How to Crochet a Purse with Raffia Yarn

Hello ladies! I’m going to take you on a fun trip in 5 minutes. Prepare to unleash your creativity and add a smooth touch of natural elegance to your accessories collection!

 

You don’t know how to crochet a purse with raffia yarn? Well, I’m glad to tell you today that you can make it a fun, rewarding, and all-too-easy experience. It combines the art of crochet with the beauty of sustainable materials. Apart from Crochet purses, and clutch bags, and totes are great ways to express confidence through fashion.

 

With its unique texture and earthy charm, raffia yarn is the perfect choice for creating a one-of-a-kind purse that’s both stylish and eco-friendly.   

 

Whether you’re an expert or a beginner, this article will guide you through the entire process of how to crochet a purse with raffia yarn. Without further ado, grab your hook and yarn, and let us get started on this exciting adventure!

 

Materials Needed to Crochet a Purse with Raffia Yarn

Before we talk about how to crochet a purse with Raffia Yarn, it is important to know the materials that are needed to crochet a purse with raffia yarn.

 

1. Raffia yarn
The first material you will need to make a crochet purse with raffia yarn is raffia yarn. It is a unique type of yarn that is obtained from natural fibers. Some of these natural fibers include bamboo or raffia palm leaves. Raffia yarn is very good for crocheting a purse simply because it is highly durable, possesses a unique texture, and is eco-friendly. As you choose your materials, don’t forget to choose a raffia yarn color that appeals well to you and would also look great on your outfit.  

 

2. Crochet hook
The next most important material that you cannot do without is a crochet hook. What is a crochet hook? To put it in simple terms, a crochet hook simply refers to a tool that can be used to create loops in thread or yarn and also to interlock them into crochet stitches. In some places, crochet hooks can also be known as crochet needles. It usually has a round shaft that points on one end and has a lateral groove behind it. The round pointed shaft at one end makes the process of hook insertion through the material easy.

Next, you have to choose the size of the hook that you will use. Your choice of selection greatly depends on two things. First is the thickness of the yarn that you want to use. Second, is the tension of your stitches. However, before you go on, you should know that the larger the hook, the looser the stitches that you will produce. Likewise, the smaller the hook, the tighter the stitches that you will produce.

 

3. Scissors
The next material you need is a pair of scissors. You might be wondering, why scissors? Well, scissors are needed to cut the yarn as you work.

 

4. Stitch Markers
The next thing you need are stitch markers. Stitch markers are very important especially for beginners as they help keep your work progress in check and also reduce your work error rate. Stitch markers can be referred to as small mnemonic devices that can be used or placed on your hook or on the stitches. It serves as a mark to differentiate between the beginning of a round or the end of a row.

 

How to Crochet a Purse with Raffia Yarn

 

1. Decide on The Size and Shape You Want
Before you begin to crochet a purse with raffia yarn, you have to make a decision on the most preferred or suitable size and shape that you want for your purse.

If you are confused and need some inspiration, some common options that you can find include a tote, bucket bag, or clutch. However, before drawing inspiration from popular options, carefully consider the occasions you want to use the purse for. Also, ensure that you choose a size that will match well with your everyday essentials.

Also, part of the decision process is to carefully measure the dimensions that you have in mind for the purse when it is done. These measurements should include the height, the width, and the depth. Measurement is important because it will help you determine the number of stitches that you need to crochet a purse and also achieve your desired size. You can choose to sketch out the purse design or simply search online/offline for reference images. This will undoubtedly help you to visualize the size and shape that you have in mind to create.

 

2. Create the Purse Bottom
Now that you can visualize the purse shape and size, you can begin by chaining a small number of stitches or even making a magic ring and work continuously in the round. This is how you will form the base of your purse. You can proceed to single crochet around the ring or chain. However, ensure that it is even and create a beautiful bottom that is flat and circular by simply increasing the stitches as required for the purse.

Keep on working in the round and increase the stitches each round. Do so until the bottom reaches the desired width. As you work, ensure to keep track of your stitch count because it will help you maintain an even, symmetrical shape. Similarly, you have to give proper attention to the tension of your stitches. The goal is to make the fabric sturdy and tight. However, you don’t want it to be too rigid.

 

3. Work the Purse Sides
By now you must have finished creating the bottom of the purse. Once you have achieved the right size for the bottom, continue working in the round without increasing to create the straight sides of the purse. As you work on the sides, ensure that you follow a simple SC pattern. Also, you must make sure that in each round, you keep the stitch count even; this will help you maintain a consistent width.

After you must have done several rounds, you’ll notice that the sides will gradually begin to take shape. That is your signal to start shaping the purse as you dim fit. Depending on your desires and what appeals to you, you may decide to taper the sides or even create a more structured silhouette. Lastly in this step, carefully adjust the stitch count according to your need and preference to maintain the desired shape width of the sides.

 

4. Add Purse Handles (Optional)
This step is an optional step that you will need if you decide to use handles. Otherwise, you may want to skip this step. If you’ve decided to use handles, plan where and how you want to place the handles. Afterward, you can skillfully crochet the handles directly onto the sides of the purse. You can attach the handles by working single crochet stitches into the purse sides, chaining the desired length for the handle, and then attaching it back into the side.

You should repeat the same process for the second handle, and ensure that they are placed symmetrically. But one important thing you must consider when crocheting handles is the weight of the purse. Always opt for a handle length that will be comfortable to carry and will not add unnecessary weight to the purse.

 

5. Finish the Purse Top
At this stage, your purse sides should have reached your desired height. If yes, you should begin to decrease the stitches each round as it will help in creating the top opening. As you continue, work gradually decreases evenly around the top and this usually happens either by skipping stitches or working 2 stitches together. You can do this until you reach the final stitch count for the top opening. When you get to the final round, you can try to work a simple row of slip stitches or a decorative edging. This may include a single stitch border or picot trim with which you can finish the purse top.

 

6. Add Closure (Optional)
If you want to add closure to your work, then do not skip this step. You can sew on a snap or button closure at the top opening which can help keep the purse securely closed. You may want to position the purse closure in the center or slightly off-center, it all depends on individual preference. After all these ensure that the closure area is reinforced with additional stitches to ensure it is sturdy and secure.

 

7. Weave in Ends and Block
The final step is to carefully look for, and weave in all loose ends. You can use a tapestry needle and do it in a way that you’re sure to secure them firmly. After that, you can gently block the finished purse to help it hold its shape. To keep the purse in shape, you can lightly steam the purse or probably pin it to a surface and allow it to dry completely. With this, you now have the perfect crocheted purse with raffia yarn.

 

Conclusion

Raffia yarns are great materials to add to your wardrobe collections. Don’t forget to crochet tightly and evenly if you desire to have a sturdy and well-structured purse. Before trying to make your purse you can do some experiments with different stitch patterns or textures. For instance, you can alternate rows of single crochet and half double crochet, for visual interest. You may want to line the purse interior for added durability, stability, and a polished look. Most importantly, have fun and enjoy each step of the process. You can customize the shape, size, and embellishments to create your perfect crocheted raffia bag!