Crochet is a versatile and magical art that allows you to create everything from cozy sweaters to delicate accessories. One small but incredibly satisfying project you can try is a crochet coin purse with a zipper. It’s the perfect blend of functionality, style, and craft mastery. Plus, it’s beginner-friendly and an excellent stepping stone into the world of crochet accessories.
Whether you’re looking for a quick project, a thoughtful gift idea, or a way to use up your yarn scraps, a crochet coin purse fits the bill perfectly. In this extensive guide, you will learn everything you need to create a stunning and practical coin purse with a zipper — all while building your crochet confidence!
Get your hook ready because by the end of this tutorial, you’ll not only have a charming coin purse but also a new skill to proudly add to your crafting toolkit.
Why Crochet a Coin Purse With Zipper?
There are many reasons why a crochet coin purse makes a great project. Let’s dive into a few of the biggest ones:
1. Perfect for Beginners and Experts Alike
Even if you’re just starting with crochet, a coin purse is simple enough to accomplish without feeling overwhelmed. For experienced crocheters, it’s a great opportunity to get creative with colors, textures, and embellishments.
2. Practical Everyday Use
Coin purses are incredibly handy. They keep your small change, keys, earbuds, or jewelry organized inside your bag. No more digging around in the bottom of your tote!
3. Excellent Gift Option
A handmade coin purse makes for a thoughtful and personal gift. Add a few coins or a gift card inside, and you have a perfect small present for birthdays, holidays, or special occasions.
4. Great for Selling at Craft Fairs
If you’re considering selling your crochet creations, coin purses are a great product. They’re quick to make, customizable, and popular among buyers.
5. Creative Expression
With endless yarn colors, patterns, and decorative touches available, each coin purse can be a unique work of art reflecting your personality or that of the recipient.
Now that you’re convinced, let’s gather the supplies you’ll need!
Materials Needed
One of the best things about crocheting a coin purse is that it doesn’t require a lot of supplies. You probably already have most of these materials at home!
Yarn
Since coin purses are small and need some durability, it’s best to use a sturdy yarn.
Recommended Yarn Types:
- Cotton yarn for structure and durability
- Acrylic yarn for vibrant colors and affordability
- Cotton-acrylic blends for a balance of softness and strength
Yarn Weight:
- Worsted weight (category 4) works best for beginners
- DK weight (category 3) if you want a lighter, more delicate feel
Crochet Hook
Select a hook size appropriate for your yarn. Always check the yarn label recommendations.
- Typically a 4.0 mm (G-6) or 4.5 mm (7) hook is perfect for worsted weight yarn.
Zipper
- A 4-inch or 5-inch zipper works well for a small to medium coin purse.
- Choose a color that either blends in or contrasts stylishly with your yarn.
Other Tools
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Sewing needle and thread for attaching the zipper
- Scissors
- Stitch markers (optional)
With your materials ready, let’s move on to learning the essential crochet skills you’ll need.
Basic Crochet Techniques You’ll Use
If you’re familiar with these basic crochet skills, you’re ready to create your coin purse:
- Slip Knot
- Chain Stitch (ch)
- Single Crochet (sc)
- Slip Stitch (sl st)
- Working in rows
- Basic sewing (to attach the zipper)
Even if you’re completely new, don’t worry! I’ll walk you through each step carefully.
Design Choices Before You Start
Before you dive into the stitches, it’s worth taking a moment to think about the look of your finished purse:
- Solid Color or Multi-Color: Will you use a single yarn color, stripes, or a color block effect?
- Textured or Smooth: Basic single crochet makes a smooth fabric, but you can add texture with stitches like moss stitch.
- Embellishments: Would you like to add a small flower, embroidery, or a cute button?
Planning a little at the beginning will help guide your project and make your final purse even more satisfying.
Step-By-Step: How to Crochet an Easy Coin Purse with Zipper
Let’s get into the exciting part! Here’s a beginner-friendly pattern you can customize as you go.
Pattern Overview
You’ll crochet two flat panels (the front and back), then join them together and sew in the zipper at the top. Easy!
