Olive Green and Cream Crochet Hobo Bag with Flowers – Free Pattern
Create a beautiful handmade accessory with this olive green and cream crochet hobo bag. Featuring a softly curved silhouette, textured cream body, olive green braided shoulder strap, delicate crochet flowers, and decorative leaves, this bag combines vintage charm with modern everyday style.
The design includes a spacious body, sturdy crocheted base, elegant floral embellishments, gold-tone handle rings, and a decorative drawstring tassel. Its neutral color palette makes it perfect for spring, summer, and casual everyday outfits.
This free crochet pattern guides you through making an elegant floral hobo bag inspired by the pictured design, including the bag body, shaped opening, reinforced strap, crochet flowers, leaves, and finishing details.
Design Note: This is an original crochet interpretation inspired by the reference image. Exact stitch counts and construction details cannot be determined from the photograph alone.
Pattern Information
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Finished Width: Approximately 32 cm (12.5 inches)
- Finished Height: Approximately 25 cm (10 inches), excluding strap
- Base Depth: Approximately 10 cm (4 inches)
- Strap Length: Approximately 55–60 cm (22–24 inches)
- Yarn Weight: Worsted-weight cotton yarn (Category 4)
- Hook Size: 4 mm and 4.5 mm
- Terminology: US crochet terms
- Construction: Oval base, body worked in continuous rounds, separate strap and floral decorations
- Estimated Time: 12–18 hours
Materials Needed
- Approximately 350–450 g cream cotton yarn
- Approximately 150–200 g olive green cotton yarn
- Small amount of beige or light brown yarn for flower centers
- 4 mm crochet hook
- 4.5 mm crochet hook
- Two gold-tone metal D-rings or O-rings
- Two small wooden beads
- Yarn needle
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- Optional cotton fabric lining
- Optional magnetic snap closure
- Optional plastic canvas or firm bag-bottom insert
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single crochet
- hdc: Half double crochet
- dc: Double crochet
- tr: Treble crochet
- sl st: Slip stitch
- st: Stitch
- sp: Space
- inc: Increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- dec: Decrease
- BLO: Back loop only
- FO: Fasten off
Part 1: Crochet the Oval Bag Base
Using cream cotton yarn and a 4 mm hook:
Round 1
Ch 31.
Sc in the second chain from the hook.
Sc in the next 28 chains.
Work 3 sc into the final chain.
Continue along the opposite side of the foundation chain.
Sc in the next 28 chains.
Work 2 sc into the final chain.
Join with a sl st.
Round 2
Ch 1.
Sc along the straight sections.
Work increases evenly around both curved ends.
Join with a sl st.
Rounds 3–7
Continue increasing around the curved ends while keeping the straight sides even.
The base should gradually form a smooth oval.
Stop when the base measures approximately 30 × 10 cm.
Tip: Place stitch markers at both ends of the oval to help distribute increases evenly.
Part 2: Build the Cream Bag Body
The main body uses a dense textured stitch for durability and a beautiful handmade appearance.
Round 1
Ch 1.
Work sc in BLO around the entire oval base.
Join with a sl st.
This creates a defined edge between the base and the bag body.
Round 2
Ch 1.
Sc in each stitch around.
Join with a sl st.
Round 3
Ch 1.
Work a textured moss stitch pattern:
Sc in the first stitch, ch 1, skip the next stitch.
Repeat around.
Round 4
Work sc stitches into the chain spaces from the previous round, placing ch 1 between stitches.
Rounds 5–22
Continue the moss stitch pattern until the body measures approximately 20 cm from the base.
Maintain consistent tension and avoid pulling the stitches too tightly.
The bag should begin forming a softly rounded, flexible shape.
Part 3: Create the Curved Hobo Silhouette
The signature feature of this design is its gently curved upper opening.
Step 1
Lay the bag flat and identify the front and back sections.
Step 2
Place stitch markers approximately 8 cm inward from each side.
Step 3
Work additional short rows along the side sections to create slightly taller corners.
Step 4
Gradually reduce the number of stitches worked toward the center of the opening.
Step 5
Repeat the shaping on the opposite side.
This creates the soft U-shaped opening characteristic of a hobo bag.
Make sure both sides are symmetrical before continuing.
Part 4: Crochet the Olive Green Top Border
Join olive green yarn at one side of the opening.
Round 1
Ch 1.
