How to Crochet a Cute Coin Purse With a Metal Frame
There is something deeply satisfying about carrying a handmade accessory that you crocheted yourself. A coin purse with a metal frame is one of those small projects that feels both practical and charming — the kind of thing people notice and immediately ask where you bought it. When you tell them you made it, the look on their face is priceless. The good news is that this project is far more approachable than it looks. Whether you are a confident beginner or someone who has been crocheting for years and wants a quick, rewarding project, this tutorial will walk you through everything you need to know to crochet a cute coin purse with a metal frame from start to finish.
Metal frame coin purses, sometimes called flex-frame or kiss-lock purses, have a vintage elegance to them. The hinged metal frame snaps open and closed with a satisfying click, and it gives the finished purse a polished, professional look that you simply cannot achieve with a zipper or drawstring. Combined with your choice of yarn and stitch, the result is a miniature accessory that feels both nostalgic and fresh.
Let us get into everything you need — materials, measurements, stitches, and step-by-step instructions — so you can finish this project in a single cozy afternoon.
What You Will Need
Before you cast your first stitch, gather your supplies. Having everything on hand before you start makes the process much smoother and lets you focus on the actual crocheting rather than hunting for things mid-project.
Yarn: Choose a cotton or cotton-blend yarn for this project. Cotton holds its shape beautifully, which matters when you are attaching a rigid metal frame. A DK weight or worsted weight cotton yarn works best. You will not need much — roughly 50 to 100 grams depending on the size of your frame. This is also a wonderful project for using up yarn scraps, and you can experiment with stripes, color blocking, or even a simple variegated yarn for an effortless gradient effect.
Crochet Hook: Match your hook to your yarn weight. For DK weight cotton, a 3.5mm or 4mm hook is typically ideal. For worsted weight, try a 4.5mm or 5mm hook. You want a fairly tight gauge so that the fabric holds its structure and does not look floppy against the metal frame.
Metal Coin Purse Frame: These are widely available online and at craft stores. They come in a variety of widths — common sizes include 3 inches, 3.5 inches, 4 inches, and 4.5 inches. For your first project, a 3.5-inch or 4-inch frame is a great starting point. Look for frames with small holes or loops along the top edge, as these are specifically designed for sewing or crocheting the fabric directly onto the frame. If the frame has a flat channel instead of holes, you can still use it, but you will need fabric glue or a tapestry needle and strong thread to secure your work.
Tapestry Needle: You will use this to weave in your ends and, if your frame has holes, to sew the crocheted piece onto the frame.
Scissors: Any sharp pair works.
Stitch Markers: Optional but helpful, especially if you are working in the round.
Strong Thread or Waxed Linen Thread: For attaching your crocheted purse to the frame if you are sewing it on. A thread that closely matches your yarn color will make the seam nearly invisible.
Understanding the Metal Frame
Before you start crocheting, take a moment to measure your metal frame. The width of the frame at its widest point will determine the width of your crocheted piece. The height of the purse body is entirely up to you — most coin purses are between 3 and 5 inches tall, which gives you plenty of room for coins, a folded bill, a lip balm, or a few cards.
Open your frame and measure the interior width. This is the measurement you will use to determine how many chains to cast on if you are working flat, or how many stitches to establish in your foundation round if you are working in the round.
Most metal coin purse frames open wide enough to accept a fabric piece that measures the same width as the frame. Some crafters prefer to work the top of the purse (the part that attaches to the frame) slightly narrower than the frame itself, allowing it to cup inward naturally. Experimenting with a small swatch first is always a good idea.
Choosing Your Stitch Pattern
The classic choice for a coin purse is simple single crochet, which produces a dense, sturdy fabric that holds up beautifully against daily use. However, there are so many other options depending on the look you want.
Single Crochet: Clean, sturdy, and beginner-friendly. Works great with solid-colored yarn where you want the shape and frame to do the talking.
Half Double Crochet: A touch taller than single crochet, this stitch adds a little more softness and drape while still maintaining good structure.
Moss Stitch (Granite Stitch): Alternating single crochet and chain stitches create a subtle, textured fabric that looks beautiful in solid or semi-solid colors.
