Hello, luxurious crafters!
Are you ready to create a show-stopping accessory that’s both elegant and fun to make? Today, we’re diving into crafting the “Mermaid Scale” Beaded Clutch! This stunning pouch, as seen in the image, features a mesmerizing texture reminiscent of mermaid scales, adorned with delicate pearl beads, and finished with a lush, matching tassel.
The crocodile stitch (also sometimes called “scale stitch”) is truly magical, creating a rich, three-dimensional fabric that’s incredibly tactile and visually appealing. While it looks intricate, it’s surprisingly accessible once you understand the stitch construction. This clutch is perfect for a night out, a special occasion, or simply to add a touch of handmade glamour to your everyday.
Ready to unleash your inner mermaid (or dragon!) with this enchanting texture? Let’s gather our yarn and get started!
What you’ll need:
- Yarn: A Worsted weight (Aran/10-ply) or DK (light worsted) yarn will best showcase the crocodile stitch. The sample in the image uses a vibrant green, which really makes the scales pop. You’ll need about 150-200 yards for the clutch and tassel.
- Crochet Hook: A hook size appropriate for your chosen yarn. For worsted weight yarn, a 4.5mm (7) or 5.0mm (H/8) hook would be suitable. For DK, a 4.0mm (G/6) hook. (The hook in the image appears to be around a 4.5mm or 5.0mm).
- Scissors
- Tapestry Needle (for weaving in ends)
- Small Pearl Beads: (Approx. 40-50, 4-6mm size) for embellishing the scales.
- Sewing Needle and Matching Thread: For securely attaching the beads.
- Optional: Small magnetic snap closure, zipper, or a D-ring/clasp for the tassel.
Abbreviations (US Terms):
- ch: chain
- st(s): stitch(es)
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- dc: double crochet
- sk: skip
- V-st: V-stitch ({dc, ch 1, dc} in the same stitch/space)
- CS: Crocodile Scale (Specific instructions below)
- rep: repeat
- {…}: indicates stitches worked in the same stitch/space
- (…): indicates total stitches/clusters at the end of the row/round
Understanding the Crocodile Scale (CS) Stitch
This is the star of the show! It’s worked over two V-stitches.
Crocodile Scale (CS):
- Work 5 dc around the post of the first dc of the current V-stitch (working from top to bottom, wrapping around the post).
- Ch 1.
- Work 5 dc around the post of the second dc of the same V-stitch (working from bottom to top, wrapping around the post). This creates one complete scale. The ch 1 in the middle creates the “hinge” of the scale.
The “Mermaid Scale” Beaded Clutch Pattern
We’ll start by crocheting a flat rectangle for the clutch body, then fold and seam it, and finally add the beads and tassel.
Part 1: The Clutch Body (Crocodile Stitch Rows)
This pattern works best if your starting chain is a multiple of 6 + 2.
- Ch 38. (This will give you 6 full scales across each row).
- Row 1 (Foundation Row): Dc in the 4th ch from hook (counts as first dc and ch 1 sp). Ch 1. Sk next ch. Dc in next ch.
- *Ch 1, sk next 2 ch, {dc, ch 1, dc} in next ch (this is your first V-stitch). Ch 1, sk next 2 ch, dc in next ch*. Rep from * to * until you have 3 chains remaining. Ch 1, sk next 2 ch, dc in the last ch. Turn. (Approx. 6 V-sts and accompanying dc/ch 1 spaces).
- This creates a base row of V-stitches and single dc stitches for the scales to attach to.
- Row 2 (Crocodile Scale Row): Ch 1 (does not count as st).
- Work 1 CS (Crocodile Scale) into the first V-stitch of the previous row.
- *Sl st into the dc between the V-stitches of the previous row. Work 1 CS into the next V-stitch*. Rep from * to * until you work the last CS into the last V-stitch.
- Sl st into the top of the turning chain from Row 1. Turn. (6 scales).
- You will see the scales begin to form on the “right side” of your work.
- Row 3 (V-Stitch Foundation Row): Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Dc in the same st (the sl st from previous row, or the top of the previous sl st). Ch 1. Sk the entire CS.
