Hey there, beach-loving crocheters! ☀️ Today we’re making this playful spiral beach bag designed by Annemarie Benthem—the perfect project to brighten up your summer (or winter, because who says we can’t dream of sunshine year-round?).
This pattern uses a simple spiral technique (no turning!) and vibrant color changes to create a roomy, sturdy tote. The best part? You can customize it with as many (or few) colors as you want!
Why you’ll love this pattern:
✔ Beginner-friendly—only basic stitches (chains, SC, DC) needed!
✔ Great stash-buster—use up leftover cotton yarn.
✔ Adjustable size—make it a petite pool bag or a giant market tote.
✔ No sewing (almost!)—the handles crochet right on.
Ready to dive in? Let’s grab our hooks and make some waves!
Table of Contents
Materials & Tools
- Yarn: 24 colors of Phildar Coton 3 (or any #3/DK cotton yarn).
- Tip: Use 1 full ball for handles; remaining colors can be mixed freely!
- Hook: 3mm (or size needed for your yarn’s gauge).
- Extras: Scissors, yarn needle.
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- CH = Chain
- SLST = Slip stitch
- SC = Single crochet
- DC = Double crochet
- INC = Increase (2 stitches in same space)
Size & Gauge
- Finished Size: Customizable! Original pattern makes a medium-large tote.
- Gauge: Not critical, but aim for tight stitches (cotton stretches when heavy).

Step-by-Step Pattern
Bag Base (Spiral Construction)
Work in continuous rounds—do NOT turn!
- Magic Ring: CH 4, SLST to first CH to form a ring.
- Round 1: CH 3 (counts as 1 DC), 10 DC into ring. SLST to top of starting CH-3. (11 DC)
- Round 2: CH 3, 1 DC in same st. 2 DC in each st around. SLST to CH-3. (22 DC)
- Round 3: CH 3, 1 DC in same st. 1 DC in next st, INC in next st. Repeat around. SLST to CH-3. (33 DC)
- Continue Increasing:
- Each round adds 11 stitches. Follow this pattern:
- Round 4: 2 DC, INC. (44 DC)
- Round 5: 3 DC, INC. (55 DC)
- Round 6: 4 DC, INC. (66 DC)
- Change colors every few rounds if desired!
- Each round adds 11 stitches. Follow this pattern:
- Keep Going: Increase until base reaches desired width.
- Last increase round should be divisible by 3 (e.g., 198 sts for original size).
Bag Sides (V-Stitch & Texture)
- First Texture Round:
- CH 4 (counts as 1 DC + CH 1), 1 DC in same st.
- Skip 2 sts, (1 DC, CH 1, 1 DC) in next st. Repeat around. SLST to 3rd CH of starting CH-4.
- Second Texture Round:
- CH 3, 2 DC in same st.
- *3 DC in each CH-1 space.* SLST to starting CH-3.
- Alternate Rows:
- Repeat Rounds 7-8 until bag reaches desired height.
- Original: 15 V-stitch rows + 16 3-DC rows.
- Final Edge:
- SLST to join last round. SC in every st around (e.g., 198 SC).
Handles (Simple Straps)
- Make 2 Straps:
- CH 11. SC in each CH across. Turn.
- CH 1, SC in each st. Repeat until strap reaches desired length (original: ~20 rows).
- Change colors midway for a fun pop!
- Attach to Bag:
- Sew straps to bag, leaving 10 sets of 3-DC between handles.
Tips for Success
🌈 Color Fun: Switch colors every round for a confetti look, or do ombre sections!
🧶 Yarn Sub: Use any cotton or acrylic—just adjust hook size for drape.
👜 Size Hack: Fewer increase rounds = smaller bag; more = jumbo tote!
Final Notes
This pattern is for personal use only—please don’t redistribute or sell it. If you share your FO, tag the designer (@annemarieshaakblog) to spread the love!