Craft a charming handmade pencil case inspired by adorable characters like Hello Kitty and Kuromi! This versatile project combines functionality with delightful design, making it both a practical storage solution and a personal statement. Perfect for gifts, organizing, or carrying your pens and craft tools.
This crochet pencil case stands out for its durability and creativity. Made with sturdy cotton yarn, it’s ideal for daily use. Its customizable character-themed patterns, distinct compartments, and detailed finishing add a playful touch to your stationery, while keeping everything secure and tidy.
Crochet Pencil Case
Whether you’re a crochet beginner or a seasoned crafter, this project is both approachable and customizable. The straightforward pattern lets you bring beloved characters to life while fostering creativity. With a variety of colors and fun details, each case is unique and practical for every personality!
Materials and Preparation
Required Materials:
- Yarn: Milk cotton yarn in green, white, black, and additional colors as desired for character details.
- Hook: 3 mm crochet hook.
- Additional Tools: Scissors, tapestry needle, and stitch markers.
Abbreviations and Notes
Abbreviations:
- SC: Single crochet
- DC: Double crochet
- ST: Stitch
- CH: Chain
- SL ST: Slip stitch
- INC: Increase (2 SC in the same ST)
- DEC: Decrease (invisible decrease)
Pattern Notes:
- Maintain consistent tension throughout to ensure uniformity.
- Follow color change instructions carefully for specific characters.
- All rounds are worked in a continuous spiral unless specified otherwise.
- Use stitch markers to indicate the beginning of rounds and keep track of your position.
Gauge, Approximate Size, and Pattern Notes
Gauge:
- Gauge is not specified; however, a swatch or close monitoring may help achieve the desired size.
Approximate Size:
- The finished pencil case will hold standard stationery items and can fit in a regular pencil pouch slot.
Special Techniques:
- Magic ring technique is used for beginning most round pieces.
- Invisible decrease technique is applied in shaping.
Step-by-Step Pattern
Foundation/Base of Pencil Case:
- Base Round:
- Make a slip knot and chain 39.
- Starting from the second chain from the hook, make 37 SC across.
- In the last chain, make 3 SC, turn to work on the other side.
- Make 36 SC, then 3 SC in the last stitch.
- Join with SL ST to the first SC, CH 1.
- Rounds 2 to 5:
- Continue in a spiral, maintaining 115 SC using previous stitches and increases, working 3 SC in corner stitches.
- Incorporate color changes for characters as described in the video, such as black for Kurumi and white for Hello Kitty.
- Round 6:
- Crochet in the back loop only (BLO) for a total of 115 SC.
- Rounds 7 to 10:
- Work 115 SC in each round, maintaining previous character color patterns.
Shaping and Details:
- Round 11:
- Begin decreasing intermittently according to specific instructions, following color patterns where necessary.
- Rounds 12 to 18:
- Maintain structure, apply decreases, and switch colors as needed.
- Finalize Case Body:
- Continue crocheting until specified round count for each character version is complete.
Flap and Finishing:
- Flap:
- Count 41 stitches from the back, attach yarn, and begin 39 SC width flap.
- Work in rows turning after each to create a flap, ending with holes for buttons.
- Ears and Embellishments:
- Use magic ring to start ears for various characters, working with appropriate colors.
- Attach ears to the top of the case following the spacing and sewing instructions.
- Eyes, Nose, and Additional Elements:
- Create small, circular shapes using magic rings for eyes and noses, adjusting colors based on character.
- Sew these onto the pencil case in the designated positions from the video tutorial.
Final Assembly:
- Sew on buttons, attach any necessary fasteners, and weave in all loose yarn ends securely to prevent unraveling.
This concludes the step-by-step pattern for creating a charming and functional crochet pencil case featuring beloved characters! Follow the steps diligently and refer to the video tutorial for visual guidance.
Pattern Question:
Question: How do I add color changes without making visible yarn tails or bumps?
Answer: Before completing the last yarn-over of your current stitch, pull through the new color. Carry the unused yarn along the back for a few stitches, then secure and trim any tails for a clean finish.
Conclusion
This crochet pencil case combines creativity and practicality, making it a fun and satisfying project. Whether for personal use or as a heartfelt gift, its customizable designs and charming details are sure to bring joy to both makers and recipients. Give it a try—you’ll love the results!
