Midnight Navy Bow Shoulder Purse Free Crochet Pattern

Grab that skein of navy cotton sitting in your stash because this Midnight Navy Bow Shoulder Purse is about to become your new favorite make. You work simple ribbed panels, seam them up, and cinch the middle into a dramatic bow that actually holds its shape. Intermediate friendly with beginner-accessible stitches, this one delivers major style for the effort. Ready to turn yarn into a conversation starter?

Why This Crochet Bow Purse Pattern Works So Well

This purse stands out because the structure comes from smart construction rather than fussy stitches. Dense back-loop single crochet gives the fabric enough body to keep those bow wings perky instead of collapsing into a sad pancake after one wear.

You build two matching wing panels, a long gusset for depth, a center band that creates the classic pinch, and a sturdy tubular handle. The real magic happens when you bring the tapered ends together and wrap that center band. Suddenly flat pieces transform into a sculpted accessory that looks far more complicated than it is.

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Cotton yarn is the secret weapon here. It has natural stiffness and memory that acrylic just cannot match. Your finished purse keeps its silhouette whether you toss in your phone, keys, or a lipstick. Who knew a bow could be this practical?

Materials You Will Need

Keep the supply list short and focused so you can start stitching tonight.

• Yarn: 300–350 yards of worsted weight cotton or cotton-blend. Solid navy shows off the ribs best, but any color with good stitch definition works. Avoid anything too stretchy.
• Hook: 4.0 mm (US G/6). Drop down a size if your fabric feels loose.
• Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch markers, a handful of polyester fiberfill for the wings, and optional magnetic snaps or a small charm.

Gauge matters more than usual on this one. Aim for 18 stitches and 20 rows in 4 inches of back-loop single crochet. Firm fabric equals a purse that holds its bow shape. Loose fabric equals disappointment.

Finished Dimensions

Expect a finished bow that measures about 12 inches across the wings, 6 inches tall at the center knot, and roughly 4 inches deep. The handle drops around 5 inches, perfect for shoulder carry without swinging wildly.

These numbers assume you hit gauge. If your tension runs tighter or looser, the overall scale shifts a bit, but the proportions stay flattering.

Abbreviations and Stitch Definitions

Nothing fancy here, just the basics you will use throughout.

• Ch – Chain
• Sc – Single crochet
• BLO – Back loop only (this creates the gorgeous ribbing)
• Sl st – Slip stitch
• Inc – Increase by working two sc in the same stitch
• Dec – Decrease by pulling up a loop in each of the next two stitches and yarning over through all three loops

Work every single crochet in the back loop only once the foundation row is done. That horizontal ribbing is what makes the finished purse look polished and structured.

Step by Step Crochet Pattern

Break the project into four main pieces. Work them all before you start seaming so the assembly feels like putting a puzzle together.

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Bow Wing Panels (Make 2)

These create the signature flared shape. Start with a simple rectangle, then taper one end.

1. Chain 37. Sc in the second chain from the hook and across (36 stitches).
2. Chain 1, turn. Sc in BLO of every stitch across. Repeat this row until you have 40 total rows of ribbing.
3. Begin shaping: Chain 1, turn, decrease at each end of the row, then work even rows in between. Continue decreasing every other row until you reach 12 stitches.
4. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming. Make a second identical panel.

You now have two pieces that are wide on one side and gently tapered on the other. The ribs run horizontally, which looks intentional once the bow is cinched.

Center Gusset and Base Panel

This long strip forms the bottom and sides of the purse, giving it actual capacity.

1. Chain 17. Sc in the second chain and across (16 stitches).
2. Chain 1, turn. Work BLO single crochet for about 90 rows, or until the strip is long enough to wrap the curved bottom of one wing panel, cross the base, and meet the opposite wing.
3. Fasten off with a long tail.

Test the length against your finished wing panels before you cut the yarn. A little extra is better than coming up short.

Center Band (The Bow Knot)

This smaller piece creates the dramatic cinch.

1. Chain 13. Sc across for 12 stitches.
2. Work BLO single crochet for 24 rows total.
3. Fasten off, leaving a tail long enough to sew the ends together later.

Keep the tension firm so the band has enough structure to gather the fabric without stretching out.

Handle (Make 1)

Work this as a continuous tube for a comfortable, rounded strap.

