Crochet Phone Bag Tutorial for Beginners – Crochet and Knitting

Part 2: Building the Sides of the Bag

Now we’ll work upwards to create the walls of your phone bag. This section is worked in continuous rounds (or joined rounds, your choice) using single crochet.

1. Round 2 (Establishing the Wall):
   • Ch 1 (this chain does NOT count as a stitch, it just gives height).
   • Work a single crochet (sc) in the back loop only (BLO) of each stitch around the entire oval.
   • Join with a sl st to the first sc of this round.
   •  (Your stitch count should be the same as Round 1).
   • Working in the BLO for this round creates a nice, crisp edge that defines the bottom of your bag.
2. Rounds 3 – 25 (Building Height):
   • Ch 1.
   • Work a single crochet (sc) in both loops of each stitch around.
   • Join with a sl st to the first sc of this round.
   •  (Maintain the same stitch count).
   • Repeat this round until your bag reaches the desired height for your phone. Regularly insert your phone into the bag to check the fit and height. You want the bag to come up to the top of your phone. For a 6-inch tall phone, this might take around 23-25 rounds, but it depends on your tension and yarn.
   • Fasten off your yarn, leaving a tail to weave in later.

Part 3: The Flap (Optional Closure)

This creates a protective flap to cover the top of your phone.

1. Attach Yarn for Flap:
   • Hold your bag so the “seam” from joining rounds is at the back. Find the stitch directly at the center-back of the top edge.
   • Attach your yarn with a sl st into this center-back stitch.
2. Flap Row 1:
   • Ch 1 (does NOT count as a stitch).
   • Sc in the next 15 stitches (this should be approximately half the circumference of your bag).
   • Ch 1, turn your work.
3. Flap Rows 2 – 6 (or until desired length):
   • Sc in each stitch across the row.
   • Ch 1, turn your work.
   • Repeat this row until your flap measures about 2-2.5 inches (5-6 cm) in length.
4. Buttonhole Row (Optional): If you want a button closure:
   • Ch 1, turn.
   • Sc in the first 6 stitches.
   • Ch 2, skip the next 2 stitches (this creates the buttonhole opening).
   • Sc in the remaining 7 stitches.
   • Ch 1, turn.
   • Next Row (if buttonhole made): Sc in each sc and work 2 sc into the ch-2 space.
5. Final Flap Row:
   • Ch 1, turn.
   • Sc in each stitch across.
   • Fasten off, leaving a tail to weave in.

Part 4: The Strap/Handle

This will allow you to carry your phone bag.

1. Option A: Simple Chain Strap (Easiest for Beginners):
   • Attach your yarn with a sl st to one of the top corners of your bag (where the flap started).
   • Chain 120-150 (or chain until the strap is your desired length for carrying over your shoulder or as a wristlet).
   • Sl st into the 2nd chain from your hook, and sl st in each chain back down to the bag.
   • Sl st into the other top corner of your bag to secure the strap.
   • Fasten off, leaving a tail to weave in.
   • This creates a simple, thin chain strap.
2. Option B: Simple Sc Strap (More Durable):
   • Ch 5 (this will be the width of your strap).
   • Row 1: Sc in the 2nd ch from hook. Sc in each of the next 3 chains.
     • Ch 1, turn.
   • Repeat Row 1: Sc in each sc across.
     • Ch 1, turn.
   • Continue repeating this row until your strap reaches your desired length (approx. 24-30 inches for a shoulder bag).
   • Fasten off, leaving long tails at both ends.
   • Attach to Bag: Use your yarn needle to securely sew one end of the strap to each top corner of your bag. Sew multiple times to make it strong.

Part 5: Finishing Touches

1. Weave in All Ends: This is essential for a neat and professional look! Use your yarn needle to carefully weave in all loose yarn tails (from starting the base, finishing rounds, and attaching the strap/flap). Weave them into the stitches of the same color, making them as invisible as possible.
2. Attach Button (if applicable): If you made a buttonhole, sew your chosen button onto the front of the bag, directly below the buttonhole on the flap. Make sure it aligns when the flap is closed.
3. Optional: Blocking: For a really polished look, you can lightly mist your bag with water and gently shape it with your hands. Let it air dry completely. This helps the stitches even out.

Congratulations! Your First Crochet Phone Bag is Complete!

You’ve just created a functional and beautiful item with your own hands. This is a huge accomplishment for a beginner!

Tips for Continued Success & Customization:

• Practice Makes Perfect: Don’t worry if your first project isn’t absolutely perfect. Every stitch you make helps improve your tension and consistency.
• Try Different Colors: Once you’re comfortable, try making a striped phone bag by changing colors every few rounds.
• Add Embellishments: You can stitch on small crocheted flowers, buttons, or even embroider a simple initial or design onto the front of the bag.
• Different Stitches: Once you master single crochet, try making another phone bag using half double crochet (hdc) for a slightly faster, taller stitch, or even double crochet (dc) for a looser, lacier look.
• Gift It! Your handmade phone bag makes a thoughtful and personal gift for friends and family.
• Care: Refer to your yarn label for specific washing instructions. Most cotton and acrylic yarns are machine washable on a gentle cycle.

Enjoy your new, handmade phone bag and the satisfaction of a project well done!

Video tutorial: