Bags And Purses: A Guide To Crochet Patterns

Crocheting is a timeless skill that allows you to create beautiful accessories and gifts. From knitting to felting, there are many ways to create textiles from yarn. 

In this article, we’ll show you how to crochet bags and purses of all shapes and sizes. We’ll also explain the basic techniques for crocheting these projects and share some helpful tips along the way!

How to crochet a bag with PERFECT shape!
Takeaways
Crochet bags and purses are a great way to add handmade style to your wardrobe and accessories.
There are many different crochet bag patterns to choose from, including messenger bags, tote bags, and drawstring bags.
When choosing yarn for your crochet bag, opt for durable, sturdy yarn that will hold up well over time.
Crochet bag patterns can vary in difficulty, so it’s important to choose a pattern that matches your skill level.
You can easily customize your crochet bag by changing up the colors, adding embellishments, or modifying the size and shape to fit your personal style and needs.

Crochet Market Bag

This crochet pattern is a simple and easy bag that you can make in no time. This pattern comes from Lion Brand Yarn, and is available on their website. 

It’s made in single crochet, with a drawstring closure at the top of the bag. The bag has some weight to it, so it’s very sturdy and could be used as either a market or grocery bag for food items like bread or produce.

Transform your home into a beautiful oasis with our guide on how to crochet your way to beautiful home decor. Whether you’re a seasoned crochet expert or just starting out, our easy-to-follow patterns will leave your home looking cozy and stylish.

Crochet Clutch

The clutch is a bag that you can use for carrying small things, like your phone, keys and wallet. It’s also great for when you want to have something in your purse or backpack but don’t want to carry around the whole bag. 

The clutch is usually made with a single piece of fabric folded over with a drawstring closure on top.

You’ll need:

  • 5mm hook
  • Yarn weight: DK (11-12 stitches per 4 inches/10cm)
  • Scissors

Crochet Clutch Pattern Ideas

Pattern NameSkill LevelDescription
Simple Crochet ClutchBeginnerThis easy pattern is a great introduction to crochet clutches, featuring a basic design with a fold-over flap and button closure.
Chevron ClutchIntermediateThis stylish clutch features a trendy chevron pattern and button closure, perfect for dressing up or down.
Granny Square ClutchIntermediateBring a vintage vibe to your outfits with this crochet clutch made from granny squares.
Boho ClutchAdvancedThis intricate crochet pattern features a boho-inspired design with tassels and fringe.
Envelope ClutchAdvancedSleek and sophisticated, this envelope clutch is perfect for a night out on the town. Featuring a simple stitch pattern and magnetic closure.

Handbag

If you’re looking for a project that will use up a lot of yarn, this bag is the one for you. You can also use it as a great excuse to play around with different stitches and textures: just pick your favorite type of stitch and go crazy!

First, choose your hook size and yarn type based on how large you want the bag to be. The recommended hook size is J10MM (or 10mm), but if you want something bigger or smaller then feel free to adjust accordingly. Make sure that the weight isn’t too light—you don’t want to make a garment out of it!

Add a touch of crochet charm to every season with our guide on crochet home decor for every season. From festive wreaths to cozy blankets, you’ll find the perfect pattern to set the mood for any occasion.

Shoulder Bag

The Shoulder Bag is a great beginner project, as it requires only basic stitches and techniques. The bag itself works up quickly, but you’ll want to give yourself lots of time for the lining.

What You’ll Need:

  • Hooks: H/8 5mm (for main bag) and D/3 3.25mm (for lining)
  • Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn; approximately 150 yards for main bag and about 150 yards for lining
  • Tapestry needle
  • A button (optional)

Crochet Tote Bag

This bag is a great beginner project. It’s easy to follow and the stitches are easy to understand. All you need is your hook and yarn!

Materials Needed:

  • Yarn (I used medium weight)
  • Hook (E)
  • Large Eye Needle or Tapestry Needle for sewing together pieces of fabric

The pattern calls for dk(light worsted) weight yarn and an H hook. I found that using this size yarn gave me results closer to what was shown in the photo than using my usual worsted weight wool/acrylic blend would have done.

I am currently following along with Doreen Turnbow’s tutorial on her blog, Yarn Obsession, but will update this post when I finish it so you can see how it looks when finished!

Crochet Tote Bag Pattern Ideas

Pattern NameSkill LevelDescription
Market Tote BagBeginnerThis easy pattern features a simple design and sturdy handles, perfect for carrying groceries or other essentials.
Beach Tote BagIntermediateCrochet a stylish beach tote featuring a fun and easy stitch pattern, perfect for holding all your beach essentials.
Striped Tote BagIntermediateAdd some color to your life with this striped tote bag, featuring a modern and playful design.
Granny Square Tote BagIntermediateThis crochet pattern is a twist on the traditional granny square, featuring a unique and eye-catching design perfect for everyday wear.
Boho Tote BagAdvancedThis intricate pattern features a boho-inspired design with fringe and tassels, perfect for a day out on the town.

Crochet Backpack

The first thing to note about this backpack is that it is large. It will likely fit in a standard sized car seat, but if you plan on putting it on your back, be prepared for some heavy lifting.

The pattern can be found online, and the materials needed include: one skein of dark brown yarn; dark grey yarn; blue yarn; two buttons (for the eyes); black thread or embroidery floss (for stitching); an H hook for making stitches and an F hook for attaching pieces together.

