I have been dreaming about designing a hexagon backpack for months. I wanted something that looked impressive but used familiar techniques, a statement piece that was not fussy to make. Classic granny hexagons, a structured bag shape, neutral tones that go with everything, and a drawstring that actually works. The cream and mocha palette feels modern and earthy, and the construction is way more straightforward than it looks.
Why You Will Love This Crochet Backpack Pattern
This granny hexagon backpack combines nostalgic charm with a practical, wearable design. The two-tone scheme keeps the busy hexagon pattern from feeling overwhelming. Each motif pops against its neighbor in a satisfying patchwork arrangement.
Here is what makes this project special:
- Uses only basic stitches you already know
- Hexagons are small and portable for on-the-go crafting
- Join-as-you-go method reduces finishing time
- Adjustable straps fit different body types
- Drawstring closure with decorative tassels adds a bohemian touch
- Rounded flap with scalloped edging gives a polished look
This tutorial walks you through every step. Even if you have never crocheted a bag before, you can absolutely make this.
Skill Level
Intermediate. You should feel comfortable with basic stitches, working in the round, changing colors, and seaming pieces together. If you have made granny squares before, you already have most of the skills. The hexagon shape needs a bit more attention to stitch placement, but I walk you through it.
Finished Dimensions
Height reaches about 13 inches not including straps. Width sits around 11 inches at the widest point. Depth measures roughly 5 inches. Strap length adjusts between 24 and 30 inches each. Room enough for daily essentials without looking bulky.
Materials Needed
Yarn:
- Color A (Mocha/Brown): about 350 yards worsted weight
- Color B (Cream/Off-white): about 400 yards worsted weight
I recommend 100% cotton or a cotton blend. Cotton gives the structure bags need and holds its shape over time. Acrylic works but may stretch with use. Lily Sugar’n Cream, Drops Paris, or Paintbox Cotton DK all perform well.
Hook: 5.0 mm (H/8) for the main pieces. Optional 4.5 mm for the straps if you want tighter fabric.
Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers, one 1-inch wooden or plastic button, and optional fabric lining.
Gauge
One completed hexagon measures about 4 inches from flat edge to flat edge. Gauge matters. Your hexagons need to stay consistent so they fit together properly. Make one test hexagon and adjust your hook if needed.
Abbreviations and Stitch Definitions
Quick list so nothing trips you up:
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- 3-dc cluster – three double crochets in the same stitch or space
- ch-sp – chain space
Double crochet does most of the work. The rest appears only in the shaping and finishing details.
The Pattern
Part 1: Granny Hexagon Motifs
You need 19 hexagons total. Make them in batches and alternate color placement for visual variety. Ten hexagons start with a mocha center. Nine start with a cream center.
For the mocha center version: magic ring, 12 double crochets, increase to 24, then to 36. Switch to cream and work two more rounds that create the six corners. Fasten off. For the cream center version, reverse the colors. Block the hexagons lightly before joining. It makes assembly so much cleaner.
Here is a hyper-detailed 8K look at a finished two-tone hexagon:
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Part 2: Joining the Hexagons
Lay out the hexagons so no two same-colored centers touch. Bottom row forms a ring of six. Middle and top rows nestle into the gaps. One hexagon becomes the base.
Hold two hexagons right sides facing and whip stitch through the back loops only with cream yarn. Keep tension even. You can also use a single crochet join on the right side for a raised decorative seam. Join everything into a cylinder, then attach the base.
Next image shows the hexagons laid out in gradient arrangement:
intermediate_render_generated_image prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K resolution flat-lay of cream and mocha granny hexagons arranged in rows ready for joining, alternating centers, soft even lighting, photorealistic instructional craft style, ultra high detail orientation is landscape
Part 3: Drawstring Top Border
Join cream at the top edge and work single crochet evenly around. Create an eyelet round by alternating double crochet and chain-1 spaces. Finish with two solid single crochet rounds. The channel now holds the drawstring cleanly.
Part 4: Rounded Flap
With mocha, chain 25 and work double crochet rows. Decrease at both ends to create a gentle curve. Add a cream scalloped edge around the sides and curve: skip one, five double crochets in the next, skip one, slip stitch. Work a small chain loop at the center of the curve for the button.
Detailed shot of the scalloped flap:
intermediate_render_generated_image prompt is Hyper-detailed 8K resolution photo of the rounded cream and mocha crochet flap with scalloped edging, soft studio lighting, sharp texture, photorealistic, ultra high detail orientation is landscape
Part 5: Backpack Straps (Make 2)
With cream, chain 8 and single crochet across for about 100 rows or your preferred length. Work tightly so the straps stay sturdy. Try the bag on with pins before you finish sewing so the length feels right for you.
Part 6: Top Loop
A short cream strip folds in half and attaches at the top center back for hanging or carrying by hand.
Part 7: Drawstring Cord
Chain about 150 stitches (or 40 inches) and slip stitch back along the chain. Make two simple tassels by folding 20 strands in half and looping them through the ends of the cord. Trim even.
Part 8: Assembly
Attach the base hexagon. Sew the flap to the top back so the scalloped edge hangs over the front. Sew the button to the front of the body so the loop reaches it comfortably. Attach the straps at the top back and bottom corners. Sew the top loop between the straps. Thread the drawstring through the eyelet round so both ends exit at the front center. Add the tassels.
Optional but recommended: sew a simple fabric lining for durability and a polished interior.
Final detailed view of the completed backpack:
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Customization Ideas
This pattern loves color experiments. Try teal and coral for summer. Gray and white for minimalist vibes. A different color center for every hexagon. Or an ombre gradient within the same color family. Add or remove a row of hexagons to change the height. One extra row adds about four inches.
Care Instructions
Hand wash in cool water with mild detergent. Squeeze gently—no wringing. Reshape and lay flat to dry.
Spot clean for everyday messes and store the bag stuffed with tissue paper so it keeps its shape.
FAQ’s
Do I really need 19 hexagons?
Yes, but they are small and portable. Most people knock them out over a few evenings while watching something mindless. The payoff is a structured bag that looks far more complicated than it is.
Can I use acrylic yarn?
You can, but cotton holds its shape better and shows the stitch definition more clearly. Acrylic stretches more with daily use. IMO cotton is the smarter choice for a backpack.
How long does the whole project take?
The hexagons take the bulk of the time. Assembly, straps, and finishing add another couple of sessions. Plan on a solid week of evening stitching if you work steadily.
Is the joining hard?
Not if you use the whip stitch through back loops. Keep tension even and the seams look clean. A single crochet join works too if you prefer a raised decorative ridge.
Do I need the lining?
It is optional but highly recommended. A simple fabric lining stops small items from poking through and gives the bag a finished interior. Thirty extra minutes well spent. FYI it also hides every yarn end.
Can I change the strap length?
Absolutely. Try the bag on with pins before you sew the straps permanently. Everyone carries bags differently, so make them fit you.
Final Thoughts on This Granny Hexagon Backpack Crochet Pattern
You now have everything you need to create this two-tone granny backpack from start to finish. It takes a bit of time—I will not pretend otherwise—but the result is a unique handmade accessory you will reach for again and again. Grab those cream and mocha skeins, settle in, and start stitching those little hexagons. Your future self will thank you every time you sling this bag over your shoulder.
