{"id":874,"date":"2025-10-24T14:11:51","date_gmt":"2025-10-24T14:11:51","guid":{"rendered":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/?p=874"},"modified":"2025-10-24T14:11:52","modified_gmt":"2025-10-24T14:11:52","slug":"how-to-make-crocheted-shell-handbag-holds-its-shape-well-learning-to-crochet-circles-and-ovals","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/?p=874","title":{"rendered":"How to Make Crocheted Shell Handbag Holds its shape well Learning to crochet circles and ovals"},"content":{"rendered":"\n<h6 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><\/h6>\n\n\n\n<p>Absolutely! Let\u2019s dive into a detailed guide on <strong>making a crocheted shell handbag that holds its shape well<\/strong>, with emphasis on crocheting circles and ovals\u2014essential skills for structured bags. I\u2019ll break it down step by step with explanations and tips.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large is-resized\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"853\" height=\"1024\" src=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1000x1200-49-853x1024.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-875\" style=\"width:960px;height:auto\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1000x1200-49-853x1024.jpg 853w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1000x1200-49-250x300.jpg 250w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1000x1200-49-768x922.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/1000x1200-49.jpg 1000w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 853px) 100vw, 853px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>1. Choosing the Right Materials<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>To make a handbag that <strong>holds its shape<\/strong>, your choice of yarn and hook is crucial.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Yarn:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>sturdy yarns<\/strong>, such as cotton, cotton-blend, or acrylic. Avoid very soft, floppy yarns like lightweight wool or mohair.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Size:<\/strong> Worsted weight (medium #4) is ideal for structured bags.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Hook:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use a hook slightly <strong>smaller than recommended<\/strong> for the yarn. This creates tighter stitches, which helps the bag maintain its shape.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Other materials:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Lining fabric<\/strong> (optional but highly recommended for structure)<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Interfacing or felt<\/strong> for extra support<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Handles or straps<\/strong> (can be crocheted or bought pre-made)<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>2. Understanding the Shell Stitch<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>The shell stitch is a cluster of stitches (usually double crochet) worked in the same stitch or space to create a fan or shell shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Basic Shell Stitch:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Example: 5 double crochets in one stitch.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>It creates a beautiful texture and is perfect for bags, giving a decorative look while remaining sturdy if stitches are tight.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tips for structured shells:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Keep <strong>stitches tight<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid long chains between shells unless you want a looser effect.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider <strong>crocheting in the round<\/strong> for circles and ovals for the base.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres1-9-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-876\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres1-9-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres1-9-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres1-9-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres1-9-1.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>3. Crocheting Circles (for Round Bases)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>A circular base is great for making a bag that holds its shape at the bottom.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Steps to Crochet a Circle:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Magic Ring<\/strong> or chain 4 and slip stitch to form a ring.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 1:<\/strong> Crochet 6 single crochets (SC) or double crochets (DC) into the ring.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 2:<\/strong> Increase in every stitch (2 SC\/DC in each stitch) \u2192 12 stitches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 3:<\/strong> <em>Increase every other stitch<\/em> \u2192 18 stitches.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Round 4+:<\/strong> Continue increasing every round, spacing increases evenly to keep a flat circle.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Formula: <strong>Stitches per round = previous round + number of increases needed<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Stop increasing once the circle reaches your desired base diameter.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Keep it flat by counting stitches carefully\u2014uneven increases make the circle ripple.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>4. Crocheting Ovals (for Oval Bases)<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>Oval bases give a more elegant, elongated shape.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Steps for Oval Base:<\/strong><\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Chain the <strong>length of the oval<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Work <strong>single or double crochet stitches<\/strong> across the chain.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>At the ends, work <strong>multiple stitches in one chain<\/strong> to curve the corners.