How to Crochet a Cottage Core Belted Pocket

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Crochet the granny square base

Using the G/4.5mm hook, create a foundation chain of 6 stitches. For round 1, chain 3, single crochet into the third chain from the hook and into each chain across, then join with a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain to form a ring. For rounds 2 through 7, chain 3 and single crochet into each stitch around, working 4 single crochets into each corner chain space to keep the square flat. For round 8, chain 3, single crochet into the first stitch, then repeat the sequence of chain 1, skip 1, single crochet into the next 2 stitches, chain 3, single crochet into the next stitch around, and join with a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain 3. Fasten off and weave in all ends.

Make a second granny square of exactly the same size — this will become the back panel of the pocket. Work at the same tension as the first square so both pieces match up cleanly when joined. Block both squares lightly if needed to even out the edges before moving to the next step.

Step 2 — Work the drawstring casings

Switch to the H/5.0mm hook for this step. With right sides of both squares facing each other, join a new length of yarn and work a slip stitch seam along one upper edge, matching corner chains as you go. Once the edge is joined, work in rounds from the backside of the joined squares: chain 3, single crochet evenly around the entire square, then join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain 3. Leave a long tail at the end for sewing. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Repeat this process on the opposite upper edge of the joined squares to create a second drawstring casing. These two casings will each hold a drawstring cord that cinches the top of the pocket closed when pulled.

Step 3 — Join the squares into a bag

With right sides facing, use a slip stitch to sew the two granny squares together along three sides — the two short sides and the bottom — leaving the top open. Work the slip stitch seam carefully through both layers, matching stitches and corner chains as closely as possible for a neat, even join. Fasten off at the end of each seam and weave in all ends securely.

Turn the bag right side out and check that the seams lie flat and the corners are well-defined. The drawstring casings worked in step 2 should now sit at the top opening on both the front and back panels, ready to receive the drawstring cords.

Step 4 — Crochet the strap with drawstring casing

Using a separate length of yarn, chain the desired strap length plus 4 extra chains to allow for the drawstring casing (for example, chain 70 plus 4). Join into a loop with a slip stitch. For row 1, chain 3, single crochet across, and join with a slip stitch into the top of the starting chain to form a tube. Work rows 2 through 5 in the same way — chain 3 and single crochet across each row. Fasten off and weave in ends.

To add the drawstring casing along one edge of the strap, switch to a smaller hook and work in rounds: chain 3, single crochet around the entire tube, join with a slip stitch to the top of the starting chain 3. Repeat for approximately 8 rows to build up the casing depth. Fasten off and weave in ends. This casing aligns with the casings on the bag body when assembled.

Step 5 — Assemble the pocket onto the belt

Fold the back panel of the bag in half with right sides facing, aligning the drawstring casings along the top edge. Using the sewing needle and matching thread, whipstitch the single crochet stitches along the edge of the granny square to the corresponding edge of the belt, working along the full width of the pocket and stitching through several layers to ensure a firm, secure join that will hold up to regular wear.

Attach the crocheted strap to the opposite side of the bag in the same manner, making sure the drawstring casings on the strap align with the bottom edge of the bag. Check that the pocket hangs evenly and sits flat against the belt before trimming any thread ends.

Step 6 — Add the bow and secure the drawstrings

If you would like to add a bow, cut a length of yarn or ribbon in a coordinating colour and tie it into a firm bow. Attach it to the front of the pocket by sewing it on with the sewing needle and thread, positioning it wherever it looks best — centred at the top, off to one side, or at the belt attachment point.

Thread a drawstring cord through each of the casings on the bag body and strap, drawing both ends out on the same side so they can be pulled together to close the pocket. Knot the cord ends securely or add small beads or tassels to the ends to prevent them pulling back through the casing. Adjust the belt to your preferred fit and the pocket is ready to wear.

Frequently asked questions

What materials do I need to crochet a cottage core belted pocket?
You will need a size G/4.5mm crochet hook for the granny squares and a size H/5.0mm hook for the drawstring casing, approximately 430 yards of worsted weight cotton or acrylic yarn in your preferred colours, a tapestry needle, stitch markers, a sewing needle and matching thread, and a belt approximately 36 inches long. Yarn for an optional bow is also useful.

Can I adjust the size of the crochet cottage core belted pocket?
Yes. The size of the pocket is determined by the number of chains in your granny square foundation and the number of rounds worked. Adding more rounds to each granny square produces a larger pocket; fewer rounds makes a smaller one. Keep in mind that changing the size will affect the total yarn required and the proportions of the finished piece.

What skill level is the cottage core belted pocket crochet project?
The project spans beginner to intermediate level. The granny square base and slip stitch joining are beginner techniques. Working the drawstring casing and assembling the two squares into a bag with a strap and belt attachment are intermediate steps that require some familiarity with joining and finishing methods.

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