Houston Handbag 1410

Houston Handbag 1410 by Carla Malcomb

What is Being Made

The Houston Handbag 1410 is a beginner-friendly crochet handbag designed by independent designer Carla Malcomb. This downloadable PDF pattern creates a finished handbag measuring approximately 14 inches wide by 10 inches tall, making it a practical everyday accessory suitable for carrying essentials.

Craft and Primary Technique

This project is created entirely using the crochet technique. Crochet is a fiber craft that uses a single hook to create interlocking loops of yarn, building fabric from the ground up. The Houston Handbag 1410 is classified as a beginner-level project, making it an excellent choice for those new to crochet or looking for a straightforward bag construction without complex shaping or advanced techniques.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes fundamental crochet stitches that form the foundation of most crochet projects:

• Chain (ch/chs): Created by yarning over and drawing the yarn through the loop on the hook. Chains form the foundation and are used to create the base of the handbag structure.
• Single Crochet (sc): Worked by inserting the hook into a stitch, yarning over and drawing through, then yarning over again to complete the stitch. Single crochet creates a dense, sturdy fabric ideal for a structured handbag that will hold its shape.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

The Houston Handbag 1410 requires approximately 162 yards of yarn in a super bulky weight (category #6) classification. The recommended yarn is Lion Brand® Hometown USA®, a 100% acrylic fiber available in the Houston Cream colorway. Each skein contains 81 yards (74 meters) and weighs 5 ounces (142 grams), requiring 2 skeins to complete the project.

The pattern notes that other brands of super bulky weight yarn in the #6 category may be suitable for substitution; however, thickness can vary within this weight classification and different dye lots may produce varying shades. When substituting yarn, it is essential to check the label and prioritize the total yardage requirement (162 yards) rather than ounce weight, as yardage is the more reliable measurement for project completion.

Tools Required

• Crochet Hook: 10 mm (US size N-15), or the size needed to obtain proper gauge
• Stitch Markers: 2 markers to help track stitches and pattern repeats

Gauge and Sizing

The pattern specifies a gauge of 7 single crochet stitches and 9 rows measuring 4 inches when worked with the recommended hook size and yarn. Checking gauge before beginning is critical to ensure the finished handbag achieves the intended dimensions of 14" x 10". The pattern emphasizes that working to gauge will also help ensure sufficient yarn for project completion, particularly when substituting alternative yarns.

Why Super Bulky Yarn for This Project

The use of super bulky weight yarn (#6) allows this handbag to be completed relatively quickly compared to projects using lighter yarn weights. Super bulky yarn creates larger stitches and faster fabric growth, making it ideal for beginner crocheters who want to see tangible progress and complete a finished accessory in a reasonable timeframe. The resulting fabric is dense and structured, providing the durability and shape retention necessary for a functional handbag.