Bags & Totes Intermediate 4-6 hours Worsted yarn

Worked on the glider, counted out loud —

Snowflake puff stitch granny square tote pattern

A puff-stitch snowflake granny square tote for intermediate crocheters, about 4-6 hours from squares to strap.

Jump to the rounds

What this one is

This tote is for the slow stretch of fall evenings when you want something in your hands that feels like a small achievement every single round. It suits the crocheter who already knows basic granny squares but wants to push into a raised stitch that actually looks like a snowflake, not just a bump. If you've got navy and light blue worsted weight sitting in your stash waiting for a project worthy of it, this is that project.

Your hands will spend most of the time working puff stitches into ch-2 corner spaces, then building rounds outward in double crochet until each square reaches its finished size. You'll join squares on-point using slip stitch JAYG as you go, fill gaps with the half and quarter squares from Part 3, then work the strap in straight rows of single crochet before edging it in white. Expect to spread this over several sittings rather than one long session.

Try it another way

If you want a smaller bag, work fewer granny squares across the panel and adjust the strap length to match. The strap base starts at 120 sc per row, so you could simply work fewer rows for a shorter strap. For a different look, swap Yarn A and Yarn B so the snowflakes sit light against a pale background instead of navy, or try Paintbox Yarns Simply DK held double for a softer drape, or Drops Safran cotton held double if you want the puff stitches to hold their shape with extra definition. You could also give each panel a different accent color instead of keeping every square identical, which breaks up the grid without changing a single round. For an everyday market bag, skip the white Yarn C edging trim and finish the strap in Yarn A instead, which simplifies the color changes. If you like beading, the sewing needle and white thread listed in the materials are there for attaching a few beads to the centers of the snowflake petals, which catches light nicely in the evening.

The rounds, in full

Written out, round by round

Intermediate4-6 hours6.0 mmWorsted

Bring to the porch

Everything this one takes, in the order you will reach for it.

Yarn

  • Yarn A (Navy, main color): Worsted weight, approximately 600 yards
  • Yarn B (Light blue, snowflake color): Worsted weight, approximately 200 yards
  • Yarn C (White, edging and strap trim): Worsted weight, approximately 75 yards

Recommended Yarn Options

  • Paintbox Yarns Simply DK held double is another excellent choice. The color range includes perfect navy and sky blue shades.
  • For a sturdier bag, try Drops Safran cotton held double. Cotton adds structure and durability, and the stitch definition for puff stitches is excellent.

Substitution note

  • Any worsted weight yarn or DK held double with a smooth, tightly plied structure works well. Avoid fuzzy or loosely spun yarns because the puff stitch snowflake definition will disappear into the fuzz.

Crochet hook

  • US size J/10 (6.0 mm)

Tools

  • Yarn needle for weaving ends
  • Stitch markers
  • Sewing needle and white thread for attaching beads
  • Scissors
  • Blocking mat and pins (optional but recommended)

Part 2

  1. Round 1(RS) Ch 3 (counts as dc). 2 dc into ring. Ch 2. 3 dc into ring. Turn. Stitch count: 6 dc, 1 ch-2 space (this is the corner)
  2. Round 2Ch 3, turn. 2 dc into first ch-3 sp at base of beginning ch. Ch 1. (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into ch-2 corner sp.Ch 1.3 dc into turning ch-3 sp.Turn.Stitch count: 18 dc, 1 ch-2 space, 2 ch-1 spaces
  3. Round 3Final Row Ch 3, turn. 2 dc into beginning ch-3 sp. Ch 1. 3 dc into ch-1 sp. Ch 1.(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into ch-2 corner sp.Ch 1.3 dc into ch-1 sp.Ch 1.3 dc into turning ch-3 sp.Turn.Stitch count: 30 dc, 1 ch-2 corner space, 4 ch-1 spacesFasten off. The two short legs each measure approximately 4.5 inches, matching the full square sides.

Quarter Square Pattern (Make 4)

The quarter square fills the two bottom corners of each panel.

Foundation: With MC (navy), ch 4, sl st to join into ring.

