That net bag overflowing with lemons in the photo? You can crochet one just like it this weekend. It holds way more than it looks like it should, survives real market trips without tearing, and somehow makes hauling produce feel fancy instead of like a chore. The little crocheted fruit charms are the cherry on top — or the lemon, in this case.
Why This Bag Will Actually Get Used
Plastic bags rip. Paper ones get soggy. This one? It breathes, it stretches just enough, and it looks cute enough that you’ll want to take it everywhere. I’ve taken mine to the farmers market three weekends in a row and it still looks brand new.
People always ask where I got it. When I say I made it, their eyes light up. It’s practical and pretty — the rare combo that actually works.
Materials You’ll Want on Hand
You don’t need fancy supplies, but a few smart choices make the bag stronger and prettier.
- Brown cotton or cotton-blend yarn (worsted or slightly heavier) for the net — about 150-200 yards
- Green yarn for the base — about 80 yards
- 5 mm or 5.5 mm crochet hook (bigger hook = looser, airier net)
- Small amounts of yellow and green yarn for optional lemon charms
- Yarn needle, scissors, stitch marker
Cotton holds up best for market bags because it doesn’t stretch out of shape after a few heavy hauls. FYI, I used a slightly thicker cotton for the brown net and it feels bombproof.
Start with the Solid Green Base
This part is just like making a big coaster or hat crown — nothing scary.
Work in green yarn:
Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
Rnd 2: Inc in each stitch (12)
Rnd 3: (Sc, inc) repeat around (18)
Continue increasing every round until you reach about 60–72 stitches (roughly 9–11 rounds depending on your tension).
You want a nice flat circle about 8–9 inches across. This becomes the sturdy bottom that actually supports weight.
Switch to Brown and Build the Net Body
Once the base is done, switch to brown yarn. Do one round of single crochet all the way around to create a clean transition.
Now for the fun mesh part that makes it look like a real market bag:
Mesh Round: Ch 4, dc in next stitch, ch 2, skip 1 stitch, dc in next repeat around. Join with slip stitch.
Repeat this mesh round until the bag is as tall as you want it (usually 12–15 inches from the base works great). The open net lets air flow and makes the bag super lightweight even when full.
The more rounds you add, the stretchier and roomier it becomes. I stopped at 14 rounds and it comfortably holds a whole week’s worth of fruit and veggies.
Finishing the Top Edge and Handles
After the last mesh round, do 2–3 rounds of single crochet or half double crochet to strengthen the top rim. This keeps everything from stretching too much when you load it up.
For handles, you have options:
- Make two short handles on opposite sides (chain 40–50, attach with sc)
- Or one long cross-body strap (chain 120+, attach on both sides)
I went with two medium handles and it’s perfect for carrying over one arm while shopping. Weave in all ends and you’re basically done.
Optional: Tiny Lemon Charms for Extra Charm
This is where it gets ridiculously cute. Make a few small amigurumi lemons and tie them on as keychains or bag charms.
Quick lemon (make 2–3):
Yellow yarn, 3.5 mm hook.
Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring
Rnd 2: Inc around (12)
Rnd 3–5: Sc around
Rnd 6: (Sc, dec) around (8)
Stuff lightly, close, and add a tiny green leaf on top with a few chains and stitches.
Clip them onto the bag with a lobster clasp or just tie them on with a bit of green yarn. They make the whole thing feel like a complete set instead of just a bag.
FAQ’s
How much weight can this bag actually hold?
A surprising amount. I’ve carried 8–10 pounds of produce without any issues. The net stretches but the green base and reinforced top keep it from sagging too much.
Is the mesh hard for beginners?
Not at all. Once you get the first mesh round down, the rest is just repeating the same simple stitch. It works up faster than solid fabric because there are fewer actual stitches per round.
Can I make it bigger or smaller?
Totally. Add more increase rounds on the base for a wider bag or work more mesh rounds for extra height. Just keep the stitch pattern consistent.
What yarn works best for real market use?
Cotton or cotton blends win every time. They’re strong, washable, and don’t pill. Avoid super soft acrylic if you plan to carry heavy things regularly.
Do the lemon charms stay on okay?
Yes, especially if you use a small metal ring or just tie them securely with yarn. I’ve had mine on for weeks and they haven’t gone anywhere.
Can I sell these at markets?
Absolutely. They’re quick to make once you have the pattern down and people love the handmade, eco-friendly angle. Pair them with the little lemon charms and they practically sell themselves.
Go Make the Bag That Actually Gets Compliments
There it is — your new favorite market companion. It’s practical, it’s cute, and it makes you feel a tiny bit more put-together every time you use it.
I’ve already started a second one in different colors because the first one keeps disappearing into other people’s cars. Which color combo are you thinking of first — classic brown and green like the photo, or something brighter? Either way, you’re going to look way more stylish than everyone else hauling their produce in plastic.
