Tunisian Sampler Bag – Free Tunisian Crochet Pattern
Ready to level up your Tunisian crochet game? The Tunisian Sampler Bag is the perfect way to explore multiple stitches while creating something super functional and cute. Whether you’re new to Tunisian crochet or looking to try some stitches beyond the basics, this bag is a relaxing and rewarding project that shows off your skills.
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Tunisian Crochet yields some really beautiful projects and the technique is interesting, it keeps crocheting fun! Although I have to admit, I found Tunisian crochet a little intimidating when I first learned about it, so I didn’t try it until just a few years ago. Even then, I only learned a couple of basic stitches and then never really did anything with it.
And that’s why I designed this bag! It was designed as a fun way to practice and explore new Tunisian crochet stitches without the pressure of a huge project. Sometimes, when you’re learning new techniques, it’s easy to get overwhelmed or stuck in repetitive swatches. So instead of just making another square, why not turn your practice into something cute and useful? The Tunisian Sampler Bag lets you try out a few different stitches in small sections that come together to form a functional, textured accessory. It’s the perfect mix of learning and making!
What Is the Tunisian Sampler Bag?
The Tunisian Sampler Bag is a Tunisian crochet project made using three different Tunisian crochet stitches: the Tunisian Simple Stitch, the Tunisian Mock Rib Stitch, and the Tunisian Honeycomb (Tire Tread) Stitch. Each section of the bag highlights a different stitch texture, giving it a bold and unique look.
The bag is worked flat in one panel, then seamed together, with optional details like a button closure or twisted cord strap. It’s a great hands-on way to practice new Tunisian stitches while ending up with something you’ll actually use!
Design Tips
- Color blocking: Use a different color for each stitch section for a bold, striped look.
- Keep it clean: If you’re using variegated yarn, the texture might get lost—solids work best to show off stitch definition.
- Size it up or down: Add or subtract rows and stitches to change the size of the bag easily.
Customization Ideas
The beauty of a sampler-style bag is that no two have to look the same. Try these fun variations:
- Use rainbow colors and make each stitch section a different shade.
- Add fringe or tassels to the bottom corners.
- Embroider your initials or a symbol onto one panel.
- Make a mini version as a pouch or a clutch.
- Try neutral colors for a more sophisticated, everyday bag.
Why You’ll Love This Project
- Learn new stitches and build your Tunisian crochet skills
- Functional and stylish – it’s the perfect everyday bag
- Customizable colors and textures
- Works with worsted weight yarn – easy to source
- Makes a great handmade gift!
This is the kind of project that teaches and rewards you at the same time. You’ll pick up new techniques and get a super cool bag out of it!
Who This Project Is For
This project is perfect for:
- Confident beginners looking to stretch their skills.
- Intermediate crocheters wanting to try Tunisian texture.
- Makers who love practical projects with visual interest.
- Anyone who’s bored with plain stitches and ready for a challenge!
Tunisian Sampler Bag Crochet Pattern
Option 1: Continue scrolling for free pattern instructions on this site
Option 2: Purchase the ad-free PDF that includes tutorial photos from one of my shops
Let’s Talk About the Stitches
1. Tunisian Simple Stitch
This is the foundation of Tunisian crochet. It looks like a little grid and creates a sturdy, squishy fabric.
2. Tunisian Mock Rib Stitch
This stitch mimics the look of knitted ribbing but is done completely in Tunisian crochet. It adds light texture and is perfect for the top edge or decorative stripe. It it made by alternating the Tunisian Simple Stitch and Tunisian Twisted Simple Stitch.
3. Tunisian Honeycomb (Tire Tread) Stitch
This one is such a showstopper! The texture is bold and raised, resembling the pattern of a honeycomb or tire tread. It gives your bag a unique look, great for contrast. It’s created by the Tunisian Simple Stitch and the Tunisian Purl Stitch.
Construction Overview
The Tunisian Sampler Bag is worked in one panel. The panel alternates the three stitches, and you can mix them however you like. Here’s a basic roadmap:
- Choose your stitch order – TSS, Mock Rib, Honeycomb (or mix it up!)
