Crochet has always been more than just loops and yarn—it’s a tradition, an art form, and a method of storytelling passed through generations. One of the most innovative techniques gaining popularity in recent years is Tunisian crochet. Often described as a cross between crochet and knitting, Tunisian crochet allows for sturdy textures and striking visual effects that are simply not possible with regular crochet.
In this comprehensive blog post, we’re going to dive deep into creating a unique and stunning Easy Tunisian Stitch Flower Crochet Bag. But this isn’t just another pattern—this is a full experience. Whether you’re a complete beginner or an experienced yarn enthusiast looking for a new challenge, this guide will walk you through everything: the history behind the stitches, the tools, the techniques, creative variations, embellishment tips, and even ways to style your final bag.
Let’s start by exploring the magic behind the technique.
What Makes Tunisian Crochet Special?
Tunisian crochet is often referred to as the “third needle art” because it bridges the gap between crochet and knitting. Instead of finishing each stitch as you go, you work an entire row forward (pulling up loops), then a return pass (working them off). This makes it perfect for structured projects like bags, placemats, and jackets.
The Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS), our stitch of focus, creates a dense, gridded fabric that mimics woven textures. It’s easy to learn, extremely satisfying to work, and forms the ideal base for embellishments like crocheted flowers.
Now, let’s talk about this project’s appeal.
Why a Tunisian Flower Bag Is the Ultimate Beginner-Advanced Project
If you’re familiar with traditional crochet but want to try something fresh, Tunisian crochet is a great next step. And this project strikes a beautiful balance: the bag body uses the repetitive and meditative TSS, while the appliquéd flowers allow for creative flair and experimentation with color.
This project is:
- Beginner-friendly with step-by-step Tunisian stitch guidance
- Fully customizable in size, color, strap type, and décor
- Perfect for scrap yarn usage
- A fantastic handmade gift or personal accessory
Before we get into the how-to, let’s prepare the essentials.
Materials Checklist
Gather your materials for a smooth crafting journey. Don’t worry—everything here is easily accessible, and you likely already have most of it if you crochet.
Yarn
- Main Yarn (Body Panels): Worsted weight cotton yarn (Category 4). Cotton holds its shape well, making it perfect for bags.
- Accent Yarn (Flowers & Edging): Colorful scraps of acrylic, cotton, or blends.
- Lining Fabric (Optional): Quilting cotton or any lightweight material for interior structure.
Tools
- Tunisian Crochet Hook (6 mm): A long hook with or without a cable.
- Regular Crochet Hook (4.5 mm): For flowers and finishing.
- Scissors
- Tapestry Needle
- Stitch Markers
- Measuring Tape
- Sewing Needle & Thread (for lining or buttons)
Optional items:
- Magnetic clasp, buttons, zipper, or pre-made bag handles
Now let’s explore the star of our project: the Tunisian Simple Stitch.
Understanding the Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS)
The TSS is the base stitch of most Tunisian crochet projects. Here’s a breakdown of how it works.
Forward Pass
- Make a chain of desired length.
- Insert your hook into the second chain from the hook, yarn over, pull up a loop. Leave it on the hook.
- Repeat this across the chain. Don’t turn your work.
Return Pass
- Yarn over, pull through one loop (edge stitch).
- Yarn over, pull through two loops repeatedly until one loop remains.
That’s it. The next row is worked into the vertical front bars you’ve created. Continue working forward and return passes to form rows.
TSS creates a grid-like, non-curling fabric perfect for bags, especially when paired with cotton yarn.
Creating the Bag: Step-by-Step Instructions
Let’s break the bag down into phases: base panels, seaming, flower embellishment, straps, and lining.
Step 1: Tunisian Base Panels
You’ll be making two identical rectangles.
Instructions:
- Using your Tunisian hook and main yarn, chain 40 (adjust to desired width).
- Work TSS across the row (forward and return pass).
- Continue for about 30 rows or until your fabric is about 10 inches tall.
