Crocheting handbags combines functionality and fashion in one beautiful craft. Unlike many store-bought bags, crochet handbags can be tailored in size, color, texture, and style, offering the perfect blend of individuality and creativity. Whether you’re new to crochet or a seasoned expert, crafting your bag can be immensely rewarding.
This in-depth guide showcases some of the most beautiful crochet handbag patterns available, ranging from casual totes to elegant purses. Each pattern listed includes skill levels, materials, construction techniques, and styling tips, helping you choose the right bag for your wardrobe and skill set.
1. Boho Fringe Bucket Bag
Overview:
The Boho Fringe Bucket Bag is a true showstopper. With its casual drape, spacious interior, and eye-catching fringe, it’s the ultimate accessory for festival days, picnics, or spontaneous weekends. It combines aesthetic appeal with functionality — the bucket shape gives it roomy storage, while the fringes add that carefree bohemian charm.
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Recommended Yarn:
Worsted-weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn. Cotton is especially great because it offers structure without too much stretch.
Hook Size:
4.0 mm (G-6)
Materials:
-
Yarn in a neutral or earthy tone (tan, olive, rust, mustard)
-
Magnetic snap or drawstring
-
Optional: leather straps or crochet strap, lining fabric, darning needle
Key Techniques:
-
Magic Ring: For starting the circular base of the bucket.
-
Single Crochet (sc): Forms a dense and sturdy fabric.
-
Puff Stitch: Adds texture and visual interest.
-
Fringe Attachment: Yarn strands are looped through stitches at the base or sides.
Construction:
The bag starts with a circular base worked in the round. Once the base reaches the desired diameter, you stop increasing and begin working up the sides. The sides are made using alternating rounds of single crochet and puff stitches. The top of the bag can feature eyelets for a drawstring or a folded hem with magnetic snaps. Finish with long, evenly spaced fringe and optional straps.
Pro Tip:
Use a fabric lining to keep the bag’s shape and ensure your items don’t stretch out the fabric over time.
2. Classic Granny Square Tote
Overview:
Timeless and endlessly customizable, the Granny Square Tote pays homage to the iconic granny square motif while giving it a fresh, modern twist. This is a great stash-buster project and an excellent way to play with color.
Skill Level:
Advanced Beginner to Intermediate
Recommended Yarn:
DK or worsted weight yarn in multiple colors.
Hook Size:
4.5 mm (US 7)
Materials:
-
Yarn in at least 5 colors (more for a mosaic look)
-
Tapestry needle
-
Optional: Fabric lining, interfacing, handles (wooden, leather, or crochet)
Key Techniques:
-
Traditional Granny Square: 3 double crochets separated by chain stitches in a square pattern.
-
Slip Stitch Join: To connect the squares cleanly.
-
Seaming and Blocking: Helps the bag maintain shape and symmetry.
Construction:
Begin by crocheting 13–17 granny squares (depending on size). Arrange them in a grid to create a front, back, and sides. After joining, crochet a flat base and attach it. A round or rectangular piece of reinforced fabric can be added inside for durability. You can crochet handles or attach pre-made ones.
Pro Tip:
For a structured tote, block each square before assembly, and sew in a thick canvas lining.
3. Mini Shell Stitch Crossbody Bag
Overview:
Chic, compact, and just the right size for your essentials, this crossbody bag is as functional as it is feminine. Shell stitches give it a lacy appearance while keeping the fabric sturdy enough to carry everyday items like keys, cards, and a phone.
Skill Level:
Intermediate
Recommended Yarn:
Sport weight yarn or a bamboo/cotton blend for a silky finish.
Hook Size:
3.5 mm (E-4)
Materials:
-
Yarn in a solid pastel or jewel tone
-
Lining fabric
-
Small zipper or button
-
Chain strap or crocheted i-cord strap
Key Techniques:
-
Shell Stitch: Typically 5 double crochets in one stitch or space.
-
Shaping: Increases and decreases for the flap.
-
Strap Attachment: Can be sewn or clipped with small metal rings.
Construction:
This bag is worked from the bottom up in the round or flat and seamed. The main body uses shell stitch, while the flap uses a decrease in shell stitch to taper. A lining helps prevent stretch, and a button or zipper keeps your contents secure.
