Last updated on May 5th, 2025 at 10:05 am
How to Crochet a Trendy Hidden Clasp Frame Bag
I will show you how to crochet a trendy kiss frame crochet bag. This bag is sometimes called a dumpling bag or crochet clutch, and it’s a perfect accessory to add to your handmade summer collection.
You will also learn a simple method to line the bag for a polished finish and how to attach the hidden clasp (kiss) frame at the end.
Materials You Will Need
- Hidden clasp (kiss) frame – I used 22 cm by 12 cm (when open)
- Raffia or paper yarn (around 400m).
- 4 mm crochet hook or similar to obtain the gauge
- Darning needle
- Stitch markers
- Measuring tape
- Optional – lining, 2 bag rings and chain/strap, sewing thread
Step 1: Preparing the Base Rectangle for the Bag
For a 22 cm clasp frame, the base rectangle should measure 28 cm by 12 cm. The longer side is 28 cm because you add 3 cm pleats on each side (3 cm x 2 = 6 cm) to the 22 cm frame length.
Calculate your gauge to determine how many stitches to chain.
There is a mathematical trick to determine the initial chain length for rectangle of desired size. From the longest side subtract shortest side. In this case 28scm-12cm=16cm.
For example, if your gauge is 2 stitches per cm, chain 32 stitches to get approximately 16 cm (28 cm – 12 cm = 16 cm).
Start with a chain of about 16 cm (32 chains).
How to single crochet rectangle with symmetrical corners.
Scroll down to see full video tutorial (almost 200 000 views on YouTube).
Step 2: Crocheting the Rectangle Base
Single crochet into the second chain from the hook and continue single crocheting back along the chain.
To shape the rectangle, increase stitches at the corners by working 3 single crochets into the same stitch.
Continue crocheting in rounds, increasing at corners by 3 single crochets in the middle stitch of the previous increase.
Keep increasing until your rectangle reaches the desired size (28 x 12 cm).
Step 3: Building the Body of the Bag
Once the base is ready, crochet in the round without increasing to build the height.
Work single crochet stitches in a spiral for about 18-19 cm (or your preferred height).
This forms the main body of the bag.
Step 4: Making the Lining (Optional but Recommended)
Measure the finished bag’s height and circumference.
Cut fabric for the lining with seam allowances (e.g., 52 cm height and 44 cm width).
Fold the fabric in half, right sides together, and sew the side seams.
Create bottom corners by folding the fabric into triangles and sewing across to match the bag’s base dimensions (12 cm).
Turn the lining right side out and insert it into the crocheted bag.
Sew the lining to the bag by hand along the top edge, folding the fabric edge inside about half an inch.
Use matching thread or polyester yarn for durability.
Step 5: Creating Pleats for the Clasp Frame
Find the middle, on the longer side where the pleats will be.
The pleat width should match the extra length added for the clasp (3 cm in this case).
Mark the middle 6 stitches (3 cm) on both sides. Mark pleat stitches (e.g., 6 stitches wide on both sides from the middle part).
In the next round, when you reach the pleat area, fold the 6 stitches and single crochet through all three layers of stitches together to form the pleat.
Repeat on the opposite side.
Step 6: Attaching the Hidden Clasp Frame
Place the clasp frame on the top of the bag.
Use a scrap yarn to tie the clasp frame temporarily to keep it in place.
Leave 3–4 stitches unworked near the clasp opening to prevent snagging.
Using raffia yarn (unfolded for a flat strand) or your yarn of choice, sew around the frame.
Sometimes work 2 or 3 stitches in the same stitch to cover the metal completely. Specially in the corners.
Take your time; this step is a bit time-consuming but crucial for a neat finish.
Secure the yarn ends carefully.
