Learn the Shell Stitch and Crochet a Multifunctional Phone Pouch

Learn the Shell Stitch and Crochet a Multifunctional Phone Pouch

Table of Contents:

1. Introduction
2. Materials and Tools Needed
3. Step 1: Creating the Foundation Chain
4. Step 2: Working the First Round of Shell Stitch
5. Step 3: Changing Colors and Continuing with Shell Stitch
6. Step 4: Repeating Rounds 2 and 3
7. Step 5: Creating a Button Loop
8. Step 6: Closing Off the Bottom of the Pouch
9. Step 7: Adding a Separator (Optional)
10. Step 8: Finishing Touches and Customizations
11. Conclusion

How to Make a Phone Pouch Using Shell Stitch

Are you tired of carrying your phone around without proper protection? Do you want a stylish and functional accessory to keep your phone safe from scratches? Well, look no further because today, we will show you how to make a phone pouch using the versatile shell stitch. This easy-to-follow tutorial will guide you through every step of the process, from creating the foundation chain to adding a button and finishing touches. Get ready to showcase your crochet skills and create a practical phone pouch that can also accommodate other essentials. Let's get started!

Introduction

In this tutorial, we will learn how to make a phone pouch using the shell stitch. The shell stitch is a simple yet elegant crochet stitch that produces a textured surface resembling a seashell. This stitch is perfect for creating beautiful and functional accessories, such as phone pouches. By utilizing different colors and textures of yarn, you can customize your pouch to match your style and preferences.

Materials and Tools Needed

Before we dive into the tutorial, let's gather all the materials and tools we will need:

1. Yarn: Choose four colors of medium weight yarn. We recommend using a white, terra cotta, orange, and peach color to create a vibrant and eye-catching pouch.
2. Crochet Hook: Use a size 6 crochet hook for the shell stitch and a smaller size hook (around 5mm) for closing off the bottom.
3. Scissors: Make sure to have a pair of scissors handy for cutting the yarn.
4. Button: Select a button that coordinates well with the colors of your yarn. The button will serve as the closure for the pouch.
5. Bead (Optional): If you prefer, you can use a bead instead of a button for a unique and decorative touch to your pouch.
6. Sewing Needle: Have a sewing needle available for weaving in the loose ends and closing off the bottom.

Now that we have everything we need, let's begin creating our phone pouch using the shell stitch.

Step 1: Creating the Foundation Chain

To start, we will create the foundation chain using the white yarn. The size of your foundation chain will depend on the dimensions of your phone. For a typical smartphone-sized pouch (6 by 3 inches), chain 60 or adjust the number to fit your specific phone size.

Step 2: Working the First Round of Shell Stitch

After creating the foundation chain, join the last chain to the first chain with a slip stitch to form a ring. Then, chain three (counts as the first double crochet) and work one double crochet in each chain around. This round establishes the foundation stitches for our shell stitch.

Step 3: Changing Colors and Continuing with Shell Stitch

In this step, we will change colors to create the vibrant shell stitch pattern. Slip stitch into a new color on the first double crochet of the previous round. Cut the white yarn and tie it at the back of the work. Start the new color by working a slip stitch on top of the first double crochet. Then, continue working shell stitches by skipping two stitches, working five double crochets in the next stitch, and repeating this pattern until the end of the round.

Step 4: Repeating Rounds 2 and 3

To achieve the desired height for the phone pouch, we will alternate between rounds 2 and 3. Round 2 involves working a shell stitch on top of every slip stitch, while in round 3, we work half of the shell stitch to create the textured pattern. Repeat rounds 2 and 3 until you reach the desired height for your pouch.

Step 5: Creating a Button Loop

In this step, we will create a loop to attach a button that will serve as the closure for the pouch. Slip stitch to a new color, tie both tails at the back, and chain the desired number of stitches to match the size of your button. Then, slip stitch into the same stitch where you made a slip stitch, and continue working the shell stitch on top of the slip stitch. This loop will provide a secure closure for your phone pouch.

Step 6: Closing Off the Bottom of the Pouch

Once you've completed the desired number of rounds, it's time to close off the bottom of the pouch. Turn the work inside out, making sure the loop is in the center. To close off the bottom, use a smaller crochet hook and work single crochets on both edges, making sure to catch both loops. Continue working until you reach the end, and fasten off.

Step 7: Adding a Separator (Optional)

If you want to add a separate compartment inside the pouch, you can do so by working additional rows of single crochet in every stitch. This will create a divider that allows you to organize your phone and other items separately. Simply turn the work and work single crochets in every stitch until you reach the desired height. This separator will protect your phone from getting scratched and provide additional storage space.

Step 8: Finishing Touches and Customizations

Once you have completed the pouch, it's time to add any final touches and customize it to your liking. Weave in any loose ends using a sewing needle to ensure a clean and professional finish. Additionally, you can attach a button or bead to the loop and create a secure closure for your pouch. Feel free to experiment with different buttons, beads, and closures to add a personal touch to your creation.

Conclusion

Congratulations! You have successfully created a stylish and functional phone pouch using the shell stitch. This versatile crochet stitch allows you to showcase your creativity and create practical accessories to protect your phone from scratches. With the ability to customize the colors and add optional dividers, you can make this pouch truly unique. Whether you keep it for yourself or give it as a gift, this phone pouch will be a practical and fashionable addition to your everyday life.

Highlights:

• Learn how to crochet a phone pouch using the shell stitch.
• Customize the size and colors of your pouch to match your preferences.
• Create a separate compartment inside the pouch for added convenience.
• Add a button or bead closure to keep your phone secure.
• Show off your crochet skills and create a practical accessory.

FAQ:

Q: Can I make the phone pouch in different sizes? A: Yes, you can customize the size of the phone pouch by chaining a multiple of six until you can wrap it around your phone. Adjusting the length of the foundation chain will result in a pouch that fits your specific phone size.

Q: What materials do I need to make the phone pouch? A: You will need medium weight yarn in four different colors, a crochet hook (size 6 for the shell stitch and a smaller size for closing off the bottom), scissors, a button or bead for the closure, and a sewing needle.

Q: Is the shell stitch suitable for beginners? A: Yes, the shell stitch is relatively easy to learn and is suitable for beginners. Following the step-by-step instructions provided in this tutorial, you will be able to create a beautiful phone pouch using the shell stitch technique.