An autumn harvest crochet tote combines warm seasonal colors with a cheerful sunflower accent. A burnt-orange base, golden mustard middle, and creamy upper edge create a bag that feels right at home beside cozy sweaters and fall layers.
The inspiration features textured crochet panels, long cream handles, and a sunflower charm with a dark brown center, golden petals, green leaves, and an orange tassel. That removable decoration gives the simple tote its personality.
Below are seven original variations with practical crochet instructions. The first captures the main colors and sunflower detail using straightforward panels and a small eyelet section. The others introduce a miniature size, additional flowers, a pocket, narrow stripes, a drawstring, and a layered sunflower.
These written patterns have not been physically tested. They offer an original interpretation of the visual inspiration, using simpler construction rather than reproducing its exact stitchwork. Check your gauge and make one sample flower before completing your bag.
Crochet Abbreviations
All instructions use US crochet terminology.
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- hdc = half double crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
- MR = magic ring
- RS = right side
- FO = fasten off
Numbers in parentheses indicate the stitch count at the end of a row or round. Petal and chain-space counts are identified separately.
Beginning ch 1 does not count as a stitch.
When changing colors, complete the last yarn-over of the previous row’s final stitch with the new color.
1. Classic Autumn Harvest Tote with Sunflower Tassel
This version combines broad orange, mustard, and cream bands with a removable sunflower charm. A narrow eyelet row adds a little openness near the top.
Materials
Use worsted-weight cotton yarn in approximately these quantities:
- Cream: 300–400 yards
- Burnt orange: 150–200 yards
- Mustard: 120–170 yards
- Golden yellow: 30–45 yards
- Dark brown: 15–25 yards
- Olive green: 15–25 yards
You will also need:
- A 4 mm crochet hook, or the size needed for gauge
- Yarn needle
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Measuring tape
- A piece of cardboard approximately 4 inches tall for the tassel
- Optional lining fabric, sewing needle, and thread
Yarn quantities are estimates and include the handles, gusset, and embellishments.
Gauge and Finished Size
Aim for 16 sc and 18 rows = 4 inches in gently blocked single crochet.
The main panels measure approximately 12¼ inches wide × 12 inches tall. A separate gusset adds approximately 2½ inches of depth.
The eyelet row may slightly affect panel height. Block both panels to matching measurements before assembly.
Front and Back Panels
Make two.
Row 1, burnt orange: Ch 50. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (49)
Rows 2–18: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
Change to mustard.
Rows 19–36: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
Change to cream.
Rows 37–48: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
Row 49: Ch 1, turn, sc in the first st. Repeat [ch 1, skip the next st, sc in the next st] 24 times. (25 sc and 24 ch-1 spaces)
Row 50: Ch 1, turn, sc in every sc and work 1 sc into every ch-1 space. (49)
Rows 51–54: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
FO and weave in the ends.
Side and Bottom Gusset
Make one strip in cream.
Row 1: Ch 11. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (10)
Repeat Row 2 until the strip fits down one side of a main panel, across the bottom, and up the other side.
The length will be approximately 36¼ inches, or about 163 rows at the stated gauge. Measure against the actual panel rather than relying only on the row estimate.
Mark the two bottom corners and FO.
Cream Shoulder Handles
Make two.
Row 1: Ch 8. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (7)
Rows 2–117: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (7)
FO.
Each handle measures approximately 26 inches before attachment.
For a neat edge, join cream at a corner and sc around the handle. Work approximately 1 sc per row end along the long sides and 1 sc per stitch across the short ends, with 3 sc at each corner.
Sl st into the first sc and FO. Adjust the row-end spacing if the edging ripples or pulls tight.
Sunflower Center
Use dark brown. Join each round with a sl st into its first sc.
Round 1: Work 6 sc in an MR. (6)
Round 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around. (12)
Round 3: Ch 1, repeat [1 sc, 2 sc in the next st] six times. (18)
Round 4: Ch 1, repeat [1 sc in each of the next 2 sts, 2 sc in the next st] six times. (24)
FO.
Golden Sunflower Petals
Join golden yellow in any stitch of the center’s final round.
For each petal:
Ch 7. Starting in the second ch from the hook, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc in each of the next 2 ch, 1 hdc, and 1 sc. (6 stitches along the chain)
Sl st into the next stitch of the brown center, then sl st into the following stitch to begin the next petal.
Repeat around for 12 petals. The final slip stitch returns to the starting stitch.
FO.
Gently shape each petal with your fingers. The finished flower size will vary with your yarn and tension.
