10 Easy Crochet Accessory Ideas for Beginners
So you’ve mastered the basics of crochet and you’re looking for some fun projects to make? Crocheting small accessories is a great way to develop your skills while creating useful and trendy objects. Whether you’re a complete beginner or already have a few stitches under your belt, the following list will give you lots of ideas for easy and rewarding projects to crochet yourself. Grab your favourite crochet hook, choose a nice ball of yarn and let’s get started with 10 simple and inspiring crochet accessory ideas!
1. Crochet scrunchie: the easy, trendy hair accessory
The crochet scrunchie is making a comeback! This mesh-covered hair elastic is not only practical for tying your hair up, it also adds a colourful, retro touch to your look. The good news is that it’s one of the easiest and quickest crochet projects to make. In just a few rows of tight stitches or brads around an elastic band, you’ll have an adorable personalised scrunchie. Perfect for using up leftover yarn and matching your accessories to your favourite outfits.
Need a helping hand? On Yarn & Crochet, we’ve come up with a free ‘Corail’ scrunchie pattern to guide you step by step. You’ll see, making your own crochet scrunchie will soon become child’s play and you’ll want to make them in every colour!
2. Crochet winter headband (earmuffs): keep your ears warm in style
When the temperatures drop, a crochet headband (also known as an earmuff) is the perfect way to keep warm without sacrificing style. This wide band covers your ears and stays in place, while adding a trendy touch to your winter outfits. In terms of how to make it, it’s a project that’s accessible to beginners: it generally involves crocheting a long strip (in close stitches, half-straps or bridles) which you then sew to form a circle. You can keep it simple or add a twist to the front for a very chic turban effect. Choose a thick, soft yarn for maximum comfort. You can finish your headband in just one or two evenings! You’ll be proud to wear your handiwork on your winter walks. It’s also a great idea for a 100% personalised gift that’s sure to please and keep you warm.
(psst, Yarn & Crochet is preparing its own earmuff model! If you like the idea, don’t hesitate to sign up to the newsletter: you’ll be among the first to know when the pattern is available).
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3. Crochet phone case: protect your mobile with a personal touch
Your smartphone deserves its own handmade accessory too! A crocheted phone case will protect your mobile from scratches while showing off your style. It’s a simple project: imagine a small pouch the size of your phone, with an opening at the top. It’s easy to make – just crochet a rectangle (in a tight stitch, for example), fold it in half and sew the sides together. You can also work in the round to avoid seams. Add a little shoulder strap to the crochet so you can easily carry your pouch around your neck!
Depending on the level, add a little flap with a button to secure it, or stick with an ultra-minimalist ‘sock’ design. You’re free to choose the colours and patterns: a multicoloured thread for a funky look, or a pretty plain cotton for an elegant look. This handmade case is a great way to personalise your phone, so you’ll never confuse yours with anyone else’s again!
4. Crochet evening clutch bag: the elegance of handmade items
What better way to shine when you’re out and about than with a crochet evening clutch? This elegant little clutch-style handbag will add a bohemian-chic touch to your outfit. Once again, it’s fairly simple to make: a large rectangular piece folded in half and sewn along the sides will do the trick. You can choose a yarn with sequins or gold highlights for a glamorous effect, or stick with a nice solid colour and add a brooch or jewel button for decoration.
In terms of stitches, a tight, dense stitch will give the clutch a good hold, but you can also try a fancy stitch once you’re comfortable. Add a little metal chain or a removable shoulder strap if you like, and you’ve got a one-of-a-kind clutch! This project is for ambitious beginners and intermediates alike: it takes a little time, but there’s no insurmountable technique. In the end, you’ll have the satisfaction of holding in your hands a handmade creation that’s both useful and refined, perfect for accompanying your evenings out.
5. Crocheted key ring: a cute accessory for your keys
A crochet key ring is the perfect way to add a touch of fantasy to your trousseau. What’s more, it’s quick to make and ideal for using up leftover yarn. You can crochet mini characters or objects: a heart, a little flower, a cute animal… The possibilities are endless! These mini creations give you a gentle introduction to the amigurumi technique (the crocheting of small stuffed toys) without embarking on a big project.
For example, why not make a little octopus or mushroom? With a few tight stitches and increases, you can quickly create adorable shapes. In fact, don’t hesitate to follow our Rainbow Keyring tutorial on Yarn & Crochet to make a pretty miniature rainbow. Attach your creation to a key ring and voilà: you’ve got a unique, handmade accessory that will brighten up your keys or even your handbag!
6. Crochet purse: practical and pretty for your small change
Tired of coins lying around at the bottom of your bag? The crochet coin purse is just the thing. Not only is this little coin pouch useful, it can also be a real eye-catcher in your bag thanks to its pretty crochet design. You can opt for a simple round or rectangular shape, to be closed with a small zip or a button.
