Crochet Marble Stack Tote Bag – Easy Step-by-Step Guide: Part 2

Crochet Marble Stack Tote Bag – Easy Step-by-Step Guide!

The Marble Stack Tote is more than just a bag; it's a statement piece, a unique expression of your crafting skills. Its eye-catching design, featuring stacked "marbles" of color, adds a playful yet sophisticated touch to any outfit. If you are a beginner crocheter, be sure to check out more beginner crochet pattern options.

This comprehensive guide will walk you through creating your own CROCHET Marble Stack Tote, based on Part Two of The Secret Yarnery's popular YouTube tutorial, "CROCHET Marble Stack Tote Part TWO - Making The Marbles!" In this project, we will focus on creating the main body of the bag, working with a base color and a contrasting "tile" color to achieve the signature marbled effect. You'll learn how to seamlessly join colors, create the unique stitch patterns, and even add an optional bobble closure for a touch of whimsy.

So, grab your hook and yarn, and let's get started!

Materials You'll Need

Before you dive in, make sure you have all the necessary materials on hand. Here's a list of what you'll need to create your own CROCHET Marble Stack Tote:

• Yarn: The choice is yours. You can find some great yarn.
  • Base Color: Approximately 300 yards of a worsted weight yarn.
  • Tile Color: Approximately 200 yards of a contrasting worsted weight yarn.
• Crochet Hook: H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook, or size needed to obtain gauge.
• Stitch Markers: At least 4 stitch markers to help keep track of your place.
• Scissors: For snipping yarn ends. You can find scissors online.
• Yarn Needle: For weaving in loose ends. Some great needles can be found online.
• Measuring Tape: To ensure your tote is the desired size. This measuring tape is a good choice.

Getting Started: Joining the New Color

Alright, are you ready to switch colors and bring that marbled effect to life? After flipping your work, make sure you're working on the "pretty side". We're going to be working into the chain two space right after our stitch marker. This is where the magic begins!

Here's a step-by-step guide to joining the new color:

1. Drop the old yarn: Don't cut it! Just let it hang, leaving it attached for now.
2. Insert the hook: Find that chain two space right after your stitch marker and insert your hook.
3. Grab the new color yarn: Take your new yarn (I'm using a lovely cobalt blue) and grab it with your hook, pulling it through the chain two space.
4. Slip stitch to secure: Slip stitch with both strands of yarn to secure the new color in place. This creates a nice, sturdy join.
5. Chain up: Drop the tail of the new yarn and chain two. This will give you the height you need for the next row.

Remember, that chain two counts as a chain three. If you prefer a different joining method, feel free to use it! Just make sure you chain three (or the equivalent height for a double crochet) to start your row.

Creating the First Row of Tiles

This is where the "tiles" start to take shape! We're going to create the first row using our tile color (that gorgeous cobalt blue I mentioned earlier). In each space, we'll be making three double crochets.

Here's how to do it, step-by-step:

1. Wrap the yarn: Wrap the yarn around your hook.
2. Insert the hook: Insert your hook into the same space where you joined the yarn.
3. Grab the yarn and pull it back: Grab the yarn with your hook and pull it back through the space. You should now have three loops on your hook.
4. Take off two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook again and pull it through the first two loops on your hook. You should now have two loops remaining.
5. Take off the remaining two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook one last time and pull it through the remaining two loops on your hook. You've just completed your first double crochet!

Repeat this process two more times in the same space. Remember, that initial chain three we made counts as one double crochet, so you'll have a total of three double crochets in that space.

Don't worry about that tail of yarn hanging down. We'll sew it in later with a yarn needle to keep things nice and tidy.

Working Around: Three Double Crochets in Each Space

Now comes the fun part: repeating the pattern! We're going to make three double crochets into each chain two space as we work our way around the bag. Be sure to check out more crochet patterns.

It's important to remember that there should be no chains in between the sets of double crochets. We want a nice, solid row of "tiles" without any gaps.

Just keep repeating those three double crochets into each space, and you'll see the row start to form. Once you've worked your way all the way around, meet back at the stitch marker, where we'll prepare for the next step.

