Gene Tote Bag Crochet Pattern

Gene Tote in Berroco Bestie

What Is Being Made

The Gene Tote is a beginner-friendly crochet bag designed by Mel Kennelly. This project creates a practical, everyday tote bag with finished measurements of approximately 17½ inches wide by 13 inches high (not including straps). The tote features a structured rectangular base, tall sides, and two handles, making it suitable for carrying everyday items.

Construction Method

The bag is constructed in the round, beginning from the bottom and working upward. This construction technique eliminates the need for seaming and creates a seamless, professional finish. The base is established using a foundation chain that is worked in a continuous oval shape, then the sides are built up in subsequent rounds until the desired height is reached. Once the body reaches the correct measurement, the pattern divides to create two separate straps that are worked in continuation from the main bag body.

Crochet Stitches and Techniques

This beginner-level project primarily uses the following stitches and techniques:

• Half Double Crochet (hdc): The main stitch used throughout the entire project, creating a dense, structured fabric suitable for a tote bag
• Foundation Chain (ch): Used to establish the base of the bag
• Slip Stitch (sl st): Used to join rounds and create seamless transitions
• Chain Stitches: Used to create the strap sections by chaining across gaps in the pattern
• Blocking: The finished piece is blocked to ensure accurate measurements and a polished appearance

Yarn and Materials

The Gene Tote is designed to be made with Berroco Bestie yarn, a bulky weight yarn that works up quickly and creates a substantial fabric ideal for bags. The project requires six 50-gram balls of Berroco Bestie in colorway #10525 Rhythm & Blues. A size K / 6.5 mm crochet hook is used to achieve the proper gauge of 7 stitches and 6 rows over 4 inches in half double crochet (measured after blocking). A tapestry needle is also needed for weaving in ends and any finishing details.

Skill Level and Gauge

This pattern is rated as Easy, making it an excellent choice for beginner crocheters or those new to bag construction. The straightforward stitch pattern and simple shaping make it accessible while still producing a polished, functional finished object. Achieving proper gauge is important for accurate finished measurements, so crocheters are advised to swatch and block before beginning the project to ensure their tension matches the pattern specifications.