Learn to crochet an adorable owl bag charm with this easy-to-follow pattern which for crochet lovers and unique handmade accessories.
Soft, plump owls are always a favorite for accessorizing, and the Free Crochet Owl Bag Charm Pattern makes this adorable idea even more charming. With striking round eyes, a sweet little beak, and textured “feathers” from unique stitches, this owl brings personality to every bag, backpack, or keyring.
Rows of layered stitches give the charm a feathery look and a gentle 3D effect. Every owl feels soft but keeps its shape, making it ideal for daily use. Mix gentle pastels for a playful vibe or try bold shades for a standout accent—no two charms end up exactly alike.
Free Crochet Owl Bag Charm Pattern For Fun
There’s more than just good looks at play here. Tucked inside is a tiny secret pocket, the right size for coins, a small note, or a special keepsake. Thoughtful shaping and a sturdy hanging loop mean the charm stays secure and looking neat, even with lots of use.
Instructions favor both newer and experienced hands. The main shapes come together easily, then details like the eyes and tufts add that signature owl character. Beads, buttons, or a splash of contrast can give each owl its own expression.
On a backpack, purse, or set of keys, this cheerful owl offers a touch of fun and function. Its lively face and soft, textured body draw attention—and a few smiles—anywhere it goes.
Owl Back Charm (Coin Purse) Crochet Pattern
Make your own adorable owl-themed back charm, perfect as a coin purse or Eid money pouch! This pattern blends basic amigurumi, the crocodile stitch, and simple embroidery. Follow the step-by-step directions or read the explanations in plain language if you’re new to written patterns.
Before You Start
- Refresh your skills in magic ring, single crochet (sc), double crochet (dc), slip stitch, chaining, and basic sewing techniques.
- Gather all yarns and tools before you begin.
- Review crocodile stitch technique for textured rows.
- Choose color combinations that suit your personal taste or the intended recipient.
Pattern Notes
- Purse is worked in the round from the center outwards and features textured crocodile stitches to create an owl’s plumage.
- Eyes, beak, and side tufts/fringe are made separately and attached at the end.
- Suitable for polyester or cotton yarn; color changes are minimal.
- Use a stitch marker to track the start of rounds as the pattern is worked in spirals or joined rounds as required.
How I Made the Crochet Pattern
- Started with a double magic ring foundation and increased to a flat circle.
- Built up the purse body with double crochets.
- Incorporated crocodile stitch rows for a scaled, feathery effect.
- Crocheted plain rounds for structural stability.
- Finished with simple features (eyes, beak, tufts), and added a loop for attaching to bags.
- Used hot glue for easy assembly, but hand-sewing is also possible.
Skill Level
Advanced Beginner/Intermediate
Requires basic crochet skills, some experience with crocodile stitch, and ability to assemble pieces neatly.
Finished Size
- Approx. 10–12cm across (4–5in diameter)
- Fits coins or small folded bills, earphones, or trinkets
Materials
- Polyester yarn in three colors:
- Main body color (Cobalt blue suggested)
- White (for eyes)
- Yellow (for beak and fringe)
- Black (for eye embroidery)
- 4/0 mm crochet hook (approximately 2.5 mm)
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry (darning) needle
- Hot glue (optional, for assembly)
- Scissors
- Lighter for melting and tidying polyester thread ends (adult use only)
- Small amount stuffing (optional, for puffy features)
Measurements / Sizing
- Body circle: 10–12cm across when completed
- Fringe length: up to 2cm after trimming
Gauge
- Not critical; stitches should be firm, not open or floppy.
- 7 dc across = 1.5 inch (rough suggestion for evenness)
Stitch Abbreviations
| Abbreviation | Description |
|---|---|
| mr | Magic ring |
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single crochet |
| dc | Double crochet |
| sl st | Slip stitch |
| inc | Increase (2 dc/sc in st) |
| st | Stitch |
Special Stitches
- Double Magic Ring: Circle yarn around fingers twice before crocheting to ensure a sturdy, small hole.
- Crocodile Stitch: Scale pattern made by working dc stitches down one post, chaining, then working up next post.
- Invisible Decrease: For amigurumi-style closing/seaming.
The Pattern!
BASE BODY (Owl’s Face)
With blue yarn:
- Make a double magic ring. Ch 3 (counts as first dc). Work 13 dc into the ring. (14 dc total)
- Pull magic ring tight. Sl st to top of ch-3.