Shell Stitch: If you want something more decorative, a simple shell stitch creates a pretty scalloped fabric. Just be sure your gauge is tight enough that the fabric does not become too airy or loose.
Basketweave or Bobble Stitches: These add wonderful dimension and texture, making the coin purse feel extra special. They are slightly more advanced but entirely achievable if you have some crochet experience.
For this tutorial, we will use single crochet worked in continuous rounds to create a seamless, rounded purse body. This method is a favorite because it results in a smooth, sturdy little bag with no visible side seams.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
The following pattern is sized for a 4-inch metal coin purse frame. If your frame is a different size, simply adjust the number of stitches in your starting oval to match your frame’s width.
Gauge: Approximately 16 stitches and 18 rows = 4 inches in single crochet with DK weight yarn and a 4mm hook. Gauge is not critical for this project, but a tighter gauge is better than a looser one.
Finished Size: Approximately 4 inches wide and 4 inches tall (before attaching to frame).
Creating the Base Oval
This purse starts with an oval foundation, which gives it a flat bottom and a rounded shape — just like a classic coin purse.
Chain 10 (or adjust for your frame size — the chain length should be roughly the width of your frame minus the height of the frame sides).
Round 1: Starting in the second chain from the hook, single crochet in each of the next 8 chains. Work 3 single crochets in the last chain (this curves the bottom of the oval). Now rotate your work and crochet back along the other side of the foundation chain. Single crochet in each of the next 8 chains. Work 2 single crochets in the first chain (the same stitch where you began). Place a stitch marker to mark the beginning of your round. You should have approximately 22 stitches.
Round 2: Single crochet in each stitch around, working 3 single crochets in each of the two end stitches to increase the oval. You should have approximately 26 stitches.
Round 3: Single crochet in each stitch around, increasing at each end by working 2 single crochets in the center stitch of each three-stitch group from the previous round. You should have approximately 30 stitches.
Round 4: Single crochet in each stitch around without any increases. This is the first even round and it will begin to build the walls of your purse.
Building the Sides
Continue working single crochet in the round without any increases. Move your stitch marker up with each round so you always know where your round begins.
Work even rounds of single crochet until the purse body measures approximately 3 to 3.5 inches in height from the base. The purse body should be able to reach the top of your frame comfortably once stretched slightly. If you prefer a deeper purse, simply add more rounds at this stage.
When the purse body reaches your desired height, fasten off and weave in your ends. At this point you will have a small crocheted pouch that looks a bit like a tiny bag waiting for its finishing touch.
Adding a Decorative Top Edge (Optional)
Before attaching the frame, some crocheters like to add a simple decorative round to the top opening of the purse. A round of reverse single crochet (also called crab stitch) creates a tidy, corded edge. A round of simple picot stitches adds a delicate, lacy look. This step is entirely optional — the frame itself will cover the top edge once it is attached, so this is really just a personal preference.
Attaching the Crocheted Purse to the Metal Frame
This is the step that transforms your little crocheted pouch into a finished coin purse, and it is easier than most beginners expect.
Method 1: Sewing Through Frame Holes
If your frame has small holes or loops along the channel edge, this method works beautifully.
Thread a tapestry needle with a long length of strong thread or waxed linen thread in a color that matches your yarn. Open the frame and hold one side of the purse opening against one side of the frame, aligning them carefully. Using a simple whip stitch or running stitch, sew the top edge of the crocheted fabric to the frame by passing the needle through the crochet stitches and the frame holes alternately. Work along the entire top edge, pulling the stitches snug but not so tight that the fabric puckers.
Once one side is secured, repeat for the other side of the frame. When you reach the ends where the frame hinges, take a few extra stitches to reinforce those corners, as they receive the most stress when the purse is opened and closed.
Knot your thread securely on the inside and trim the excess. Give the frame a few test clicks to make sure everything is properly attached and the fabric lies smoothly.
Method 2: Using Fabric Glue or Jewelry Glue
If your frame has a flat channel rather than holes, you can use a strong adhesive designed for fabric and metal. Apply a thin line of glue inside the frame channel, then press the top edge of your crocheted purse into the glue. Hold it firmly in place for several minutes, then allow it to cure completely according to the glue manufacturer’s instructions — usually at least a few hours. This method is quick, but make sure you use an adhesive that remains flexible once dry, as a rigid glue can cause the fabric to crack over time.