Joining the Tile Color and Preparing for the Base Color

You've made it all the way around with your first row of tiles! Now it's time to join the round and switch back to our base color.

First, we're going to slip stitch the tile color to the top of the chain three. This joins the round and creates a seamless transition.

Next, we'll put a stitch marker in the loop and let it drop down. This helps us keep track of our place and prevents the loop from unraveling.

Now for the switch! Here's how to get back to the base color:

1. Hold the base color: Grab your base color yarn and hold it in your hand.
2. Put the loop on the hook: Take the loop from the first stitch marker and place it back on your hook.
3. Chain up: Chain 1, chain 2, and chain 3. This chain three counts as our first double crochet for the next row.

We're now ready to start creating the "grout" lines between our tiles!

Creating the V-Stitch Row

This row introduces a new stitch: the V-stitch! This stitch creates a delicate, openwork effect that beautifully separates the rows of tiles.

A V-stitch is simply a double crochet, a chain one, and another double crochet, all worked into the same stitch. Think of it as a "V" shape created with crochet stitches.

Here's how to make your first V-stitch:

1. Chain 1: After chaining three to start the row, chain one more. This chain one forms the top of the "V".
2. Double crochet in the same spot: Make one more double crochet into the same stitch at the bottom, where you started the chain three.

You've now completed your first V-stitch! Each V-stitch will be made into the single crochet from the previous row.

Here's a more detailed breakdown of the V-stitch:

1. Wrap the yarn: Wrap the yarn around your hook.
2. Insert the hook: Insert your hook into the single crochet from the previous row.
3. Grab the yarn and pull it back: Grab the yarn with your hook and pull it back through the stitch. You should now have three loops on your hook.
4. Take off two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook again and pull it through the first two loops on your hook. You should now have two loops remaining.
5. Take off the remaining two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook one last time and pull it through the remaining two loops on your hook. You've completed the first double crochet of the V-stitch!
6. Chain one: Chain one to form the top of the "V".
7. Repeat the double crochet: Repeat the double crochet into the same single crochet where you started.

You've now completed a full V-stitch!

Remember, there's no chaining between the V-stitches. The base color yarn should be touching the base color yarn, creating a continuous "grout" line.

Continuing the V-Stitch Pattern Around

Now, continue working your way around, creating one V-stitch into each single crochet from the previous row. Remember, the base color yarn should be touching the base color yarn. As you continue working on this project you may want to find storage options with these bags.

Once you've made it all the way around, meet back up to join the round and prepare for the next row of tiles.

Joining the V-Stitch Row and Preparing for the Next Tile Color Row

You've completed the V-stitch row! Now it's time to join and switch back to the tile color.

To join, slip stitch to the third chain of the initial chain three. This creates a seamless connection and prepares us for the next row.

Secure the yarn with a stitch marker and let it drop down. This keeps everything organized and prevents the loop from unraveling.

Here's how to switch back to the tile color:

1. Put the hook into the V-stitch space: Insert your hook into the chain one space of the V-stitch.
2. Grab the loop of the tile color yarn: Grab the loop of your tile color yarn with your hook.
3. Take the stitch marker off: Remove the stitch marker from the base color loop.
4. Pull the loop to the front: Pull the tile color loop to the front, bringing it through the V-stitch space.

You're now ready to start the next row of tiles!

Creating the Second Row of Tiles

We're back to creating those beautiful "tiles"! The next row of the tile color begins with a chain three, which counts as the first double crochet.

Here's the step-by-step guide:

1. Chain three: Chain three to create the height for your first double crochet.
2. Wrap the yarn: Wrap the yarn around your hook.
3. Double crochet into the same space: Insert your hook into that same space (the V-stitch space) and make two more double crochets.

Remember, the chain three counts as one double crochet, so you'll have a total of three double crochets in that space.

Repeat the pattern: three double crochets into each V-stitch space (not on top of the previous tile). Continue working your way around, creating a new row of tiles.

Once you've made it all the way around, meet back up to join the round and prepare for the next base color row.

Joining the Second Tile Row and Preparing for the Next Base Color Row

You've completed another row of tiles! Now it's time to join and switch back to the base color.

Slip stitch into the top of the chain three to join the round. This creates a clean finish and prepares us for the next step.

