Crochet Envelope Bag Raffia Shoulder Bag – A Stylish Handmade Classic

Crochet envelope bag: we love how crochet projects can serve a purpose while maintaining a fashionable and handcrafted appeal. The crochet envelope bag made of raffia yarn is a perfect illustration of this. The design is sophisticated and modern which can be used on a day-to-day basis and on special occasions too. The envelope shape of the bag provides a clean and structured appearance and the sweet primitive raffia yarn is a great complement to warm weather.

This is a comprehensive guide which includes all the necessary steps, the materials to be used, the stitches, and the crocheting itself. Taking this guide, we can pursue crochet raffia bags with great ease and joy.

Why we love the crochet envelope bag

Let’s first discuss the significance of this design before we delve into the stitches and patterns.

The envelope shape is sleek and minimalistic which we adore. It adds refinement to an outfit whether you are heading to a café, shopping, or off to an occasion during the weekend.

The structure of the bag is accentuated superbly with raffia yarn. The finished bag is constructionally sound while being easy to hold and carry which is a plus. Not to mention, the raffia texture adds to the summery feel of the bag which is nice.

Material kit for crochet envelope bag

💙Raffia yarn: https://amzn.to/3KqdAwE

💙hook & yarn needle & marker buckle : https://amzn.to/3TXavWn

Abbreviation for crochet envelope bag

ch = Chain stitch
sc = Single crochet
sl =Slip stitch
st(s) =Stitch(es)
R=Round
dc=double crochet
sk=Skip
Tr=Treble crochet

Video for crochet envelope bag

This video demonstrates crocheting a fashionable envelope bag with raffia yarn. We crochet the bag’s body using a combination of double crochet and treble crochet stitches which we then sew together.

The strap, crocheted using crab stitches, is also seamlessly attached for a refined, hand-crafted appearance.

Crochet body

Row / Step	Instructions	Notes
Foundation Chain	We start with a foundation chain that is a multiple of 4 + 2 chains + 3 turning chains.	This creates the base width of our panel.
R1	Crochet backward 6 stitches from the hook. [(dc, dc, dc, crossed treble crochet on front side), sk 1], repeat this pattern, then dc to end.	Creates the first texture round.
R2	Ch 3, flip over, crochet backward 4 stitches from the hook. [(dc, dc, dc, crossed treble crochet on back side), sk 1], repeat, then dc to end.	This completes the first pattern pair.
R3–R4	Change yarn, ch 1, flip over, and sc in each stitch across both rows.	Two rounds of single crochet form one group. We crochet 7 groups in total.
R5	Ch 3, flip over, sk 1, [(dc, dc, dc, crossed treble crochet on front side), sk 1], repeat, then dc to end.	Start the flower pattern section.
R6	Ch 3, flip over, sk 1, [(dc, dc, dc, crossed treble crochet on back side), sk 1], repeat, then dc to end.	Two rows form one flower pattern group. Crochet 6 more groups.
Pattern Repeat Summary	Two rows of single crochet (R3–R4) = one plain group (7 groups total). Two rows of crossed treble pattern (R5–R6) = one decorative flower group (8 groups total including first two).	Keep alternating for a balanced texture.
Two pieces	We crochet two identical pieces— one for the front and one for the back.	Both panels follow the same pattern.
Final Size	Each finished piece measures 28 cm high × 24 cm wide.	The perfect size to hold a book or small tablet.
Finishing Step	Since we use raffia yarn, we press both pieces at low temperature (around 80°C) to flatten and shape them evenly.	Be careful not to overheat raffia yarn.

Sew body

Step	Instructions	Notes
1. Align the pieces	We place the two crochet pieces together with their back sides facing each other (so the right sides are facing outward).	This ensures the seams stay neat on the outside.
2. Join with Single Crochet	We work 1 single crochet (sc) in each matching stitch along the edges to join the two pieces together.	Keep stitches even and tight for a clean seam.
3. Crochet along the sides	For the side edges, we crochet 2 single crochets (2 sc) into each hole or side space.	This keeps the edge strong and uniform.
4. Work the Corners	At each corner, we crochet 3 single crochets (3 sc) into the same stitch to form a natural rounded turn.	This helps shape the corners smoothly.
5. Continue Around	We continue this process all the way around the bag body until both pieces are fully joined.	After finishing, fasten off and weave in any extra yarn ends.

Crochet strap

Step	Instructions	Notes
1. Strap Length	We crochet a shoulder strap about 70 cm long to match the envelope bag’s size and style.	You can adjust the length slightly for your comfort.
2. Start with Chains	We begin with 2 chains to start our base.	This prepares for the crab stitch pattern.
3. Crochet with Crab Stitch	Using the crab stitch method (reverse single crochet), we crochet evenly along the length until the strap reaches about 70 cm.	The crab stitch creates a firm, twisted texture that’s strong and elegant.
4. Finishing	Once the strap is finished, we fasten off and sew each end securely onto the sides of the bag opening.	Make sure both sides are even and tightly attached.

Sew strap

Step	Instructions	Notes
1. Find the Sewing Position	We find the correct sewing spots by counting from the center of the bag opening, moving to the left and right until the second group of single crochet patterns on each side.	This keeps the strap balanced and symmetrical.
2. Sew the Strap	Using a yarn needle, we sew the ends of the strap to the inside edge of the bag opening.	Sew neatly and evenly along the stitches.
3. Secure and Finish	After sewing firmly, we hide and weave in any extra yarn ends to keep the inside clean and tidy.	Make sure the strap feels secure before use.