- Ch 3. Make 1 dc in same st (increase). 2 dc in each st around. (28 dc)If you want a larger circle, increase in multiples of 7 dc in each new round.
- Sl st to top of ch-3 to close round.
- Rows 3–5:
- Ch 3, dc in each st around. (28 dc per round)
- Sl st to join.
Beginner explanation:
Start with a double magic ring and make 14 dc for a flat circle. Increase to 28 by making 2 dc in each stitch. Continue working three more rounds of just 1 dc per stitch to create thickness.
CROCODYL STITCH (First Set of Scales)
Row 6 (crocodile stitch row, in blue):
- Ch 1. Sc in top of ch-3.
- Skip 2 dc, work 5 dc down the post of third dc.
- Ch 1, rotate work, 5 dc up next dc post.
- Skip 2 dc, sc into third dc.
- Repeat three more times around (4 crocodile “scales” in total).
- Sl st to first sc to join.
Explanation:
This row is the decorative “scales” that look like feathers. Each scale is made by crocheting down one dc post, chaining, then crocheting up the next post.
STRUCTURE (Reset to Flat Circle)
Row 7:
- Ch 3 (counts as dc). Dc in each st and top of crocodile stitches (28 dc total).
- Sl st to join.
Explanation:
This restores a flat round, helping the purse keep its round shape and stand up to use.
SECOND CROCODYL STITCH ROW
Row 8:
- Begin at the start of round: 5 dc down one post, ch 1, 5 dc up next post, sc into next “center” st.* Repeat for 4 scales around.
- Sl st to first sc.
Row 9–13 (Single crochet rounds):
- Work 28 sc in a spiral (no slip stitch at the end) for 5 total sc rounds.
- Use a marker to help count start/end.
- Your purse should have a depth of approx. 2–3cm by now.
Explanation:
These single crochet rounds make the sides sturdy and ready to hold coins or trinkets.
PURSE OPENING and HANGING LOOP
Row 14:
- Remove marker. Work 25 sc, chain 8 (forms the keyring tab), sc in the next st, sc in next 2 sts. (28 total sc + keychain loop)
- Sl st to finish, ch 1, fasten off, and tidy ends.
Row 15–16 (Optional extra reinforcement):
- Sc around the edge and keychain loop as desired.
HAND STRAP
- Attach yarn at the side (where desired), ch 45 (or to length for handle), sc in base st, continue sc around to reinforce, sl st to end, fasten off and weave in ends.
EYES
With white:
- Magic ring, 6 sc in ring, pull tight.
- In each st, 2 sc (12 sc).
- Sl st to first st, ch 1, fasten off leaving a tail.
Explanation:
Work a magic ring, increase, and tie off. These will be glued or sewn on later.
BEAK
With yellow:
- Ch 3. Sl st into first ch to form a tiny ring.
- Ch 1, fasten off with tail for sewing.
Explanation:
A small yellow chain loop forms a triangle beak.
EYE EMBROIDERY
- Use black thread and a tapestry needle.
- Make two short straight stitches for the owl’s eyes, anchoring at the back.
SIDE TUFTS
- Cut six 15-cm yellow (or desired color) strands.
- Fold in half. Using a hook, slip each set through the side of the purse near the “head”, pull ends through to secure (like adding fringe).
- Repeat with three tufts per side, trim evenly to about 2cm.
Assembly & Finishing
- Use hot glue or tapestry needle to attach eyes and beak to upper front center.
- Tie or glue on side tufts.
- Weave in all yarn tails.
- If using polyester, carefully melt ends with a lighter to reduce fraying.
- Attach a keyring to your 8-chain hanging loop, or thread your drawstring for a hanging pouch.
Problem & Solution
Potential issue: Crocodile stitch count misaligned (not ending with even "scales")
Solution: If after your last crocodile row you do not have exactly two dc leftover before the first sc, recount your previous round for missed stitches. Adjust by frogging or adding/removing a dc where necessary for perfect symmetry.
What You Can Make with These Stitches
- Coin purses and trinket holders
- Keychain or bag charm
- Eid money (angpao) envelope
- Kids’ gift pouch
- Cute party favors
For those who don’t read patterns:
Make a round cup with double crochet, textured “scales” with crocodile stitch, then a few rows of single crochet for depth. Add a loop, strap, some big owl eyes, and a beak. Finish with tufts and you’re done!
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