Whale and Wave Crochet Ocean Tote Free Pattern

This Whale and Wave Crochet Ocean Tote is a delightful project that combines fun design with practicality. With a charming whale and wave motif, it’s perfect for beach trips or casual outings. We’ll take you through the enjoyable process of crafting this spacious tote using basic crochet stitches, along with some intermediate techniques.

This pattern is suitable for those with a bit of experience in crocheting. You’ll learn how to create a textured body, work with color changes, and apply fun embellishments for a unique touch.

Why You'll Love This Tote

• Unique design – the combination of a whale and waves adds personality to your bag.
• Sturdy and spacious – the tote is perfect for carrying all your beach essentials or groceries.
• Fun appliqué – creating the whale and wave adds a playful element to the project.
• Customizable – feel free to change yarn colors to match your style.

Skill Level: Intermediate

This pattern requires proficiency with the following stitches:

• ch – chain
• sc – single crochet
• dc – double crochet
• hdc – half double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• bpdc – back post double crochet You'll also get to practice color changing as you create your design.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

• ch – chain
• sc – single crochet
• dc – double crochet
• sl st – slip stitch
• hdc – half double crochet
• bpdc – back post double crochet
• fdc – foundation double crochet

Size and Gauge

• Finished Size: 35.5 × 45.7 × 12.7 cm (14 × 18 × 5 in)
• Gauge: 14 stitches and 16 rows = 10 cm (4 in) in double crochet Make sure to check your gauge by crocheting a small swatch. If your gauge differs, adjust your hook size to match.

How to Crochet the Whale and Wave Tote (Step by Step)

Body of Tote

The body of the tote is crocheted in rows.

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 70.
2. Row 1: Dc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (68 dc)
3. Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as first dc), dc in each dc across. Turn. (68 dc)
4. Rows 3–10: Repeat Row 2 for 8 more rows. (68 dc)
5. Row 11: Ch 2, dc in the first 20 dc, change to light blue (Color D) and dc in the next 28 dc, change to white (Color B) and dc in the last 20 dc. Turn. (68 dc)
6. Row 12: Ch 2, dc in the first 20 dc, change to Color D and dc in the next 28 dc, change to Color B and dc in the last 20 dc. Turn. (68 dc)
7. Row 13: Repeat Row 12. (68 dc)
8. Row 14: Ch 2, dc in all dc across. Turn. (68 dc)
9. Rows 15–20: Repeat Row 12 for 6 more rows, maintaining colors as established.
10. Row 21: Change to gray (Color C), repeat Row 2 for 6 rows. (68 dc)
11. Row 22: Ch 1, sc in each dc across. Turn. (68 sc)
12. Rows 23–24: Repeat Row 22 for 2 more rows. (68 sc)

Creating the Waves and Whale Appliqué

We'll make the wave and whale to embellish the tote.

1. Wave Part: Ch 14 with light blue (Color D).
2. Row 1: Hdc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next 12, 3 hdc in last ch. Work down the other side (12 hdc), sl st to join with starting ch. Turn.
3. Rows 2–3: Ch 1, hdc in each hdc across, sl st to join at the end.
4. Whale Body (with gray (Color C)):
   • Ch 10.
   • Row 1: Hdc in 2nd ch, hdc in next 7. (8 hdc)
   • Row 2: Ch 1, turn, hdc in each. (8 hdc)
   • Row 3: Repeat Row 2 until you have 5 rows. Fold in half and sew edges together. Use white yarn to embroider eyes.

Assembly

Now let's put the tote together.

1. Place the whale and wave appliqués on one side of the tote body.
2. Sew them down using a tapestry needle and the corresponding yarn colors.
3. Fold the body in half and slip stitch the sides together.
4. Create a strap by chaining 90, working a long single crochet down the length, then attaching each end to the top of the tote on each side.

Beginner Tips

• Use stitch markers to keep track of color changes.
• Count your stitches to ensure evenness and avoid mistakes.
• Maintain consistent tension for a neat finish.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

• "My project is uneven." – This often happens due to inconsistent tension. Focus on keeping tension steady throughout.
• "I changed colors and it doesn't look right." – Ensure you’re following the color change instructions closely; it can help to keep the colors visible as you work.
• "The item is too tight." – This may be the result of using too small of a hook. Check your gauge and adjust as needed.

How to Care for Your Tote

To keep your tote looking fresh, machine wash it on a cold cycle and lay it flat to dry. Avoid direct sunlight to prevent fading.

FAQ

How can I customize the colors for my tote?

Feel free to experiment! You can choose any color palette that matches your style or decor.

How long will this project take to complete?

The estimated time is about 6 hours, considering the body, appliqué, and assembly.

Can I make this tote larger or smaller?

Yes! To resize, simply adjust the foundation chain and follow the pattern while maintaining the same stitch count.

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

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