Many “crochet-look” bags are knitted or woven by machine. A real handmade crochet bag can be recognised by a few signs. Here are six, to check on a photo or in your hands; our general article spotting a truly handmade piece sets out the basics.
1. Stitches with character
By hand, stitches are even but never perfectly identical: one row slightly tighter, one stitch a little taller. Absolute regularity, row after row, often gives a machine away.
2. Raised stitches
Crochet stitches are thick and raised: each one forms a small knot. Machine knitting, by contrast, produces small, flat, even Vs. It is often said that no machine truly reproduces crochet stitches, hence the price.
3. Sewn finishes
Turn the bag inside out: the starting and finishing threads are woven into the stitches with a needle, and the handles are sewn or crocheted onto the body of the bag. Machine stitching over an overlocked edge points to factory production.
4. Securely attached handles
On a handmade bag, the handle is mounted on rings, sewn at several points or crocheted into the body, to spread the weight. A glued or stapled handle soon gives way.
5. A price that makes sense
A bag crocheted by hand takes hours of work. A medium-sized crochet bag sold for a few euros cannot be handmade; a price of €45 to €75, like those of our crochet bags, is the price of a small handmade series.
6. One of a kind, with honest photos
A seller of handmade pieces shows the actual piece, gives the dimensions and mentions any small variations. On our product pages, each bag exists as a single piece and its measurements are given.
Red-flag words
“Crochet effect”, “crochet look”, “crochet style” or “knitted” rarely describe a piece crocheted by hand. Be wary, too, of identical photos across several sellers and of stock running to dozens in the same colour: a small handmade series is counted piece by piece.
Before you buy
Look closely at the photos, ask for a view of the inside if there is none, and check the dimensions and the returns policy. With us: 14 days to change your mind.
To choose the shape and the stitch: how to choose a handmade crochet bag. See all our crochet pieces.
Frequently asked questions
Is handmade crochet stronger?
When it is well made, yes: crochet stitches are dense, and sewn finishes hold better than glue.
How can you tell if a bag is crocheted or knitted?
Crochet forms raised stitches, like little knots; knitting forms flat, even Vs.
From the shop
