Looking for a quick, cute, and functional crochet project? A Mini Shoulder Bag is the perfect accessory to complement any outfit while giving you just enough space for your essentials. Whether you’re heading out for a coffee date, festival, or just running errands, this stylish mini bag is a trendy and handmade solution.
This guide will walk you step-by-step through creating your own crochet mini shoulder bag, complete with customization tips and beginner-friendly techniques. Let’s get started!
Why You’ll Love This Mini Shoulder Bag
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Quick and easy to make (great weekend project!)
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Beginner-friendly stitches and techniques
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Customizable size, colors, and textures
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Lightweight and fashionable
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Great as gifts or craft fair items
Materials Needed
Before you begin, gather these crochet essentials:
Yarn:
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Worsted weight yarn (category 4) – cotton or acrylic
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Choose one solid color or combine multiple for stripes or contrast
Tools:
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Crochet hook: 4.0 mm (G/6) or hook size that matches your yarn
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Tapestry needle – for sewing and weaving in ends
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Scissors
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Stitch marker (optional)
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Button, magnetic snap, or zipper – for closure (optional)
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Fabric (optional) – if you want to line the bag
Crochet Terms (US Terminology)
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ch – chain
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sc – single crochet
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hdc – half double crochet
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dc – double crochet
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sl st – slip stitch
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inc – increase
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dec – decrease
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st(s) – stitch(es)
Construction Overview
This Mini Shoulder Bag is made in 3 simple parts:
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Bag Body – a rectangle folded and stitched
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Shoulder Strap – long crochet strap
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Closure + Embellishments – optional flap, button, or décor
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1: Crochet the Bag Body
We’ll crochet a flat rectangle that we’ll later fold to form a pouch.
Step 1:
Ch 31 (adjust width of your bag)
Row 1:
hdc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (30 sts)
Rows 2–24:
Ch 1, turn. hdc in each stitch across (30 sts)
Fasten off and weave in ends.
✂️ Step 2: Fold and Seam
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Fold the rectangle in half, leaving about 5–6 rows at the top to form a flap (optional).
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Seam the left and right sides using a whip stitch or slip stitch.
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Leave the top open — this is your pouch opening!
Step 3: Crochet the Shoulder Strap
You can make the strap any length you like (typically 36–48 inches depending on age/height).
Option A: Simple Strap
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Ch 90–110 (depending on desired length)
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Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across
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For added strength, work another row of sc on top.
Option B: Thicker Strap
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Ch 7
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Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and across (6 sts)
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Row 2–desired length: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across
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Fasten off.
Attach the strap to each side of the bag using a tapestry needle. Reinforce with extra stitching so the strap is secure.
Step 4: Add a Closure (Optional)
Choose one of these options for your bag’s closure:
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Button & Loop: Crochet a chain loop and sew a cute button onto the front of the pouch.
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Magnetic Snap: Sew into the top flap and inner body.
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Zipper: Sew or glue in with a lining.
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Drawstring Tie: Add eyelets to the top row and thread a chain through.
✨ Step 5: Customize & Decorate
Here’s where you can really make the mini bag your own!
Decoration Ideas:
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Crochet appliqués like daisies, strawberries, or hearts
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Add tassels or fringe to the bottom edge
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Surface crochet designs or initials
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Use variegated yarn for a colorful, self-striping effect
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Attach a charm or keyring to the strap
Mini Flower Appliqué (Optional)
Round 1: Magic ring, 6 sc in ring, sl st to join
Round 2: (Ch 2, 2 dc, ch 2, sl st in next st) around
Sew the flower to the front flap for a springtime vibe!
Care Tips
If made with cotton yarn:
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Hand wash or gentle cycle
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Air dry flat
If using acrylic yarn:
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Machine wash cold is generally safe
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Avoid high heat to maintain shape
Pro Tips
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Add a fabric lining if you want the bag to hold heavier items
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Reinforce the strap attachments for durability
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Use invisible thread to attach zippers or snaps if you want a clean look
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Crochet multiple sizes for kids, teens, or adult wear
You Did It! Show Off Your New Bag
You’ve just completed a handmade mini shoulder bag — how amazing is that? Whether you wear it to brunch, a picnic, or give it as a gift, this cute bag is a functional, stylish, and totally unique accessory.
Video Tutorial :