew the handles to the bag top, ensuring they are evenly spaced.

2. Adding Lining:
   Cut the cotton fabric to 1 inch larger than the outer bag dimensions (approximately 33 × 28 cm or 13 × 11 in). Fold and sew the top edge to create a clean finish. Pin the lining inside the bag and sew along the top edge.

3. Optional Snap Closure:
   If desired, stitch a magnetic snap closure inside at the top edge of the lining.

4. Weaving in Ends:
   Use a tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends.

Beginner Tips for a Neat Bag

• Use stitch markers to help keep track of pattern repeats.
• Count your stitches after each row to avoid mistakes.
• Keep an even tension throughout to ensure uniformity.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• "My bag is too small!" - Make sure to check your gauge before starting. Adjust your hook size if needed.
• "The stitches look uneven." - Pay attention to your tension; try to keep it consistent throughout the project.
• "I can't get the shell stitches right." - Practice the shell stitch separately if you're struggling. Once you get the hang of it, it will be easier!

How to Care for Your Bag

Hand wash in cold water and lay flat to dry. Avoid machine washing or drying to maintain the shape of your bag.

FAQ

How do I convert this pattern into a larger bag?

To resize, simply increase the foundation chain in multiples of your shell stitch count and adjust the row count for the desired height.

What type of yarn should I use?

Stick to a medium worsted acrylic yarn for the best results, but you can experiment with other fibers as long as they maintain the bag's shape.

How long will this take to make?

Approximately 6.5 hours, depending on your skill level and pace.

Want to create a complete set? Check out our range of patterns or try the matching clutch.