How to Crochet a Cute Backpack

Looking for a fun and functional crochet project? A crocheted backpack is the perfect accessory—stylish, handmade, and great for carrying your daily essentials. Whether you want a mini bag for a child, a trendy drawstring sack for yourself, or even a bear-themed backpack , this project lets you combine creativity with practicality.

In this step-by-step guide, you’ll learn how to crochet a cute backpack from start to finish, including the main body, flap, straps, and adorable finishing touches.

Materials You’ll Need

Here’s what you’ll need to get started:

Basic Supplies

• Worsted weight yarn (Size 4) — Cotton or acrylic; choose one main color and optional contrast color(s)

  • ~200–250g (approx. 300–400 yards)

• Crochet hook — 4.0 mm (G-6) or 5.0 mm (H-8), depending on tension

• Yarn needle — for sewing pieces and weaving in ends

• Stitch markers — helpful for rounds

• Scissors

• Buttons, toggles, or cord locks (optional)

• Lining fabric and sewing needle/thread (optional, for added durability)

For the “Cute Factor”

• Safety eyes or buttons

• Felt or yarn scraps for ears, nose, and cheeks

• Embroidery thread for facial features

Construction Overview

Your backpack will consist of:

1. The Body – a cylindrical or slightly tapered bag

2. The Base – a sturdy round or oval bottom

3. The Flap – closes the top

4. The Straps – adjustable or fixed crochet straps

5. Decorative features – such as a bear face, ears, or other kawaii-style details

Step-by-Step Instructions

1. Crochet the Backpack Body

We’ll crochet this in the round from the bottom up.

Make the Base (Round)

1. Start with a magic ring (or chain 4 and slip stitch to form a ring)

2. Round 1: Ch 2, work 10 dc into the ring, sl st to top of ch 2 (10 dc)

3. Round 2: Ch 2, 2 dc in each stitch (20 dc)

4. Round 3: (1 dc in next st, 2 dc in next) repeat around (30 dc)

5. Continue increasing like this until the base is approx. 5–6 inches in diameter (or desired size)

Build the Body

1. Next Rounds (without increasing): Ch 2, dc in each st around. Continue working in the round for 25–30 rounds, or until the body is 9–12 inches tall.

2. Optional: Add color changes for stripes, or use puff stitches for texture.

2. Create the Flap

The flap is a semi-circle or rectangle that folds over the opening.

1. Attach yarn to the back center of the opening.

2. Row 1: Ch 2, dc across ~⅔ of the back width.

3. Row 2+: Turn, dc across, decreasing 1 stitch on each end if making a rounded shape.

4. Work 6–8 rows total, depending on desired flap size.

5. Optional: Add a buttonhole in the last row (ch 2, skip 2, continue dc).

3. Make the Straps

Crochet two sturdy straps. Here’s how:

1. Chain 70–90 (for child) or 100–110 (for adult)

2. Work hdc or sc back across for 2–3 rows

3. Fasten off and attach securely to bottom corners and upper back sides of bag

4. Optional: Use adjustable buckles or D-rings

4. Add Bear Face & Cute Features

Let’s make it adorable:

Bear Ears (Make 2)

1. Magic ring, work 6 sc into ring

2. Next round: 2 sc in each st (12)

3. Next: sc around for 1–2 rounds

4. Fasten off and sew to sides of flap

Face Details

• Eyes: Use safety eyes or sew on buttons

• Nose/Snout: Crochet a small oval or sew felt

• Mouth/Cheeks: Use embroidery thread or felt

• Add blush with pink yarn or fabric paint for cuteness!

5. Assembly and Finishing Touches

1. Weave in all ends securely with a yarn needle

2. Optional: Sew in a fabric lining for extra strength

3. Attach a drawstring at the top using a long chain stitch (or use a cord)

4. Close the flap with a button, toggle, or snap

5. Test the straps and adjust placement for comfort

Pro Tips

• Reinforce the bottom with a few extra rows or a fabric insert

• Make it washable by avoiding glued pieces

• Personalize it with patches, appliqués, or initials

• Use chunky yarn and a larger hook for a bigger backpack

• Try animal variations: bunny, panda, frog, or cat

Care Instructions

• Hand wash or use gentle cycle

• Air dry flat

• If lined, spot clean inner fabric as needed

Great For:

• Back-to-school gifts

• Handmade toddler bags

• Festival fashion

• Travel pouches

• Cute storage for crochet tools or makeup

Video Tutorial :

Final Thoughts

Crocheting a cute backpack is not only practical but allows endless creativity. From sweet bear faces to pastel stripes and custom shapes, you can turn simple stitches into something truly magical. ✨

Whether you’re making it for a child or yourself, this crochet backpack will carry both your essentials and your handmade charm wherever you go.