
Blush Pink Ribbon Bow Purse: Free Crochet Pattern
There is something undeniably charming about a handmade purse that looks like it came straight from a boutique window. The blush pink ribbon bow purse is one of those projects that stops people mid-sentence when they see it on your arm. It is feminine without being fussy, structured without being stiff, and the little bow detail on the front elevates it from a simple bag into something that feels genuinely special. Best of all, you can make it yourself with a free crochet pattern that works up faster than you might expect.
Whether you are new to crochet or an experienced maker looking for your next weekend project, this pattern is designed to be approachable, customizable, and deeply satisfying to complete. Let’s walk through everything you need to know, from gathering your materials to weaving in that final end.
Why Blush Pink Is the Perfect Color Choice
Before diving into the pattern, it is worth taking a moment to appreciate why blush pink has become such a beloved color in the crafting world. Blush is a soft, warm neutral that pairs with almost everything in a wardrobe. Unlike a bright red or a vivid cobalt, blush pink works with navy, ivory, camel, olive, burgundy, and even other pinks. It reads as both romantic and modern at the same time.
When you crochet a purse in blush, you are not creating something trend-dependent. This is a bag that will look just as lovely next season as it does right now. The ribbon bow detail adds a whimsical touch that nods to vintage aesthetics while still feeling current, and the finished piece photographs beautifully, which is a bonus if you enjoy sharing your makes on social media or in online craft communities.
Materials You Will Need
Gathering your materials before you begin is always a good idea. There is nothing more frustrating than settling in for a cozy crochet session and realizing you are missing something essential halfway through. Here is what you will need for this project.
Yarn: You will need approximately 200 to 250 yards of worsted weight yarn in blush pink. Look for a yarn with a smooth texture and a slight sheen if you want a more polished look, or choose a matte cotton yarn for a more casual, boho feel. Suggested yarn weights are labeled as category 4 on the yarn label. Some excellent options include Lion Brand Pound of Love in Pastel Pink, Paintbox Yarns Simply DK (held double), or any affordable acrylic blend in a soft blush tone.
Crochet Hook: A 5.0mm hook (US size H/8) works best with worsted weight yarn and gives you a firm, structured fabric that holds the shape of the purse well. If you tend to crochet loosely, try a 4.5mm hook instead.
Additional Supplies: You will also need a yarn needle for weaving in ends, a pair of scissors, a stitch marker or two to track your rounds, approximately 20 to 24 inches of grosgrain ribbon or satin ribbon in blush or white for the bow, and an optional 1.5-inch purse strap connector or two D-rings if you want to add a removable strap. A magnetic snap closure or a zipper is also recommended, though a simple button closure works beautifully too.
Lining (Optional but Recommended): A half yard of cotton fabric in blush, cream, or a coordinating print will give your purse a clean interior and help it hold its shape. A bit of fusible interfacing will add structure.
Gauge and Sizing
Gauge: 14 stitches and 16 rows = 4 inches in single crochet using a 5.0mm hook and worsted weight yarn.
Finished Dimensions: The finished purse measures approximately 10 inches wide, 7 inches tall, and 2.5 inches deep. This makes it a perfect small to medium crossbody or clutch size, large enough to carry your phone, wallet, keys, and a few extras.
If you want a larger bag, simply increase the starting chain by multiples of two and add extra rounds as needed. If you prefer a tiny evening clutch, reduce the chain and work fewer rounds.
Abbreviations and Stitches Used
This pattern uses standard US crochet terminology. Here is a quick reference for the abbreviations you will encounter throughout.
Ch means chain. Sl st means slip stitch. Sc means single crochet. Hdc means half double crochet. Dc means double crochet. St means stitch. Sts means stitches. Rep means repeat. Sp means space. Blo means back loop only. Rnd means round. RS means right side. WS means wrong side.
The primary stitch used in this pattern is single crochet worked in the round, which creates a dense, sturdy fabric. The sides and base are worked in joined rounds, while the body is worked in a continuous spiral for a seamless look.
