Some of the most useful things you’ll ever crochet are also the simplest. A basic cord is one of them. It looks like a small project, but once you know how to make one, you’ll find yourself using it everywhere: on a purse, a tote, a phone pouch, or even as a keychain strap.
A handmade strap gives any bag a personal touch. It’s sturdy, it feels good in your hand, and you can choose any color you want. The one in this tutorial has a lovely raised texture that looks far more complicated than it really is.
Below, I’ll share what you need, the best ways to use your cord, and a few tips so it turns out neat and strong. Then you can follow along with the full video tutorial at the end.
Why Make Your Own Cord?
- Custom length. No more settling for a store-bought strap that’s too short or too long.
- Any color you like. Match it to your bag, or make it the bold detail that stands out.
- Strong and durable. A dense crochet strap holds up to everyday use.
- Quick to make. It’s a great project to finish in one sitting.
- Beginner friendly. The same simple movements repeat, so it’s easy to get into a rhythm.
What You’ll Need
- Yarn or cord in the color of your choice. A smooth cotton or a sturdy, non-stretchy yarn works best for straps.
- A crochet hook. The video shows the size used, so check it before you start.
- Lobster clasps (swivel clasps) to attach the strap to your bag
- Scissors
- A tapestry needle for weaving in ends and securing the clasps
Tip: Choose yarn with little stretch. A strap that stretches over time will sag under the weight of your bag.
Ways to Use Your Cord
Once you can make a cord, you’ll see how versatile it is:
- A purse strap or shoulder strap
- A replacement handle for a tote or pouch
- A crossbody strap for a small phone bag
- A wrist strap or wristlet for a clutch
- A lanyard for keys or an ID
- A camera or bottle strap
Tips for a Neat, Strong Cord
- Keep your tension even. Consistent stitches give you a smooth, professional-looking strap.
- Don’t pull too tight. The texture needs room to show, and tight stitches make the cord stiff and hard to work.
- Measure as you go. Hold it up to your bag every so often to check the length.
- Choose strong yarn. Cotton or a tightly spun yarn will last much longer than a soft, fluffy one.
- Secure the clasps well. Stitch them on firmly with your tapestry needle, since this is the part that carries all the weight.
- Test before you commit. Gently tug the finished strap to make sure it holds.
How Long Should It Be?
It depends on how you want to wear it:
- Wristlet: short enough to loop around your wrist
- Shoulder bag: a medium length that sits comfortably on the shoulder
- Crossbody: longer, so it crosses your body and sits at your hip
When in doubt, make it a little longer. You can always shorten it later, but it’s much harder to add length.
Make It Match Your Style
A basic cord is a blank canvas. Try it in a neutral shade for everyday bags, or choose a bright color like mustard yellow for a pop of warmth. You can also make a set: a matching strap for each of your handmade bags.
Watch the Full Video Tutorial
Ready to make your own? Press play below and crochet along at your own pace. Pause whenever you need, and rewind any step you’d like to see again.
If this tutorial helped you, save it to Pinterest so you can find it later, and share a photo of your finished cord. I’d love to see how you use it!
All credit for the design and tutorial goes to Sirin’s Crochet. Go show their channel some love!