Crochet Handbag Pattern For Stylish Everyday Outings
Finished Size: Approximately 11 inches (28 cm) tall and 9 inches (23 cm) wide
Skill Level: Beginner
Estimated Time: 2-4 hours
Hook Size: 6 mm
Yarn: bulky yarn
Notions: Yarn needle, stitch marker, button (optional)
Gauge: Approximately 9 sc x 11 rounds = 4 inches with 6 mm hook
Reasons You'll Enjoy Making This
This crochet handbag is a bag worked in pink, turquoise, gold, and magenta. You will crochet the bag body, bag flap, stripe, handle, button closure, bag portion, shoulder strap, decorative cutout pattern, bag bottom, and the clasp. The instructions use basic stitches like single crochet, increases, and decreases, with clear round-by-round counts.
Use the pattern card as your material checklist before starting. The instructions include structured shape. The instructions include flap closure. The instructions include decorative cutout pattern. Keep your tension even, count stitches at the end of shaping rounds, and check the placement notes before sewing pieces together for a clean handmade result.
Before You Start: Pattern Notes
This project is a relaxed, satisfying make that comes together quickly and gives you a useful every day bag at the end. The shape is simple, the stitches repeat in a calm rhythm, and the finished piece feels sturdy enough to carry a wallet, phone, and a small book. It suits anyone who wants a handmade accessory without a long learning curve, and it works well as a gift because the neutral shape pairs with many personal styles. If you are new to crochet and want a project that looks polished without complicated shaping, this bag is a good place to start.
Yarn choice matters more than almost anything else here, since the finished bag measures roughly 11 inches tall and 9 inches wide. A worsted weight cotton or a cotton blend gives you a structured fabric that holds its shape and does not stretch out when the bag is loaded. Acrylic works too, though it can feel a bit softer and may need a stiffer lining if you want the sides to stand up on their own. For color, a single solid shade shows off the stitch pattern clearly and reads as classic, while stripes or a gentle two-tone can give the bag a more playful look without adding any extra difficulty. Pick a shade you like seeing often, since you will carry it with you most days.
One common pitfall is loose tension at the start of each round, which leaves a small gap or a wavy edge along the top of the bag. The fix is simple: chain your first stitch of the round a little tighter than usual, and check that your first real stitch sits snug against the join. Working over the loose tail of yarn for the first few stitches also locks everything in place and saves you from sewing it in later.
Materials and Supplies You'll Need
| Material | Details |
|---|---|
| Yarn | bulky yarn in pink, turquoise, gold, magenta, purple |
| Hook | 6 mm crochet hook |
| Closure | Button, snap, or zipper (optional) |
| Extras | Yarn needle, stitch markers, scissors |
Gauge: Approximately 9 sc x 11 rounds = 4 inches with 6 mm hook. Not critical but aim for tight, even stitches, if the case feels loose, go down one hook size.
Abbreviations You'll Need to Know
Note: This pattern uses US crochet terms. All rounds are worked in continuous rounds unless stated otherwise. Use a stitch marker in the first stitch of each round.
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| sc | Single crochet |
| sl st | Slip stitch |
| ch | Chain |
How to Crochet This Pattern
bag body, pink yarn
Row 1: Ch 35, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (34)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 9: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 10: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 11: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 12: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 13: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 14: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
Row 15: Ch 1, turn, sc across (34)
bag flap, pink yarn
Row 1: Ch 37, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (36)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 9: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 10: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 11: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 12: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 13: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 14: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 15: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 16: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 17: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 18: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 19: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 20: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 21: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 22: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 23: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Row 24: Ch 1, turn, sc across (36)
Switch to turquoise yarn for the stripe.
stripe, turquoise yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Switch to pink yarn for the handle.
handle, pink yarn
Rnd 1: Ch 15, join with sl st to form ring, sc in each ch around (14)
Rnd 2: sc around (14)
Rnd 3: sc around (14)
Rnd 4: sc around (14)
Rnd 5: sc around (14)
Fasten off. Do not stuff.
