🧶 How to Crochet the Cutest Handbag: Step-by-Step Patterns for Beginners
Want to crochet your first handbag? These 5 beginner-friendly patterns from Etsy are super cute, easy to follow, and perfect for DIY fashion lovers. Plus, I’ve linked all the tools you’ll need!
BEAUTY AND FASHION
Why Crochet Handbags Are the Perfect Beginner Project 💼✨
Crochet handbags are one of the easiest and most satisfying projects for beginners. They’re small, practical, stylish—and you get to wear your work with pride! Whether you're making your first stitch or picking up a hook again, you'll love how fast these work up.
Picture This: You’re sipping coffee, cozy on the couch, and finishing your very first handbag. It's soft, colorful, and compliments are already rolling in from your Pinterest friends. Yes girl—you made that. 🧵💕
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What You’ll Need to Crochet a Handbag (With Shop Links) 🛍️
Here’s a list of beginner tools and materials to help you start strong:
🧶 Worsted Weight Cotton Yarn – soft, durable, perfect for bags.
🔗 Shop Cotton Yarn on Etsy »
🪝 Crochet Hook (4.5mm to 6mm) – size depends on your pattern.
🔗 Shop Ergonomic Crochet Hooks »
✂️ Sharp Scissors – because dull scissors are a nightmare.
🔗 Shop Cute Craft Scissors »
📌 Stitch Markers – these will save your sanity.
🔗 Get Stitch Markers Here »
🧵 Optional Add-Ons: Lining fabric, magnetic clasps, leather handles.
🔗 Explore Bag Hardware on Etsy »
5 Beginner-Friendly Crochet Handbag Patterns You’ll Love 💕
Each pattern below includes step-by-step instructions with helpful photos or diagrams. Let’s break them down so you can find your perfect first project.
👜 1. Simple Granny Square Bag Pattern
Style: Retro, colorful, and totally beginner-friendly.
Why you’ll love it: If you love bold colors and patchwork style, this is the ultimate throwback-chic bag. You’ll crochet small granny squares (super easy) and then stitch them together to form your bag. Great for stash busting!
✨ Skills you’ll practice: Basic chain, double crochet, sewing squares together.
🎯 Best for: First-time crocheters who love colorful and modular designs.
🔗 Get the Granny Square Bag Pattern »
🛠️ Tools Needed:
Cotton Yarn » | 4.5mm Hook » | Stitch Markers »
🧺 2. Beginner Crochet Tote Bag Pattern
Style: Casual, everyday carry-all with a clean look.
Why you’ll love it: This tote has a simple rectangle base and works up into a roomy bag with long straps. Perfect for shopping, books, or even as a gym bag.
✨ Skills you’ll practice: Single crochet, working in the round, increasing.
🎯 Best for: Beginners who want a wearable, everyday bag with structure.
🔗 Get this Set of 4 Crochet Tote Bag Pattern »
🛠️ Tools Needed:
Worsted Weight Yarn » | 5mm Hook » | Bag Handles »
✨ 3. Crochet Puff Stitch Shoulder Bag
Style: Textured, soft, and adds instant boho charm.
Why you’ll love it: Puff stitches give this bag a bubbly, cushion-like texture that looks way more advanced than it is! The shape is structured but still soft and playful.
✨ Skills you’ll practice: Puff stitch, shaping, adding handles.
🎯 Best for: Those ready to try a new stitch but still want a beginner-level guide.
🔗 Get the Puff Stitch Pattern »
🛠️ Tools Needed:
Cotton or Acrylic Yarn » | 6mm Hook » | Bag Lining Fabric »
🎯 4. Small Crossbody Bag for Beginners
Style: Lightweight, functional, and super fast to finish.
Why you’ll love it: Ideal for carrying essentials—think phone, cards, and lip gloss! Great intro to rounds and working with straps. Optional button flap or magnetic closure.
✨ Skills you’ll practice: Crocheting in the round, adding straps, minimal shaping.
🎯 Best for: Quick wins and portable projects.
🛠️ Tools Needed:
Yarn in Neutral Tones » | 5mm Hook » | Magnetic Snaps »
🪣 5. Cute Bucket Bag Crochet Pattern
Style: Modern, minimalist, and totally trendy.
Why you’ll love it: This bag looks straight out of a boutique! It features a solid base and drawstring closure with optional straps. Make it in neutral tones or bold stripes—it’s endlessly customizable.
✨ Skills you’ll practice: Working in rounds, shaping, adding a drawstring.
🎯 Best for: Beginners with a couple of projects under their belt who want something trendy.
🔗 Get the Bucket Bag Pattern »
🛠️ Tools Needed:
Rope Yarn or Cotton Cord » | Drawstring Hardware » | 6mm Hook »
Step-by-Step Tips for First-Time Crochet Bag Makers 🧵💡
Read the whole pattern first. Trust me, you’ll avoid surprises later.
Use stitch markers liberally. Especially for rounds!
Don’t skip the gauge swatch. Your bag will thank you.
Practice new stitches separately. Try them out on scrap yarn first.
Take care of your wrists. Stretch and take breaks.
Customize It! Cute Add-Ons You’ll Adore 💖
Once you master your bag, spice it up with these extras:
✨ Add fringe or tassels for a festival vibe
🌼 Sew in floral lining for a cottagecore touch
👜 Upgrade with leather straps for boutique feels
🧸 Use velvet yarn for a plush, luxe finish
Final Thoughts.
Crocheting a handbag is such a fun and empowering project. You get to express your style, learn new skills, and end up with a handmade accessory you’ll actually use. Whether it’s a puff-stitched boho bag or a sleek modern tote, there’s a pattern here waiting for your hook.
🎀 Ready to start your first bag?
Pick your fave pattern and tools , then treat yourself to some cozy crochet time. You deserve it.