....are fun to crochet. There is so much scope. By varying not only your yarn and stitches, but also your hook size there is no limit to the types and designs you can create.

Don't be shy of trying to design your own.

For firmness and strength it is probably best to use a cotton yarn, a tight stitch and a smaller rather than a larger hook.

However, it is also possible to make looser floppier netting style bags which can be used for such things as toy holders, for grocery shopping or for storing your odd balls of leftover yarn. Such a bag would also be excellent for storing clean onions or potatoes to be hung up on the wall of a country style kitchen.

You could make a tiny coin purse in a jiffy, or a take more time over a large drawstring beach bag.

Try a glittery or feathery yarn for an evening clutch bag or an array of bright colours for a stripy baby bag to carry your baby's bottles and changing gear.

Below are a few free design instructions to get your creative juices flowing.

If you do want a bag crocheted in a fine yarn and a lacy stitch, you could line it with a contrasting or matching fabric to give strength and firmness.

Crochet straps and handles can sometimes be a problem. It may be best to make your straps shorter than you require as they may stretch with use. You could also opt for using wooden or plastic handles. These are perfect for crochet bags as you can crochet straight onto them as in the pattern below (Fluffy bag with hoop handles) 
 

crochet shoulder purse with flower and shell edging A pretty but sturdy little bag - very popular with children

Bag with circular handles
Make this bag easily and quickly in plain stitches, or for those with a bit more experience add fluffy or feathery stripes for a retro 60s look.

This sweet little crochet pouch is quick to make but needs some advanced crochet skills.