This crochet lunch bag that unfolds into a placemat is an excellent way to enjoy your meals on the go while staying eco-friendly. Easy to make, it uses basic stitches like double crochet and single crochet, making it satisfying for both new and seasoned crocheters. The versatility of this project makes it perfect for anyone looking to reduce waste in style.

You’ll enjoy not only the practical use of this bag but also the skills you’ll gain in measuring, counting stitches, and working with different crochet techniques.

Why You’ll Love This Lunch Bag

  • Functional design – easily goes from a stylish lunch bag to a placemat.
  • Quick to make – total project time is only about 6–8 hours.
  • Eco-friendly – great alternative to disposable bags and plates.
  • Customizable colors – choose cotton yarns that fit your style.

Is This Pattern Good for Beginners?

Absolutely! You will learn valuable skills like managing gauge and practicing basic stitches, all while creating a useful item.

Crochet Abbreviations (US Terms)

  • ch – chain
  • dc – double crochet
  • sl st – slip stitch
  • sc – single crochet
  • sk – skip
  • sp – space
  • RS – right side
  • WS – wrong side

Size and Gauge

  • Finished dimensions of lunch bag: 30.5 × 15.2 × 10 cm (12 × 6 × 4 in).
  • Finished dimensions of placemat: 30.5 × 45.7 cm (12 × 18 in).
  • Gauge: 10 dc and 6 rows = 10 cm (4 in).

How to Crochet the Lunch Bag and Placemat (Step by Step)

Body of the Lunch Bag

The body of the lunch bag is created using flat rows.

  1. Foundation Row: Ch 35.
  2. Row 1: Dc in the 4th ch from the hook (this counts as the first dc), dc across the chain. (33 dc)
  3. Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as a dc), turn, dc in the next 32 dc. (33 dc)
  4. Rows 3–12: Repeat Row 2 for a total of 11 rows.
  5. Row 13: Ch 1, turn, sc in the first 33 dc. (33 sc)
  6. Row 14: Ch 1, turn, (sc in next 15 dc, ch 5, sk 3 dc, sc in next 15 dc). (33 sc, 1 ch 5 sp)
  7. Rows 15–16: Ch 1, turn, sc across (33 sc).
  8. Row 17: Ch 1, turn, sc in first 3 sc, ch 5, sk 27 sc. (3 sc + 1 ch 5 sp)
  9. Row 18: Ch 3, turn, dc in next 32 sc. (33 dc)
  10. Rows 19–20: Repeat Row 18 for a total of 2 rows.
  11. Row 21: Ch 1, turn, sc in all stitches. (33 sc)
  12. Row 22: Ch 1, turn, (sc in next 15 sc, ch 5, sk 3 sc, sc in next 15 sc). (33 sc, 1 ch 5 sp)
  13. Row 23: Ch 1, turn, sc across (33 sc).
  14. Row 24: Ch 1, turn, sc in first 3 sc, ch 5, sk 27 sc. (3 sc + 1 ch 5 sp)
  15. Row 25: Ch 3, turn, dc in next 32 sc. (33 dc)
  16. Row 26: Ch 1, turn, sc in all stitches. (33 sc)

Fold and seam the last 5 rows to create the bottom of the bag. Sc the edges of the bag to close securely.

Placemat

This section creates the placemat directly from the lunch bag.

  1. Row 1: Starting from the top edge of the lunch bag (unfolded), ch 35.
  2. Row 2: Dc in the 4th ch from the hook, dc across. (33 dc)
  3. Rows 3–9: Repeat Row 2 for a total of 7 rows.
  4. Border: Sc around the outside of the placemat for 2 rounds. (Approx. 2 sc in corners)
  5. Fasten off.

Adding the Button

  • Sew the button to the top of the front side of the bag.
  • Create a buttonhole by chaining 5 and skipping the corresponding single crochet below.

Finishing Placemat

  • Place heavy-duty fabric or interfacing behind the placemat.
  • Optionally, iron the placemat to smooth out edges and rows.

Weaving in Ends

Weave in all loose ends using a tapestry needle.

Blocking

Block the placemat to even out stitches if necessary.

Beginner Tips for a Neat Lunch Bag

  • Use stitch markers to keep track of rows and avoid confusion.
  • Count stitches after each row to maintain evenness.
  • Check your tension and adjust your hook size if stitches feel too tight or loose.

Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them)

  • “My stitches are too tight.” – This may indicate the hook size is too small; try a larger size.
  • “The piece is curling.” – This can happen from working too tightly; try to relax and check your tension.
  • “I have uneven sides.” – Check your starting chain length; uneven counts can lead to misalignments.

How to Care for Your Lunch Bag

Hand wash with mild detergent and lay flat to dry. Avoid wringing to maintain the shape.

FAQ

How do I resize my lunch bag?

To resize, simply adjust the number of chains in your foundation row and keep the rest of the pattern proportions consistent.

What yarn can I use as a substitute?

You can substitute with any worsted-weight cotton yarn, ensuring it matches in thickness for the best results.

How do I wash the placemat?

Hand wash with mild soap and lay flat to dry to preserve the integrity of the cotton fibers.

Looking for more ideas? Check out our collection of lovely bags.

Crochet Lunch Bag That Unfolds Into a Placemat (The Lunch Unroll)

Image shown for inspiration — your finished result may vary slightly.