Secure the yarn with a stitch marker and let it hang out of the way. This keeps everything organized and prevents the loop from unraveling.

Here's how to switch back to the base color yarn:

1. Pull the loop a bit bigger: Gently pull the loop of the tile color yarn a bit bigger to give you some room to work.
2. Put the loop back onto the hook: Place the base color loop back onto your hook.
3. Chain up: Chain 3, which counts as the first double crochet. Then, chain 1, which forms the top of the "V". This gives you a total of chain 4.

You're now ready to continue the V-stitch pattern!

Continuing the V-Stitch Pattern

To continue, make another double crochet into the same stitch, keeping all the other yarn behind your work. This ensures that the unused yarn doesn't get tangled in your stitches.

We're now back to doing the same thing as before: making a V-stitch into each of the single crochets from the previous row.

Remember the V-stitch:

1. Wrap the yarn: Wrap the yarn around your hook.
2. Insert the hook: Insert your hook into that single crochet.
3. Grab the yarn and pull it back: Grab the yarn with your hook and pull it back through the stitch.
4. Take off two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook again and pull it through the first two loops on your hook.
5. Take off the remaining two loops: Wrap the yarn around your hook one last time and pull it through the remaining two loops on your hook.
6. Chain one: Chain one to form the top of the "V".
7. Double crochet in the same spot: Make another double crochet into the same spot.

Continue this V-stitch pattern all the way around, meeting back up to change color for the next row of tiles.

Joining the V-Stitch Row

You've completed another V-stitch row! Let's join it together.

Slip stitch to the third chain (one, two, and three) to join the V-stitches. Keep two loops on your hook and bring the yarn through to join. Grab your stitch markers.

Changing Colors Again

• Insert the hook into the V stitch.
• Grab the blue loop.
• Take the stitch marker off.
• Bring the loop through to the front.

Creating the Tiles Again

• Chain 3 for the first double crochet
• Wrap your yarn
• Go into the space and make two more double crochets
• Continue making three double crochets into each V space.

Meet back up when you're ready to join again.

Finishing the Tile Row

• Slip stitch into the third chain.
• Chain 1 to secure the yarn.
• Cut the yarn and pull through the tail.
• Explain how to weave in the ends through the back loops to avoid using a darning needle.
• Go through the back loop of the stitch.
• Go around and around.
• Go back to stitches 1, 2, and 3 to get it to the backside.

Returning to the Base Color

• Pull the stitch marker up and put the yarn back on your hook.
• Chain 3 for the first double crochet and Chain 1 for the middle of the V.
• Wrap your yarn and go into the same stitch to make a double crochet.

Completing your first V stitch.

Adding V-Stitches Again

• Double Crochet
• Chain 1
• Double Crochet

Make these stitches all the way around and meet back here when we change color again.

Adding stitch markers in your work to not lose where you are.

Final Join and Next Row

• Slip stitch into the third chain.
• Pull up a loop and put your stitch marker back on that loop.
• Change your color again as often as you like.
• Join it the same way, pretending your yarn was still hooked at the back.
• Put your hook into the V stitch.
• Put a loop of your new color onto your hook, bring it forward, and slip stitch both strands to join.

Continuing On

• Drop your tail and chain two more, counting as the first double crochet.
• Wrap your yarn and go over that tail for this cluster/shell.
• Make two more double crochets and now go around as you always have.
• Three double crochets into each of these stitches.
• Then slip stitch to join.
• Put a stitch marker on your stitch, and start back up with the white.

Height Of Your Bag

Keep going around and building up until you have the sides about the same height you want for your bag. We will also be putting a band of single crochet at the top, so factor that into how many more rows you want to make for yours. A great way to learn more about crochet techniques is to read The Secret Yarnery blogs, such as Crochet Purses and Bags.

Keep going until you have the height that you want.

Demonstration Round

I'm going to do one more row but I wanted to show you what I'm going to do on my last round of bobbles to make a little button so I can pinch these edges shut like that in there just so it's square hard to see but square when you're when you are using it. Optional to make it wide like a big tote.

