[Finished product] Custom Handmade Crochet Raffia Elephant handbag Gray Elephant Bag

Elephants are magnificent creatures known for their intelligence, strong social bonds, and impressive size. They symbolize strength, wisdom, and loyalty in many cultures. Crocheting a raffia elephant handbag combines the beauty of these gentle giants with the unique texture of raffia, creating a stylish and eco-friendly accessory that stands out!

How to Crochet a Raffia Elephant Handbag

Materials Needed:

• Raffia yarn: Grey (for the elephant) and any color for the bag body.
• Crochet hook: 6mm (or size suitable for your raffia).
• Polyester fiberfill: For stuffing the elephant features (optional).
• Yarn needle: For sewing.
• Scissors.
• Magnetic snap or button: For closure (optional).

Abbreviations:

• ch: Chain
• sc: Single crochet
• inc: Increase (2 sc in one stitch)
• dec: Decrease (sc two stitches together)
• sl st: Slip stitch
• MR: Magic ring
• FO: Fasten off

Body of the Handbag

1. Base of the Bag:
   • Ch 30 (or desired width).
   • Row 1: Sc in each ch across (30). Turn.
   • Rows 2-10: Ch 1, sc in each stitch across (30). Turn. Adjust the number of rows for desired height.
2. Side Panels (Make 2):
   • Ch 30 and repeat Row 1 and 2 for the same height as the bag.
3. Finish Off:
   • FO and set aside.

Elephant Face

1. Head:
   • MR, sc 6 (6).
   • Inc in each stitch (12).
   • 1 sc, inc around (18).
   • 2 sc, inc around (24). FO, leaving a long tail.
2. Ears (Make 2):
   • Ch 8: Turn, sc in each ch (7), turn.
   • Row 2: Inc, sc 5, inc (9). FO, leaving a long tail.
3. Trunk:
   • Ch 6: Sc in the 2nd ch from the hook and in the next 4 ch (5). FO, leaving a long tail.

Assembly of the Elephant Face

1. Attach Ears:
   • Sew the ears onto the top sides of the head.
2. Attach Trunk:
   • Sew the trunk to the center of the head.
3. Add Eyes:
   • Use safety eyes or small black buttons for the eyes, positioning them above the trunk.

Finishing the Handbag

1. Attach Side Panels:
   • Sew the side panels to the base of the bag to form a rectangular shape.
2. Closure:
   • If using a magnetic snap or button, sew it to the bag for closure.
3. Attach Elephant Face:
   • Sew the completed elephant face to the front of the bag.

Handle

1. Ch 60 (or desired length).
2. Sc in each ch across.
3. FO and attach each end to the sides of the bag.

Conclusion

Your Raffia Elephant Handbag is complete! This stylish and playful accessory combines the charm of elephants with the unique texture of raffia, making it perfect for everyday use or special occasions. Enjoy your crocheting!