Materials & tools you'll need

Fine (#2) weight cotton-blend yarn (a cotton/acrylic blend works well) · 5mm (H/8) crochet hook — 4mm to 6mm also works depending on tension · Aluminum hook (optional, easier for handling larger loops) · Yarn or tapestry needle · Scissors

Step 1 — Start the base

Begin with a slip knot and chain three — this chain three will stand in as your first double crochet. Work three double crochets into the first stitch, then chain one. Repeat this group of three double crochets plus a chain-one space three more times into the same stitch, so you end up with twelve double crochets worked around (counting the starting chain three) and four chain-one corner spaces. Slip stitch into the top of the starting chain three to close the round — you'll have a small square with four open corners.

Step 2 — Work the second round

Chain three to turn and work two more double crochets into the same chain-one space from the round below (the chain three counts as your third double crochet, so this makes a group of three). Chain one, then work three more double crochets into that same corner space. Chain one again and move to the next corner space, working three double crochets, chain one, three double crochets into it. Continue around all four corners in this way, joining with a slip stitch at the end of the round.

Step 3 — Continue rounds 3 through 5

Repeat the same pattern for rounds three, four, and five: chain three to turn, then work double crochet groups separated by chain-one spaces around the square. At each corner, work two full groups of three double crochets with a chain-one space between them; along the flat edges between corners, work just one group of three double crochets into each chain-one space from the previous round. This corner-versus-edge distinction is what keeps the square lying flat as it grows. Slip stitch to close each round before starting the next.

Step 4 — Fold, sew, and finish

Once round five is complete, fasten off and weave in any loose ends along the edges. Fold the square in half so two opposite corners meet, then use your yarn needle to sew the two open sides closed, leaving the top open to slide teabags in and out. Weave in the remaining tail securely through the seam. Your finished tea bag holder is ready to tuck into a purse, bag, or travel pouch so you always have a couple of teabags on hand.

Frequently asked questions

Is an aluminum hook necessary for making a crocheted tea bag holder?
No. An aluminum hook is recommended because it's lightweight and can make managing the larger loops in the corner stitches easier, but it isn't essential — a regular hook in the same size will work just as well.

How big is the finished crochet tea bag holder?
Worked over five rounds with a 5mm hook and fine-weight yarn, the square comes out small enough to fit easily in a purse or bag pocket, with enough depth once folded and sewn closed to hold a couple of teabags.

Can I use a different hook size for this project?
Yes. A 5mm hook is the starting point, but anywhere from 4mm to 6mm will work depending on your tension and the weight of yarn you're using — just expect the finished square to run slightly smaller or larger accordingly.

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