Demonstration Side Note

Showing how to locate the corners on your base on the long side see where your stitches are and then pinch see there's my corner. Follow those bobbles to the top. Put a little stitch marker there. Do the same on the other side. Find the corner, trace the bobbles all the way up, and put in a stitch marker.

Pinching It Up

Pinch it up to follow those bobbles to the top and put in a stitch marker. Line up the two stitch markers. Demonstrate how the back will be square.

Second Side

Put the needle through to hold it there. Finding your corner and then tracing your bobbles up. Doing the same on this side. Showing how the bag is now square.

Bobble Button

Relocate your stitch markers. Not to make the popcorn right on the edge, so you're going to make it into the next one over. You're going to make a popcorn into this stitch. On the back side, mark the same corresponding V stitch (not the one right closest to the edge). Those two are matched up. One side will be made popcorn, the other will be a loopy chain.

Start Crocheting

Keep going around making your three double crochets into each V stitch until you reach the top corner. Into this next V, you're going to make your popcorn. Make your first and second double crochet. Wrap your yarn and now you're going to be doing your double crochets.

Popcorn

Make your first double crochet and make your second double crochet and then wrap your yarn and now you're going to be doing your double crochets. Doing half double around this post. Put your hook in between those stitches, grab your yarn, and bring it back. Wrap your yarn and take off all three loops on your hook. You're going to do that again that's two, three, four, five, and six times. Pull up your loop and put your hook into this first, the top of the first half double crochet. Put your loop back on your hook, tighten it down to the same side of your hook, and pull it through that first half double that you made and chain 1 to secure. Wrap your yarn and make one more double crochet into that space.

Side Baubles

Now make your popcorn so wrap your yarn and make one double crochet, wrap your yarn and make your second double crochet right into that V stitch into the space of the V stitch now wrap your yarn and you're going to be making six half doubles onto this post. Pull up your hook and into this first a half double crochet of the little guy on the side put your hook in put your lid back on your hook tighten it down and bring your hook through that stitch and chain one snugly to secure. Wrap your yarn and one more double crochet into that space.

Bag Closure

Demonstration with chain stitch. Explain how a bigger bobble will better for the closure. It holds it holds on because of how we put it on to that double crochet. Keep going all the way around with your making your three double crochets into each stitch.

Continuing Work

Finished the row of tile, and the next row of the base color of your V stitches is a little bit different, so I just wanted to show you that. Put your base yarn back on your hook and chain three like you normally do one two three, but instead of doing our extra chain for a V stitch you just make one more double crochet.

Different Way of V-Stitch

We're just going to do two double crochets in between each tile all the way around, and that will make it look very similar to what we have going on below, see how that looks the same now as the ones below. Our next row we're going to do an increase as we work our way along because we're actually losing a stitch on this round because we're not doing the chain in the middle, we're just doing the double crochets.

Adding The Next Row

Two double crochets in between each tile, and I'll meet you when we join. Done your two double crochets into this last Space between these tiles into that stitch, so I'm going to go straight over and slip stitch to the top of that chain three. Chain 1, now we're going to go along making single crochets where you can do single crochets or a half doubles whatever you like.

Adding Single Crochets

Add a single crochet. A single crochet into this that stitch they're the same stitch so single crochet. You're adding a stitch in between like where our V stitch used to be. Adding one stitch into every V stitch space that's not a V stitch and one into each stitch of every double crochet. Every double crochet gets a single crochet and every space in between the two double crochets gets a single crochet. Work your way around adding one stitch into every V stitch space that's not a V stitch and one into each stitch of every double crochet.

Joining Row and Final

Push your hook in under both those loops tighten your yarn slip stitch to join. There is our slip stitch now I'm going to chain one and single crochet into that first stitch pull up my loop and into that stitch I'm putting my stitch marker back so I know that's my first single crochet. Do two more rounds of single crochet one into each stitch all the way around nothing hard at all. Chain one I'm going to make half double crochets for this next round.

Half Double Crochets

Wrap your yarn, go into the same stitch, bring your yarn back. Wrap your yarn and take off all three so that's a half double and I can put my stitch marker into that first stitch just to make sure I know where it is when I come back around put your hook back on and wrap your yarn make one half double crochet into each stitch going all the way around. This is my last stitch that needs a half double crochets so we'll have to double into that and this one already has so I'm going to slip stitch into that first half double crochet to join.

