Introduction
Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or an intermediate maker ready for a fun challenge, this pattern breaks down into manageable pieces. Not only will you create a stunning statement piece, but you'll also have a one-of-a-kind handmade gift that'll make any recipient smile. Let's create some yarn magic! ✨
Materials
- Yarn: Approximately 1,200–1,400 yards of worsted weight yarn in the following colors:
- Bright Yellow — 400 yards (for the smiley face, accents, and details)
- Rust/Terracotta — 350 yards (for granny squares and color blocking)
- Teal/Dusty Blue-Gray — 350 yards (for granny squares and straps)
- Cream/Off-White — 150 yards (for sunflower centers and details)
- Crochet Hook: US size H/5.0 mm hook (for the main body); US size G/4.0 mm hook (for finer details)
- Notions:
- Tapestry needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers
- Scissors
- Wooden beads (approximately 6–8 beads, 15–20 mm diameter) for sunflower centers
- Optional: Button for flap closure (1–1.5 inches)
- Sewing needle and coordinating thread
- Finished Size: Approximately 11 inches wide × 10 inches tall (excluding straps); strap length approximately 24 inches
Abbreviations (US Terms)
| Abbreviation | Term |
|---|---|
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single Crochet |
| dc | Double Crochet |
| sk | Skip |
| sl st | Slip Stitch |
| inc | Increase |
| st(s) | Stitch(es) |
| rnd | Round |
| sp | Space |
| yo | Yarn Over |
| tog | Together |
| st | Stitch |
| cl | Cluster |
| popcorn st | Popcorn stitch (for sunflower texture) |
Step 1: Create the Main Body Base with Granny Squares
This backpack is constructed from 12 granny squares (3×4 arrangement) that form the main body. Granny squares are perfect for this project because they're modular, colorful, and add that vintage boho aesthetic.
Single Granny Square Pattern (Make 12 total):
Rnd 1: Ch 4, sl st to form a ring.
- Ch 3 (counts as first dc), 2 dc in ring, ch 2, 3 dc in ring, ch 2 repeat 3 times. Sl st to top of ch-3. (4 groups of 3 dc with ch-2 spaces)
Rnd 2: Sl st to ch-2 sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, ch 1, 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in next corner sp, ch 1 repeat around. Sl st to finish. (This creates the characteristic 4-corner granny square.)
Rnd 3: Sl st to ch-2 corner sp, ch 3, 2 dc in same sp, ch 1, 3 dc in ch-1 sp, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner. Repeat pattern around. Fasten off.
Color Arrangement:
- Squares 1–4 (Left column): Rust/terracotta
- Squares 5–8 (Center column): Teal with yellow accents
- Squares 9–12 (Right column): Rust/terracotta with teal accents
- Mix and match colors across rounds for visual interest!
Joining the Squares:
Once all 12 squares are complete, whip-stitch them together using a tapestry needle, creating a 3×4 grid (3 squares wide, 4 squares tall). This forms the main body of your backpack.
The flap is the showstopper! It features a large smiling sun face on a scalloped background.
Flap Base (Yellow):
Rnd 1–3: Using yellow yarn and size H hook, follow the granny square pattern to create one large granny square for the flap (repeat Steps 1–3 above, but continue for an additional round if desired for a larger flap).
Smiley Face Appliqué (on top of yellow base):
Using yellow yarn, create a circle:
Rnd 1: Using Magic Ring, ch 1, 6 sc in ring. (6)
Rnd 2: Inc in each st. (12)
Rnd 3: Sc 1, inc repeat around. (18)
Rnd 4: Sc in each st. (18)
Rnd 5: Sc 2, dec repeat around. (13)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. Stuff lightly with yarn scraps. This circle will be the sun's face.
Embroidering the Smile:
Using black embroidery thread or black yarn, embroider:
- Two simple dots for eyes
- A curved smile (use backstitch or chain stitch)
Scalloped Edge Trim:
Along the outer edge of the flap, work a scallop edging using yellow yarn:
- Sc 2, then 5 dc in next st (creating a scallop), sk 1 st repeat around.
This creates a petal-like, decorative border.
Attaching the Flap:
Whip-stitch the completed flap to the top of the main body (top row of granny squares), centering it so it covers approximately 2–3 squares.
Step 3: Create the Sunflower Appliqués
The sunflowers are the jewels of this backpack! You'll make 4–6 separate sunflower motifs to appliqué onto the main body.
Single Sunflower Pattern (Make 4–6):
Petals (Yellow):
Rnd 1: Using yellow yarn and size G hook, ch 4, sl st to form ring.
