This Forest Green Chunky Tote with Gold Chain Tassels is pure statement energy. Thick yarn, vertical ribbing, and shiny gold hardware turn a simple bag into something that looks boutique-expensive. The chunky texture works up fast and the gold chain tassels add just the right amount of drama. If you can handle basic stitches in rounds, you can absolutely make this one.
Why This Chunky Tote Crochet Pattern Works
I love this design because the body uses a simple ribbed stitch that creates those clean vertical lines from base to top. It mimics the look of knitting but stays 100% crochet. No complicated techniques required.
You build it in two clear stages. First you crochet the circular base in continuous rounds. Then you work the walls upward with a back-loop technique that forms the ribs. The braided handle mixes yarn with thin gold chain for strength and shine.
Skill level sits at confident beginner to intermediate. If you have made a basic bag or basket before, you are ready for this.
Materials Needed for Your Crochet Tote Bag
Gather everything before you start. It keeps the whole process smooth.
Yarn
Super bulky weight yarn (Category 6) in forest green or your preferred color. You need approximately 400 to 450 yards total.
A cotton blend or tube yarn gives the best structure. Pure acrylic stretches more over time. Bernat Blanket, Lion Brand Wool-Ease Thick & Quick, or a good t-shirt yarn all work well. The sample uses a tightly spun chunky cord that holds its shape beautifully.
Hook
9 mm (M/N-13) or 10 mm (N/P-15) crochet hook. Check your gauge. You want firm fabric that stands up on its own. If the stitches look loose, drop down a size.
Hardware and Notions
- 2 gold O-rings (about 1 inch / 25 mm diameter)
- 2 gold swivel lobster clasps
- 2 gold chain tassels (4 to 5 inches long) or materials to make your own
- Tapestry needle
- Stitch marker
- Scissors
- Optional: fabric lining and sewing supplies
For the Braided Handle
- Additional yarn (about 3 yards, cut into three 1-yard strands)
- Thin gold chain (about 1 yard)
- Two extra small rings or jump rings for attaching
Abbreviations and Stitch Definitions
Here is every stitch you will need. No guessing later.
- Ch = chain
- Sl st = slip stitch
- Sc = single crochet
- Hdc = half double crochet
- BLO = back loop only
- FLO = front loop only
- Inc = increase (2 stitches in the same stitch)
- St(s) = stitch(es)
- Rnd = round
Gauge Check
Make a quick swatch before you start. Work 10 sc stitches across and 10 rows. It should measure about 4 inches by 4 inches.
Too big? Go down a hook size. Too small? Go up. Gauge decides both the finished size and how well the bag holds its shape.
Finished Dimensions
- Height: approximately 10 inches (not including handle)
- Width: approximately 11 inches across the opening
- Base diameter: approximately 7 inches
- Handle drop: approximately 8 to 9 inches
Step by Step Crochet Pattern Instructions
Part 1: The Circular Base
Start at the bottom and work outward in continuous rounds. Use a stitch marker to track the beginning of each round.
Create a magic ring (or chain 4 and slip stitch to form a loop if you prefer).
Round 1: Work 8 sc into the magic ring. Pull closed. Place marker. (8 sts)
Round 2: Inc in each st around. (16 sts)
Round 3: *Sc 1, inc in next st* repeat around. (24 sts)
Round 4: *Sc 2, inc in next st* repeat around. (32 sts)
Round 5: *Sc 3, inc in next st* repeat around. (40 sts)
Round 6: *Sc 4, inc in next st* repeat around. (48 sts)
Round 7: *Sc 5, inc in next st* repeat around. (56 sts)
Round 8: *Sc 6, inc in next st* repeat around. (64 sts)
Your base should measure about 7 inches across. Want a bigger bag? Keep increasing in the same pattern until you like the size. Slip stitch to join the final round but do not fasten off.
render_generated_image with prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K close-up of hands crocheting the circular base of a forest green chunky tote bag in super bulky yarn, continuous single crochet increase rounds visible, stitch marker in place, realistic thick yarn texture and tight stitches, soft natural craft lighting, clean white surface background orientation is portrait
Part 2: Transition Round
This round creates a crisp edge between the base and the walls.
Round 9: Working in BLO only, sc in each st around. Do not join. Continue in a spiral. (64 sts)
You will see the bag start to stand up. The unused front loops form a neat bottom ridge.
Part 3: Ribbed Body
Here comes the texture. Work half double crochet through the back loop only. This pushes the front loops forward and creates those raised vertical ribs.
Continue in a spiral. Move the marker up each round.
Rounds 10 through 35 (26 rounds total): Working in BLO throughout, hdc in each st around. (64 sts per round)
Keep tension even. Too tight and the bag curls inward. Too loose and it loses structure. The body should reach about 9 to 10 inches tall from the base.
render_generated_image with prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K photograph of the ribbed body of a forest green chunky tote in progress, vertical half-double crochet back-loop ribs clearly visible running up the sides, thick forest green yarn texture, hands holding the growing bag, soft natural daylight, clean craft table orientation is portrait
Part 4: Top Edge Finishing
Create a clean, sturdy rim.
