About This Pattern
This chic crochet purse starts from a simple chained oval and builds into a sturdy, stylish accessory that looks far more complex than it actually is. The waistcoat stitch texture gives the body a knit-like, refined finish that sets it apart from your average single crochet bag. It's perfect for crocheters who want a functional project that doubles as a fashion statement, whether you're headed to brunch or running errands around town.
The techniques here are approachable but not basic — you'll work a foundation chain into a rounded oval base, master the classic 3-single-crochet corner increase, and then transition into waistcoat stitch for that gorgeous woven look. This is a great project for confident beginners ready to level up, or intermediate crocheters looking for a satisfying weekend make. Expect to spend about 4 to 6 hours from first chain to final stitch, depending on your gauge and how chatty you get with your yarn.
The finished purse has a structured, oval silhouette with a smooth, defined edge thanks to the corner increases worked on both sides. It feels substantial in hand thanks to the waistcoat stitch density, giving it real durability for everyday use. Customize it with your favorite hardware, a chain strap, or a button closure, and you've got a one-of-a-kind piece that's just as lovely to give as it is to keep.
- Chain 17 to set the foundation length for your oval purse base.
- Single crochet across the chain, then work 3 single crochets into the last stitch to round the corner.
- Continue single crocheting down the opposite side of the chain to shape the second half of the oval.
- Work 3 single crochets into the final stitch on this side to mirror the first corner increase.
- Slip stitch into your first stitch to join and close the round neatly.
- each set of 3 corner stitches, work 2 single crochets into each one to keep the oval expanding evenly.
- Repeat the corner increases on the opposite end so both sides of the purse grow in matching symmetry.
Materials
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch
- chain
- st
- stitch
- sl st
- slip stitch
- sc
- single crochet
- dc
- double crochet
Chic Crochet Purse Pattern You’ll Want To Make This Weekend
Main Pattern
- Chain FoundationChain 17
- Row 1Single crochet in each chain across At the last stitch, do 3 single crochets in the same stitch Continue single crocheting on the opposite side of the chain At the final stitch on this side, do 3 single crochets in the same stitch again Slip stitch to close the round
- Row 2Work in waistcoat stitch pattern In the 3 corner stitches from the previous row, do 2 single crochets in each Repeat the increases on the opposite side as well Slip stitch to close and fasten off the yarn
Part 2
- Round 1Attach a new yarn color Single crochet around the base Ensure two yarn strands are on the hook when stitching Slip stitch to close the round
- Round 2Begin with a double crochet In the next space, make 3 double crochets Close this group by doing a double crochet into the first stitch Skip 4 stitches and repeat the pattern Continue this sequence until the round is complete Slip stitch to join
- Subsequent RoundsContinue the same pattern by working underneath the previous groupings Change color as desired In the new round, insert your hook into the middle of the 3 double crochets from the row below Repeat until the purse reaches your preferred height
- Top EdgeSlip stitch to join the round Work a round of single crochet, then slip stitch alternately Repeat this around the entire top edgeFinal Touches Fasten off, pull the yarn, and weave in all loose ends Sew on a button lock securely Attach a chain using a spring hook for a functional and stylish strap
More photos
Important Notes
💡 Since the pattern uses three different types of yarn, hold a small sample of each together before starting to make sure their weights are compatible for a cohesive fabric.
💡 Place a stitch marker in the very first stitch of each round so you always know exactly where to slip stitch to close, keeping your rounds tidy.
💡 When working waistcoat stitch, keep your tension slightly looser than usual since this stitch naturally creates a denser fabric than standard single crochet.
💡 Weave in ends from yarn changes as you go rather than waiting until the end, since the tapestry needle work is much easier on a flatter, unfinished piece.
💡 Before adding buttons or a chain strap, lay your finished purse flat and steam-block it lightly to even out the waistcoat stitch texture for a more polished look.
Common Mistakes and Fixes
Losing count of the foundation chain
Place a stitch marker or small knot after every 5 chains as you count, and double-check your total before turning to single crochet across.
Forgetting to work 3 single crochets in
Mark the very first and very last chain stitch with a stitch marker before you begin so you know exactly where each corner increase needs to happen.
Working waistcoat stitch into the wrong
Remember waistcoat stitch is worked into the center 'V' or leg of the stitch below (not the top two loops), so always insert your hook between the two vertical strands of the previous row's stitch.
Skipping or misplacing
Slow down at each corner and count the 3 stitches from the previous row individually, working exactly 2 single crochets into each one before continuing along the side.
Forgetting to slip stitch to close
Always finish each round with a deliberate slip stitch into the first stitch of that round, and check that the seam sits flush before moving on.
Mixing up which side you're increasing
Work all the way around the oval mentally dividing it into two straight sides and two curved ends, increasing only at the two curved corner points each time.
What Makes It Good
- I adore this pattern because it takes something as simple as a chain of 17 and transforms it into a purse with real structure and polish. The double 3-single-crochet increase at each end of the oval is one of those small techniques that makes a huge visual difference — it's what gives this purse its clean, rounded silhouette instead of a flat, floppy shape. Then there's the waistcoat stitch. If you've never tried it, get ready to fall in love; it creates a dense, textured fabric that looks almost knitted, which is exactly what makes this purse feel so chic instead of 'just another granny bag.' I also love that the increases repeat symmetrically on both corners in Part 2, so your final shape stays balanced without any guesswork. It's the kind of pattern where every round feels purposeful, and by the end you're holding something sturdy enough to actually use, not just display. Add your own hardware, a chain strap, or a button, and it instantly feels like a boutique piece you made yourself.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is waistcoat stitch and why is it used here?
Waistcoat stitch, also called knit stitch crochet, is worked into the center V of the stitch below rather than the top loops, creating a fabric that looks knitted. It's used here to give the purse body a refined, dense texture that holds its shape better than plain single crochet.
Can I use just one yarn instead of three different types?
Yes, you can absolutely use a single yarn throughout if you prefer a more uniform look. Just make sure your chosen yarn works well with a 4mm hook and gives you a firm, sturdy fabric for structure.
Why do I single crochet 3 times in the same stitch at the ends?
This triple single crochet increase is what rounds out the corners of your oval base, preventing the purse from looking flat or pointed at the ends. It's a small but essential step for that classic rounded purse silhouette.
How do I know where to place the 2-single-crochet increases in Part 2?
Look for the 3 corner stitches created in the previous row's increase, and work exactly 2 single crochets into each of those 3 stitches. Repeat this same increase pattern on the opposite corner to keep the oval symmetrical.
What size purse will this pattern make?
Starting from a chain of 17, this creates a small to medium-sized oval purse, ideal for everyday essentials like your phone, cards, and keys. You can scale the size up or down by adjusting your starting chain length.
Original pattern: https://crocheteverything.com/chic-crochet-purse-pattern-youll-want-to-make-this-weekend/
About the Author
Tamsin Okoro Who writes the patterns at Yarn Gallery, how a pattern gets from the hook to the page, and what this site will never do.
