Looking for a crochet project that’s both fun to make and wonderfully functional? This folding pouch is a perfect choice. Its simple construction starts with a single flat piece that you then fold and seam to create a unique accordion-style body. The two-tone stripes add a pop of color and a subtle texture that elevates the entire design.
This pattern is worked in rows, so you’ll turn your work at the end of each row. The simple stitch pattern is easy to memorize, making it a great project for a weekend.
What You’ll Need:
- Yarn: Worsted weight (Aran/10 ply) cotton or a cotton blend yarn is highly recommended for its durability and clean stitch definition.
- Color A (Main): The light blue color in the example. Approximately 100-150 yards.
- Color B (Stripe): The bright pink color in the example. Approximately 20-30 yards.
- Crochet Hook: Size H/5.0mm (or hook size to achieve a firm fabric that holds its shape).
- Yarn Needle: For weaving in ends and seaming.
- Scissors
- Button: A small, decorative button for the closure.
Abbreviations Used:
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- BLO: back loop only
- st(s): stitch(es)
- row: row
- FO: fasten off
- [ ]: repeat instructions in brackets
- ( ): stitch count at the end of the row
Gauge:
This pattern’s gauge is important for the folding to work correctly. A good gauge is approximately 15 stitches and 10 rows of hdc = 10 cm (4 inches). The finished piece should be about 20 cm wide and 40-45 cm long before folding.
Part 1: The Main Piece (Worked Flat)
The bag is crocheted as a long, flat rectangle that will be folded to form the bag.
- Using Color A, ch 31.
- Row 1: Hdc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. (30 hdc)
- Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Hdc in each st across. (30 hdc)
- Row 3 (Stripe): Switch to Color B. Ch 1, turn. Sc in the BLO of each st across. (30 sc)
- Row 4: Switch to Color A. Ch 1, turn. Hdc in each st across. (30 hdc)
- Row 5: Ch 1, turn. Hdc in each st across. (30 hdc)
- Repeat Rows 3-5 until your piece has a total of 15 stripes (or 45 rows), or until it measures approximately 45 cm (18 inches) in length.
- FO and weave in all ends.
Part 2: Assembly & Folding
This is the most unique and important part of the pattern. Follow these steps carefully to create the pouch.
- Lay your crocheted piece flat with the right side facing down. The short ends will become the flap and the back panel. The long sides will be seamed.
- Folding:
- Step 1: Fold the bottom edge up by about 10 cm (4 inches). This is your first pocket.
- Step 2: Fold the top edge down by about 10 cm (4 inches). This is your front flap.
- Step 3: Now, take the part between the two folded sections and fold it in an accordion style. The first fold should go back, then the next fold forward. Continue this until the entire piece is folded.
- Seaming: Using a yarn needle and a piece of your main yarn, seam the two long sides of the pouch together using a whip stitch or a slip stitch seam. Sew through all the layers of the accordion fold to create a strong, secure seam.
Part 3: The Closure
This part creates the simple and effective button closure.
- Button Loop: On the front of the pouch (the panel that folds up to meet the flap), attach your main yarn with a sl st in the center. Ch 5 (or enough to fit over your button). Sl st back into the same stitch to form a loop. FO and weave in the ends.
- Button: Sew your button onto the end of the flap, centered horizontally, and positioned to align with the button loop you just created.
Video tutorial
Finishing Touches:
- Weave in all remaining ends securely.
- Blocking (optional): To help your pouch hold its shape, gently steam or spritz it with water, then shape it with your hands and allow it to air dry.
You’ve now created a beautiful and unique folding pouch! Enjoy your new accessory.