Sc evenly around the upper edge.
Join with a sl st.
Round 2
Work hdc in each stitch around.
Round 3
Work sc in BLO around.
Round 4
Finish with a round of slip stitches to create a neat, structured edge.
FO and weave in the ends.
Part 5: Crochet the Braided Shoulder Strap
The thick olive green strap gives the bag its distinctive elegant appearance.
For a sturdy result, create three separate crochet cords and braid them together.
Step 1: Make the First Cord
Using olive green yarn and a 4 mm hook:
Ch 5.
Sc in the second chain from the hook and across.
Ch 1 and turn.
Sc in each stitch across.
Repeat until the strip measures approximately 65 cm.
FO.
Step 2: Make Two More Cords
Repeat the same instructions to create two additional strips.
Step 3: Braid the Strips
Place all three strips side by side.
Secure the top ends together.
Braid the strips evenly, maintaining consistent tension.
Secure the opposite ends.
Step 4: Attach the Strap
Thread each end through a gold-tone metal ring.
Fold the ends back and stitch securely.
Attach the rings to reinforced tabs on both sides of the bag.
Important: Reinforce the strap attachments with several rows of stitching to ensure they can support the weight of everyday items.
Part 6: Crochet the Decorative Flowers
The cream flowers add a delicate romantic touch to the olive green and ivory bag.
Make three flowers in different sizes.
Round 1: Flower Center
Using beige yarn, make a magic ring.
Work 6 sc into the ring.
Pull tight and join with a sl st.
Round 2
Join cream yarn.
Work 2 sc in each stitch around.
Join with a sl st.
Round 3: Petals
Ch 2.
Work 3 dc into the next stitch.
Ch 2 and sl st into the following stitch.
Repeat around to form rounded petals.
Round 4
For larger flowers, add another layer of petals behind the first round.
Use longer stitches to create fuller petals.
FO and leave a long tail for sewing.
Flower Centers
Attach a small wooden bead or embroider the center using beige yarn.
Make one large flower and two smaller flowers.
Part 7: Crochet the Olive Green Leaves
Make approximately 6–8 leaves in olive green yarn.
Step 1
Ch 12.
Step 2
Sc in the second chain from the hook.
Step 3
Hdc in the next 2 chains.
Step 4
Dc in the next 5 chains.
Step 5
Hdc in the next 2 chains.
Step 6
Work 3 sc into the final chain.
Step 7
Continue along the opposite side of the chain.
Repeat the stitch sequence in reverse.
Step 8
Join with a sl st.
FO and leave a long tail.
Optional Leaf Veins
Using a yarn needle, embroider a central vein along each leaf.
Add smaller diagonal veins for a more realistic appearance.
Part 8: Arrange the Floral Decorations
Position the flowers on the right side of the bag, as shown in the reference design.
Step 1
Place the largest flower near the upper right corner.
Step 2
Arrange the smaller flowers diagonally below it.
Step 3
Position olive green leaves around and between the flowers.
Step 4
Pin the decorations temporarily to check the arrangement.
Step 5
Sew each flower and leaf securely onto the bag body.
Keep the stitching hidden on the inside whenever possible.
Design Tip: Leave some empty cream space around the floral arrangement to maintain the elegant, uncluttered appearance of the bag.
Part 9: Make the Decorative Drawstring Tassel
The hanging olive green leaf tassel adds a beautiful finishing detail.
Step 1
Using olive green yarn, make a chain approximately 30 cm long.
Step 2
Sl st back along the chain to create a stronger cord.
Step 3
Thread two small wooden beads onto the cord.
Step 4
Make two small crochet leaves using the leaf instructions above.
Step 5
Attach one leaf to each hanging end of the cord.
Step 6
Tie the cord loosely around the center of the bag opening.
Allow the leaves to hang naturally over the front.
Part 10: Add an Optional Fabric Lining
A fabric lining helps the bag maintain its shape and prevents small objects from slipping through the crochet stitches.
Step 1
Measure the inside dimensions of the finished bag.
Step 2
Cut two matching pieces of cotton fabric, allowing approximately 1.5 cm for seams.
Step 3
Sew the sides and bottom together.
Step 4
Turn the fabric lining right side out.
Step 5
Insert the lining into the crochet bag.
Step 6
Fold the top edge inward and hand-sew it to the inside of the bag opening.
