This free video tutorial will walk you through a beautiful Crochet Checkered Shoulder Bag. This timeless checkerboard pattern has the most charming retro appeal of any crochet accessory I have encountered!
The Checkered Shoulder Bag
The Crochet Checkered Shoulder Bag balances nostalgia with modern wearability. Its clean checkerboard grid in contrasting brown and cream gives off that effortless 70s vibe that never truly left us. This is a bag for the maker who wants something fun to stitch and even more fun to carry, a piece that draws compliments without trying too hard.
The two-tone pattern invites experimentation: think mocha and ivory for warmth, charcoal and blush for softness, or navy and butter for coastal ease. You could match it to your autumn wardrobe or make it a year-round neutral. Either way, it sits comfortably under your arm and holds everything you need for a day out.
Materials and Tools
This pattern works beautifully with worsted weight yarn in two contrasting colors. A 5mm crochet hook gives the fabric structure without stiffness, allowing the bag to hold its shape while remaining soft to the touch. Cotton or cotton-blend yarns are ideal here since they offer durability and a crisp stitch definition that makes the checkered pattern pop. Keep a yarn needle nearby for weaving in ends and seaming the side panels together.
Stitch by Stitch
The pattern relies on a handful of reliable stitches that layer into that satisfying graphic grid.
BULLET:CH (chain) This forms the foundation and turning chains throughout the piece.
BULLET:SC (single crochet) The workhorse stitch that builds the body of the bag with tight, even rows.
BULLET:HDC (half double crochet) Used in some sections for a slightly taller stitch that adds subtle texture.
BULLET:SL ST (slip stitch) Perfect for invisible joins and connecting rounds or panels seamlessly.
The repetition of these stitches becomes meditative quickly, especially once the checkerboard rhythm takes hold and your hands begin to anticipate the color changes.
Construction
The Crochet Checkered Shoulder Bag is worked in flat panels that are later seamed together to form the body and base. You will crochet in rows, switching colors at regular intervals to create that bold checkered effect. The pattern is beginner-friendly with straightforward increases and consistent row counts, making it a great first bag project. If you want a deeper bag, simply add a few more rows before seaming.
Wearing Your Checkered Shoulder Bag
Picture this slung over a linen shirt and wide-leg jeans for farmers market mornings, or paired with a fitted turtleneck and boots for weekend coffee dates. It is compact but roomy enough for your phone, wallet, keys, and a paperback. This is the kind of bag that makes getting dressed a little more intentional.
Caring for Your Handmade Bag
Because this bag will see daily use, treat it gently to keep it looking fresh. Hand wash in cool water with a mild detergent, then reshape and lay flat to dry on a towel. Avoid wringing or hanging while wet, as this can stretch the straps. Store it loosely folded or stuffed with tissue paper to help it hold its shape between wears.
You made something that works as hard as it looks good. The Crochet Checkered Shoulder Bag is proof that functional pieces can be full of personality. Pin this tutorial and tag your finished bag so we can all admire your handiwork!
Follow us on Pinterest and subscribe to the Newsletter so you don’t miss a thing!
Tutorial and photos of this checkered shoulder bag by: crochet daniela .