Part 3

  1. Round 1(RS) Ch 3 (counts as dc). 2 dc into ring. Ch 2. 3 dc into ring. Turn. Stitch count: 6 dc, 1 ch-2 spaceFasten off. This forms a small triangular wedge with one corner at the point.

Joining the Squares

Arrange squares for one panel in the on-point layout. Join squares along their shared edges using the slip stitch JAYG method during Round 4 of each new square.

To join along one edge during Round 4:

When working the ch-1 between clusters on the joining edge, replace the ch-1 with a slip stitch into the corresponding ch-1 space of the adjacent completed square, then continue.

When working the ch-2 corner on a shared corner, replace with: ch 1, slip stitch into the ch-2 corner space of the adjacent square, ch 1.

Join all 9 full squares for each panel first. Then attach half squares around the perimeter. Finally add quarter squares at the bottom corners.

Alternative seam method: If JAYG feels overwhelming, you can whipstitch or mattress stitch squares together after completing them all. Use MC and a yarn needle, working through the back loops of corresponding edge stitches.

Once all squares for one panel are joined, repeat for the second panel.

Checkpoint: Each completed panel should measure approximately 15 inches wide by 14 inches tall before seaming.

Joining the Two Panels Place both panels with wrong sides together, aligning all edges.

With MC and yarn needle (or using a slip stitch seam with your hook), join panels along the bottom curved edge and up both side edges. Leave the top edge open.

For a slip stitch seam: Hold panels together, insert hook through corresponding stitches of both panels from front to back, draw up a loop, chain 1. Insert hook into next stitch, draw loop through both stitches and loop on hook. Continue across.

This creates a visible seam ridge on the outside. Turn the bag inside out after seaming if you prefer a hidden seam.

Top Edging With RS facing, join CC2 (white) with sl st at the top right corner of the bag opening.

  1. Round 1Ch 1 (does not count as stitch). Sc evenly around the entire top opening, working approximately 1 sc per dc stitch and 1 sc into each ch-sp. At each corner of the V-shaped top opening, work 3 sc into the corner space.Sl st to first sc to join.Approximate stitch count: 68 sc total around the top opening (34 sc per panel side). Adjust as needed to maintain a flat, even edge.
  2. Round 2Ch 1. Sc in each sc around. Sl st to first sc to join. (68 sc) Fasten off CC2. Straps (Make 2)

The strap is a long, narrow strip worked in MC with CC2 edging.

Foundation: With MC, ch 121.

Part 4

  1. Round 1Sc in second ch from hook and in each ch across. Turn. (120 sc)
  2. Round 2, 3, and 4 Ch 1, turn. Sc in each stitch across. (120 sc) Fasten off MC after Row 4.Strap Edging with CC2 Join CC2 with sl st at one short end of strap.Ch 1.Work sc evenly along the long edge, across the short end, along the other long edge, and across the other short end.Work 1 sc per row along the long edges and 3 sc into each corner.Sl st to first sc to join.Fasten off CC2.Repeat for second strap.

Each strap measures approximately 22 inches long by 1.25 inches wide after edging.

Attaching Straps

Position one strap on the front panel with each end approximately 3.5 inches from the center top edge. The strap forms a loop rising above the bag. Pin in place.

Using MC and yarn needle, whipstitch each strap end securely to the inside of the top edging. Work through several rows of the strap and several stitches of the bag. Sew a box with an X reinforcement stitch for durability.

Attach the second strap to the back panel in the same position.

Bead Embellishment

Using a sewing needle threaded with white or cream thread, attach one pearl or seed bead to the very center of each snowflake motif. Stitch through the initial ring of the square several times and knot securely on the wrong side.

For the 18 full squares: 18 beads For the 12 half squares: Attach beads only where the center is visible, approximately 12 beads

Total minimum: approximately 30 beads

For extra sparkle, you can add additional beads to the tips of individual puff stitches, using up to 8 beads per flower.

Finishing and Blocking

Weave in all yarn ends securely using a yarn needle. Work through the backs of stitches in multiple directions to prevent unraveling.

Wet blocking: Soak the completed bag in cool water for 15 to 20 minutes. Gently press out excess water in a towel without wringing. Pin each granny square area to a blocking mat. Allow to dry completely, typically 24 hours.