- Ch 1, 8 sc in ring. (8)
Rnd 2: Ch 3, sl st in next st repeat 8 times. (8 petals)
Rnd 3: Working behind petals, sc in each sc of Rnd 1. (8)
Rnd 4: Inc in each st. (16)
Sunflower Center (Cream, then Brown):
Switch to cream yarn:
- Ch 1, 16 sc around. (16)
Center Circle (Brown for depth):
- Switch to brown yarn, ch 1, sc 2 tog repeat around. (8)
- Fasten off, leaving a tail for sewing.
Finishing the Sunflower:
- Sew the wooden bead to the very center of the flower for a beautiful 3D effect.
- Weave in all ends.
Placement on the Body:
Arrange sunflowers across the main body of the backpack, positioning them:
- Two flowers on the lower left granny square
- Two flowers on the lower right granny square
- One or two flowers on the center squares
Sew each flower securely using the tapestry needle and coordinating yarn.
The straps are functional and stylish, featuring bold yellow and teal stripes.
Strap Pattern (Make 2):
Using size G hook, alternating yellow and teal:
Row 1: With yellow, ch 6. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (5 sc)
Rows 2–60: Sc in each st across, changing colors every 4 rows to create stripes:
- Rows 2–5: Yellow
- Rows 6–9: Teal
- Rows 10–13: Yellow
- Continue pattern until strap reaches approximately 24 inches.
Fasten off, weave in ends.
Attaching the Straps:
Sew one strap to the left side of the backpack (approximately 2 inches from the top edge) and the other strap to the right side, ensuring they're evenly spaced. Test the fit by trying on the backpack before permanently sewing.
Step 5: Finishing Touches & Details
Add decorative beads or tassels:
- Sew 2–3 small wooden beads between sunflowers for added visual texture and a boho feel.
- Optional: Add small cream or yellow tassels at the bottom corners of the backpack.
Flap Closure (Optional):
If you'd like a functional closure:
- Sew a button (approximately 1 inch) to the smiley face flap.
- Crochet a small loop on the main body (below the flap) using slip stitches to secure the button.
Final Blocking:
Lightly steam-block your finished backpack to even out stitches and set the shape. This step is especially important for granny squares to ensure they lay flat.
Weave in all remaining ends with your tapestry needle and press any loose threads into the fabric.
✨ Yarn Selection: This project works beautifully with acrylic or cotton-blend yarn. For a more sustainable option, consider using recycled yarn or eco-friendly brands.
✨ Color Customization: Feel free to swap colors! Try pastels for a spring version, jewel tones for fall, or all one color for a minimalist look.
✨ Granny Square Sizing: If you want a larger or smaller backpack, simply change your hook size:
- Larger: US size I/5.5 mm
- Smaller: US size G/4.0 mm
✨ Sunflower Variations:
- Make larger sunflowers by adding an extra round to the petal section.
- Try different center bead colors (wood, ceramic, metal) for variety.
✨ Personalization: Embroider initials or a name on one of the granny squares for a personalized gift.
Matching Accessory Pattern: Crocheted Sunflower Hair Clip or Brooch
Want to create a matching accessory? Here's a quick pattern for a small sunflower pin!
Mini Sunflower (For Hair Clip or Brooch):
Petals:
- Using yellow and size G hook, ch 4, sl st to ring.
- Ch 1, 6 sc in ring.
- Ch 2, sl st in next st repeat 6 times.
- Fasten off.
Center:
- Switch to cream, ch 1, work 6 sc around the base.
- Fasten off, add a small bead to the center.
Finishing:
- Sew a small hair clip or brooch pin to the back using a needle and thread.
This creates an adorable 1.5–2 inch flower perfect for coordinating with your new backpack!
Pattern Notes
- Skill Level: Intermediate (requires proficiency with granny squares, appliqué, and basic shaping)
- Estimated Time: 20–30 hours, depending on experience and color changes
- Care Instructions: Hand wash in cool water with gentle soap; lay flat to dry. Avoid high heat.
- Yarn Weight: Worsted weight (or equivalent) works best for structure and durability.
Wrapping Up
Congratulations on completing this absolutely adorable Crochet Sunflower Backpack! You've created a functional, eye-catching accessory that combines classic granny square charm with modern boho style. Whether you're keeping it for yourself or gifting it to someone special, this backpack is guaranteed to brighten every day.
Share your creations! Post photos of your finished backpack on social media and tag us—we'd love to see your unique color combinations and see how you've personalized your version. And if you found this pattern helpful, please consider pinning it, sharing it with fellow crocheters, and leaving a comment below.
Happy crocheting! May your stitches be even and your colors vibrant! 🌻💛🧶
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