Bobble Stripe Cosmetic Case Free Crochet Pattern
Introduction
This little cosmetic case is the perfect next step for anyone who has mastered single crochet and wants to try something with a bit more texture. Two flat panels are worked in soft cream and dusty rose stripes, with three rows of tiny raised bobbles running across each rose band for a sweet folk-art look. Worked in worsted weight yarn, the fabric comes out smooth and sturdy, with just enough squish to protect your makeup or hooks. Seamed on three sides, finished with a zip, a crocheted wrist strap, and a neat cream edging, it looks far more complicated than it really is.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Worsted weight (4) acrylic or cotton, approximately 150 yards total — Color A (cream) 100 yards, Color B (dusty rose) 50 yards
- Hook: 4.0 mm (G/6)
- Notions: 7-inch zipper, matching sewing thread and needle, yarn needle, scissors, stitch marker (optional)
- Finished size: Approximately 4 inches tall x 9 inches wide x 1.5 inches deep
Abbreviations
- ch — chain
- sc — single crochet
- st(s) — stitch(es)
- yo — yarn over (wrap the yarn around the hook)
- bobble — a cluster of loops pulled together into one raised dot (full instructions below)
Gauge
9.5 single crochet stitches and 9 rows = 2 inches. Work a small swatch in single crochet and measure a 2-inch section in both directions to check that your stitches match before starting.
Tips Before You Start
- Count your stitches at the end of every row — the panels must stay at 43 stitches so the two halves match and the zip fits.
- Work the bobble slightly loosely so it pops out on the right side; the ch 1 that closes it keeps it from pulling tight.
- Carry or change colors at the end of the last stitch of a row so the stripe edge stays clean.
- Make both panels before seaming, and check they are the same size — this makes joining much easier.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Panel (make 2)
With Color A, ch 44.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (43 sts).
Rows 2-4: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color B.
Row 5: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Row 6 (bobble row): sc in first 2 sts, [bobble in next st, sc in next 2 sts] across to last st, sc in last st (14 bobbles, 43 sts).
Rows 7-8: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color A.
Rows 9-12: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color B.
Row 13: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Row 14 (bobble row): sc in first 2 sts, [bobble in next st, sc in next 2 sts] across to last st, sc in last st (14 bobbles, 43 sts).
Rows 15-16: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color A.
Rows 17-20: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color B.
Row 21: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Row 22 (bobble row): sc in first 2 sts, [bobble in next st, sc in next 2 sts] across to last st, sc in last st (14 bobbles, 43 sts).
Rows 23-24: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Change to Color A.
Rows 25-28: sc in each st across (43 sts).
Fasten off. Make the second panel identical.
Bobble
Bobble: [yo, insert hook in st, yo, pull up loop] 3 times, yo, pull through all 7 loops on hook, ch 1 to close.
Assembly
Place panels wrong sides together. With Color A, sc evenly around 3 sides (bottom and two sides), working through both layers (approx 43 sts on each side, 28 sts on bottom). Fasten off.
Zip
Sew the 7-inch zipper to the top opening using matching thread.
Wrist Strap
With Color B, ch 30.
Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (29 sts).
Row 2: sc in each st across (29 sts).
Fasten off. Sew the short ends to one side of the case at the top, forming a loop.
Edging
With Color A, sc evenly around the top edge of the case (approx 86 sts). Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Assembly and Finishing
Seam the panels as described above, working through both layers so the wrong sides stay hidden inside. Sew the zipper in by hand with small, even stitches, opening and closing it once to check it lies flat. Attach the wrist strap securely with a few extra stitches at each short end. Weave in all ends on the wrong side, then block lightly: mist the case, shape it into a neat rectangle, and let it dry flat with the zip open.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Swap the rose for mustard or sage for a different folk palette, keeping one light and one darker color for contrast.
- Add a small lining cut to the panel size and slip-stitch it inside for extra structure.
- Make a longer strap (ch 60) for a wristlet that slips over the hand, or skip the strap for a simple zip pouch.