Steam blocking alternative: Use a garment steamer or iron held 1 to 2 inches above the surface. Do not press the iron directly onto yarn, especially acrylic, as this will permanently flatten the puff stitches.

After blocking, attach pearl beads as described above.

Size Customization Options

To make the bag wider: Add one additional column of full squares. Each full square adds 4.5 inches to the width. Add approximately 60 yards of MC and 20 yards of CC1 per additional full square.

To make the bag taller: Add one additional row of full squares. Each row adds approximately 4.5 inches of height.

For a smaller bag or wristlet: Work granny squares at a smaller gauge by going down to a US size G/6 (4.0 mm) hook with DK weight yarn held single. Squares will measure approximately 3 inches each.

For a sturdier bag: Hold MC yarn double throughout the background rounds. This will use approximately double the MC yardage and may require going up to a US size K/10.5 or L/11 hook.

To add a lining: Cut fabric to the shape of the joined panels, adding half an inch seam allowance. Sew a fabric bag, fold under the top edge, and slip stitch to the inside of the bag top after all crochet is complete.

Care Instructions

Hand wash in cool water with a gentle soap. Lay flat to dry, reshaping to original dimensions. Do not wring or twist. Do not tumble dry.

If your yarn is superwash wool or acrylic, machine wash on gentle cycle in a mesh laundry bag and lay flat to dry. Do not iron directly. Store flat or stuffed lightly with tissue paper to maintain shape.

Time Estimate and Skill Level

Plan for approximately 20 to 30 hours total, depending on your experience with granny squares and the join-as-you-go technique. The repetitive nature of making 18 identical squares makes this a perfect TV show project. Put on a good series and work through a few squares each evening.

This crochet pattern is rated intermediate . You should be comfortable with working in the round, basic granny square construction, and puff stitches. If you’ve never tried JAYG before, practice on two sample squares first. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll love how it eliminates seaming later.

Final Thoughts on This Granny Square Crochet Pattern

This Winter Snowflake Granny Square Tote is one of those projects that looks incredibly impressive but breaks down into simple, manageable steps. Each square is its own small accomplishment. Before you know it, you’ll have a stack of beautiful snowflake motifs ready to become a stunning bag.

The combination of raised puff stitches, classic granny square construction, and delicate pearl beads creates something truly special. It’s the kind of bag that gets compliments everywhere you go. And when someone asks where you got it, you’ll get to say you made it yourself.

Thank you so much for choosing this pattern for your next project. I genuinely hope you enjoy every stitch. If you make this tote, I would absolutely love to see it! Share your finished bag on Instagram or Facebook and tag me so I can admire your work.

Don’t forget to save this pattern to your Pinterest boards so you can find it easily when you’re ready to start. And please drop a comment below if you make this bag or have any questions along the way. I love hearing from you!

Recommended Yarn Options

Lion Brand Pound of Love in Oxford Navy, Sky Blue, and White works wonderfully. It’s affordable, widely available, and holds its shape well for structured bags.

Paintbox Yarns Simply DK held double is another excellent choice. The color range includes perfect navy and sky blue shades.

For a sturdier bag, try Drops Safran cotton held double. Cotton adds structure and durability, and the stitch definition for puff stitches is excellent.

Substitution note: Any worsted weight yarn or DK held double with a smooth, tightly plied structure works well. Avoid fuzzy or loosely spun yarns because the puff stitch snowflake definition will disappear into the fuzz.

Tools: Crochet hook: US size J/10 (6.0 mm)

Yarn needle for weaving ends Stitch markers Approximately 90 to 100 small pearl or seed beads (about 4 mm), white or cream

Sewing needle and white thread for attaching beads Scissors Blocking mat and pins (optional but recommended)

Stitch Abbreviations and Definitions Before we dive into the step by step crochet tutorial, let’s define every stitch you’ll use. ch = chain: Yarn over, pull through loop on hook sl st = slip stitch: Insert hook, yarn over, pull through stitch and loop on hook in one motion

sc = single crochet: Insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop (2 loops on hook), yarn over, pull through both loops

dc = double crochet: Yarn over, insert hook, yarn over, pull up a loop (3 loops on hook), yarn over, pull through 2 loops, yarn over, pull through remaining 2 loops ch-sp = chain space: The gap created by a chain in the previous row or round

ps = puff stitch: A raised, rounded bobble created by pulling up multiple loops in the same stitch. Full instructions below.

