How to Crochet Sturdy Purse Handles

Crocheting your purse handles can add a personal touch to your handmade bags. However, it’s essential to make them sturdy to ensure they can support the weight of the contents. In this guide, we’ll explore how to crochet sturdy purse handles that are both functional and stylish.

Why Sturdy Handles Matter

When it comes to crocheted bags, the handles are often the most stressed parts. Weak handles can stretch out or break, making the bag unusable. Therefore, knowing how to crochet sturdy purse handles is crucial for durability and longevity. Let’s dive into the techniques and materials that will help you create robust handles.

Choosing the Right Yarn

The first step in how to crochet sturdy purse handles is selecting the right yarn.

Thicker yarns provide more support and durability.
Blends like cotton-acrylic or wool-nylon are strong and have some flexibility.
Rope yarn or even thin cording can also be used for extra strength.

Using a strong, durable yarn will ensure that your handles can carry the weight of your bag’s contents without stretching or breaking.

Crochet Techniques for Sturdy Handles

There are several crochet techniques that can be used to create sturdy purse handles. Here are a few:

1. Single Crochet Stitches

Single crochet stitches are tight and dense, making them perfect for sturdy handles.

Start with a foundation chain: Make a chain as long as you want your handle to be.
Work single crochet stitches: Crochet into each chain, turning at the end to work back down the other side.

2. Slip Stitch Handles

Slip stitches create a firm, non-stretchy fabric ideal for strong handles.

Chain to the desired length: Make a long chain for your handle.
Slip stitch into each chain: This creates a compact and dense fabric.

3. Crocheting Around a Cord

For extra durability, you can crochet around a cord or rope.

Insert the cord through the first stitch: Chain over the cord.
Continue crocheting: Crochet around the cord to create a thick, sturdy handle.

Reinforcing the Handles

To ensure your handles remain sturdy over time, you can reinforce them:

Double the Yarn: Use two strands of yarn together for extra thickness and strength.
Sewing: After crocheting the handles, sew them onto the bag securely. This reduces the strain on the yarn.
Add a Lining: Attach a fabric lining inside the handle for added support and comfort.

Attaching the Handles to the Bag

Properly attaching the handles to your bag is just as important as the handles themselves.

Secure Stitching: Use strong stitches like backstitches to attach handles securely.
Even Distribution: Ensure the handles are attached evenly to distribute the weight.

Tips for Durable Handles

Tight Tension: Keep your crochet tension tight for a firmer handle.
Avoid Stretchy Yarn: Use yarns that are not too stretchy to maintain the shape and strength of the handles.
Test the Handles: Before finalizing, test the handles by placing a weight in the bag.

Conclusion

Learning how to crochet sturdy purse handles is a valuable skill that enhances the functionality and longevity of your crochet bags. By choosing the right materials and techniques, you can create handles that are both beautiful and durable. Always ensure your handles are well-attached and reinforced for the best results.