Flower Backing
With olive green, repeat Rounds 1–4 of the Sunflower Center. (24 stitches after Round 4)
FO, leaving a long sewing tail.
This backing hides the charm’s attachment stitches.
Green Leaves
Make two in olive.
Round 1: Ch 9. Starting in the second ch from the hook, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc in each of the next 3 ch, 1 hdc, and 1 sc. Work 3 sc in the final ch.
Rotate and work along the unused side of the foundation chain: 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc in each of the next 3 ch, 1 hdc, and 1 sc.
Sl st into the first sc. (17)
FO, leaving a sewing tail.
Use a few small backstitches along the foundation chain to suggest a center vein.
Orange Tassel
Wrap burnt-orange yarn around a 4-inch-tall piece of cardboard approximately 35 times.
Slide a separate 12-inch strand beneath the wraps at the upper edge. Tie it firmly around the bundle.
Cut the wraps at the opposite edge and remove the cardboard.
Wrap another strand around the bundle approximately ½ inch below the top. Tie securely, thread the ends down through the tassel, and trim its lower edge evenly.
The tassel should finish approximately 3½–4 inches long.
Hanging Cord
With mustard, chain until the cord measures approximately 12 inches without stretching.
Starting in the second ch from the hook, sl st in each ch.
FO, leaving sewing tails.
Fold the cord in half. Sew both ends securely to the upper edge of the green backing, creating a closed hanging loop.
Assemble the Sunflower Charm
Sew the leaf bases to the backing so their tips extend beyond the flower’s lower or side edges.
Attach the tassel’s top tie securely to the lower edge of the backing.
Place the brown flower center over the backing, with wrong sides together. Sew around the brown center’s perimeter, keeping the petals free and hiding the cord, leaf, and tassel attachments between the layers.
To attach the charm, pass its loop around a handle near the bag opening, then pass the flower and tassel through the loop. Tighten gently.
Assemble the Bag
Pin one long gusset edge around the front panel’s sides and bottom. Match the marked corners.
Whipstitch the pieces together with their outer surfaces facing outward. Repeat with the back panel and the remaining gusset edge.
Join cream at a side seam.
Top Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around the opening. Join with a sl st.
Top Round 2: Ch 1, sc around. Join and FO.
Position the handle ends approximately 2½ inches from each side seam. Overlap each end onto the outside of the bag by 2 inches.
Sew a rectangle around each overlap, then an X inside the rectangle. Keep attachment stitches in solid fabric and avoid the eyelet spaces.
Attach the sunflower charm near one front handle.
2. Mini Harvest Tote with a Small Sunflower
This smaller version is a manageable project with the same warm color progression.
Mini Panels
Make two.
Row 1, orange: Ch 34. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (33)
Rows 2–12: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (33)
Change to mustard.
Rows 13–24: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (33)
Change to cream.
Rows 25–36: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (33)
FO.
Each panel measures approximately 8¼ × 8 inches.
Mini Gusset
In cream:
Row 1: Ch 9. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (8)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (8)
Repeat until the strip fits the panel’s sides and bottom, approximately 24¼ inches.
FO.
Short Handles
Make two in cream.
Row 1: Ch 6. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (5)
Rows 2–63: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (5)
FO.
Attach with a 1½-inch overlap at each end.
Mini Sunflower
In brown:
Round 1: Work 8 sc in an MR. Join. (8)
Round 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around. Join. (16)
FO.
Join golden yellow in any stitch.
For each petal, ch 5. Starting in the second ch from the hook, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 hdc, and 1 sc.
Sl st into the next center stitch, then into the following stitch.
Repeat for 8 petals and FO.
Make a green backing by repeating the two brown center rounds.
Small Leaf
With olive, ch 7.
Starting in the second ch from the hook, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc, 1 hdc, and 1 sc. Work 3 sc in the final ch.
Along the opposite side, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc, 1 hdc, and 1 sc.
Join. (13)
FO.
Make a tassel following Idea #1, using 2½-inch cardboard and approximately 25 wraps. Make an 8-inch hanging cord.
Assemble the charm and bag following Idea #1.
3. Three-Sunflower Harvest Tote
Three sewn flowers turn the mustard band into a cheerful floral border.
Bag Base
Make the full-size panels, gusset, and handles from Idea #1.
Flowers and Leaves
Make three Sunflower Centers and three sets of Golden Sunflower Petals from Idea #1.
Make four Green Leaves.
The flowers will be sewn directly onto the bag, so omit the green backing circles, hanging cords, and tassels.
