Review: Crochet Hobo Bag
I came across this hobo bag pattern by Dao Lam, and I HAD to try it. Let me just say, I am so glad I did. First of all, the pattern is extremely easy — I whipped this baby up in about an hour and a half (well, the crochet part, anyway). Second, I had all the materials I needed on-hand (I cut the handle off of an old rummage-sale purse). I always feel a little vindicated when I can justify all the ugly 25-cent purses I get for their parts. Lastly, this turned out super-great-if-I-do-say-so-myself, and I have been using it all the time.
The only changes I made to the pattern were:
- I switched to a smaller hook size earlier in the pattern (about three rounds before schedule), and I added a fourth hook change (switched to a 5.5 mm between the 6 and the 5 mm).
- I decreased two stitches in each of the last three rounds.
I made these changes in an attempt to make the bag a little more rounded and hobo-ish. I also considered trying to box the corners on my sewing machine, but I was nervous to do this on the open-work crochet. If anyone has any suggestions about how to make the bottom corners less pointy/square, please let me know!
I attached a magnetic snap to the lining before I sewed it in, and I attached the handles with a row of single crochet. I have gotten so many compliments and requests for this bag — it truly does look like a high-end Nordstrom purse! Make a couple for yourself and a couple as gifts (and don’t let on how easy it was)!
Lovely….you are quite talented with a hooked needle! I’m all about cooking – but I love your work and enjoy your blog very much!
Thank you so much, it really means a lot! I’m obsessed with cooking, too, and I enjoy yours as well!
I started this pattern last week, but after chaining the 44 stitches (I think) I thought it would be far too small for a bag so I’ve got 88 stitches. I’m only up to my second row so can frog it – what size did your bag turn out?
By the way, it’s gorgeous!
Hi Wendy!
I started with a base chain of 44 (as per the pattern), and the bag measures about 13.5 wide (at the base) by 9.5 tall. It’s a good size bag, and I was actually thinking of making another one, but a little smaller! Keep in mind that you are making this in the round–you will be crocheting into both sides of the chain and around its end chains (you won’t be making a loop with your base chain or doing any sewing of sides).
this bag is BEAUTIFULLLL…i even tried my hand at it ..but I could’nt get through the second row..I am a novice and I did’nt understand the pattern(instructions for the second row to be precise)..could you please elaborate???
Oops. Sorry, Tanvi. The message above your post is for you
You will need to crochet into both sides of the chain 44, and this is a common way to begin a bag. Essentially, you are crocheting in the round around the beginning chain. My Bobble Purse pattern uses the same method. You can see it here (with pretty detailed instruction):
http://speckless.wordpress.com/2010/11/19/free-crochet-pattern-bobble-licious-bag/
When you get to the end of your chain 44, count four chains from your hook (do not count the loop that is ON your hook) and make 3 dc in the fourth chain from your hook. This will complete the first shell (the 4 chains you counted from your hook become the first dc of the group, so your shell will have 4 dc).
Continue to follow Dao’s pattern (4dc shell, skip 3 chains) until you get to the end of the first side of the ch 44, chain 3. Now, I think this might be where you are having problems, and I talk about this method in the link above–spin your work clockwise (like you’d turn a steering wheel). Now, the shells you just worked should be pointing toward you and the empty loops of the base chain should be pointing away from you. Now, continue the pattern, working into the loops on the opposite side of the base chain (you’re working in the round!). After this, everything should be easy-peasy–just keep working the rounds. Let me know if this helps!
thats exactly what I wanted to know.Thanks a ton !!! As for the bobble bag,I stumbled upon your pattern a couple of days back and I immediately resolved that this is going to be my next project.Really looking forward to own two gorgeous bags !!
Yoot! Good luck, and I’d love to see pictures!
I have also made this bag and found it so easy to complete. And like you, every where I go I get asked where I bought it and when I say I made it, I am then asked if I sell it!!! It truly is a beautiful pattern.
Speckless, I think your bag is gorgeous! I would like to make one for my sister for her birthday, but I have a question for you. What type of yarn did you use to make this bag? I have bought a chunky wool yarn, but I’ve been afraid to begin the project because it looks like it’s going to be a lot thicker than the pictures I’m seeing of this purse. Did you also use a chunky wool yarn? Thanks so much for answering my question.
Hi, Betheny!
Actually, just the opposite, so good thing you waited! I used a lighter-weight worsted acrylic, similar to Caron brand Simply Soft. I can’t remember if the pattern-maker stated what yarn she used, but follow the link to see . . .
Thank you so much! I’m glad I didn’t use the chunky yarn. I will buy what you suggested. Thank you again for your comment and for sharing your wonderful project.
Speckless, one more question for you if you don’t mind. I have almost finished this bag, but I need to attach the rings to the bag. Do you have any tips for doing this? Thank you so much!
Hi!
The strap was one I cut off an old purse. I lined up the metal ring at the side of the purse to see where to crochet it on. I attached yarn with a tight slip stitch to the bag, then worked single crochets around the ring at the same time as the stitches below it. Looking back, I wish I had just used yarn and a large needle to make several whip stitches to attach the strap — this would have been easier, and a little neater, I think.