The pattern on the package was for a crocheted purse, but since I was lazy and didn't check the gauge first, it came out much larger than intended (this was the first thing I'd crocheted in a LONG while). Then I decided to not follow the pattern at all, and just make something up. What came out was a nice-sized tote bag (great for the woman who carries everything including the kitchen sink in her purse) which I lined and gave a button closure.
The entire bag was crocheted half-double around the post. The main body is just one big rectangle sewn up the sides. The strap was made separately and sewn on, and the tab for the button was created by picking up stitches along the top of the body, and then using chain/skip to create the (horizontal) hole. Then I went to Joann Fabrics and bought the World's Largest Button.
If you're curious to see the original pattern, it is available for free on Bernat's web site. I won't post a link, because you need to sign up and log in to see it, but you can get to it using the link to the yarn posted above.