1. Chain 4 and join into a ring. Work 8 single crochets into the ring. Do not join rounds; place a marker and work in a spiral.
2. Continue single crocheting around until the tube measures 12–14 inches.
3. Slip stitch to finish and leave a long tail for attaching.

The tube may curl while you work. That is normal. Gravity and the weight of the finished purse straighten it out once attached.

Assembly Instructions

This is where the magic happens. Take your time and the bow shape will practically form itself.

Step 1: Prepare the Bow Wing Panels

Lay both panels right side up with the ribs running horizontally. Identify the tapered ends. Those meet in the center to form the bow knot.

Step 2: Add Light Stuffing (Optional but Recommended)

Tuck a small amount of fiberfill into the wider curved sections of each wing. You want gentle fullness, not a stuffed animal. This helps the bow hold its rounded silhouette.

Step 3: Attach the Gusset

Using mattress stitch or whipstitch, sew one long edge of the gusset strip along the entire curved outer edge of the first wing panel. Start and end at the tapered points. Repeat on the second wing with the opposite long edge of the gusset. Suddenly your flat pieces have depth and look like a real bag.

Step 4: Create the Bow Center

Bring the two tapered ends together at the top center. Pinch the fabric inward to form the classic bow gather. Wrap the center band tightly around this pinched section and sew the short ends of the band together on the inside. Tack the band in a few places so it stays put.

Step 5: Attach the Handle

Position the handle ends just inside the center band, one on each side of the knot. Sew them securely with multiple passes of yarn. Reinforce well because this handle will carry the weight of everything you put inside.

Step 6: Add Closure and Finishing Touches

Install a magnetic snap on the inside opening if you want security. Weave in every remaining end. Give the wings a light mist of water and reshape by hand if needed. Let everything dry completely before the first wear.

Tips for Success with This Crochet Bow Purse

Consistent tension is everything. If your stitches start looking uneven, put the project down and come back later. Tired hands produce wobbly ribs.

Count stitches at the end of every shaping row. One missed decrease throws the entire symmetry off and you will notice it when the bow is cinched.

Stick with cotton or a high-cotton blend. Acrylic tends to stretch and lose the crisp bow shape over time. Trust me on this one.

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Do not skip the gauge swatch. A firm fabric is non-negotiable if you want those wings to stand at attention instead of flopping.

Customization Ideas

Once you understand the construction, the design becomes a playground.

• Work the two wing panels in contrasting colors for a two-tone statement.
• Add a fabric lining for a clean interior and extra structure.
• Swap the short handle for a longer crossbody strap.
• Embellish the center band with a wooden button, leather tag, or small charm.
• Scale the entire pattern down with sport or fingering weight yarn for a mini version perfect for evenings out.

IMO the navy version feels timeless, but a bright coral or soft blush would look equally striking.

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FAQ’s

Is this pattern suitable for beginners?

Confident beginners who have made a few bags or garments can handle it. The stitches themselves are simple. The challenge sits in the assembly and keeping the tension even. If you have never seamed pieces before, practice on scrap yarn first.

Can I use acrylic yarn instead of cotton?

You can, but the finished purse will not hold its shape as well. Cotton has natural body and less stretch. If acrylic is all you have, choose a sturdy worsted and go down a hook size for denser fabric.

How long does this project take?

Most makers finish the panels in a couple of evenings and spend another session on assembly. The ribbed rows fly once you get into the rhythm. Put on a podcast and the time disappears.

Do I really need to stuff the wings?

It is optional but highly recommended. A light amount of fiberfill keeps the curves rounded and prevents the wings from looking flat after a few wears. Do not overstuff or the bow will look puffy instead of elegant.

Can I make the handle longer for crossbody wear?

Absolutely. Just keep working the tubular handle until it reaches your preferred length. Test the drop against your body before fastening off so you land on a comfortable measurement.

What if my gauge is off?

Go up or down a hook size until you hit the recommended 18 stitches and 20 rows in 4 inches. A looser gauge produces a larger, softer purse. A tighter gauge makes a smaller, stiffer one. Both can look good as long as the fabric stays firm enough to support the bow shape.

Final Thoughts

This project rewards patience with a finished piece that turns heads. The construction feels clever without being complicated, and the result is a structured accessory you will actually use.

Carry it to brunch, wear it with jeans, or dress it up for a night out. Either way, people will ask where you bought it. You get to smile and say you made it yourself. That never gets old.

Now go dig out that navy yarn and start chaining. Your next favorite bag is only a few evenings away.