Paintbox Yarns Graphic Backpack Crochet Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Graphic Backpack

What is Being Made

The Paintbox Yarns Graphic Backpack is an intermediate-level crochet accessory project designed to create a functional, colorful backpack. The completed backpack measures 24 cm (9½ inches) wide and 35 cm (13¾ inches) deep when laid flat, making it a practical size for everyday use or travel.

Craft and Project Type

This is a crochet project classified as a bag accessory. The design uses a graphic approach to create visual interest through color work and patterning, making it suitable for crafters with intermediate-level crochet experience.

Techniques Used

The Graphic Backpack employs several key crochet techniques to achieve its finished design:

• Worked Flat: The backpack pieces are constructed by working flat rather than in the round, allowing for easier color changes and pattern management
• Stripes: The pattern incorporates striped colorwork throughout the design, created by changing yarn colors at designated points
• Seamed Construction: Individual pieces are seamed together to form the complete backpack structure, requiring finishing work after the crocheted components are complete
• Eyelet Holes: The pattern includes eyelet holes worked into the design to accommodate a drawstring closure system

Stitches and Stitch Abbreviations

The pattern uses fundamental crochet stitches, with instructions provided in both UK and US terminology:

• dc (sc): Double crochet in UK terminology, or single crochet in US terminology—the primary stitch used throughout the project
• ch: Chain stitch, used for foundation chains and creating the eyelet holes for the drawstring

The pattern is written using UK crochet terminology with US equivalents provided in parentheses for international crafters.

Materials Required

The Graphic Backpack pattern calls for specific materials to achieve the intended finished product:

• Yarn: Paintbox Yarns Cotton Aran in 50g balls. The pattern requires one ball each of fourteen coordinated colors: Blush Pink (A), Midnight Blue (B), Blood Orange (C), Daffodil Yellow (D), Pistachio Green (E), Dolphin Blue (F), Bright Peach (G), Light Caramel (H), Marine Blue (I), Dark Aubergine (J), Raspberry Pink (K), Mustard Yellow (L), Misty Grey (M), and Red Wine (N)
• Crochet Hook: A 4mm crochet hook (UK size 8 / US size G6) is required for this project

Tension and Gauge

Achieving the correct tension is essential for this project to reach the specified finished dimensions. The pattern requires 18 stitches and 16 rows to measure 10 cm (4 inches) when worked over the pattern stitch using a 4mm (UK 8 / US G6) crochet hook. Crafters should crochet a tension swatch measuring at least 13 cm (5 inches) square before beginning the project. If the swatch contains more stitches and rows than specified, a thicker hook should be used; if fewer stitches and rows appear, a thinner hook is needed. Working to the correct tension ensures the backpack will be the intended size and that yarn quantities will be accurate.

Pattern Structure

The backpack is constructed in separate pieces, with instructions to make two sides as the foundation of the design. The pattern includes detailed yardage information based on average requirements, though actual yarn needs may vary. Paintbox Yarns recommends using only the specified Cotton Aran yarn to ensure the finished backpack meets the stated measurements and appearance, as substituting alternative yarns may affect the final result.