Optional: Add a small interior pocket for keys or a phone.
Part 11: Add an Optional Magnetic Closure
For extra security, install a magnetic snap closure at the center of the bag opening.
Attach one half to the front lining and the other half to the back lining.
Ensure both pieces align correctly before securing them.
For a softer handmade look, you can use a crocheted button loop instead.
Part 12: Final Finishing
- Weave in all loose yarn ends.
- Check that the base lies flat.
- Make sure the strap is securely attached.
- Adjust the floral decorations if necessary.
- Straighten the decorative leaves.
- Check the wooden beads and tassel attachments.
- Gently shape the bag with your hands.
- Lightly steam or block the fabric if appropriate for your yarn.
- Allow the bag to dry completely before use.
Creative Color Variations
Classic Olive and Cream
Olive green, warm ivory, and natural wooden accents.
Dusty Rose Romance
Dusty pink, cream, and muted sage leaves.
Coastal Blue
Dusty blue, white flowers, and navy accents.
Vintage Lavender
Soft lavender, ivory, and sage green.
Autumn Cottage
Rust orange, cream, mustard, and olive green.
Minimalist Beige
Warm beige, ivory, and caramel brown.
Elegant Black and White
Black body, ivory flowers, and charcoal leaves.
Helpful Crochet Tips
- Use sturdy cotton yarn for a durable everyday bag.
- Keep your stitches firm but not overly tight.
- Use stitch markers to maintain an even oval base.
- Check the bag dimensions regularly.
- Reinforce all strap attachment points.
- Choose metal rings that can support the bag’s weight.
- Make the flowers separately before sewing them onto the bag.
- Use matching yarn to hide attachment stitches.
- Arrange the flowers before permanently attaching them.
- Keep the floral decorations concentrated on one side.
- Use a lining for a cleaner interior finish.
- Add a firm base insert if you prefer more structure.
- Block the leaves gently to improve their shape.
- Use a smaller hook if your stitches are too loose.
- Secure wooden beads carefully.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this crochet hobo bag beginner-friendly?
This pattern is best for intermediate crocheters. Beginners familiar with basic stitches, working in rounds, and sewing crochet pieces together may also enjoy the project.
What yarn is best for this bag?
Worsted-weight cotton yarn is an excellent choice because it provides durability, stitch definition, and structure.
Can I use acrylic yarn?
Yes, although acrylic yarn may stretch more than cotton. A lining and reinforced strap are recommended.
Can I make the bag larger?
Absolutely. Increase the oval base dimensions and add more rounds to the body.
Can I make a smaller handbag version?
Yes. Reduce the starting chain and stop working the body when it reaches your preferred height.
Do I need to add a lining?
A lining is optional, but it improves durability and helps prevent small objects from falling through the stitches.
Can I make the bag without flowers?
Yes. The olive green and cream color combination looks beautiful even without floral embellishments.
Can I use different flowers?
Of course. Crochet daisies, roses, sunflowers, or simple five-petal flowers are lovely alternatives.
How can I prevent the strap from stretching?
Use firm cotton yarn, braid the strap tightly, and reinforce the attachment points. You can also sew cotton webbing inside the strap for extra support.
Can I sell finished bags made from this pattern?
Yes. You may sell handmade bags created using this pattern. Credit to the pattern designer is appreciated.
Care Instructions
- Hand wash gently in cool water.
- Use mild detergent.
- Avoid bleach.
- Do not wring or twist the bag.
- Gently reshape while damp.
- Dry flat on a clean towel.
- Avoid hanging the wet bag by its strap.
- Keep wooden beads and metal rings dry when possible.
- Store in a cool, dry place.
- Stuff lightly with tissue paper to maintain the shape.
Final Thoughts
This olive green and cream crochet hobo bag with flowers is a beautiful handmade accessory that combines practicality with timeless charm. The textured cream body, braided olive green strap, delicate floral appliqués, and decorative leaf tassels create an elegant design that feels both vintage-inspired and modern.
Whether you’re making a thoughtful handmade gift, adding a new accessory to your wardrobe, or exploring creative crochet bag patterns, this project offers plenty of opportunities to personalize the colors, flowers, and finishing details.
Love this crochet bag? Save this free olive green and cream crochet hobo bag pattern to Pinterest and share it with your crochet friends for more beautiful handmade accessory inspiration!