Crystal's Carry-All

Crystal's Carry-All Crochet Purse by Sincerely Pam

What Is Being Made

Crystal's Carry-All is a chunky crochet purse designed as a versatile accessory for fall and winter wardrobes. This downloadable crochet pattern from independent designer Sincerely Pam offers instructions for creating both a small (10" wide x 10" tall) and large (20" wide x 10" tall) version of the same purse design. The pattern is intermediate in difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters with some experience who are ready to move beyond basic projects.

Techniques and Construction

This crochet purse utilizes fundamental crochet techniques to create a structured, durable bag. The pattern employs double crochet stitches as the primary stitch structure, with the gauge set at 9 double crochets equaling 4 inches. The construction method involves working in rounds, with 2 treble double crochets and 1 round equaling 1 inch of finished height. The pattern includes instructions for chain stitches and stitch skipping to shape the purse.

One of the key features of this design is its flexibility in yarn weight options. While the pattern is designed for bulky weight yarn (#5), crocheters without access to bulky yarn can substitute by holding 2 strands of a thinner worsted weight (#4) yarn together, allowing for customization based on available materials.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch): Foundation and structural stitch
• Double Crochet (dc): Primary stitch for the purse body
• Treble Double Crochet (tdc): Used in pattern rounds for shaping
• Stitch Skip (sk): Technique for shaping and decreasing

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern calls for bulky weight (#5) yarn. The designer used Loops and Threads Charisma for the original sample. For those preferring a different yarn or working with lighter weights, the pattern accommodates holding 2 strands of worsted weight (#4) yarn such as Caron Simply Soft or similar alternatives together to achieve the desired bulky effect.

A size N (9mm) crochet hook is required for this project. Additionally, the pattern calls for notions including a 2-inch button or other embellishments of your choosing, allowing makers to personalize their finished purse with decorative elements that suit their style preferences.

Sizing and Customization

The pattern provides two finished size options: a Small version measuring 10 inches wide by 10 inches tall, and a Large version measuring 20 inches wide by 10 inches tall. The pattern includes guidance for adjusting the finished size to your liking, giving crocheters the flexibility to create a purse that meets their specific needs. Measurements are noted as approximate, with actual finished sizes potentially varying based on individual gauge and tension.

Design Features

Described as a cozy chunky purse, the design emphasizes the warm, substantial feel created by working with bulky yarn. The pattern encourages personalization through embellishment options, inviting makers to add any kind of decoration they can think of to make the purse uniquely their own. This open-ended approach to customization makes Crystal's Carry-All an excellent project for crocheters looking to develop their own design sensibility while following a structured pattern.