After trying a few crochet bag strap patterns for my Carryall Tote Bag that ended up too stretchy, I finally found a sturdy solution using the thermal single crochet stitch. I love how it holds up beautifully with almost zero stretch.
Here is a close-up photo of my beach tote bag with the straps made with the thermal stitch:
My experience with the thermal stitch for bag straps:
- Sturdy and Durable: Its unique construction, worked on the back loops of each row, provides minimal stretch. I made my first trip to the beach with my tote bag and can tell it’s going to last a long time – exactly what I was looking for.
- Double-thick: It’s like making two rows of single crochet stitches in one, which results in a super dense fabric.
- Easy and Fun: The thermal stitch pattern features a one-row repetition, making it easy to memorize and work with. I even watched my favorite TV show while crocheting the straps on my tote bag.
Speaking of dense crochet stitches, while you’re here, you might also enjoy these tutorials: Crochet Star Stitch, Crochet Waistcoat Stitch, 2×2 Crochet Rib Stitch, and the Alpine Crochet Stitch. All these stitches also create a sturdy fabric.
What You’ll Need:
- Yarn – I wanted my straps to be super thick. For that reason, I used weight #4 (worsted) with two strands held together in the pictured sample.
- A Crochet hook in a size suitable for the yarn – I used a 3.5 mm (E) hook in this tutorial sample.
- Scissors and a tapestry needle.
Watch the Video Tutorial
Crochet Bag Strap Written Instructions (US terms)
For this tutorial, I started the thermal stitch with chains. However, you can also start on the edge of your bag, like I did with my tote bag (see the video above).
Total Time: 30 hours
-
Foundation
Crochet as many chains as needed to achieve the desired width of the strap, plus one turning chain. For this tutorial, begin with a slip knot and seven chains.
1 single crochet stitch in the back bump of the second chain from the hook
1 single crochet stitch in each of the remaining chains across.
Chain 1 and turn. -
Crochet row 2
Row #2 is another row of usual single crochet stitches.
Single crochet in the back loop only of each stitch across, then chain one and turn.Tip: To make it easier to insert the hook into the back loops, trying keeping your tension loose rather than too tight.
-
Crochet Row 3
Now, we start the actual thermal stitch. Here is how you do it:
1. Insert the hook in the back loop of the first single crochet stitch in the current row and keep it.
2. Then, insert the hook again in the back loop of the corresponding stitch in the row below.
3. Yarn over and pull up a loop, then complete the single crochet stitch as usual.
4. Repeat the above steps with the remaining stitches. -
Repeat Row 3
Repeat the instructions in step 3 to create your crochet bag strap as long as you like. For my crochet tote bag, I made 131 rows using two strands of medium-weight yarn held together.
Estimated Cost: 5.00 USD
Supply:
- Yarn
Tools:
- Crochet Hook
Materials: Scissors, tapestry needle
As you can see, the thermal stitch is straightforward. It’s the perfect stitch for your crochet tote handles or long straps.
FAQ for No-Stretch Crochet Bag Straps
-
Why does my crochet bag strap stretch too much?
Crochet tends to be quite stretchy, especially when it comes to crochet straps. This is often due to looser stitches, lighter yarns, or the lack of reinforcement. To reduce stretching, consider using denser stitches, such as the single crochet thermal stitch, and opt for a sturdier yarn.
-
What is the best stitch for a sturdy crochet bag strap?
The single crochet thermal stitch is my favorite because it creates a thick, sturdy fabric with little to no stretch, making it ideal for bags that carry weight. However, regular single crochet stitches also work well.
-
Can I make a non-stretch strap with any yarn?
While various yarns can be used, the best results come from cotton or cotton blends, as they are naturally less elastic than acrylic or wool. If you want a firm, no-stretch strap, avoid soft or slippery yarns.
-
How wide should a crochet bag strap be?
A sturdy strap should ideally be 1.5 to 2 inches wide, particularly when carrying heavier items. The thermal stitch can be modified to any count for custom width.
-
How long should I make a crochet bag strap?
It depends on the bag size and type:
Shoulder strap: 20–24 inches
Crossbody strap: 40–50 inches
Tote handles: 14–18 inches
You can always test the strap by adding some weight to the bag before fastening it off for the best fit. -
Can I use this strap for other crochet bags?
Absolutely! This no-stretch strap is perfect for totes, purses, crossbody bags, market bags – any crochet bag that needs a durable, comfy handle.
More Stitches and Tutorials
Pin, Share, and Comment
- Comment on this post: I always read comments and reply to all questions posted on the blog, and I love it when you take the time to stop by and say hello.
- Have you made this? Share your project if you make this or any of my other patterns, tag me on Instagram or Facebook, or use the hashtag #zamiguzmakers. I love seeing what you make.
- Pin it now: Are you not ready to make it yet? You can use the above image to pin it to your crochet boards or follow me on Pinterest for more.
- Join The Makers community: Join my community group on Facebook and be the first to know about pattern releases and other crochet-related content.
Would you rather bookmark this blog post for later? You can create a free Grow.me account and use the “heart” on the left-hand side of your screen to save it. It’s easy to have your internet favorites in one place.