Adding Border

Continue doing as many rows of half double as you'd like to get the height to the same as your border or the height you like for your border at the top of your bag. The bottom of my bag has six rows of half of single crochet, so I would in my head I'd like about the same on the top, but it's personal preference it's up to you.

Making The Handles

I am going to start I'm going to show you how to make them I'm going to now I'm going to show you how to make the handles you.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You've successfully navigated the steps to crochet your own Marble Stack Tote. From joining the new color to creating the unique V-stitch pattern and adding the optional bobble closure, you've learned new skills and techniques that you can apply to future projects. If you're looking for inspiration, check out the Marble Stack Tote Bag blog post.

Don't be afraid to experiment with different color combinations and yarn weights to create a truly personalized tote. And most importantly, have fun with the process!

For more crochet patterns and inspiration, be sure to visit The Secret Yarnery's Patterns page and YouTube channel. And don't forget to share your finished Marble Stack Tote with the crochet community – we can't wait to see your projects!

FAQs

1. Is this a beginner-friendly crochet project?

While the Marble Stack Tote does incorporate some unique stitch patterns like the V-stitch and popcorn stitch, it's a great project for advanced beginners looking to elevate their skills. The guide breaks each step into manageable parts, which makes it easier to follow even if you’re still learning.

2. Can I use different types of yarn for this project?

Yes! Feel free to experiment with yarn types and colors. However, it’s recommended to use worsted-weight yarn for consistency and structure. You’ll need approximately 300 yards for the base color and 200 yards for the tile color to complete the bag.

3. Do I need to use the exact crochet hook size mentioned?

The suggested hook size is H/8 (5.0 mm), but it’s essential to check your gauge first. If your stitches are too loose or tight, adjust the hook size accordingly to maintain the intended dimensions.

4. What if I don’t want to add a bobble closure?

The bobble closure is optional. If you prefer, you can skip this step or try other closures like buttons or magnetic snaps for functionality and design.

5. How can I adjust the size of the tote?

You can make the tote bigger or smaller by increasing or decreasing the initial row counts and adjusting the number of rounds for the main body. Keep proportions in mind when modifying the design.

6. How do I keep my stitches even when switching colors?

When working with multiple colors, make sure to maintain consistent tension with each yarn. Use slip stitches and chain heights as instructed in the guide to create smooth transitions.

7. How is the bag reinforced for durability?

The structure of the tote is achieved through compact stitches and the worsted-weight yarn. If you'd like more reinforcement, you can line the inside of the bag with fabric for extra durability.

 

8. How long will it take to complete the Marble Stack Tote?

The time to finish varies depending on your crochet skill level and how much time you dedicate each day. On average, this project could take a beginner 8-12 hours, while more experienced crocheters may complete it faster.

9. Can I add additional decorations to the tote?

Absolutely! You can personalize your Marble Stack Tote by adding embellishments such as tassels, buttons, or even embroidery. Let your creativity shine!

Christa Patel, the creative mind behind The Secret Yarnery, is a passionate crochet expert and designer with years of experience in the art of fiber crafting. Based in Kenya, Christa has built a vibrant community of yarn enthusiasts through her engaging tutorials, creative patterns, and warm personality. Her approach to crochet combines accessibility with creativity, making even intricate designs achievable for crafters of all skill levels.

As a crochet educator, Christa specializes in breaking down complex projects into easy-to-follow steps, empowering her audience to create stunning handmade items. From trendy bags and vibrant home décor to cozy wearables, Christa’s designs often feature bold colors, unique textures, and thoughtful details. Her emphasis on functionality, beauty, and a touch of whimsy shines through in each project.

Through The Secret Yarnery blog and YouTube channel, Christa inspires thousands with her expert tips, free tutorials, and premium patterns. Whether you're a beginner picking up your first hook or an experienced crocheter exploring new techniques, Christa’s inclusive teaching makes crochet an enjoyable journey for all.

Visit The Secret Yarnery for more projects, patterns, and inspiration, or follow along on her YouTube channel for hands-on learning and creative ideas.