Home DIY Project: Creating a Bag Using Granny Squares Technique
Crafting a charming 10x10cm (4x4in) granny square purse is an enjoyable and rewarding project for crocheters of all skill levels. This article presents a step-by-step guide using the free pattern from VivCrochets, which offers detailed video tutorials and adjustable dimensions.
To begin the project, you'll need a 5mm (US H/8) hook and a small amount of Aran-weight yarn, such as Red Heart Super Saver in Shocking Pink and Lemon.
The purse construction starts with a granny square, which is then expanded and shaped into a bag. The first round of the purse construction is worked in Yarn A using a magic loop, forming 12 stitches with 4 ch-2 sps. Subsequently, round 1 of the purse opening construction is worked in Yarn B, creating a round of dc stitches with 33 stitches.
In round 2, the number of stitches increases to 24 as the construction continues in Yarn B. Round 3 and round 5 both involve increasing and decreasing specific stitches in Yarn A, resulting in 36 stitches and 60 stitches, respectively, with 4 ch-2 sps each. Round 4 and round 5 are further worked in Yarn B, with 48 stitches and 4 ch-2 sps.
Throughout the process, the purse is worked in rounds, with the right side facing, and yarn tails are worked over to reduce the number of ends that need to be woven in. A button with a 12mm diameter is necessary for the purse closure, and a button is sewn in line with the ch-6 button loop.
The completed purse measures approximately 10x10cm (4x4in) and serves as a reference for various granny square projects. For added convenience, an optional ribbon can be threaded through the top of the purse and sewn to secure, and an optional 10mm ribbon, approximately 40cm long, can be used to hang the purse from a bag or belt.
For those seeking additional granny square patterns, websites like Bella Coco Crochet offer a variety of free designs that can be adapted for the purse project. Their collection includes beginner-friendly granny square patterns using DK, Aran, or Chunky yarns with recommended hook sizes and extensive tutorials to get started quickly.
You can find the detailed video tutorials and free pattern for the VivCrochets granny square bag pattern at vivcrochets.com and linked from their YouTube tutorial posted in July 2025. With this versatile pattern, you can create a customized granny square bag of any size, including the 10x10cm purse. Happy crocheting!
This delightful DIY project, a 10x10cm (4x4in) granny square purse, not only is it fun and fulfilling for crocheters of all skill levels, but also allows for personalization in one's knitting lifestyle. Furthermore, this purse serves as an excellent foundation for future home-and-garden granny square projects, while also offering the potential for customization with added ribbons and adornments.
