Easy Moss Stitch Bag – FREE Vintage Crochet Pattern – Trigon Bag

Trigon bags
Easy Moss Stitch Crochet – Trigon Bag

Trigon Bag Crochet Pattern

Crochet enthusiasts, rejoice! This delightful vintage pattern from 1939 offers a classic style with a modern twist. The Trigon Bag combines timeless crochet techniques with practical functionality. Whether you’re crafting it as a stylish accessory or a thoughtful handmade gift, this pattern is sure to impress.

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), Moss Stitch
  • Finished Size: Approx. dimensions will depend on yarn weight and hook size.

Materials

  • Gimp: 7 tubes of “Raphael Brand Gimp” (or a modern substitute). You can read more about Gimp and modern substitution suggestions here: What is Gimp?
  • Lining fabric for bag interior
  • Slide fastener (zipper)
  • Crochet hook to match your chosen yarn

Pattern

Special Stitches

Moss Stitch (worked in Half Double Crochet):

  • Row 1: HDC in the back loop only of the first stitch, HDC in the front loop only of the next stitch, HDC in the back loop only of the next stitch, repeat from * to end of row. Ch 2, turn.
  • Row 2: HDC in the front loop only of the first stitch, HDC in the back loop only of the next stitch, HDC in the front loop only of the next stitch, repeat from * to end of row. Ch 2, turn.

To increase in moss stitch: Work 2 HDC in the same loop, maintaining the front/back loop alternation.
To decrease: Skip the second and third stitches at the beginning or end of the row.

Bag Body

  1. Foundation Chain: Ch 108.
  2. Row 1: HDC in the 3rd chain from the hook and each chain across. Ch 2, turn.
  3. Rows 2–3: Work Moss Stitch (as described above).
  4. Rows 4–7: Alternate Row 1 and Row 2 of Moss Stitch, increasing 1 stitch at the end of every row (112 stitches at Row 7).
  5. Rows 8–17: Continue in Moss Stitch, increasing 1 stitch at the end of every row until you reach 120 stitches.
  6. Rows 18–24: Alternate Moss Stitch Rows 2 and 3 without increasing.
  7. Rows 25–37: Continue alternating Moss Stitch Rows 2 and 3, decreasing 2 stitches at the beginning and end of each row until you have 98 stitches. Fasten off.

Make a second panel identical to the first. Join the two sides together with SC along the edges from Rows 1 to 31.

Base

  1. Foundation Chain: Ch 98.
  2. Row 1: HDC in the 3rd chain from the hook and each chain across. Ch 2, turn.
  3. Rows 2–6: Alternate Moss Stitch Rows 2 and 3. Fasten off.
  4. Attach the base to the bottom of the bag using SC.

Foundation Top

  1. Pleat the top edge of the bag as shown in the original illustration and sew it firmly.
  2. Attach the Gimp yarn to the right side of the pleated top. Work 26 SC across the pleats, inserting the hook through all layers. Ch 1, turn.
  3. Rows 2–13: Work Moss Stitch, alternating Rows 1 and 2 as described, using SC. Ch 1, turn after each row. Fasten off. Fold the top down by 7 rows to form a decorative edge.

Handle

  1. Attach Gimp to the 6th stitch of the folded top and work 16 SC across. Ch 1, turn.
  2. Rows 2–10: Work Moss Stitch with SC, alternating Rows 1 and 2.
  3. Row 11: Work Moss Stitch with 1 increase in the first and last stitch.
  4. Rows 12–19: Continue alternating Moss Stitch Rows 2 and 3.
  5. Row 20: Work Moss Stitch, increasing in the first and last stitch. Fasten off.

Create a second handle panel and join the ends with SC. Attach to the bag’s foundation top.

Notes and FAQs

  • What is Gimp? Gimp is a stiff thread often used in vintage crochet patterns. Modern substitutes can include thicker yarns or specialty cords. Learn more about Gimp and substitution suggestions here.

This Trigon Bag is a wonderful way to blend vintage charm with modern crochet techniques. Enjoy making a piece of history while creating a beautiful accessory. If you loved this pattern, be sure to explore more vintage crochet designs and share your creations!

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