Finished Size
- Approx. 4 inches wide x 4.5 inches tall (adjustable)
Abbreviations
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st(s) = stitch(es)
Instructions
Step 1: Create the Front Panel
- Start with a slip knot and chain 21 (this will create a 4-inch width).
- Row 1: Starting in the second chain from hook, sc across (20 sc). Ch 1, turn.
- Row 2-25: Sc in each stitch across, ch 1, turn.
You should have a small rectangular piece about 4 inches wide and 4.5 inches tall.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Step 2: Create the Back Panel
Repeat the exact steps to make an identical rectangle.
Fasten off and weave in ends.
Step 3: Optional Decorative Touches
Before sewing everything together, this is the perfect time to add any decorations:
- Surface crochet lines
- Embroidered initials
- Crocheted applique (like a heart or star)
Step 4: Sew the Zipper
Lay the zipper at the top edge of one rectangle (right side facing you).
Using a sewing needle and thread, carefully hand sew the zipper to the top edge.
Repeat on the other panel with the other side of the zipper.
Tip: Make sure the zipper opens and closes easily without catching on your stitches.
Step 5: Assemble the Purse
Place the two rectangles together with the right sides facing out.
Join your yarn at the bottom left corner with a sl st.
Work sl st evenly around the sides and bottom edges to join, taking care to align stitches neatly.
When you reach the other side of the zipper, fasten off and weave in your ends securely.
And there you have it — your very own handmade crochet coin purse with a zipper!
Customization Ideas
Once you’ve mastered the basic purse, the sky’s the limit. Here are some ideas to inspire you:
1. Add a Wristlet Strap
Crochet a small strap and attach it to one side for a wristlet-style purse.
2. Try Different Stitch Patterns
Experiment with textured stitches like:
- Half double crochet
- Moss stitch
- Lemon peel stitch
3. Color Block Effect
Switch colors halfway up for a trendy two-tone look.
4. Fun Shaped Purses
Shape your purse like a heart, circle, or hexagon for extra creativity!
5. Add a Lining
For an even more professional finish, sew a fabric lining inside before attaching the zipper.
Common Mistakes and How to Avoid Them
Mistake 1: Crooked Zipper
Solution: Pin the zipper in place before sewing and go slowly.
Mistake 2: Uneven Panels
Solution: Double-check your row count and gauge when making your two rectangles.
Mistake 3: Gaping Seams
Solution: Use slip stitch seams worked tightly to avoid gaps.
Mistake 4: Yarn Fraying at Zipper
Solution: Carefully tuck in loose ends and knot securely before sewing.
How to Care for Your Crochet Coin Purse
Handmade crochet items deserve special care:
- Spot clean gently with a damp cloth.
- Hand wash with mild detergent if needed.
- Lay flat to dry — never wring or machine dry.
Proper care will keep your beautiful purse looking fresh and stylish for years.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I crochet a bigger purse using this pattern?
Absolutely! Simply start with more chain stitches for width and work more rows for height.
Is it difficult to attach the zipper?
It can feel tricky the first time, but with practice, it becomes second nature. Go slowly and don’t be afraid to redo stitches if needed.
Can I machine sew the zipper?
Yes, if you have a sewing machine, you can machine-sew the zipper for extra durability.
What if I don’t have a zipper?
You can create a button-and-loop closure instead! Crochet a small loop at the top and sew a button on the opposite side.
Video Tutorial:
Conclusion: Craft, Create, and Celebrate Your New Skill
Creating your own crochet coin purse with a zipper is not just a quick project — it’s an empowering journey. You start with a simple skein of yarn and end with a practical, stylish piece that carries a little bit of your heart wherever it goes.
Whether you make one for yourself, a friend, or to sell at a market, each purse you crochet builds your skills and your confidence. As you continue practicing, you’ll discover new stitches, new techniques, and new creative ideas that will make your crochet journey even richer.
So pick up that yarn, find your favorite cozy corner, and start crafting today. The world of crochet is waiting — and it’s full of endless possibilities.