- *Dc in the center (the sl st) of the next CS, Ch 1, dc in the same st (forming a new V-stitch). Ch 1, Sk the entire next CS*. Rep from * to * until you work the last V-stitch into the sl st between the last CS and the turning chain from the previous row. Turn. (6 V-sts and accompanying ch 1 spaces).
- This row creates a new foundation of V-stitches for the next set of scales to sit into.
- Repeat Rows 2 and 3 until your clutch reaches the desired height. The image shows approximately 6-7 rows of scales.
- The total length will be determined by how many scale rows you crochet. Aim for a rectangle that, when folded, forms your desired clutch size.
- Final Edge (Optional, but recommended for a clean top edge): After your last CS row, do not turn. Ch 1. Sc evenly across the top edge, aiming for 1 sc in the top of each scale and 1 sc in the sl st between scales. (Approx. 30-36 sc). Fasten off.
Part 2: Assembly
- Fold: Fold the crocheted rectangle in half, with the crocodile scales facing outwards.
- Seam Sides: Using your tapestry needle and matching yarn, seam the two side edges together. You can use a mattress stitch for an invisible seam or a simple whip stitch. Fasten off and weave in ends securely.
Part 3: Embellishment – Beading
This is where the “Mermaid Scale” truly comes to life!
- Preparation: Thread your sewing needle with matching sewing thread. Knot the end securely.
- Bead Placement: Strategically sew a single pearl bead onto the center of each individual crocodile scale on both sides of the clutch. Pass the needle through the bead and then securely through the crochet fabric a few times for each bead.
- Knot your thread securely on the inside of the clutch and trim any excess.
Part 4: The Tassel (Optional, but highly recommended!)
A large, fluffy tassel adds a perfect finish.
- Materials: You’ll need a rectangular piece of cardboard or a book (approx. 4-6 inches wide, depending on desired tassel length).
- Wrapping: Wrap your yarn (the same as the clutch) repeatedly around the cardboard/book. For a thick tassel like in the image, wrap it about 50-70 times.
- Tie Top: Thread a 12-inch piece of yarn through the top loops of the wrapped yarn, slide it off the cardboard, and tie a tight knot around all the loops. This forms the top of your tassel.
- Tie Neck: Take another 12-inch piece of yarn and wrap it tightly around the top of the tassel, about 1/2 inch below the top knot, several times. Knot securely and weave ends into the tassel.
- Trim: Snip all the bottom loops open with sharp scissors, and trim the tassel ends evenly.
- Attach Tassel: Using the long tails from the top knot, securely attach the tassel to one corner of your clutch, or to a small D-ring/clasp sewn to the corner for a removable tassel.
Part 5: Closure (Optional)
- Magnetic Snap: Sew a small magnetic snap to the inside top edges of the clutch.
- Zipper: For a more secure closure, you can sew a zipper into the top opening.
- Button/Loop: Crochet a small loop on one side and sew a decorative button on the other.
Finishing:
- Weave in any remaining loose yarn ends.
- Gently block your clutch if desired, to help the stitches lay flat and define the shape.
Video tutorial
Tips for Your Mermaid Scale Clutch:
- Crocodile Stitch Practice: The crocodile stitch can be tricky at first. Watch a few video tutorials to see it in action before starting the main project. Once you get the rhythm, it’s very meditative!
- Stitch Count: Pay close attention to your V-stitch and single dc counts in the foundation rows to ensure your scales line up correctly.
- Bead Security: When sewing on beads, pass your needle through the fabric multiple times and knot securely on the inside to prevent them from coming loose.
- Yarn Weight: This stitch looks best with a yarn that has good body and doesn’t split easily.
- Customization:
- Colors: Experiment with iridescent or metallic yarns for an even more “mermaid” feel.
- Lining: For a more polished and durable clutch, consider sewing a fabric lining.
- Strap: You could add a long chain strap or a crocheted strap for a crossbody bag.
This “Mermaid Scale” Beaded Clutch is a unique and satisfying project that will surely garner compliments. Enjoy the enchanting process of creating this textured masterpiece!
Happy Crocheting!