The Pattern: Step-by-Step Instructions
Part One: The Base of the Purse
The base is the foundation of the bag, and getting this right will make the rest of the construction much smoother.
Chain 25. Starting in the second chain from the hook, work 23 sc across to the end. Work 3 sc in the last stitch to turn the corner. Now work back along the bottom of the chain, placing 1 sc in each of the next 22 stitches. Work 3 sc in the last stitch to turn the second corner. Join with a slip stitch to the first stitch to close the oval. You should have 50 stitches total.
Round 2: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each of the first 23 sts, work 2 sc in each of the next 2 sts (the corner stitches), work 1 sc in each of the next 22 sts, work 2 sc in each of the last 2 sts, join with sl st. You should now have 54 stitches.
Round 3: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each of the first 23 sts, work (1 sc, then 2 sc in next st) twice, work 1 sc in each of the next 22 sts, work (1 sc, then 2 sc in next st) twice, join with sl st. You should have 58 stitches.
Round 4: Ch 1, sc in each stitch around, join with sl st. 58 stitches.
Work one more round even with no increases. This gives you a firm, slightly rounded oval base approximately 8.5 inches long and 3.5 inches wide.
Part Two: The Body of the Purse
Now you will begin working upward to create the walls of the bag. This is where the texture of the fabric really shines.
Round 1 (Transition Round): Ch 1, working in the back loop only of each stitch around, work 1 sc in each st. Join with sl st. This creates a clean folded edge between the base and the sides, which defines the bottom of the bag beautifully.
Rounds 2 through 22: Ch 1, work 1 sc in each st around, working through both loops as normal. Join with sl st at the end of each round. 58 stitches per round.
Continue working even with no increases or decreases until the bag measures approximately 6.5 to 7 inches tall from the fold line at the base. This will take roughly 20 to 22 rounds depending on your gauge and how tightly you crochet.
At this point your bag should have clean, straight walls and a satisfying depth. If you would like a bit of texture on the body, you can alternate between single crochet and half double crochet every few rounds, or add a row of crab stitch (reverse single crochet) at the top for a decorative edge.
Part Three: The Top Edge and Strap Setup
Round 23 (Strap Foundation Round): Ch 1, sc in the first 20 sts, ch 12, skip 9 sts (this creates the first strap opening), sc in the next 20 sts, ch 12, skip 9 sts (second strap opening), join with sl st.
If you are using D-ring connectors instead of crocheted straps, simply chain fewer stitches here and attach the rings once the bag is complete.
Round 24: Ch 1, sc around, working 12 sc into each ch-12 space to fill them. Join with sl st. 58 stitches.
Round 25: Ch 1, work 1 hdc in each stitch around for a slightly elevated finishing edge, join with sl st. Fasten off and weave in the end.
Part Four: Crocheting the Ribbon Bow
The bow is what makes this purse truly iconic, and it is easier to make than it looks.
Bow Center Strip: Chain 6. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each ch across. 5 sc. Rows 2 through 40: Ch 1, turn, sc in each of the 5 sts. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing. Fold the strip in half to create a loop and hand stitch the two short ends together. Then pinch the center and wrap several times with yarn to create the bow shape. Secure with a knot and set aside.
Bow Loop Piece: Chain 8. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each remaining ch. 7 sc. Rows 2 through 60: Ch 1, turn, sc in each of the 7 sts. Fasten off, leaving a tail. Fold the strip into a figure-eight shape, pinching the center, then wrap the bow center strip around the middle to create the finished bow shape. Stitch everything securely together.
Bow Tails (Make 2): Chain 6. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in each remaining ch. 5 sc. Rows 2 through 15: Ch 1, turn, sc in each of the 5 sts. Fasten off. Cut the end of each tail at a slight diagonal to mimic a real ribbon tail. Position the tails behind the finished bow and stitch in place.
Once your bow is assembled, position it on the front center of the purse, roughly 1.5 to 2 inches down from the top edge. Use the long tails or a yarn needle threaded with matching yarn to sew the bow securely to the bag. Make sure to stitch through the bow several times for durability.