RS = right side: The front of your work MC = main color (Yarn A, navy)

CC1 = contrast color 1 (Yarn B, light blue)

CC2 = contrast color 2 (Yarn C, white)

Special Stitches Explained Puff Stitch (ps)

This is the star of the show. Here’s how to work it: 1. Yarn over, insert hook into indicated stitch or space

2. Yarn over and pull up a loop to approximately half an inch tall. You now have 3 loops on your hook 3. Yarn over, insert hook into the same stitch or space

4. Yarn over and pull up a loop to the same height. You now have 5 loops on your hook 5. Yarn over, insert hook into the same stitch or space

6. Yarn over and pull up a loop to the same height. You now have 7 loops on your hook 7. Yarn over and draw through all 7 loops on hook

8. Chain 1 to close the puff stitch. This ch-1 does not count as a stitch

The completed puff stitch creates one raised, rounded bobble. Don’t worry if your first few look a bit wonky. They get better with practice, and blocking helps even them out.

Join-As-You-Go (JAYG)

When joining a new square to a completed square during the final round, you’ll replace the corner ch-2 or the ch-1 between stitches on the joining side with a slip stitch into the corresponding chain space on the adjacent completed square. This joins squares as you work instead of seaming afterward. Full instructions appear at each join point in the pattern.

Standing Double Crochet

Make a slip knot and place on hook. Yarn over, insert hook into indicated stitch or space, yarn over and pull up a loop, yarn over and draw through 2 loops, yarn over and draw through 2 loops. This begins a round without a starting chain 3, giving a neater join.

Understanding the Layout Each panel of the bag uses: 9 full granny squares (arranged 3 columns by 3 rows, on-point)

6 half squares (filling left and right side edges)

2 quarter squares (filling bottom corners)

The top edge is straight, formed by the flat edge of the top row of squares. The bottom is rounded by the on-point arrangement and the quarter squares at the lower corners.

Total motifs for the entire bag (both panels): 18 full squares, 12 half squares, 4 quarter squares Full Granny Square Pattern (Make 18)

Each square is worked in 4 rounds. You’ll start with light blue for the snowflake center, then switch to navy for the background.

Foundation ring: With CC1 (light blue), make a magic ring. If you prefer, you can chain 4 and slip stitch to form a ring instead.

Round 1 (Snowflake Petals) Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch). Work (ps, ch 2) 8 times into the ring.

Sl st to top of first ps to join.

Stitch count: 8 puff stitches, 8 ch-2 spaces

  1. Round 2Snowflake Outer Ring Sl st into first ch-2 sp. Ch 3 (counts as dc). Work 2 dc into same ch-2 sp.Ch 1.(3 dc into next ch-2 sp, ch 1) 7 times.Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join.Stitch count: 24 dc, 8 ch-1 spaces Fasten off CC1. Weave in ends or leave to weave later.
  2. Round 3Navy Background, Square Shaping Join MC (navy) with standing dc into any ch-1 sp.2 dc into same ch-1 sp (3 dc total counting standing dc).Ch 2 (corner).3 dc into next ch-1 sp.Ch 1 (side).3 dc into next ch-1 sp.Ch 2 (corner).3 dc into next ch-1 sp.Ch 1 (side).Repeat from beginning 2 more times (total 4 corners, 4 sides).Sl st to top of beginning standing dc.Stitch count: 24 dc, 4 ch-2 corner spaces, 4 ch-1 side spaces
  3. Round 4Navy, Final Square Round Sl st to corner ch-2 sp. Ch 3, 2 dc into same corner sp, ch 2, 3 dc into same corner sp (first corner made).Ch 1.3 dc into ch-1 side sp, ch 1.(3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) into next corner ch-2 sp (corner).Ch 1.3 dc into ch-1 side sp, ch 1.Repeat from corner instruction 2 more times.Sl st to top of beginning ch-3 to join.Stitch count: 48 dc, 4 ch-2 corner spaces, 8 ch-1 side spaces Fasten off, leaving a 12-inch tail for joining if not using JAYG.

