How To Attach Crochet Handles To Outsides Of Handbag

Introduction

When it comes to handbags, having a stylish and functional accessory is essential for any traveler. Whether you’re embarking on an adventure-filled vacation or attending a business conference, a handbag that can securely hold all your travel essentials is a must-have item. But what if you want to add an extra touch of flair to your handbag? That’s where crochet handles come in!

Crochet handles are a trendy and unique way to personalize and enhance the look of your handbag. They not only provide added comfort when carrying your bag but also lend a touch of creativity and style. The best part is that attaching crochet handles to the outside of your handbag is a simple and fun DIY project that you can easily do at home.

In this article, we will walk you through the step-by-step process of attaching crochet handles to the outside of your handbag. Whether you have a store-bought purse or a handmade bag, this guide will help you add a personal touch and make a statement every time you carry your handbag.

Step 1: Gather the necessary materials

Before you begin the process of attaching crochet handles to your handbag, it’s important to gather all the materials you’ll need. Having everything ready in advance will ensure a smooth and efficient DIY project. Here are the materials you’ll need:

1. Handbag: Choose a handbag that you want to add crochet handles to. It can be a store-bought bag or a handmade one.
2. Crochet handles: You can find a variety of crochet handles in different styles and colors at craft stores or online. Select handles that complement the style and size of your handbag.
3. Yarn: Pick a yarn color that matches or complements your handbag. Make sure the yarn is sturdy enough to hold the weight of the bag and the contents you’ll be carrying.
4. Crochet hook: Select a crochet hook that matches the recommended hook size for the yarn you’ve chosen. This will ensure that your stitches are the correct size and provide a secure attachment for the handles.
5. Tapestry needle: A tapestry needle will be used for weaving in loose ends of the yarn and sewing the handles onto the bag.
6. Scissors: You’ll need scissors to cut the yarn and trim any excess.
7. Measuring tape or ruler: This will help you accurately measure and mark the placement of your handles on the handbag.
8. Optional: Fabric glue or thread and needle: If you want to provide extra reinforcement for the handles, you can use fabric glue or sew them onto the bag using a needle and thread.

Once you have gathered all the necessary materials, you’re ready to move on to the next step: preparing your handbag for the crochet handles.

Step 2: Prepare the handbag

Before you can start attaching the crochet handles to your handbag, it’s important to prepare the bag to ensure a secure and durable attachment. Follow these steps to prepare your handbag:

1. Clean the handbag: It’s a good idea to clean your handbag before attaching the handles. Use a gentle cleanser or wipe to remove any dirt, dust, or stains. This will ensure that the handles adhere well and give your bag a fresh look.
2. Locate anchor points: Take a close look at your handbag and determine where you want to attach the handles. Look for sturdy anchor points such as loops, rings, or straps on the side or top of the bag. These will serve as the attachment points for the crochet handles.
3. Reinforce the anchor points (optional): If the anchor points on your handbag are not strong enough to support the weight of the bag, you may want to reinforce them. This can be done by using fabric glue or sewing them with a needle and thread. Ensure that the anchor points are secure and tightly attached to the bag.
4. Make markings: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the placement of the handles on the bag. Mark the desired position with a fabric marker or chalk. Make sure the markings are symmetrical on both sides if you’re attaching two handles.

By properly preparing your handbag, you’ll create a solid foundation for attaching the crochet handles. This will help ensure durability and prevent the handles from coming loose or causing damage to the bag. Once you’ve prepared your handbag, it’s time to move on to the next step: measuring and marking the placement of the handles.

Step 3: Measure and mark the placement of the handles

Now that you have your handbag prepared, it’s time to measure and mark the placement of the crochet handles. This step is crucial to ensure that the handles are symmetrical and positioned correctly on your bag. Follow these steps to measure and mark the placement:

1. Measure the handle length: Use a measuring tape or ruler to measure the length of the crochet handles. This will help you determine how far apart the attachment points should be on your handbag.
2. Find the center point: Divide the length of the handle in half to find the center point. This will be where you’ll align the center of the handle with the center of your handbag.
3. Align the handle center with the bag center: Place the center of the crochet handle on the center of your handbag at the desired height. This will be the starting point for marking the attachment points.
4. Mark the attachment points: Using a fabric marker or chalk, make a small dot or line on the handbag at the top and bottom of the crochet handle. These marks will indicate where you’ll attach the handles.
5. Repeat for the second handle (if applicable): If you’re attaching two handles, repeat the previous steps to measure, mark, and align the second handle on the opposite side of the bag. Ensure that the marks are symmetrical and the handles are positioned at the same height.

By measuring and marking the placement of the handles, you’ll achieve a balanced and aesthetically pleasing look for your handbag. This step will help ensure that the handles are attached at the correct positions, providing both functionality and style. Now that you’ve marked the attachment points, it’s time to move on to the next step: attaching the first handle to the handbag.

