Sun-Kissed Citrus Chain Edge Raffia Clutch: Free Crochet Pattern

Carry a slice of summer wherever you go with this vibrant crochet clutch! Featuring a textured chain edge and sunny citrus hues, this handcrafted bag is made from natural raffia yarn, making it the perfect eco-chic accessory for warm-weather adventures. Whether you're heading to the beach, a farmers market, or a summer soirée, this boho-inspired clutch adds a pop of color and handcrafted charm to any outfit. Best of all, this free pattern is beginner-friendly and works up quickly with basic stitches.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following supplies to ensure a smooth crochet session:

• Yarn: Raffia yarn in Lemon Yellow (MC), Tangerine Orange (CC1), and Coral Pink (CC2) – approximately 150g total
• Hook: 3.5mm crochet hook
• Gauge: 16 sc x 18 rows = 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 in) in single crochet
• Notions: Stitch markers, yarn needle, scissors

Finished Size & Abbreviations

Finished Size: Approximately 25 cm wide x 18 cm tall (excluding strap)

Abbreviations:

• ch = chain
• sc = single crochet
• hdc = half double crochet
• dc = double crochet
• sl st = slip stitch
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• rnd(s) = round(s)

Pattern Notes

This pattern is worked in continuous spirals unless otherwise stated. Use a stitch marker to mark the beginning of each round. The clutch body is made in two identical pieces, then joined together. The citrus motifs are worked separately and sewn on for a charming 3D effect.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Clutch Body (Make 2 Pieces)

With MC (Lemon Yellow):

Row 1: Ch 26. Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. (25 sc)

Row 2: Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across. (25 sc)

Rows 3-30: Repeat Row 2 until the piece measures approximately 18 cm from the start. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Repeat this entire process to create a second identical piece.

Joining the Pieces

Place the two pieces together with wrong sides facing each other. With MC, join the yarn at the bottom left corner. Working through both layers, sc evenly around the sides and bottom, leaving the top open. This creates a sturdy seam and a clean finish. Fasten off and weave in all ends.

Chain Edge Trim

With CC1 (Tangerine Orange), join the yarn at the top right corner of the clutch. Work the following pattern around the entire top edge:

*Ch 3, sl st in the next st* – repeat from * to * around the entire top opening. This creates a beautiful, textured chain edge that frames the bag. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Citrus Motif (Make 3)

With CC1 (Tangerine Orange):

Make a magic ring.

Rnd 1: Ch 1, 6 sc into the ring. (6 sc)

Rnd 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12 sc)

Rnd 3: *Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st* – repeat around. (18 sc)

Rnd 4: *Sc in next 2 sts, 2 sc in next st* – repeat around. (24 sc)

Rnd 5: *Sc in next 3 sts, 2 sc in next st* – repeat around. (30 sc)

Rnd 6: *Sc in next 4 sts, 2 sc in next st* – repeat around. (36 sc)

Rnd 7: Working in back loops only, sc in each st around. (36 sc) – This creates a subtle ridge that gives the citrus its dimension.

Rnd 8: With CC2 (Coral Pink), working in the front loops only of Rnd 6, *ch 3, sl st in next st* – repeat around. This creates a ruffled, coral-pink edge that mimics citrus rind. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Leaves (Make 3)

With MC (Lemon Yellow):

Ch 8. Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook, hdc in the next 2 chs, dc in the next 3 chs, hdc in the last ch. This creates a simple, elegant leaf shape. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.

Assembly

Sew the citrus motifs onto the front of the clutch in a pleasing arrangement – try a triangle or diagonal layout for visual interest. Attach one leaf near the top of each citrus motif, using the long tail to secure it neatly.

Strap

With MC (Lemon Yellow):

Ch 100. Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in each ch across. Fasten off. Attach the strap to the inside top corners of the clutch using a needle and thread, or by crocheting it securely into place. Make sure the strap is evenly attached on both sides for balance.

Final Touches

Weave in any remaining ends and give your clutch a gentle shape-block. The natural raffia yarn will soften with use, making your bag even more beautiful over time. This Sun-Kissed Citrus Chain Edge Raffia Clutch is the perfect statement piece for summer – handmade, eco-friendly, and absolutely adorable!

Happy crocheting, and enjoy your handmade slice of summer!