How to Crochet a Granny Square Purse (Parts 1 & 2)

The written steps are a quick guide to the method. Anjali's exact stitch counts and colours are in the video.

What you need

• A strong yarn that holds its shape, such as cotton or polyester
• A crochet hook to suit your yarn
• A button or press stud for the closure
• Scissors and a yarn needle

Step by step

1. Part 1: make the granny squares for the front and back of the purse (see our granny square tutorial), changing colour between rounds.
2. Make all the squares the same size by working the same number of rounds.
3. Part 2: lay the squares out and join them with slip stitch or single crochet to form the front and back panels.
4. Join the two panels along the sides and the base.
5. Work a border round the opening, then add a strap: a long chain, a strip of single crochet or a ready-made handle.
6. Weave in all the ends. Add a fabric lining or a button closure if you like.

Tips

• A slightly smaller hook than usual gives a firmer fabric for bags.
• Sew the strap through several stitches so it can carry weight.

Related: Granny square tutorial · Crochet bags · Yarn for crochet bags