Placement
Lay the front panel flat. Position the flower centers approximately 2¼, 6⅛, and 10 inches from the left edge, and approximately 6 inches above the bottom.
Check that the petals fit without crowding. Use a slightly smaller hook for the flowers if necessary.
Place two leaves near each outer flower, tucking their bases beneath the brown centers.
Sew the leaves first, then the flower centers. Add a small anchoring stitch beneath each petal tip.
Assemble the tote following Idea #1.
4. Sunflower Pocket Tote
A front pocket adds storage while keeping the sunflower as the main decorative detail.
Main Bag
Make the panels, gusset, and handles from Idea #1.
Exterior Pocket
Use mustard.
Row 1: Ch 26. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (25)
Rows 2–22: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (25)
Change to cream.
Rows 23–24: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (25)
FO.
The pocket measures approximately 6¼ inches wide × 5⅓ inches tall.
Pocket Decoration
Make the Mini Sunflower and Small Leaf from Idea #2.
Sew them onto the pocket before attaching it to the bag. Center the flower horizontally, with its center approximately 3 inches above the pocket’s bottom.
Omit the backing and tassel.
Attach the Pocket
Center the pocket on the front panel with its lower edge approximately 1 inch above the panel’s bottom.
Sew down both sides and across the bottom, leaving the upper edge open. Reinforce the top corners.
Assemble the bag and attach the handles following Idea #1.
5. Narrow-Stripe Harvest Tote
Repeated stripes give the autumn palette a different rhythm while preserving the original bag dimensions.
Striped Panels
Make two.
Row 1, orange: Ch 50. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sc across. (49)
Rows 2–6: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
Continue with 49 sc per row in this color sequence:
- Rows 7–12: Mustard
- Rows 13–18: Cream
- Rows 19–24: Orange
- Rows 25–30: Mustard
- Rows 31–36: Cream
- Rows 37–42: Orange
- Rows 43–48: Mustard
- Rows 49–54: Cream
FO and weave in the ends.
This variation uses solid rows throughout.
Gusset and Handles
Follow Idea #1, using cream for both components.
Sunflower Accent
Make the complete sunflower charm from Idea #1, including the backing, two leaves, hanging cord, and orange tassel.
Assemble the tote and attach the charm at one handle.
6. Drawstring Sunflower Project Tote
A drawstring closure makes this version useful for carrying yarn and a small project.
Body Panels
Follow the color changes and stitch counts from Idea #1, but replace the eyelet row within each panel with a solid row.
Rows 37–54, cream: Ch 1, turn, sc across. (49)
Make the gusset and handles from Idea #1. Assemble the body, but omit its original top edging.
Drawstring Border
Join cream at a side seam.
Round 1: Ch 1, sc evenly around the opening. Count the stitches. If the total is odd, add one extra sc at the final insertion point to create an even count. Join.
Round 2: Ch 1, repeat [sc in the next st, ch 1, skip the next st] around. Join.
Round 3: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each sc and 1 sc in each ch-1 space around. Join.
Round 4: Ch 1, sc around. Join and FO.
Rounds 3 and 4 have the same stitch count as Round 1.
Drawstrings
Make two in mustard.
Chain until the cord measures approximately 42 inches without stretching. Starting in the second ch from the hook, sl st into each ch. FO.
Weave the first cord through the eyelets around the full opening, bringing both ends out at the left side.
Weave the second in the opposite direction, bringing its ends out at the right side.
Knot each cord’s ends together.
Flower and Handles
Make the Mini Sunflower from Idea #2 and sew it onto the upper front below the drawstring border.
Attach the handles through the solid body fabric, keeping all sewing clear of the eyelets.
7. Layered Sunflower Statement Tote
A second ring of longer petals gives the sunflower extra fullness. This version works well with the flower sewn directly onto the bag.
Bag Base
Make the full-size bag from Idea #1.
Front Flower Layer
Make one brown Sunflower Center and its 12 Golden Sunflower Petals following Idea #1.
Rear Flower Layer
With mustard, repeat Rounds 1–4 of the Sunflower Center. (24)
Keep the yarn attached.
For each rear petal:
Ch 9. Starting in the second ch from the hook, work 1 sc, 1 hdc, 1 dc in each of the next 4 ch, 1 hdc, and 1 sc. (8 stitches along the chain)
Sl st into the next center stitch, then into the following stitch.
Repeat for 12 longer petals.
FO, leaving a sewing tail.