\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Example: 3 DC in the same stitch at the ends.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Continue around the oval, joining rounds if desired.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<p><strong>Tip:<\/strong> Mark the ends of your oval base with stitch markers for consistency in each round.<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres3-9-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-877\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres3-9-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres3-9-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres3-9-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres3-9-1.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>5. Building the Bag Walls<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<p>After the base:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<ol class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Work in rounds <strong>without increasing<\/strong>, using shell stitches for decoration.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Tighter stitches = stronger walls.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Consider <strong>single crochet or half-double crochet for the first few rounds<\/strong> above the base for extra stability.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Optional: <strong>Add a stiff lining<\/strong> inside the base and walls to keep the handbag upright.<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>6. Finishing Touches<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li><strong>Handles:<\/strong> Crochet handles using sturdy stitches, or sew on pre-made handles.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Lining:<\/strong> Sew a fabric lining for extra support and prevent stretching.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Closure:<\/strong> Add a zipper, button, or magnetic clasp.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li><strong>Edging:<\/strong> Finish top edge with a row of single crochet for clean finish.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-image size-large\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" src=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres2-9-1-1024x576.jpg\" alt=\"\" class=\"wp-image-878\" srcset=\"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres2-9-1-1024x576.jpg 1024w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres2-9-1-300x169.jpg 300w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres2-9-1-768x432.jpg 768w, https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2025\/10\/maxres2-9-1.jpg 1280w\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 1024px) 100vw, 1024px\" \/><\/figure>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h2 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>7. Tips for a Structured Handbag<\/strong><\/h2>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Tighter tension = more structure.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Avoid overly soft yarns.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Reinforce base with interfacing or a plastic canvas insert.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>If using shell stitch, consider alternating rows of single crochet and shells for sturdiness.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<hr class=\"wp-block-separator has-alpha-channel-opacity\"\/>\n\n\n\n<h3 class=\"wp-block-heading\"><strong>Summary<\/strong><\/h3>\n\n\n\n<ul class=\"wp-block-list\">\n<li>Use <strong>sturdy yarn and tight stitches<\/strong>.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Master <strong>circular and oval bases<\/strong> for a solid foundation.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Build walls with shell stitch carefully.<\/li>\n\n\n\n<li>Add <strong>lining and reinforcement<\/strong> for a bag that keeps its shape.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n\n\n\n<p>Watch tutorial:<\/p>\n\n\n\n<figure class=\"wp-block-embed is-type-video is-provider-youtube wp-block-embed-youtube wp-embed-aspect-16-9 wp-has-aspect-ratio\"><div class=\"wp-block-embed__wrapper\">\n<iframe loading=\"lazy\" title=\"\u0412\u044f\u0437\u0430\u043d\u0430\u044f \u0421\u0443\u043c\u043e\u0447\u043a\u0430 \u0420\u0430\u043a\u0443\u0448\u043a\u0430 \u0425\u043e\u0440\u043e\u0448\u043e \u0434\u0435\u0440\u0436\u0438\u0442 \u0444\u043e\u0440\u043c\u0443 \u0423\u0447\u0438\u043c\u0441\u044f \u0432\u044f\u0437\u0430\u0442\u044c \u043a\u0440\u0443\u0433\u0438 \u0438 \u043e\u0432\u0430\u043b\u044b\" width=\"1200\" height=\"675\" src=\"https:\/\/www.youtube.com\/embed\/a-DMa2eAhUw?start=8&#038;feature=oembed\" frameborder=\"0\" allow=\"accelerometer; autoplay; clipboard-write; encrypted-media; gyroscope; picture-in-picture; web-share\" referrerpolicy=\"strict-origin-when-cross-origin\" allowfullscreen><\/iframe>\n<\/div><\/figure>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Absolutely! Let\u2019s dive into a detailed guide on making a crocheted shell handbag that holds its shape well, with emphasis on crocheting circles and ovals\u2014essential &hellip; <\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":1,"featured_media":879,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"footnotes":""},"categories":[3,9],"tags":[],"class_list":["post-874","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","has-post-thumbnail","hentry","category-crochet","category-crochet-bags"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/874","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/users\/1"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcomments&post=874"}],"version-history":[{"count":1,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/874\/revisions"}],"predecessor-version":[{"id":880,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/posts\/874\/revisions\/880"}],"wp:featuredmedia":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=\/wp\/v2\/media\/879"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fmedia&parent=874"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Fcategories&post=874"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/ninedrama.com\/index.php?rest_route=%2Fwp%2Fv2%2Ftags&post=874"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}