Making the Strap
For a simple crocheted strap, chain 100 (or adjust the length based on your preferred carry style). Work 3 rows of sc across all stitches. Fasten off, leaving long tails at each end. Fold the strap lengthwise, slip stitch the long edge closed, then attach each end to the strap openings on the bag using the long tails and a yarn needle. Knot securely and weave in the ends.
Alternatively, you can skip the crocheted strap entirely and use a ready-made chain strap, a leather strap, or an adjustable webbing strap from a craft store. These attach easily to the D-rings if you included them in the strap setup round.
Lining Your Purse
Lining is optional but highly recommended. A lined purse holds its shape better, protects your belongings from snagging on the crochet fabric, and looks more polished inside.
Cut two rectangles of fabric measuring 11 inches wide by 8 inches tall. With right sides together, sew around three edges (both long sides and one short end), leaving the top open. Press the seams open. Fold the top edge down by half an inch and press.
Insert the lining into the crocheted bag with the wrong side of the lining facing the wrong side of the crochet. Use a needle and thread in a matching color to whipstitch the folded fabric edge to the inside top edge of the bag, just below the top crochet round. Take small, neat stitches and try to keep the thread hidden.
If you are adding a magnetic snap, attach the snap pieces to the lining fabric before inserting it into the bag, positioning each half about an inch from the top center, one on the front panel and one on the back.
Tips for Success
Working through the back loop only in the transition round at the base is the most important technique tip in this entire pattern. It creates that sharp, defined corner that makes the bag look structured and intentional rather than slumped or floppy.
Keep your tension consistent throughout the body rounds. Uneven tension is the number one reason crochet bags lose their shape. If you notice you are loosening up as you work, stop and check in with yourself. Taking a break, stretching your hands, and resuming with intention can make a real difference.
When assembling the bow, do not rush. A poorly assembled bow can look lumpy or uneven. Take your time wrapping and stitching, and hold it up to check the symmetry before you commit to sewing it onto the bag.
If you want to add embellishment, a small pearl button in the center of the bow looks stunning. A few seed beads or a spray of sequins along the bow center adds sparkle for an evening version. You could also make the bow in a contrasting color, such as soft white or dusty rose, against the blush bag for a more layered look.
Variations to Try
Once you have made this pattern once, you will start seeing possibilities everywhere. The same base pattern works beautifully in other colors. A pale lavender version feels dreamy and cottagecore. A deep burgundy with a velvet ribbon bow is pure vintage elegance. An ivory version with a black satin bow has a mod, graphic appeal.
You can also experiment with yarn textures. A boucle or fluffy yarn in blush gives the bag a soft, cozy cloud-like appearance. A shiny metallic yarn in rose gold creates something glamorous enough for a wedding reception or a holiday party.
For a more casual summer version, try working the same pattern in cotton twine or a raffia-style yarn. The bow in this case could be made from actual raffia ribbon rather than crocheted yarn, which adds an organic texture that is perfect for beach days or farmers market outings.
Sharing Your Make
When you finish your blush pink ribbon bow purse, share it proudly. Pin it to your Pinterest boards with the search terms blush crochet bag, free crochet purse pattern, and ribbon bow crochet bag so other crafters can find the inspiration too. Post it in crochet groups on Facebook, Ravelry, or Instagram with the hashtag you choose for your crafting account.
If you sell handmade items on Etsy or at craft fairs, this purse is a genuine crowd-pleaser. Photograph it against soft neutral backgrounds, style it with a simple outfit flat lay, and write a description that captures the handmade charm. Buyers who love artisan goods respond very well to purses that have a signature detail, and the bow delivers exactly that.
Final Thoughts
Crochet has a long tradition of turning simple yarn into objects of beauty and function, and the blush pink ribbon bow purse is a perfect expression of that tradition. It is practical enough to use every day, pretty enough to be a gift for someone you love, and satisfying enough to make you proud every time you pick it up off a hook by the door.
This free pattern is yours to use, adapt, and enjoy. Whether you follow it stitch by stitch or use it as a jumping-off point for your own creative interpretation, the important thing is that you are making something with your hands, and that will always be worth doing.
Happy crocheting.