Macaron Pocket Backpack Free Crochet Pattern

Introduction

This Macaron Pocket Backpack is a sweet, beginner-friendly project that looks like it came straight from a Parisian patisserie window. It's made from two simple single crochet panels in a pastel pink and cream color block, joined with a neat pink border and finished with a tiny stuffed macaron appliqué. The flat, rectangular shape with softly rounded top corners keeps the construction easy, while the crocheted shoulder straps make it practical for everyday essentials. If you can single crochet, you can make this bag — and it feels sturdy, smooth, and just the right size for a phone, keys, and a small wallet.

Materials Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight (4) acrylic yarn — 200 yds pastel pink (A), 150 yds cream (B), and a small amount of mint green (C) and dark brown (D) for the macaron (C is optional for extra decoration).
• Hook: 5.5 mm (I-9) crochet hook.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch markers, a small amount of fiberfill for the macaron.
• Finished size: Approx 11.5" wide x 16" tall (including straps).

Abbreviations

• ch — chain: make a loop of yarn and pull through.
• sc — single crochet: insert hook, pull up a loop, yarn over, pull through both loops.
• sc2tog — single crochet two stitches together (a decrease): work one sc across two stitches to make one.
• inc — increase: work 2 sc in the same stitch.
• sl st — slip stitch: insert hook, pull up a loop, pull through the loop on your hook.
• MR — magic ring: an adjustable loop you crochet into.
• st(s) — stitch(es).

Gauge

12 sts x 14 rows = 4 inches in single crochet. Crochet a small swatch and measure a 4-inch section; if you have more stitches than 12, go up a hook size, and if you have fewer, go down.

Tips Before You Start

• Keep your single crochet tension even — the panels are joined through both layers, so consistent stitches make the border neat.
• Count your rows as you go; both panels need exactly 40 rows so the edges line up for joining.
• Don't overstuff the macaron — a light fill keeps it flat against the front panel.
• Use stitch markers at the top corners so you remember where the 3-sc corner curve goes.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Back Panel (A)

Row 1: Ch 35, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (34 sts).

Rows 2–40: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (34 sts). Do not fasten off.

Front Panel (B)

Row 1: Ch 35, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (34 sts).

Rows 2–40: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (34 sts). Fasten off.

Rounded Top Corners (A)

With right side facing, join A to the top right corner of the back panel.

Row 1: Sc2tog over first 2 sts, sc in next 30 sts, sc2tog over last 2 sts (32 sts).

Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in next 28 sts, sc2tog (30 sts). Fasten off.

Repeat for the top left corner.

Straps (make 2, A)

Row 1: Ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (5 sts).

Rows 2–50: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (5 sts). Fasten off.

Macaron Appliqué

Cream half (B):

Rnd 1: MR, 6 sc (6 sts).

Rnd 2: Inc x6 (12 sts).

Rnd 3: [Sc, inc] x6 (18 sts). Fasten off.

Pink half (A):

Rnd 1: MR, 6 sc (6 sts).

Rnd 2: Inc x6 (12 sts).

Rnd 3: [Sc, inc] x6 (18 sts). Do not fasten off.

Join B to A with sl st, leaving a small opening for filling. Stuff lightly with fiberfill, then close the opening. With D, embroider small vertical lines on the macaron for texture.

Assembly and Finishing

Place the front panel over the back panel, matching edges. Join with A using sc around the entire perimeter, working through both layers. At the top corners, work 3 sc in each corner for a smooth curve. Fasten off. Attach the straps to the top corners of the back panel, 2" from the sides, and to the bottom corners, 2" from the sides, using sc. Sew the macaron appliqué to the center of the front panel. Weave in all ends and lightly block the bag to even out the edges.

Pro Tips and Variations

• Swap the color block for stripes or a solid shade for a different look.
• Add a small button and loop closure at the top opening to keep essentials secure.
• Make extra macarons in mint green (C) and scatter them across the front panel for a patisserie display.