Switch to gold yarn for the button closure.
button closure, gold yarn
Row 1: Ch 7, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (6)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (6)
Switch to magenta yarn for the bag portion.
bag portion (make 2), magenta yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
shoulder strap, magenta yarn
Row 1: Ch 15, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (14)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (14)
decorative cutout pattern (make 2), magenta yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Switch to turquoise yarn for the bag bottom.
bag bottom, turquoise yarn
Row 1: Ch 17, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (16)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (16)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (16)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (16)
Switch to gold yarn for the clasp.
clasp, gold yarn
Row 1: Ch 11, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (10)
Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 4: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 5: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 6: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 7: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Row 8: Ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
Final Stitch Counts
- bag body: 34 stitches at widest point
- bag flap: 36 stitches at widest point
- stripe: 10 stitches at widest point
- handle: 14 stitches at widest point
- button closure: 6 stitches at widest point
- bag portion (x 2): 10 stitches at widest point
- shoulder strap: 14 stitches at widest point
- decorative cutout pattern (x 2): 10 stitches at widest point
- bag bottom: 16 stitches at widest point
- clasp: 10 stitches at widest point
Putting the Pieces Together
1. Sew bag body in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
2. Sew bag flap in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
3. Sew stripe in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
4. Sew handle in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
5. Sew button closure in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
6. Sew bag portion in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
7. Sew shoulder strap in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
8. Sew decorative cutout pattern in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
9. Sew bag bottom in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
10. Sew clasp in place following the reference photo. Pin first to check positioning, then whipstitch with matching yarn, weaving in the ends securely.
11. Check all seams are secure. Gently tug each attached piece to test. Trim any loose yarn ends with sharp scissors. Weave in all remaining tails with a needle, passing through at least 3 stitches in each direction to prevent unraveling. Slip your phone or item into the case to check the fit, then shape the fabric gently with your hands.
Maker Tips and Keeping It Clean
These beginner-friendly tips will help you crochet a well-shaped handbag using a 6 mm hook. Each suggestion focuses on a simple technique that supports clean stitches and a sturdy finished piece.
- Use stitch markers to mark the first stitch of every round, because the marker helps you count rounds correctly and prevents the seam from drifting sideways as the bag grows.
- Maintain even tension by wrapping the yarn around your fingers the same way for every stitch, because loose tension makes the fabric floppy while overly tight tension makes the bag stiff and hard to work into.
- Check your gauge by crocheting a 4-inch swatch before starting the bag, because matching the pattern gauge ensures the finished handbag will be the size listed on the card and will hold its shape nicely.
- Work decreases evenly spaced around the round rather than back-to-back, because spreading decreases out keeps the fabric flat and prevents the puckered corners that beginners often see at the base of a bag.
- When joining rounds, pull the working yarn snug to close the gap before starting the next stitch, because a loose join leaves a visible hole that weakens the side of the bag.
- If the pattern calls for color changes, finish the last stitch of the old color with the new color already on the hook, because this method avoids long strands to weave in later and keeps the color line clean.
- Block the finished panels before sewing them together, because blocking relaxes the stitches, evens out the edges, and helps the pieces line up well for assembly.
- Weave in all yarn tails with a needle on the wrong side of the fabric, because secure tails stop the ends from pulling loose when the bag is carried or washed.
Follow these care instructions to keep your crocheted handbag looking its best for years to come.
- Hand wash the bag
Common Questions About This Pattern
What yarn works best for a crochet handbag?
A bulky weight yarn is ideal for this crochet handbag because it creates a sturdy fabric that holds its shape well. Cotton or cotton-blend yarns are especially recommended since they offer structure and durability for every day use. Avoid very slippery or shiny yarns, as they may cause the bag to stretch or sag over time.
How long does it take to crochet this handbag?
Most crocheters complete this crochet handbag in 2-4 hours, depending on their pace and experience. Since the pattern uses bulky yarn and a 6 mm hook, the stitches work up quickly and the project moves along fast. Beginners may want to allow the full 4 hours, while more confident crocheters often finish closer to the 2-hour mark.
Is this crochet handbag pattern beginner-friendly?
Yes, this pattern is rated Beginner and uses only basic stitches like single crochet, half double crochet, and slip stitch. The bulky yarn and 6 mm hook make the stitches large and easy to see, which helps when you are still learning tension control. There are no advanced techniques required, so it is a great confidence-building project.
Can I make the crochet handbag in a different size?
You can easily resize this crochet handbag by adding or removing rounds in the body section before you start the handles. Just keep in mind that going much larger may require extra yarn beyond what the pattern lists. A simple way to test sizing is to crochet a small swatch and measure your gauge before beginning.
Am I allowed to sell finished crochet handbags made from this pattern?
Yes, you are welcome to sell finished crochet handbags made from this pattern, including at craft fairs, online shops, and local markets.
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