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Repeat for the second panel.
Tip: Block your panels if they curl. Steam blocking works great for cotton.
Step 2: Seaming the Panels
Once both panels are ready:
- Place them together, right sides facing out.
- Use a regular hook and matching yarn.
- Single crochet or whip stitch along the bottom and sides.
- Leave the top open.
You now have a basic, flat bag body. Time to beautify it!
Step 3: Crochet and Attach Flowers
The decorative flowers transform your structured bag into a wearable art piece.
5-Petal Basic Flower
Instructions:
- With a 4.5 mm hook, chain 4 and join with a slip stitch to form a ring.
- Work 10 single crochets into the ring.
- For petals: ch 2, 2 dc in next stitch, ch 2, sl st in same st. Repeat 5 times.
Make 5–7 flowers in different colors.
Optional Leaves
Chain 6. In the second chain from the hook, work:
- 1 sc, 1 hdc, 2 dc, 1 sc.
Fasten off and shape into a leaf. Make one per flower or more.
Attaching Flowers
Using a yarn needle and yarn tails, securely stitch each flower and leaf to the front of your bag. Play around with arrangements: clustered, diagonal, or a straight line.
Step 4: Handle Options
You have creative freedom here:
Option 1: Crocheted Handle
- Chain 80 (or longer for crossbody).
- Work 3 rows of single crochet.
- Sew to inside top corners.
Option 2: Wooden or Leather Handles
Use D-rings and short straps to connect pre-made handles.
Step 5: Add a Lining (Optional but Recommended)
Adding fabric lining improves durability and helps maintain the bag’s shape.
- Measure your bag and cut fabric ½ inch larger on all sides.
- Fold and press seam allowance.
- Hand-sew or machine-stitch into the inside of your bag.
Closure Options
- Add a magnetic clasp
- Sew a zipper along the top
- Add a large button and crochet loop
Customization Ideas for a Personalized Look
Now that your base bag is done, here’s how to make it stand out.
Color Blocking
Use two or three colors in horizontal or vertical stripes.
Gradient Yarn
Use ombre or gradient yarn for a stunning fade effect.
Embroidery
Use a tapestry needle to embroider vines, stars, or words over the bag.
Beading
Add small seed beads to the flower centers or top edge for extra texture.
Tunisian Flower Bag Styling Tips
Wondering how to wear or gift your new creation?
- Pair it with a boho dress and sandals for a summer day out.
- Use it as a project tote for your yarn and hooks.
- Make one in neutrals for a chic, minimalist look.
- Gift it filled with bath goodies for a thoughtful DIY present.
Tunisian Crochet Troubleshooting Tips
Even with simple projects, it’s common to run into small issues. Here’s how to fix the most frequent ones.
Curling Edges
Solution: Block your fabric, use a larger hook, or add a border row of regular single crochet.
Uneven Edges
Use stitch markers to mark the first and last stitches of each row. Be consistent with your return pass.
Tension Issues
Practice a few swatches. Tunisian crochet tension is tighter than regular crochet, so don’t be discouraged.
Variations to Explore After This Project
Once you’re confident with this bag, you can try:
- Tunisian Entrelac bags
- Tunisian lace panels for summer totes
- Tunisian cables for textured shoulder bags
- Tunisian colorwork (aka stranded crochet)
The possibilities are endless, and this bag is just the beginning.
Video Tutorial:
Final Thoughts
The Easy Tunisian Stitch Flower Crochet Bag is more than just a pretty accessory—it’s a doorway into a whole new world of textile creativity. Whether you stick with the basic pattern or venture into complex variations, you’re engaging with a time-honored craft that constantly evolves.
This project combines foundational Tunisian crochet, colorful flower motifs, and practical bag design into something deeply satisfying. And perhaps the best part? You end up with something not only beautiful, but useful.
So go ahead—grab your hook, gather your yarn, and let your creativity blossom one flower stitch at a time.
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