Crochet Purse - Flowers & Stripe

Crochet Purse - Flowers & Stripe by Kyoko Nakayoshi

What Is Being Made

This is a structured crochet purse designed by Kyoko Nakayoshi, featuring decorative flower and stripe colorwork patterns. The finished purse measures 11.5cm in width by 9cm in height by 7cm in depth, making it a compact accessory perfect for holding small essentials. The pattern is designed to create two complete purses from a single set of materials, allowing crafters to make either two striped versions, two flower versions, or one of each design.

Techniques & Construction Methods

This intermediate-level crochet project incorporates colorwork techniques to create the distinctive flower and stripe patterns throughout the purse body. The construction involves crocheting a fabric base that is then attached to a sew-on purse frame, which provides structure and a professional finished appearance. The pattern uses British crochet terminology, so crafters should be familiar with UK stitch abbreviations and instructions. Assembly requires sewing the crocheted fabric to the metal frame using a tapestry needle, and optional textile glue or protective waste fabric can be used during the frame-attachment process to ensure durability and protect the materials.

Stitches & Crochet Methods

While specific stitch names are not detailed in the pattern excerpt provided, the project employs standard crochet stitches suitable for creating a structured purse fabric. The colorwork is achieved through color changes within rows or rounds, allowing the flower and stripe motifs to emerge as the piece is crocheted. Stitch markers are used throughout the project to help track pattern repeats and maintain consistent shaping.

Materials & Yarn Specifications

• Yarn: Jamieson's of Shetland double knitting (DK weight) in 100% Shetland Wool, with 75 meters per 25g ball. Two colors are used: Daffodil (390) and Sholmit (103), with one 25g ball of each color required to make two complete purses.
• Hook: 4mm crochet hook (UK/Canadian size 8 or Japanese 7/0)
• Hardware & Notions: One 3.75-inch sew-on purse frame per purse, a small tapestry needle with a 1-1.2mm diameter to thread through frame holes, a pair of pliers for securing the frame, and two stitch markers for tracking pattern placement
• Optional Finishing Supplies: Textile glue and a small piece of waste fabric to protect the frame during assembly

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience beyond basic single crochet and double crochet stitches. The colorwork elements and frame attachment process require attention to detail and familiarity with reading crochet patterns, but the compact size makes it a manageable project for developing crafters.