What kind of yarn is T-shirt yarn?

T-shirt yarn, also known as zpagetti or fabric yarn, is typically made from recycled textile scraps, often cotton-based. It's a chunky, stretchy yarn that creates a sturdy and firm fabric perfect for bags.

Can I use a different hook size?

The pattern suggests a 12mm or 15mm hook, which is ideal for the super bulky nature of T-shirt yarn. Using a smaller hook might make the fabric too stiff, while a much larger hook could make it too loose. Stick within this range for the best results.

How do I care for my T-Yarn Purse?

Since T-shirt yarn is cotton-based, you can gently hand-wash your purse in cool water with a mild detergent. Lay it flat to dry to prevent stretching. Avoid machine washing, as it can cause pilling and distort the bag's shape.

Can I make the bag deeper?

Yes, the construction is flexible! To make a deeper bag, simply add more rounds of the BLO double crochet pattern before you begin the finishing steps for the top edging.

Crochet a Chic T-Yarn Purse with Sculptural Ridges

Hello, fellow makers! Today, I’m so excited to share a project that truly embodies that “wow factor” while remaining incredibly approachable for crocheters of all levels: the Crochet T-Yarn Purse. This bag has a sculptural, almost pleated look that makes it appear far more complicated than it actually is, and that’s precisely why I love it!

What really draws me to this T-Yarn Purse is its unique silhouette. The way the stitches are worked creates deep vertical ridges, giving the bag a beautiful gathered shape without needing any complex shaping or decreases. It’s built from the bottom up in continuous rounds, making it a very satisfying project where you see the form emerge quite quickly. Whether you’re looking for a chic accessory to elevate your everyday style or a thoughtful handmade gift, this purse is a fantastic choice.

This pattern is designed to be beginner-friendly, focusing on just a few basic stitches that come together to create a stunning effect. You’ll work with T-shirt yarn, which is wonderfully forgiving and creates a sturdy, stylish fabric. The resulting purse feels both luxurious and handcrafted, perfect for a weekend outing or as a statement piece. Plus, it’s easily customizable – you can adjust the depth by simply adding more rounds!

Crochet T-Yarn Purse Crochet Pattern

Materials

T-shirt yarn (also known as zpagetti or fabric yarn, super bulky or jumbo weight)
12mm or 15mm crochet hook
Large blunt tapestry needle
Gold hardware (two swivel clasps and a length of chain strap)

Finished Size

The source material does not provide specific finished dimensions for the T-Yarn Purse, but it is described as having a sculptural, gathered silhouette suitable for a crossbody or shoulder bag.

Yarn Information

Type: T-shirt yarn (zpagetti or fabric yarn)
Weight Category: Super bulky or jumbo weight (depending on brand)
Fiber Content: Cotton-based

Hook and Tools

Hook: 12mm or 15mm crochet hook
Tools: Large blunt tapestry needle, two swivel clasps, chain strap

Abbreviations

SC — Single Crochet
DC — Double Crochet
BLO — Back Loop Only
CH — Chain

Pattern Notes

This bag is worked in the round from a flat oval base.
The sides are built upward in continuous rounds of BLO double crochet.
The vertical ridges naturally pull the fabric inward at the top, creating the gathered opening without decreases.
To create a deeper bag, simply add more rounds before beginning the top edging.

Special Stitches

Back Loop Only (BLO): Instead of inserting your hook under both loops of the stitch, insert it only under the back loop. This creates a raised ridge on the front of the fabric.

Instructions

The source material describes the construction and stitches used for the T-Yarn Purse but does not provide specific step-by-step instructions for the foundation chain, base, or subsequent rounds. The bag is constructed starting with a flat oval base, followed by continuous rounds of double crochet worked in the back loop only (BLO) to create the body, which naturally gathers. The pattern is flexible, allowing for more rounds to be added for a deeper bag.

Crochet a Chic T-Yarn Purse with Sculptural Ridges - step by step

Finishing

Once you have completed the desired number of rounds for the body of your purse, fasten off your yarn, leaving a long tail. Use your large blunt tapestry needle to weave in all loose ends securely. Attach the two swivel clasps to the top edges of the bag, and then attach the chain strap to the clasps to complete your purse.

Olivia’s Tips

Working with T-shirt yarn can be a bit different from traditional yarns, but it’s incredibly rewarding! Because it’s a chunky material, your project will grow quickly, which is always a great motivator. Pay attention to your tension, especially when working the BLO double crochets, as consistent tension will help those beautiful vertical ridges stand out. If you’re new to working in the round, using a stitch marker at the beginning of each round can be a huge help to keep track of your progress. Don’t be afraid to experiment with different colors of T-shirt yarn – a solid color will give a more sophisticated look, while a variegated yarn, like the one in the example, adds a playful touch. For another fun and quick project, you might enjoy making a Crochet a Beginner-Friendly Flower Coaster in 45 Minutes to go with your new bag!