Hollywood Bag – FREE Vintage Crochet Pattern for Purse Frame

The Hollywood
The Hollywood
The Hollywood Crochet Bag

Hollywood Bag Crochet Pattern

The Hollywood Bag Crochet Pattern is a stunning representation of vintage glamour and sophistication. Its intricate shell stitch pattern and structured design make it an eye-catching accessory that adds a touch of elegance to any outfit. The bag’s compact yet practical size makes it perfect for special occasions or as a chic addition to everyday wear. With its timeless appeal, the Hollywood Bag showcases the artistry and craftsmanship of vintage crochet patterns while allowing crafters to create a truly unique piece.

This pattern features the beautiful shell stitch, which creates a lacy, textured effect that’s both delicate and bold. While the shell stitch might seem intricate, it’s simply a combination of basic crochet stitches worked together, making it accessible even to those new to decorative stitches. The pattern provides clear guidance to help you master the technique quickly. Assembling the bag, especially attaching it to the hinge frame, might feel a bit daunting at first, but it’s a straightforward process with the included instructions. With a little patience and practice, these steps can be easily learned, making the Hollywood Bag a rewarding project for crocheters of all skill levels.

Working on the Hollywood Bag is a delightful journey, combining rhythmic stitching with creative construction. Each row brings the elegant design to life, and the satisfaction of completing the intricate details makes the process enjoyable from start to finish. The finished bag is not only a functional accessory but also a beautiful piece of art that reflects your creativity and skill. Whether you’re creating it for yourself or as a thoughtful gift, the Hollywood Bag is a project that’s both inspiring and achievable, leaving you with a timeless accessory to cherish.

Discover more timeless designs from this vintage collection by exploring Bags and Hats Crocheted with Raphael Brand Gimp No. 5 (1939), where you’ll find all the patterns from this classic booklet.


This pattern is transformed, adapted, and expanded from a public domain design originally published in Bags and Hats Crocheted with Raphael Brand Gimp No. 5 (1939). While the original design is in the public domain, the rewritten instructions and supplementary content on this site are ©Tiffany Bliss Mullins, 2024. All rights reserved. Have questions about this pattern, public domain, or copyright? Visit the FAQ page for answers and resources.


Key Details

  • Skill Level: Intermediate
  • Stitches Used: Single Crochet (SC), Shell Stitch
  • Finished Size: Size depends on frame and materials used

Materials

  • Gimp: 4 tubes of “Raphael Brand Gimp” (or a modern substitute). You can read more about Gimp and modern substitution suggestions here: What is Gimp?
  • Lining fabric (recommendation: about ½ yard)
  • Hinge frame (approx. 6–8 inches wide, depending on desired size)

Special Stitches

Shell Stitch:

  • Work 5 Double Treble Crochet (DTR) stitches into the same stitch.

Double Treble Crochet (DTR):

  1. Yarn over the hook 3 times.
  2. Insert the hook into the specified stitch or space.
  3. Yarn over and pull through the stitch (5 loops on the hook).
  4. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops (4 loops remain on the hook).
  5. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops (3 loops remain).
  6. Yarn over and pull through 2 loops (2 loops remain).
  7. Yarn over and pull through the last 2 loops to complete the stitch.

Pattern

Bag Body

  1. Foundation: Ch 5, join with a slip stitch (sl st) to form a ring. Ch 3 (counts as the first stitch).
  2. Rows 1 & 2: Work Shell Stitch (5 DTR in the same space) into the ring, ch 3, turn. Work 1 SC in the space between ch-3 and the first DTR of the previous shell, ch 3, work another Shell Stitch in the same space. Repeat from * 21 times (for a total of 24 Shell Stitches). Fasten off.
  3. Row 3: Attach Gimp at the top of the last DTR in the first Shell Stitch, ch 3, work 1 Shell Stitch under the next ch-3 space. Work 1 SC in the space between ch-3 and the DTR of the next Shell Stitch, ch 3, work 1 Shell Stitch under the next ch-3 space. Repeat from * 11 more times (12 Shell Stitches total). Ch 3, turn.
  4. Rows 4–17: Continue working as established, alternating SC and Shell Stitches, with a ch 3 between each. Turn at the end of each row. Fasten off.

Base and Joining

  1. Bottom Join: Attach Gimp at the bottom edge of the bag. Sl st into the space between ch-3 and the first DTR, ch 3, sl st into the space between the next two Shell Stitches, ch 3, sl st into the space between ch-3 and the next DTR. Repeat from * to the end of the row.
  2. Sew the lining into the bag before attaching the bag to the hinge frame.
  3. Frame Attachment: Sew the bag securely to the hinge frame.

Notes

  • Recommended Frame Sizes: Use a hinge frame approximately 6–8 inches wide, depending on your desired bag size.
  • Lining Fabric Length: About ½ yard of lightweight fabric should be sufficient, but adjust based on the final dimensions of your bag.
  • Original Pattern Notes: The original pattern does not specify frame sizes or lining fabric lengths, so use the recommendations above for guidance.

This vintage-inspired Hollywood Bag is an elegant addition to any wardrobe and a joy to create. The shell stitch detailing adds timeless charm, making it a perfect accessory or gift. Enjoy crocheting this stunning piece, and don’t forget to share your creations!