Easy-As-Pie Clutch Purse

SIZE: About 4 x 5 in., finished.

MATERIALS
• Worsted Weight Yarn
• Crochet Hook - Size G-6
• Large-Eyed Blunt Needles

GAUGE
16 sc = 4 in. BE SURE TO CHECK YOUR GAUGE. If you don't get the gauge listed, try a different sized hook, increase or decrease your tension, or change yarns.

STITCH EXPLANATION
ch = chain
sc = single croche
dc = double crochet

PURSE
Ch 17.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (count 16 stitches, and don't forget to go into the last loop, if you need it).

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across (count 16 stitches -- incuding the ch 1 you made before turning).

Rep Row 2 until piece measures about 6 in. from beg.

At end of last row, ch 3 and turn (in preparation for beginning dc on the next row).

Next row: dc in each st across (count 16 stitches -- including the ch 3 you made before turning).

Rep last row until piece measures 13 inches from beg.

Fasten off.


You can now make the button and strap that follow, or just stop and come to class for help.

BUTTON
Ch 2.
Rnd 1: Work 3 sc in first ch, join with sl st in first st to form a ring.
Rnd 2: Ch 1, work 2 sc in each st around; join with sl st in first st.
Rnd 3: Ch 1 *sc in next st, 2 sc in next st; rep from * around, join with sl st in first sc.
Rnd 4: Ch 1 *sc in next st, sc2tog; rep from * around, join with sl st in first st.
Fasten off.
Cut yarn, leaving a long tail. Thread tail into large-eyed blunt needle, sew around edge of button, pull tightly to gather, fasten off. Use remaining tail to sew button to purse.

FINISHING
Fold lower edge of purse up about 5 in., and seam sides, leaving the remaing 3 inches free.
Sew on button. Use space between shells as a buttonhole. Weave in ends.

OPTIONAL STRAP
Make a ch about 55 in. long.
Rows 1 and 2: Rep rows 1 and 2 of purse.
Row 3: Rep row 2.
Fasten off.
Sew ends of strap to inside of purse.