Crochet handbags have become one of the most beloved DIY fashion trends — they’re stylish, functional, and full of handmade charm. Whether you’re creating a thoughtful gift, building your own accessory collection, or simply looking for a relaxing craft project, a crochet small handbag is a beautiful project for any skill level.

This step-by-step, beginner-friendly guide will walk you through everything: materials, common stitches, full construction, strap options, embellishments, and tips for a professional finish. Let’s begin crafting a handbag that’s not just useful, but made with heart, creativity, and love. 🤩💖

🎀 Why Crochet a Small Handbag?

Crocheted bags are more than accessories — they’re wearable art. And small handbags have the perfect balance of cuteness and practicality.

✔ Perfect for everyday essentials

Keys, phone, lip balm, cards — everything fits nicely.

✔ Great for gifts 🎁

Handmade presents show care and effort.

✔ Beginner-friendly construction

Most small handbags are built from rectangles, rounds, and simple stitches.

✔ Personalizable

Colors, textures, straps, charms — you choose every detail.

✔ Fast to make

Can be completed in one afternoon.

🧶 Materials You’ll Need

Start with simple supplies — nothing complicated or expensive.

✔ Yarn

Worsted weight (Medium/4) cotton or acrylic
Cotton: holds shape and structure
Acrylic: soft and flexible

✔ Crochet Hook

5.0 mm (H/8) hook
(Use 4 mm if you want tighter stitches)

✔ Notions

Yarn needle
Scissors
1 stitch marker (optional)
Optional closures: button, magnetic snap, bead, bow 🎀

💕 Stitches Used (Beginner-Friendly)

Most of this handbag uses simple stitches:

CH – Chain
SC – Single Crochet
SL ST – Slip Stitch
SC INC – Increase (2 SC in one stitch)
BLO – Back Loop Only (optional for texture)

If you can chain and single crochet, you can make this entire handbag!

🤩 Step-by-Step Tutorial: Crochet Small Handbag

This design is clean, modern, and easy for beginners. We’ll build a sturdy base, then crochet the handbag upward in the round.

📍 Step 1: Crochet the Handbag Base

Most small handbags begin with a rectangular bottom.

CH 26
(This determines the width — adjust to desired size)
Row 1: SC in second CH from hook. SC across. (25 SC)
Row 2–12: CH 1, turn, SC across.

You’ll now have a neat rectangle — this is the foundation of your handbag.

Want a deeper bag?

Add more rows (increase height).

Want it wider?

Start with a longer chain.

📍 Step 2: Work Around the Rectangle to Form the Bottom

Without fastening off:

Rotate the rectangle.
SC evenly all the way around the edges.
Place 3 SC in each corner to keep it flat and smooth.
Join with SL ST.

This step transforms your flat base into the start of a 3-dimensional handbag.

📍 Step 3: Build the Handbag Walls (Working in Rounds)

From here, your handbag will grow upward like a little box.

Round 1–18:

SC in each stitch around
SL ST to join each round
DO NOT increase

Your handbag will slowly rise and form its signature shape.

✔ Optional texture idea

Work 1–2 rounds in BLO for a decorative ridge.

📍 Step 4: Shape the Top Edge Cleanly

A smooth finished top makes your handbag look professional.

Final Round: SL ST loosely around the entire top.
Fasten off.
Weave ends.

This creates a firm, neat edge that won’t stretch.

🎀 Step 5: Crochet the Handbag Straps

You can choose from a variety of strap styles depending on your desired look. Here are three beginners love:

💕 Option A: Simple Basic Strap (Light & Cute)

Attach yarn to one top corner.
CH 120–150 (depending on length)
Attach to opposite corner with SL ST.
Optional: SC back across the chain for a thicker feel.

💕 Option B: Thick Modern Strap (Sturdy)

CH 80
Row 1: SC in each CH
Row 2–6: CH 1, turn, SC across
Sew each end to the inside of the handbag top

This creates a clean, modern look.

💕 Option C: Short Handles (Cute Handbag Style)

Perfect for a small purse aesthetic.

CH 35
SC across for 3 rows
Make two handles
Sew them to the front and back evenly

🎀 Step 6: Add a Closure (Optional but Recommended)

The right closure enhances both security and style.

Options include:

Button + loop closure
Magnetic snap
Ribbon tie
Bead loop
Zipper (optional for advanced crafters)

Quick button loop:
CH 12, attach to opposite edge.

🌸 Step 7: Personalize Your Handbag — Make It Yours!

This is where your creativity truly shines. Add embellishments to make the bag a one-of-a-kind handmade treasure.

💗 Cute Add-ons:

Crochet hearts
Mini flowers
Bows 🎀
Pom-poms
Butterflies
Pearl beads
Embroidered initials

💗 Creative Color Ideas:

Alternating color stripes
Two-toned panels
Ombre yarn
Color block
Pastel vs. bold themes

💗 Texture Options:

Moss stitch body
Half-double crochet body
Ribbed sides
Puff stitch rows

💡 Helpful Tips for Beginners

Keep tension loose — tight stitches can make the handbag stiff
Cotton yarn gives the best structure
Count stitches occasionally to avoid accidental increases
Attach straps securely with double stitching
Block the handbag lightly if you want sharper edges

👜 What Can You Use the Small Handbag For?

This small crochet handbag is perfect for:

Everyday essentials
A cute accessory for outings
Handmade gifts 🎁
Kids’ purse or play accessory
Travel pouch
Makeup bag
Craft fair items
Phone + wallet mini bag

A single pattern opens endless possibilities!

❓ Frequently Asked Questions

Q: Can beginners make this handbag?

Absolutely — it uses only basic stitches.

Q: How do I make the bag bigger?

Start with a longer chain and add more base rows.

Q: What yarn works best for crochet bags?

Cotton for structure, acrylic for a soft, casual look.

Q: Can I add a lining?

Yes! Hand sewing a fabric lining makes the bag stronger and more durable.

🤩🎀 Final Thoughts: A Handmade Treasure

Crocheting a small handbag is not just a fun craft — it’s an opportunity to create something meaningful, beautiful, and functional. Whether you’re giving it as a gift or using it every day, this handmade accessory carries a personal touch that store-bought bags simply can’t match.

This beginner-friendly pattern is customizable, fast to make, and full of charm. With just a little yarn and love, you can create a stylish small handbag you’ll be proud to show off or gift. 💖✨

If you’d like, I can also create:
📌 A printable PDF version
📌 Stitch diagram / chart
📌 A video-style tutorial script
📌 A more advanced handbag pattern
📌 A kawaii bow-themed variation

Just tell me! 🎀