I was inspired to design this Market Bag based on my work in Haiti. It is a great present to crochet for a dear friend or family member.

A friend and I founded and run a non-profit crochet collective, called “Fanm pou Fanm/Women for Women”, in Haiti, We work with some of the poorest women who still live in displacement camps after their homes were destroyed in a powerful earthquake two years ago. We taught the women to crochet items such as market bags, earrings, toys, etc. and sell these items in the United States, Canada and Europe. Through their crochet work, the women are able to earn a livelihood for their families.

The bag is unique and different from the bags that the women crochet, however, it incorporates their favorite color purple, a pretty lace pattern that reminds me of the women’s creativity, and handles that can be worn over the shoulders that reflect the women’s practicality.

Skill level: Intermediate

Skills used: Chain, SC, HDC, working in a spiral, lace pattern (charted & written out)

Sizes: One Size

Finished measurements: Height - 13”, width - 12”, handles – 12” length

Yarn weight: Worsted

Materials:
1 skein by Red Heart Super Saver (100% acrylic)(364yds/100g) in color purple

US size I – 5.5 (mm) crochet hook, or size required for gauge
Removable Stitch Marker
Tapestry needle

Gauge: 16 hdc + 10 rows = 4” (10 cm)