The pattern itself consists of three separate bags (two side panels and a bottom) that are sewn together after being crocheted separately. 

All together there are 17 rounds of single crochet stitches around each bag before attaching them onto one another to form the backpack shape. After completing all rounds you will have completed your crochet backpack!

Make something special for the little ones in your life with our collection of top crochet patterns for baby items. Whether you’re looking to make adorable booties, hats, or blankets, our easy-to-follow patterns will have you crocheting up a storm in no time.

Pouch Bag

This is a simple pattern that can be made with just a small amount of yarn. You’ll need a large hook, such as an H or K size, and you should use your favorite stitch. I love to use the single crochet (sc).

Start by crocheting a chain that is long enough to fit around your body comfortably, then make one row of single crochet into every loop of your chain. Continue making rows until you have the desired height for your bag to be.

Messenger Bag

A messenger bag can be made in any color and is a great beginner pattern. It’s also a good one for experienced crocheters, who may want to customize it with their own embellishments. Messenger bags are a sturdy way to carry books, magazines and other items. 

This versatile bag can be made with or without pockets, depending on how much you want to include in yours.

Looking to add some personality to your home decor? Look no further than our guide on adding personality to your home with crochet. Whether you’re into bold and colorful accents or subtle and sophisticated designs, you’ll find inspiration and patterns to suit your taste.

Coin Purse

A coin purse is a small bag used to hold coins. It can be made using a variety of stitches and in any size, color and yarn. 

Some people make coin purses for gifts or just to use at home. They can be used as a change purse or just as something to keep your loose change in.

Crochet Coin Purse Pattern Ideas

Pattern NameSkill LevelDescription
Simple Coin PurseBeginnerThis easy pattern is a great introduction to crochet coin purses, featuring a simple design with a kiss-lock frame closure.
Animal Coin PurseIntermediateCrochet an adorable animal-inspired coin purse with this fun and playful pattern.
Floral Coin PurseIntermediateThis crochet pattern features a beautiful floral design, perfect for adding a touch of elegance to your everyday accessories.
Ruffle Coin PurseAdvancedCrochet a unique and stylish coin purse with this advanced pattern, featuring a delicate ruffle design and zipper closure.
Owl Coin PurseAdvancedThis intricate crochet pattern features an adorable owl design, perfect for gift-giving or adding a whimsical touch to your accessories.

Wristlet Purse

This is a great pattern for beginners who are just getting used to working with yarn and hooks. If you have never crocheted before, check out some of the other purse patterns in this article before tackling this one; they may be the better choice for your first project.

You can make a wristlet purse in any size you like, but I recommend using an 11-inch strap if you want something that will fit over your hand. 

The finished product should measure about 4 inches wide by 6 inches tall (10 cm x 15 cm). You can substitute any type of crochet hook for the one listed above: just keep in mind that smaller hooks create tighter stitches and thus smaller bags than larger ones do.

Looking for ways to cozy up your home? Check out our collection of 10 crochet patterns for cozy home decor and start your next project today. From soft throw blankets to cute wall hangings, you’ll find everything you need to make your home warm and inviting

Zippered Pouch

This zippered pouch is made using a size G crochet hook, and worked in rounds. With the chain of 6 stitches, make the first round with single crochets. In the next round, add 2 more stitches. In the following round, add 1 more stitch.

  • Round 4: Sc in each stitch around (10 sc)
  • Round 5: *Sc in next stitch; 2 sc in next stitch.* Repeat from * to * around (15 sc)
  • Round 6: Sc in each stitch around (15 sc)

Conclusion

I hope this article has helped you understand the differences between crochet patterns for bags and purses.

I know there are many of us who enjoy crocheting, and it can be a great hobby or even a full-time job. 

If you have any questions about the different types of bags and purses mentioned in our guide, please reach out! We’d love to hear from you!

Further Reading

Looking for more crochet bag patterns? Check out these resources:

SarahMaker offers a variety of free crochet bag patterns catering to different skill levels.

Crochet Concupiscence has a curated list of the best crochet bag patterns from around the web.

Easy Crochet features an extensive collection of crochet bag and purse patterns for all occasions.

FAQs

What kind of yarn is best for crochet bags?

The best type of yarn for crochet bags is usually a durable, sturdy yarn like cotton, hemp, or nylon. You want a yarn that will hold up well over time and won’t stretch out of shape easily.

Can crochet bags be washed in a washing machine?

That depends on the type of yarn you used to crochet the bag. If you used a machine-washable yarn, you should be able to wash your bag in the washing machine on a gentle cycle. However, if you used a delicate yarn, you may need to hand wash your bag to ensure it doesn’t get damaged.

Are crochet bags hard to make?

Crochet bags can vary in difficulty depending on the pattern you choose. Some patterns are fairly simple and perfect for beginners, while others may require more advanced skills like colorwork or shaping. However, with practice and patience, anyone can learn how to crochet a bag.

What are some common types of crochet bag patterns?

There are several common types of crochet bag patterns, including tote bags, messenger bags, backpacks, and drawstring bags. Each type of bag has its own unique style and features, so you can choose the one that best fits your needs and preferences.

Can crochet bags be customized?

Absolutely! One of the great things about crochet bags is that they can be easily customized to fit your personal style or needs. You can change up the colors, add embellishments, or modify the size and shape to create a bag that is uniquely yours.