Layer the Flower
Place the golden flower over the mustard flower. Rotate the layers so the longer rear petals show between the shorter front petals.
Sew the two center circles together. Leave the petals free.
Make two Green Leaves from Idea #1.
Position the layered flower on the upper-right area of the front panel, keeping its petals clear of the top edge and side seam. Tuck the leaves beneath it.
Sew the leaves and rear center securely to the panel. Add discreet anchoring stitches beneath the longer petal tips.
Omit the hanging cord and tassel for this version.
How to Assemble Your Autumn Harvest Tote Neatly
Block the front and back panels to matching dimensions before sewing. The eyelet row may relax differently from the solid rows.
When fitting the gusset, pin the bottom corners first, then distribute the remaining strip along the sides. Avoid stretching one piece to fit the other.
Attach pockets and sewn flowers while the front panel is flat. Removable charms can be added after the bag is complete.
For the handles, compare their free lengths before sewing the final attachment. Reinforce each overlap with a rectangle and an X.
Optional Fabric Lining
Measure the finished interior. Cut two fabric panels to the interior width and height, adding ½-inch seam allowances at the sides and bottom and 1 inch at the top.
Cut a matching gusset strip to the interior depth plus two ½-inch seam allowances. Measure its length around the lining panel’s sides and bottom, allowing extra fabric at both upper ends.
Sew the lining pieces together and place them inside the tote with the seam allowances facing the crochet fabric.
Turn the upper edge under twice and hand-stitch it beneath the bag opening. Keep the lining below any drawstring eyelets.
Best Yarn for an Autumn Harvest Crochet Tote
Smooth cotton yarn gives the color bands a clean appearance and makes the sunflower stitches easy to see.
Choose a hook that creates a firm but flexible fabric. A loose fabric may stretch more than you want, especially around the handles.
Use similar yarn weights for the sunflower center and petals. Very thick petals can overwhelm a small center, while thin petals may look sparse.
For a removable charm, keep its leaves, backing, and tassel compatible with the same washing method.
Best Autumn Color Combinations
- Burnt orange, mustard, and cream: Closest to the inspiration.
- Rust, antique gold, and oatmeal: A softer earthy palette.
- Terracotta, honey, and ivory: Warm colors with a lighter finish.
- Chocolate, ochre, and beige: A deeper neutral combination.
- Olive, mustard, and cream: A foliage-inspired alternative.
A dark brown sunflower center creates clear contrast with golden petals. Olive leaves add a small accent without competing with the bag’s stripes.
Beginner Crochet Tips
Mark Color Changes
Keep a row tally or place a marker at the beginning of each new band. Matching front and back stripes will make assembly look neater.
Practice One Petal
Complete one petal before continuing around the center. Check that you have worked all six return stitches in the classic version.
Keep the Center Flat
Use consistent tension in the sunflower’s increase rounds. If the center cups or ripples noticeably, check the stitch counts before adding petals.
Make the Tassel Last
Finish the bag and flower before trimming the tassel. You can then choose a length that hangs comfortably above the bottom edge.
Reinforce Long Handles
For additional support, sew woven cotton tape along the underside of each handle and secure its ends inside the attachment areas.
Shape Petals Gently
Follow the yarn’s care instructions when blocking. Arrange the petals with your fingers and avoid flattening them under a hot iron.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this project suitable for beginners?
The bag body uses mostly single crochet, making it approachable for a confident beginner. The sunflower introduces working in rounds and crocheting back along chains.
Does the pattern recreate the exact reference bag?
No. It uses an original, simpler panel construction while drawing on the reference’s autumn colors, long handles, sunflower, and tassel.
Can I remove the sunflower before washing?
Yes. The classic charm attaches with a loop, so you can remove it before washing or use it on another bag.
Do I need stuffing for the sunflower?
No. The flower uses a flat center and backing. The layered version gains dimension from its two petal rings.
Can I make the bag without eyelets?
Yes. Replace Row 49 with a regular row of 49 sc and work the remaining rows as written.
How should I care for the finished tote?
Follow the yarn and lining care instructions. Remove the charm, reshape the damp bag, and dry it flat. Smooth the tassel strands gently and avoid hanging a wet tote by its handles.
Final Thoughts
An autumn harvest crochet tote brings together useful construction and a cheerful seasonal detail. The orange, mustard, and cream bands provide the background, while the sunflower adds a personal finishing touch.
Choose the classic removable charm, a compact mini tote, or a layered flower version. Check your gauge, sew the handles securely, and take time to shape the petals for a neat handmade finish.
