Crest Bag Crochet Pattern
Elevate your crochet game with the Crest Bag, a vintage-inspired design featuring the intricate texture of the Waffle Stitch. This timeless bag pairs beautifully with modern or classic looks, and its sturdy structure makes it as practical as it is stylish.
This is a vintage crochet pattern originally published in Bags and Hats Crocheted with Raphael Brand Gimp by Fraser Manufacturing Company in 1939. The pattern has entered the public domain as the original copyright was not renewed. I’ve modernized it using today’s crafting terms and made it more reader-friendly for modern crafters. You can read more about copyright essentials here.
Key Details
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Stitches Used: Single Crochet (SC), Half Double Crochet (HDC), Double Crochet (DC), Waffle Stitch
- Finished Size: Approximately 19″ center strip (adjustable with material and hook size)
Materials
- Gimp: 6 tubes of “Raphael Brand Gimp” (or a modern substitute). You can read more about Gimp and substitution suggestions here: What is Gimp?
- Lining fabric (recommendation: about ½ yard)
- Hinge Frame: Size to fit the finished width of your bag. Because the original 1939 instructions do not specify an exact hinge frame size (and because gimp yarn can vary in thickness), there isn’t a single “official” dimension given in the pattern. In practice, most crocheters find that a 6- to 8-inch hinge frame works well for the Normandie Bag.
Special Stitches
Waffle Stitch:
Right Side of Waffle:
- Skip the first stitch, DC in each of the next 2 stitches.
- Work 1 DC around the post of the next DC from the previous row (front post DC), then DC in each of the next 2 stitches.
- Repeat from * to the end of the row, ending with 1 DC in the turning chain from the previous row.
- Ch 2, turn.
Wrong Side of Waffle:
- Skip the first stitch, work 1 DC around the post of each of the next 2 stitches from the previous row (back post DC).
- Work 1 DC in the next stitch, then DC around the post of each of the next 2 stitches.
- Repeat from * to the end of the row, ending with 1 DC in the turning chain from the previous row.
- Ch 2, turn.
Crest Bag Crochet Pattern
Center Strip
- Foundation Chain: Ch 26.
- Row 1: DC in the 3rd chain from the hook and in each chain across. Ch 2, turn.
- Rows 2 and onward: Alternate the Right Side and Wrong Side of Waffle Stitch until the strip measures 19 inches in length. Ensure the final row completes the Waffle Stitch pattern.
- Join the Ends: Fold the strip to form a loop. Join the ends together with slip stitches (sl st) on the wrong side. Do not fasten off.
Top
- Row 1: Ch 2, work 2 HDC into the end of each row around the entire top edge. Join with a sl st to the starting ch-2.
- Row 2: Ch 2, work 2 HDC into each stitch of the previous row. Join with a sl st to the starting ch-2.
- Rows 3–9: Ch 2, work 1 HDC into each stitch of the previous row. Join with a sl st to the starting ch-2.
- Row 10: Ch 2, HDC into the first stitch, skip the next stitch, HDC into the next stitch. Repeat from * to the end of the row. Join with a sl st to the starting ch-2.
- Row 11: SC into each stitch of the previous row. Join with a sl st to the first stitch. Fasten off.
Bottom
- Attach Gimp on the right side at the seam joining.
- Repeat the instructions for the Top section.
- Join the bottom with sl st on the wrong side, picking up the back loop only for a neat finish.
Finishing
- Lining: Sew in a fabric lining to give your bag structure and polish. Use approximately ½ yard of lightweight fabric, cutting it to fit the dimensions of your bag.
- Frame Attachment: Sew the crocheted bag securely to the hinge frame.
- Optional: Customize your bag with embellishments, like a decorative handle or small charms, for added flair.
The Crest Bag is a stunning vintage design, perfect for showcasing your crochet skills. Its textured Waffle Stitch adds elegance, while the bag’s size and structure make it versatile for everyday use. Enjoy crafting this timeless piece, and don’t forget to share your handmade creation!