- Work a large rectangle in Tunisian crochet, switching stitches every few inches.
- Seam the sides together using whip stitch or slip stitch.
- Add a strap using twisted yarn, braided strands, or a crocheted handle.
- Add a closure if you want – a flap with a buttonhole works perfectly!
The Tunisian Sampler Bag Pattern
Keep reading for a list of what you need to make the Tunisian Sampler Bag, including the stitch pattern instructions!
Gauge
Not important for this project
Finished Measurements
Approximately 9 x 9.5”
Stitch Guide
arnd = around
ch(s) = chain(s)
sc = single crochet
sl st(s) = slip stitch(es)
tss = Tunisian simple stitch
twtss = Twisted simple stitch
tps = Tunisian purl stitch
YO = yarn over
Skill Level
Easy
Written in U.S. Terms
Notes
- First loop on hook counts as the 1st stitch for every row.
- In Tunisian crochet, only one side is the working side throughout (right side).
- Make the bag wider by adding stitches in multiple of 2+2.
- Any weight yarn and any hook size can be used, but make sure the hook is at least 2 sizes larger than the hook size suggested on the yarn label.
- Rows 2-13 are the Mock Rib Stitch; Rows 14-23 are the Honeycomb Stitch; Rows 24-32 are the Tunisian Simple Stitch; Rows 33-64 are repeats of the previous rows in reverse order.
Special Stitches
Tunisian Simple Stitch (TSS) – Insert hook from right to left under vertical bar and pull up a loop.
Tunisian Purl Stitch (TPS) – Hold yarn in front of work, insert hook from right to left under vertical bar, and pull up a loop.
Twisted Simple Stitch (twtss) – Insert hook from left to right under vertical bar and pull up a loop.
Instructions
BASE
Ch 35,
R1. FWD: (Working in the back bump of the chain): Draw up a loop in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across.
RTN: YO, pull through one loop on hook, *YO, pull through 2 loops on hook* to end.
R2. FWD: *Twtss in next stitch, Tss in next stitch* across
RTN: Work off loops as indicated in step one
R3-13. Repeat R2
R14. FWD: *Tps in next stitch, Tss in next stitch* across
RTN: Work off loops as indicated in step one
R15. FWD: *Tss in next stitch, Tps in next stitch* across
RTN: Work off loops as indicated in step one
R16-23. Repeat R14 & 15
R24. FWD: Tss in next stitch across
RTN: Work off loops as indicated in step one
R25-41. Repeat R24
R42-51. Repeat R14 & 15
R52-64. Repeat row 2
R65. *Twtss in next st and pull through loop on hook, Tss in next st and pull through loop on hook* across; Fasten.
HANDLE
Cut 12 – 36” pieces of yarn.
Hold all strands together and knot one end. Divide into 3 groups of 4 strands, braid them together, then knot the other end.
CLOSURE
Ch 10; Fasten.
Finishing
- Fold strip in half, right side together, and sew up the sides. The fold is the bottom.
- Turn bag right side out, sc in each st arnd, then sl st in each st arnd; Fasten.
- Attach handle to inside of bag, one end of handle to each side seam. Sew through the knot.
That’s how you make the Tunisian Sampler Bag!
Let me know what you think in the comments!
Looking for more Tunisian Crochet Projects?
You might like these:
Tunisian Watermelon Bag
Tunisian Twisted Front Earwarmer
I’d love to see your finished projects! Join the Blackstone Designs Crochet Community or share them to my Facebook page! Hope to see you there!!
And don’t forget to add this pattern to your Ravelry favorites and Pin it for later, so you can always find it!
Written pattern and photographs © 2018 Sonya Blackstone of Blackstone Designs. Please do not sell, share, or modify this pattern, but instead share the link to where the pattern can be found. You may sell items you make with this pattern. This pattern, as with all Blackstone Designs/Sonya Blackstone patterns, are not for educational use without written permission from the designer.
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