Round 36: Switch to sc through both loops. Sc in each st around. (64 sts)
Round 37: Sl st in each st around for a polished edge. Fasten off and weave in the end securely.
Part 5: O-Ring Attachment Points
Place the O-rings on opposite sides of the bag, about 2 inches down from the top edge.
Option A (crochet directly): Attach a new piece of yarn on the inside at your chosen point. Ch 6, pass the chain through the O-ring, then slip stitch back to the start. Sc 8 to 10 times around the loop to cover it. Fasten off and weave in. Repeat on the other side.
Option B (yarn wrap): Thread a 12-inch piece of yarn through the O-ring. Stitch through the bag fabric 4 to 5 times, pull tight, knot inside, and weave in the ends.
Part 6: The Braided Handle
This handle mixes yarn and gold chain for strength and shine.
Cut three strands of yarn, each about 36 inches long. Cut one strand of gold chain the same length.
Gather all four strands and tie an overhand knot at one end, leaving a 2-inch tail. Braid them together, treating the chain as part of one strand or weaving it through after the braid is done. The sample shows the chain catching light between the yarn twists.
When you reach about 20 to 24 inches of braided section, tie another overhand knot. Wrap the ends tightly with matching yarn to create a clean 1-inch cap that hides the knots.
render_generated_image with prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K close-up of hands braiding a handle for a forest green chunky tote, three thick green yarn strands combined with thin gold chain, braid in progress with metal links visible between twists, realistic yarn and chain texture, soft bright lighting, clean workspace orientation is portrait
Part 7: Attaching the Handle
Thread one end of the braided handle through a lobster clasp or directly through an O-ring. Fold the wrapped end back on itself and stitch it securely to the handle body. Repeat on the other end.
Clip the lobster clasps onto the bag’s O-rings. The handle is now fully functional.
Part 8: Gold Chain Tassels
These tassels add movement and a touch of luxury. You can buy pre-made ones or make your own.
To make them: Cut 8 to 10 pieces of fine gold chain, each 4 to 5 inches long. Thread them all onto a jump ring. Wrap yarn around a small bead or the tops of the chains to form a neat 1-inch cap. Attach a lobster clasp or jump ring at the top.
Clip or tie the tassels near the handle hardware so they hang from the O-rings.
render_generated_image with prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K photograph of finished gold chain tassels for a forest green chunky tote, multiple fine gold chains hanging from yarn-wrapped caps, realistic metal links and yarn texture, soft natural lighting, clean surface background orientation is portrait
render_generated_image with prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K lifestyle photograph of the completed Forest Green Chunky Tote with Gold Chain Tassels, thick vertical ribbed body in rich forest green, braided handle with gold chain woven through, gold O-rings and swinging chain tassels, bag standing upright, soft golden hour light, ultra realistic yarn and metal texture orientation is portrait
Optional: Adding a Fabric Lining
A lining protects your belongings and adds a polished finish. Cotton canvas works great.
Measure the inside circumference and height. Cut the fabric with seam allowance. Sew it into a tube, add a circular bottom, then hand-stitch the lining inside the bag, folding the top edge under for a clean look. Completely optional but worth it if you carry small items.
Tips for Success with This Crochet Tutorial
Keep the tension firm. Bags need structure. If the stitches feel loose, size down your hook.
Block the base. Wet block the circular base flat before you start the walls. A truly flat bottom makes everything better.
Reinforce the high-stress spots. The handle attachments take a lot of weight. Stitch through multiple times and consider a bit of interfacing behind the O-rings.
Test the hardware first. Make sure the O-rings, clasps, and chain all work together before you attach them permanently.
Customization Ideas
Make this pattern your own.
- Switch colors: cream with silver hardware, black with gunmetal, rust with brass
- Add a magnetic snap closure at the top
- Embroider initials or a simple motif
- Crochet a matching coin purse
- Swap the braided handle for leather straps
- Add interior pockets when you line the bag
FAQ’s
Can beginners make this bag?
Yes, if you feel comfortable with basic stitches and working in rounds. The construction stays straightforward. Just take your time with the hardware attachments.
What if I do not have the exact yarn?
Any super bulky yarn works. Adjust your hook size to hit a similar gauge. Stiffer yarns hold shape better than soft ones.
How do I care for the finished bag?
Spot clean with mild soap. For cotton or acrylic, gentle hand washing is fine. Air dry flat to keep the shape. Remove the hardware if possible before washing.
Can I make it bigger?
Absolutely. Add more increase rounds to the base and more rounds to the body. Just buy a bit of extra yarn.
Do the gold chain tassels have to be purchased?
No. You can make them easily with fine chain and a yarn-wrapped cap. They look just as good as the store-bought ones.
Wrapping Up Your Forest Green Chunky Tote
You now have everything you need to create your own Forest Green Chunky Tote with Gold Chain Tassels. This bag bridges handmade texture with a polished, elevated look. Every time you carry it, someone will ask where you bought it. Then you get to say the best words: “I made it.”
Thank you for choosing this pattern. I hope the process feels meditative and the finished tote makes you proud. Share your photos and tag me when you finish. Seeing your versions is genuinely the best part of my day.
Now grab that forest green yarn and get hooking. You have got this. Happy crocheting, friend.
