Add a pop of summer to your accessory collection with this adorable, watermelon-inspired coin purse! This project is perfect for using up scrap yarn and is an ideal quick make for gifts or personal use. Whether you are a beginner looking to practice working in the round or an experienced crafter wanting a fun weekend project, this pattern is designed to be straightforward and rewarding.
By following these steps, you’ll master color-changing techniques and learn how to assemble a professional-looking pouch. Let’s grab our hooks and get started on this colorful little slice of fruit!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn works best for structure. You’ll need small amounts of: Red (or Pink), White, and Green.
- Embroidery Thread: Black, for the watermelon seeds.
- Crochet Hook: 3.5mm (E) or 4.0mm (G), depending on your tension.
- Closure: A 4-inch zipper or a sew-on metal purse clasp.
- Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, stitch markers, and optional fabric for lining.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- sc: Single crochet
- inc: Increase (2 sc in one stitch)
- ch: Chain
- sl st: Slip stitch
- Note: Work in continuous rounds unless otherwise specified. Use a stitch marker to keep track of the first stitch of each round.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- The Red Center (Flesh): Start with a magic ring using your red yarn. Work 6 sc into the ring.
- Round 2: Inc in each st around (12 sts).
- Round 3: *1 sc, inc* around (18 sts).
- Round 4: *2 sc, inc* around (24 sts).
- Continue increasing in this manner until the circle reaches approximately 4 inches in diameter.
- The White Rind: Join your white yarn. Work 1–2 rounds of sc in the round, maintaining the same circle size (do not increase). This creates the white border.
- The Green Rind: Join your green yarn. Work 2 rounds of sc evenly around the circle. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing if necessary.
- Assembly: Fold your circle in half to create a semi-circle, with the red section facing out.
- Embroidery: Use your black embroidery thread to sew small, scattered “v” shapes or dashes onto the red area to mimic seeds.
- Closure: Align your zipper or clasp along the straight top edge of the semi-circle. Secure it using your yarn needle and a whip stitch, ensuring the fabric remains flat. If you are adding a lining, sew the fabric pouch first, then insert it before attaching the zipper.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Control Your Tension: When working on small projects like coin purses, keep your tension slightly tighter than usual. This prevents gaps between stitches where coins might slip through.
- Weaving Ends: Don’t wait until the very end to hide your yarn tails. As you change colors (Red to White to Green), secure and weave in the ends immediately to ensure a clean interior.
- The “Magic” of Markers: Always use a stitch marker at the start of your round. It is the single best way to ensure your increases stay consistent and your circle remains perfectly round.
- Professional Finish: If you find the crochet fabric a bit thin, adding a fabric liner is a great way to add durability and a polished, boutique-quality touch to your hard work.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: