Textured Chunky Diamond Bag

Materials Needed:

• Chunky weight yarn (approx. 200g)
• Crochet hook (size M/N, 9.0 mm)
• Scissors
• Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
• Stitch marker

Gauge:

12 sts x 8 rows = 4 inch square in diamond stitch.

Bag Dimensions:

Approximately 12 inches tall and 10 inches wide when finished.

Instructions:

Begin the Base:

1. Start with a slip knot and chain 32.
2. Row 1: In the 2nd chain from the hook, make 1 dc. *Skip the next chain, make 2 dc in the following chain; repeat from * across. (You will end up with 16 diamond stitches.)
3. Row 2: Ch 2 (counts as first dc), turn your work. Make 1 dc in the first dc, and in the 2nd dc of the previous row, make a diamond stitch. Repeat across to the end of the row. Finish with 1 dc in the top of the last diamond. (Total of 16 diamond stitches.)
4. Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures 10 inches in height, ending with a Row 2 replication.

Forming the Bag:

1. Fold the rectangle in half, bringing the short edges together.
2. Using a slip stitch or a whip stitch, seam the sides together, leaving the top open.
3. To form a drawstring channel, fold down the top edge of the bag about 2 inches and slip stitch in place, leaving a small gap to insert the drawstring later.

Making the Drawstring:

1. Chain 80 for the drawstring. (Adjust for desired length.)
2. Turn and make 1 sc in each chain back to the start. Finish off, leaving long ends for securing.

Finishing Touches:

1. Weave the drawstring through the channel you created at the top of your bag.
2. Secure the ends by weaving them into the bag.
3. Optionally, create tassels for each end of your drawstring for added flair.

Enjoy Your Creation!