Compact Crochet Handbag Pattern that fits all your essentials

Upgrade your look with this Crochet Handbag Pattern for a chic, versatile accessory that adds charm and flair to any outfit effortlessly.

A chic accessory that effortlessly blends style and practicality adds a sophisticated touch to any outfit. This Crochet Handbag Pattern transforms yarn into a sleek, structured bag designed to carry everyday essentials like a wallet, keys, phone, or small personal items. Its textured stitches and refined silhouette make it a standout piece, perfect for casual outings, office use, or special occasions.

Modern Crochet Handbag Pattern for sleek and versatile fashion

The design emphasizes a balanced structure with smooth edges and sturdy handles, ensuring the bag holds its shape while remaining lightweight and easy to carry. Customization options are endless—different yarn types, colors, or subtle embellishments like tassels, charms, or patterned details allow each handbag to reflect personal style.

Soft to the touch yet durable, it combines elegance with functionality. Beyond practical use, assembling the bag offers a mindful, rewarding experience, making it not just an accessory but a creative project that brings beauty, charm, and everyday convenience together seamlessly.

Materials Needed

16 TKT mercerized cotton thread (double twisted for durability)
3.5 mm crochet hook
Needle for sewing
Scissors
Snap button, Velcro, or zipper (for closure, optional)
Decorative elements (optional, e.g., buttons, beads, applique)

Special Features

Elegant circular purse body with textured shell pattern
Sturdy, neat base and handle
Option to customize closure (button, snap, zipper, Velcro)
Decorative and functional, suitable for customization

Level of Difficulty

Beginner to Easy Intermediate: Uses chains, slip stitch, single crochet, double crochet, and simple seaming.

Step-by-Step Pattern

1. Begin the Main Ring

Make a slip knot.
Chain 51.
- Ensure the number of chains is a multiple of 3 for the pattern.
Carefully join with a slip stitch to the first chain to form a ring.

2. Foundation Round

Chain 1.
Single crochet in the first chain and in each chain around — 51 single crochets total.
Join to the initial chain with a slip stitch to close the round.

3. Shell Pattern Rounds

Chain 3 (counts as first double crochet).
Pattern Sequence: [1 double crochet in each of the next two stitches, then 3 double crochets into the next stitch (shell)].
- Repeat: 1 dc, 1 dc, 3 dc (shell) around the ring to increase the flare and shape.
Continue this sequence around, ending with three double crochets at the end.
Join with a slip stitch into the back post of the starting chain 3 (this secures the round neatly from the back).

Note:

Repeat this shell-pattern round as desired. Each round:

Chain 3 to begin,
Work 1 double crochet in each individual double,
Make 3 double crochets in the center stitch of each shell.

Continue for about 10 rounds or your preferred depth, finishing each round as above.

4. Making the Base

Select any spot on the ring to begin the base.
Chain 1.
Work 7 single crochets in the next 7 stitches for the base foundation.
At the end, make 2 slip stitches at the edge to turn.
Turn work and skip these slip stitches. Work 7 single crochets across.
Repeat:
- At each row-end, make 2 slip stitches to edge, turn, and keep working 7 single crochets back.
Continue this process until the base covers the required width.

5. Joining the Base

Cut the thread, leaving a tail.
Thread the tail through a needle.
Fold the base and join the sides to the main body using whip stitch or mattress stitch, aligning stitch to stitch.

6. Adding the Handle (Overview)

Crochet a separate strap/handle to your desired length and style.
(See link to handle tutorial or make a simple chain and single crochet over it for thickness.)
Attach the handle securely to both sides of the purse, working from the inside for a neat finish.

7. Purse Edging (Optional)

Add several rounds of single crochet around the purse opening for a neat, sturdy edge (2–3 rounds recommended).

8. Attach Fastener and Finish

Add a snap, button, Velcro, or zipper for closure as desired.
Weave in all loose ends and trim excess yarn.
Add embellishments as desired.

Tutor’s Suggestions

When joining the initial chain, take care it isn’t twisted to keep your base round neat.
Adjust the purse size by increasing or decreasing the initial chain (in multiples of 3).
Crochet several rounds at the opening for extra structure.
Attach the handle from the inside for a clean look if you don’t have connectors.

Uses

Everyday purse or clutch
Cosmetic or accessories bag
Great as a handmade gift
Ideal for customizing with colors and embellishments

Tip

Joining rounds from the back post rather than the front creates a tidier seam and enhances the purse’s overall look. Be sure to work evenly and check your circle stays flat as your rounds grow.

Conclusion

This elegant crochet purse combines practical construction with eye-catching design. The shell stitch lends rich texture, while the sturdy base and handle ensure durability for everyday use. Experiment with closures and embellishments for a truly personalized accessory.