Decorating Your Coin Purse
Once the purse is assembled, you can add embellishments to make it uniquely yours. A few ideas worth considering:
A simple crocheted flower made from a small circle of petals looks gorgeous attached to one corner of the frame. You can make one in a contrasting color and stitch it on in just a few minutes. Button embellishments are another charming option — sew a vintage or novelty button to the front of the purse for an instant focal point. If you enjoy embroidery, a few lazy daisy stitches or French knots worked directly into the crocheted fabric create a delicate, handmade look. Beads threaded onto the yarn as you crochet can add sparkle and texture — this works especially well with a variegated yarn.
Tips for a Polished Finish
A few small habits make a big difference in how your finished coin purse looks.
Weave in your ends very thoroughly. A coin purse gets opened and closed many times a day, and loose ends have a way of working themselves free. Weave in each end in at least two directions through the back loops of your stitches before trimming.
Block your crocheted piece before attaching it to the frame. Wet blocking cotton is simple — just dampen the piece, shape it gently to the correct dimensions, and allow it to dry flat. Blocking evens out your stitches and gives the finished purse a much more professional appearance.
Be patient when attaching the frame. Take your time and use enough stitches to secure the fabric thoroughly. A purse that pops open at the seam is frustrating, and a few extra minutes of careful sewing will save you from having to redo the attachment later.
Pattern Variations to Try
Once you have made one coin purse, you will almost certainly want to make more. Here are a few variations to keep things interesting.
Striped Coin Purse: Change colors every two rounds to create a cheerful striped effect. This is also a great way to use up small amounts of leftover yarn in coordinating colors.
Granny Square Coin Purse: Work two small granny squares and seam them together on three sides to form the purse body, then attach the frame. This gives the coin purse a retro, cottage-core feel that is absolutely charming.
Bobble Dot Purse: Add single bobble stitches at regular intervals across the rounds to create a polka-dot texture. Three-stitch bobbles worked in a contrasting color look particularly adorable.
Linen Stitch Purse: The linen stitch creates a woven-looking fabric with a beautiful drape. It requires a little more concentration than plain single crochet, but the result is stunning.
Personalized Color Gradient: Use a planned color pooling technique or simply fade from one color to another over the rounds for an ombre effect that looks complex but takes no extra skill.
Frequently Asked Questions
Can I use acrylic yarn instead of cotton? Yes, acrylic yarn will work for this project, though it tends to be softer and stretchier than cotton. If you use acrylic, go down a hook size from what the yarn band recommends to achieve a tighter, more structured fabric.
Where can I buy metal coin purse frames? They are widely available on online marketplaces, in fabric and craft stores, and from specialty notions suppliers. Search for “flex frame coin purse” or “kiss lock coin purse frame” to find a wide variety of sizes and finishes, including gold, silver, antique bronze, and matte black.
What if my purse body is too big or too small for the frame? If it is slightly too big, try going down a hook size and reworking with fewer foundation stitches. If it is slightly too small, go up a hook size or add a round or two of increases. A small amount of difference can usually be eased in when you sew the purse to the frame.
Can I wash my finished coin purse? If you used cotton yarn, hand washing in cool water is generally safe. Allow it to dry flat. Check that any embellishments (buttons, beads, glue) are water-safe before washing.
Final Thoughts
Crocheting a coin purse with a metal frame is one of those projects that delivers tremendous satisfaction for a modest investment of time. In a single afternoon, you can transform a skein of cotton yarn and a small metal frame into a beautiful, functional accessory that you will reach for every day — or wrap up as a gift that someone will treasure. The project is endlessly customizable, practically foolproof once you understand the basic construction, and it gets faster every time you make one.
Start with a simple solid color and basic single crochet to build your confidence, then let your creativity loose on the next one. Before long, you will have a collection of coin purses in every color and stitch, and a very long list of people hoping you will make one for them too.
Happy crocheting — and enjoy that satisfying little click every time you snap your new purse shut.