Even if this project is a little more technical (you may need to add a fabric lining and a zip), it’s still within the reach of a motivated beginner. It’s an opportunity to learn something new! For example, our free ‘Puff Flower’ purse pattern shows you how to create a lovely purse decorated with embossed flowers. You’ll be able to put your change in it, but also your headphones or other little treasures. Proud of your work, you’ll take your handmade purse to the checkout with a smile on your face!
7. Crochet jewellery: create your own fashion accessories
Have you ever thought of making crocheted jewellery? Earrings, bracelets, necklaces… these little accessories can all be handmade with a hook and a bit of thread! Now’s the time to let your creativity run free. For earrings, for example, you can crochet mini motifs (flowers, leaves, hearts, mandalas, etc.) using fine cotton thread, then hang them on metal brackets: wow effect guaranteed with original earrings that you’ll be proud to explain where they came from. As for bracelets, a simple chain embellished with pearls can be transformed into a delightful summer bracelet. You can also crochet a small pendant to hang from a cord to create a bohemian necklace.
The advantage of crocheted jewellery is that it’s quick to make and perfect for using up leftover yarn. In just a few minutes, you’ll have a new piece of jewellery! And you don’t need to be an expert: even as a beginner, you can start with simple shapes. Wearing your own creations as jewellery is really classy, isn’t it? And why not give some to your friends as a truly personalised gift!
8. Crochet net bag: your eco-friendly shopping ally
In the family of crochet bags, I ask for the net bag! A great classic brought up to date by the zero-waste trend, the crochet net bag is practical, eco-friendly and stylish. You’ve probably come across it on someone’s arm at the market or on the beach. The good news is that you can crochet your own. This openwork tote bag is usually made with a pattern of loose and tight stitches that form a strong but stretchy net. You start with a round or oval base, then use the net stitch to build up the sides of the bag, and finally finish with two handles.
You don’t need to be very experienced to do this: the net stitch is repetitive and easy to memorise. It’s a slightly more time-consuming project (you need to make quite a few stitches for a good-sized bag), but it’s great to be able to walk around with your own handmade bag! What’s more, the mesh bag folds up and slips into your handbag for those unexpected errands. You’ll be the envy of many with this vintage, fashionable accessory, while doing your bit for the planet by avoiding plastic bags.
9. Crochet backpack: fun and original for everyday use
Ready to take on a slightly more ambitious challenge? If you’re looking to create an unusual accessory, the crochet backpack could be just what you’re looking for. You rarely think about crocheting a backpack, but the result can be absolutely adorable and practical! Imagine a small handmade backpack, perfect for taking your things on a walk or as a unique gift for a child in your life. This project requires several hours’ work and a few assembly techniques, but it’s still accessible with a bit of motivation and a good tutorial. You’ll work in circles for the bottom, back and forth for the sides, add straps… and even a drawstring or zip depending on the model.
For example, we have a crochet Fox backpack pattern (intermediate level) to get you started. What could be more satisfying than wearing or giving as a gift a rucksack you’ve made yourself? It’s the ultimate fun accessory that’s sure to be the talk of the town, and a great step on your crocheting journey.
10. Crochet brooches: a flowery, handmade touch for your outfits
Let’s finish on a high note with a little accessory that makes all the difference: the crochet brooch. All you have to do is crochet a decorative motif (a flower is a great classic, but it could be a bow, a star, a butterfly, etc.) and then attach it to a brooch base or pin. In just a few minutes, you can create a charming brooch to pin on your denim jacket, bag or favourite hat. It’s the handmade detail that instantly personalises an outfit!
For beginners, simple crocheted flowers are ideal: for example, a five-petal flower made from flanges, or a spiral rose. With a bit of practice, you can even try your hand at more elaborate designs (why not a multicoloured mandala brooch?). The great thing is that these mini projects use very little yarn and can be made with any scrap yarn. You can also add a little pearl to the centre for an even cuter effect. Try it and you’ll see: creating pretty accessories like brooches is a great way to show off your passion for crochet, even in your clothing.
All these crochet accessories are just waiting for you! As you can see, there are lots of easy and fun projects to add to your collection of handmade items. By getting to grips with these projects, you’ll not only be improving your crochet skills, but also filling your everyday life with unique objects that reflect your personality. So, what’s the best idea to get you started? Grab your crochet hook, choose a project from the list and enjoy: you’ll soon discover the joy of using something you’ve made yourself in your everyday life.
But that’s not all. If you want to go even further, don’t hesitate to visit our Yarn & Crochet online shop (only in French for now). You’ll find detailed PDF patterns, handmade creations and everything you need to accompany you on your wonderful adventure into the world of crochet.
Enjoy your creations and see you soon on Yarn & Crochet!
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