Not all crochet bags are created equal. Some are flimsy, some fall apart after one season, and some—well, some just look cheap. But whether they're totes, crossbodies, or market bags, quality, eco-friendly crochet bags should feel sturdy, look elevated, and last season after season.

At The Sak, we know a lot about crochet bags that stand the test of time. Here’s how to spot a well-made crochet bag that’s built to last—and worth investing in.

 

1. Start With the Materials

Quality crochet begins with what it's made from. Look for bags crafted from durable, thoughtfully sourced fibers, including recycled plastics, natural cotton, and sustainable hemp.

Many of The Sak's crochet offerings, including the Lanie Hand Crocheted Market Tote and Hand Crocheted 120 Hobo, use polypropylene yarn made from recycled ocean-bound plastics and are lined with REPREVE® recycled polyester. These sustainable handbags deliver durability without environmental cost.

For natural fibers, the Intertwined Hemp Hand-Crocheted Market Bag uses sustainable hemp, while the Kate Green Handmade Crochet Tote is fair trade and crafted from 100% cotton. Both are great examples of ethical fashion bags done right.

If the yarn looks thin or feels flimsy, pass. That’s a bag that will probably start to unravel after a few farmer’s market hauls. Other red flags? Loose ends, no lining, unclear sourcing, or vague sustainability claims.

Bottom line: If the materials aren’t durable, responsibly sourced, and clearly explained, the bag won’t be either. Quality crochet always starts with quality fibers.

 

2. Check for Handmade Craftsmanship

Mass-produced bags have uniform, machine-made stitching that often lacks character and looks like every other bag. Quality, handmade sustainable bags, like those from The Sak, feature artisan crochet work. Variations may occur due to the handmade techniques used by each artisan, making each bag completely special and one-of-a-kind. Some crochet bags from The Sak even include the artisan’s signature inside, so you know it was lovingly crafted by a skilled weaver.

So, look for subtle stitch variations and well-made, tight construction. If stitching is sloppy, uneven, or coming loose, then you know it’s not quality work.

Bottom line: True artisan crochet shows its humanity in meticulous construction, subtle variation, and thoughtful details that machines can’t replicate.

 

3. Look for Ethical Production & Upcycled Materials

Sustainable handbags should come from brands that are transparent about how their products are made. One of the clearest indicators that a brand is serious about ethical production is Certified B Corp status.

The Sak is a Certified B Corporation, meaning we meet rigorous standards for social and environmental responsibility, from responsible sourcing to fair labor practices. This commitment shows up in real, measurable ways, like the use of recycled ocean-bound plastics in many of our crochet bags, which transforms potential waste into durable, everyday accessories.

Sustainability also means thinking beyond the first owner. Through ReSak, our resale platform, customers can buy and sell gently used bags, extending the life of each piece and reducing overall waste. That kind of circular approach is a strong signal that sustainability is more than just a marketing message, it’s built into how we operate.

If a brand can’t clearly explain where its bags are made, what materials are used, or how it reduces its environmental impact, that’s a red flag, too. Quality eco-friendly bags should come with real transparency to back them up.

Bottom line: Real sustainability is backed by transparency and accountability. If a brand can’t clearly explain its practices, it’s probably all talk.

 

4. Prioritize Durability (Because Longevity Is the Most Sustainable Choice)

A truly sustainable crochet bag is one you’ll carry for years, not one you’ll replace after a single season. Durability is where quality craftsmanship and thoughtful design really show.

Look for tight, even stitching, reinforced handles, and a lined interior, especially in larger crochet totes that need to handle daily wear. A lined crochet bag is often a sign of higher craftsmanship. Linings help maintain shape, prevent stretching, and protect the bag from wear. Bags lined with recycled materials—like REPREVE^®—add durability without sacrificing sustainability. If a bag is unlined and loosely woven, it’s more likely to sag or lose structure over time.

Well-made crochet bags should feel sturdy in your hands, not fragile or overly soft. If the structure feels weak when it’s empty, it won’t hold up once it’s filled.

Styles like The Sak’s Los Feliz Large Tote in Hand Crochet are designed with longevity in mind. They’re strong enough to replace disposable shopping bags while still looking polished. Other durable options, like Clare V.’s Summer Simple Tote or MZ Wallace’s Crochet Denim Tote, are also built for repeat use with minimal care.

Bottom line: A sustainable crochet bag should feel sturdy from day one and get better with time—not fall apart under real-life use.

 

5. Choose a Crochet Bag That Fits Your Life (Not Just Your Outfit)

A quality crochet bag should work as hard as you do. Before buying, think about how you’ll actually use it. The most sustainable bag, after all, is the one you’ll reach for again ... and again!

If you’re hauling groceries, beach towels, or everyday essentials, a lined crochet tote or market bag with reinforced handles will hold its shape and weight better over time. Styles like The Sak’s Los Feliz Hobo in Hand Crochet or the 120 Hobo are designed for repeated use, making them smart replacements for disposable bags.

For daily wear, look for a crochet crossbody with a tighter stitch and comfortable strap. Our favorite is the Los Feliz Crossbody in Hand Crochet. The hands-free design and durable construction make it ideal for everyday use.

And if you’re drawn to more delicate or open-weave crochet styles, make sure they’re meant for lighter loads or feature a lining to protect the structure. A beautiful bag that can’t handle real life isn’t very sustainable in the long run.

Bottom line: The most sustainable bag is the one you actually use. Choose a crochet style that fits your routine, not just your wardrobe.

 

The Bottom Bottom Line

Quality sustainable handbags are about more than looks. They’re defined by smart materials, skilled craftsmanship, ethical production, and long-term durability. Whether you’re shopping for recycled material bags, upcycled designs, or handmade sustainable accessories, knowing what to look for helps you invest in pieces that truly last.