Pro Tip:
Try adding a crochet flower or metal charm on the flap for a personalized finish.
4. Raffia-Inspired Market Bag
Overview:
Lightweight and rustic, the raffia-style market bag is ideal for eco-conscious makers who love minimalism and natural fibers. It’s airy, breathable, and stylish — great for market days or beach outings.
Skill Level:
Advanced Beginner
Recommended Yarn:
Raffia yarn, paper yarn, or cotton-linen blend
Hook Size:
5.0 mm (H-8)
Materials:
-
Natural-fiber yarn
-
Stitch markers
-
Optional: stiffener for the base, wooden beads
Key Techniques:
-
Mesh Stitch: Alternating chains and single crochets for an open pattern.
-
Round Base: Created with increases in the round.
-
Reinforced Top Edge: Often worked in tighter stitches or ribbing for strength.
Construction:
Begin with a circular base worked in the round using single crochet or half-double crochet. Then transition into the mesh pattern and work upward until the bag reaches the desired height. The top is finished with a few rounds of single crochet or slip stitch ribbing, and the handles are crocheted as one with the body or attached separately.
Pro Tip:
You can use raffia-look yarns made of cotton if actual raffia is too stiff or hard on your hands.
5. Structured Crochet Handbag with Handles
Overview:
This pattern is for the crocheter who wants to create a handbag that rivals designer labels. Using a dense yarn and structural elements like interfacing and lining, this bag is both stylish and sturdy.
Skill Level:
Advanced
Recommended Yarn:
T-shirt yarn or tightly spun cotton cord
Hook Size:
6.0 mm (J-10)
Materials:
-
T-shirt yarn in neutral tones
-
Heavy interfacing or plastic canvas
-
Magnetic clasp or twist lock
-
Purse handles (wooden, resin, or leather)
-
Sewing machine (optional for lining)
Key Techniques:
-
Tapestry Crochet: For colorwork and texture.
-
Box Construction: Involves seaming sides and bottom.
-
Adding Structure: Includes inserting interfacing and lining.
Construction:
This handbag is usually made in pieces — front, back, sides, bottom — and then joined. Before sewing, interfacing is added to each panel. After joining the panels, lining is sewn in, and hardware like clasps and handles are attached last.
Pro Tip:
Choose a minimalist color palette like black, ivory, or navy for a luxurious, high-end look.
General Tips for Crocheting Handbags
-
Yarn Choice Matters: Cotton yarn is the go-to for most handbags due to its strength and minimal stretch. T-shirt yarn is excellent for bulkier, structured bags.
-
Blocking helps: It’s especially important for granny squares and shell stitch bags.
-
Lining Adds Longevity: Use canvas, muslin, or even recycled fabric to line your bag and increase durability.
-
Use Stitch Markers: Especially helpful for counting rounds or identifying strap placement.
-
Hardware Elevates Your Bag: Clasps, handles, and feet can take your bag from handmade to high-fashion.
Final Thoughts
Crocheting your handbags opens up a world of style, sustainability, and satisfaction. With so many pattern possibilities and customization options, every bag becomes a work of art, stitched by your own hands. Whether you’re heading to a picnic with your market tote or out for the evening with your elegant shell stitch purse, you’ll carry a piece of your creativity with you.
So go ahead — pick your favorite pattern, choose your yarn, and create a stunning crochet handbag that reflects your style.
Certainly! Here are some YouTube tutorials to help you create stunning crochet handbags:
1. Easy Crochet Bag for Beginners
This tutorial guides you through crafting a simple yet stylish tote bag, perfect for those new to crochet. by Soulful Notions channel
2. Simple Crochet Shoulder Bag Tutorial
Learn how to make a chic shoulder bag with this step-by-step guide, suitable for various skill levels. By VivCrochets channel
3. Easy Crochet Boho Bag Step by Step Tutorial
This tutorial demonstrates how to create a boho-style tote bag, adding a trendy touch to your accessories.
These tutorials offer a range of styles and difficulty levels, allowing you to choose the perfect project for your skill set and fashion preferences. Happy crocheting!