Step 4: Attach the first handle

Now that you have measured and marked the placement of the handles, it’s time to start attaching them to your handbag. Follow these steps to attach the first handle:

1. Thread the yarn: Start by threading the yarn onto your crochet hook. Make a slipknot at the end of the yarn to secure it to the crochet hook.
2. Insert the hook into the first attachment point: Take the crochet hook with the yarn attached and insert it into the top attachment point that you marked earlier. Pull the yarn through to create a loop.
3. Start crocheting the handle: Begin crocheting the handle by creating a chain stitch. This can be as long as you want, depending on the desired length of the handle. Make sure to crochet tightly and evenly to ensure a sturdy handle.
4. Continue crocheting the handle: Keep crocheting the handle by making a stitch in each chain stitch until you reach the bottom attachment point on the handbag. This will create the body of the handle.
5. Secure the end of the handle: Once you reach the bottom attachment point, cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Make a slipknot at the end to secure the yarn and prevent unravelling.

After completing these steps, you will have successfully attached the first crochet handle to your handbag. Make sure to weave in any loose ends using a tapestry needle to give the handle a neat finish. Now, it’s time to move on to the next step: attaching the second handle.

Step 5: Attach the second handle

Now that you have successfully attached the first handle to your handbag, it’s time to move on to attaching the second handle. Follow these steps to ensure a symmetrical and secure attachment:

1. Thread the yarn: Just like with the first handle, thread the yarn onto your crochet hook and create a slipknot at the end to secure it.
2. Insert the hook into the top attachment point: Insert the crochet hook into the top attachment point of the second handle, aligning it with the marking you made earlier. Pull the yarn through to create a loop.
3. Attach the yarn to the handbag: Once you have the loop, insert the crochet hook into the corresponding top attachment point on the handbag. Pull the yarn through both loops, creating a slipstitch to attach the handle to the handbag.
4. Crochet the handle: Proceed to crochet the second handle by making a chain stitch and then continuing with regular stitches along the length of the handle, just like you did with the first handle.
5. Secure the end of the handle: Once you reach the bottom attachment point on the handbag, cut the yarn, leaving a tail. Make a slipknot at the end to secure the yarn.

By following these steps, you will have successfully attached the second crochet handle to your handbag. Make sure to weave in any loose ends with a tapestry needle for a clean and professional finish. Now that both handles are attached, it’s time to move on to the final step: securing the handles in place.

Step 6: Secure the handles in place

Now that you have both crochet handles attached to your handbag, it’s important to secure them in place to ensure they stay firmly attached. Follow these steps to secure the handles:

1. Check the attachment points: Ensure that the handles are securely attached to the handbag by giving them a gentle tug. If they feel loose, use fabric glue or a needle and thread to reinforce the attachment points. Apply a small amount of fabric glue or sew a few stitches around the base of each attachment point, securing the handle to the fabric of the handbag.
2. Test the handles: After reinforcing the attachment points, test the handles again to ensure they are securely in place. Give them a few gentle tugs to make sure they can withstand the weight of the bag and any contents you’ll be carrying.
3. Trim any excess yarn: Take a pair of scissors and carefully trim any excess yarn from the handles. Be sure to leave a small tail to prevent any unraveling. This will give your handbag a clean and finished look.

By following these steps, you can secure the crochet handles in place, ensuring they stay firmly attached to your handbag. Remember to periodically check the attachment points for any signs of wear and tear, as well as reinforce them if necessary. With the handles securely in place, your handbag is ready to accompany you on your travels with style and functionality.

Now that you’ve completed all the steps, take a moment to admire your handwork. Your handbag has been transformed with the addition of crochet handles, giving it a unique and personalized touch. Enjoy showing off your creativity and craftsmanship as you carry your newly enhanced handbag on all your future adventures!

Conclusion

Attaching crochet handles to the outside of your handbag is a great way to add a touch of creativity, style, and personalization to your travel essential. With just a few simple steps, you can transform an ordinary handbag into a unique accessory that reflects your individuality.

In this article, we’ve walked you through a step-by-step process to attach crochet handles to your handbag. From gathering the necessary materials to securing the handles in place, each step has been carefully explained to ensure a successful and durable attachment.

By following these steps, you can customize your handbag with the perfect crochet handles that suit your style and match your personality. Not only will these handles add visual appeal to your bag, but they will also provide added comfort when carrying it on your travels.

Remember to choose handles and yarn that complement your handbag, and always reinforce the attachment points to ensure a secure hold. Additionally, regularly check the handles for any signs of wear or loosening, and make any necessary repairs to maintain their stability.

Now that you have the knowledge and skills to attach crochet handles to your handbag, it’s time to get creative and make your handbag truly one-of-a-kind. Whether you’re a seasoned crocheter or a beginner, this DIY project is a fun and satisfying way to elevate your travel essentials.

So go ahead, grab your materials, unleash your creativity, and give your handbag the stylish and unique touch it deserves with crochet handles!