Checkpoint: Each completed full square should measure 4.5 inches by 4.5 inches after a light block. The snowflake puffs should be centered with all 8 petals visible and raised.

Half Square Pattern (Make 12)

The half square fills the side edges of each panel. It’s worked in rows, not rounds, creating a right-triangle shape.

Foundation: With MC (navy), ch 4, sl st into first ch to form a ring (or use a magic ring).

Putting it together

Step 1

Weave in all yarn ends securely using a yarn needle. Work through the backs of stitches in multiple directions to prevent unraveling.

Step 2

Wet blocking: Soak the completed bag in cool water for 15 to 20 minutes. Gently press out excess water in a towel without wringing. Pin each granny square area to a blocking mat. Allow to dry completely, typically 24 hours.

Step 3

Steam blocking alternative: Use a garment steamer or iron held 1 to 2 inches above the surface. Do not press the iron directly onto yarn, especially acrylic, as this will permanently flatten the puff stitches.

Step 4

After blocking, attach pearl beads as described above.

Marlene's notes

Note 01

Use a US size J/10 (6.0 mm) hook throughout, and keep your tension even on the puff stitches so each of the eight petals per square comes out roughly the same size.

Note 02

Stitch markers earn their keep here. Move them up each round on both the granny squares and the half and quarter squares so you always know which ch-2 corner space is next.

Note 03

Fasten off Yarn A after Row 4 of Part 4 before you move on to the CC2 strap edging, so you are not carrying two yarns at once.

Before you sit down

  • Check you have the full yardage before starting: about 600 yards of Yarn A, 200 yards of Yarn B, and 75 yards of Yarn C. Running short partway through a square is frustrating.
  • Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round so you never lose track of where each round ends on a puff stitch square.
  • Work one practice puff stitch before you start Part 2 in earnest, just to get the feel of pulling three loops up to that half-inch height.
  • Read through Round 4 in Part 3 before you join your first pair of squares, since that's where the slip stitch JAYG joining happens and it helps to know what's coming.

How the hours go

Granny squares (Part 2, 3 rounds each)
about 20 minutes per square because each one works 3 full rounds, including the fiddly puff stitch corners
Half and quarter squares (Part 3, 3 rounds)
about 15 minutes per piece because the shorter 3-round sequence fastens off quickly into a triangular wedge
Strap and edging (Part 4, 2 rounds plus edging)
about 1 hour because the strap alone runs 4 rows of 120 sc before the CC2 edging goes

Looking after it

  • Hand wash the finished tote in cool water and press out excess moisture in a towel rather than wringing, then pin it flat to a blocking mat so the granny squares and snowflake petals dry back into shape.
  • Store the bag flat or loosely stuffed with tissue paper rather than hanging it by the strap for long periods, which keeps the puff stitch snowflakes from flattening under their own weight over time.
FAQs

Asked on the glider

the ones that come up on the glider

How long does the whole tote take to make?

Plan on spreading it across several sittings rather than one session. The granny squares, half and quarter squares, strap, and edging each take their own chunk of time, so expect a few evenings of work in total.

Can I use a different yarn weight?

Yes, any worsted weight or DK held double works as long as it is smooth and tightly plied. Fuzzy or loosely spun yarn will blur the puff stitch snowflake definition.

Why does my puff stitch look lumpy instead of round?

That is normal for your first few attempts since the three loops need practice to come up at matching heights. Blocking evens out most of the unevenness once the bag is finished.

What is the on-point layout and why use it?

It means arranging the granny squares at an angle rather than straight, then filling the gaps with the half and quarter squares from Part 3. It gives the bag a rounded bottom without any short-row shaping.

Do I need to seam the squares together afterward?

No, you join them with slip stitch JAYG during Round 4 of each new square as you work. There is no separate seaming session once all the squares are finished.

Can I skip the beads?

Yes, the sewing needle and white thread for attaching beads are listed as optional extras. The bag looks complete with just the navy, light blue, and white yarns alone.