Easy Crochet Watermelon Coin Purse Pattern: 3 Steps

There is something undeniably delightful about a finished crochet project that looks as fresh and juicy as a slice of watermelon. This coin purse is squishy, tidy, and instantly giftable, making it the perfect summer accessory for kids or adults who love playful, functional crafts. The clever design uses a unique yarn zipper that eliminates the need for sewing, resulting in a clean, professional finish that is as satisfying to make as it is to use. Whether you are looking for a quick stashbuster or a fun introduction to new techniques, this little fruit-shaped pouch delivers big on charm and utility.

Why the Finished Piece Stands Out

What truly makes this watermelon coin purse special is how the color blocking mimics the natural layers of the fruit. By working from the top down, the pattern creates a tapered shape that resembles the stem end of a watermelon, while the distinct bands of green, white, and pink yarn create a vibrant, edible-looking aesthetic. The inclusion of the yarn zipper is a game-changer; it allows for a secure closure without the bulk of traditional metal or plastic zippers. This makes the purse soft and comfortable to carry, whether used as a standalone coin pouch or converted into a lightweight crossbody bag. The texture of the single crochet stitches provides a sturdy structure that holds its shape, while the optional i-cord strap adds a customizable touch that blends seamlessly with the design.

Project Overview

This project is a wearable accessory that serves as both a coin purse and a potential crossbody bag. It is worked in simple single crochet stitches using Red Heart Super Saver yarn. The construction involves creating a tapered watermelon shape, adding black yarn seeds, and attaching a 9-inch Yarn Zip using a slip stitch method. The pattern includes instructions for creating a simple i-cord strap to convert the purse into a crossbody bag.

Materials

• Red Heart Super Saver in Spring Green (or any green)
• Red Heart Super Saver in White
• Red Heart Super Saver in Grenadine (or any watermelon pink/red)
• Red Heart Super Saver in Black (for seeds)
• Size H Crochet Hook
• Size D Crochet Hook (for attaching zipper)
• Tapestry Needle
• 9″ Yarn Zip

Gauge and Finished Size

Finished Size: Approximately 8 inches wide x 7 inches tall.

Note: Specific gauge measurements are not provided in the source pattern. The size is achieved by following the stitch counts and rounds exactly as written.

Abbreviations

Note: Standard crochet abbreviations are used. The source pattern does not list specific abbreviations, so standard US terms are assumed:

• SC: Single Crochet
• SC dec: Single Crochet Decrease
• HDC: Half Double Crochet
• Sl st: Slip Stitch
• Ch: Chain
• Blo: Back Loop Only

Pattern Notes

• The watermelon is worked from the top down.
• The Yarn Zip features a woven channel designed specifically for yarn crafts, allowing you to attach it directly with a crochet hook or tapestry needle without sewing.

Pattern Instructions

Watermelon Body

With green yarn, Chain 60, join to first SC to create a circle, chain 1.

Rounds 2-3: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1. (60 SC)

Round 4: SC decrease, SC in next 4 stitches, repeat around. Join.

Join in white yarn, chain 1.

Round 5: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1. (50 SC)

Round 6: SC decrease, SC in next 3 stitches, repeat around. Join.

Join in pink yarn, chain 1.

Rounds 7-12: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1. (40 SC)

Round 13: SC decrease, SC in next 2 stitches, repeat around. Join, chain 1.

Rounds 14-18: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1. (30 SC)

Round 19: SC decrease, SC in next stitch, repeat around. Join, chain 1.

Rounds 20-22: SC in each stitch around, join, chain 1. (20 SC)

Round 23: SC decrease around. Join, chain 1.

Rounds 24-26: SC in each stitch around. (10 SC)

Fasten off. Using a tapestry needle, weave through the top loops of the remaining stitches and pull tight to close the tip of the watermelon. Secure and weave in ends.

Watermelon Seeds

Make 3. With black yarn, Chain 4.

Slip stitch in second chain from hook, SC in next chain, HDC + SC in last chain. Fasten off leaving a tail for sewing. Stitch the seeds to the narrow end of the watermelon as pictured. You could also make another 3 seeds and attach them to the backside!

Assembly

Attaching the Yarn Zip:

1. Begin by positioning the yarn zip inside the top opening of the watermelon. Use stitch markers to hold both ends of the zipper in place.
2. Using a Size D crochet hook and green yarn, insert your hook through the top edge stitch of the watermelon and through the woven channel of the Yarn Zip.
3. Pull the yarn through both layers, then pull through the loop on your hook to create a slip stitch.
4. Continue making slip stitches evenly around the entire opening, working through both the crochet piece and the zipper channel at the same time. The woven channel makes it easy to attach the zipper directly to your crochet without any sewing.
5. When you reach the end, fasten off and weave in your ends.

Alternative Zipper Attachment Method:

If working the zipper on with a crochet hook feels awkward, there is another option that might be even easier. The woven channel of the Yarn Zip is large enough for a tapestry needle to glide right through. Simply thread matching yarn onto your tapestry needle and stitch through both the crochet fabric and the zipper channel, much like you would sew a zipper in place. The difference is that you are working with yarn instead of thread and a large tapestry needle instead of a tiny sewing needle. I found the needle slid through the Yarn Zip like butter, making it a fantastic alternative for crocheters who prefer sewing over slip stitching. Whether you use a crochet hook or a tapestry needle, you will end up with the same clean finish.

Optional: Crossbody Strap (I-Cord)

To make it even more fun, you can crochet a simple i-cord and attach it to each side of the purse to create a lightweight crossbody strap. It is the perfect size for kids, summer outings, fairs, farmers markets, or carrying a few small essentials. You can customize the length to fit children or adults, and because it is made from the same yarn, it blends right into the design.

Easy Crochet I-Cord Instructions:

Using a crochet hook:

1. Chain 4.
2. Insert hook into second chain from hook and pull up a loop.
3. Insert hook into third chain and pull up a loop.
4. Insert hook into fourth chain and pull up a loop.
5. Slide loops to opposite end of hook and repeat, pulling yarn across the back each time.
6. Continue until desired length. I suggest 25 inches long.

Attach each end securely to the sides of the purse near the zipper ends.

Tips

• A smaller hook (Size D or smaller) makes it easier to work through the zipper channel.
• Stitch markers help keep the zipper centered while attaching.
• Match your yarn color to the rind for a nearly invisible finish.

FAQs

Can I use a different yarn weight for this pattern?

While the pattern is designed for Red Heart Super Saver (a worsted weight yarn), you can use any worsted weight yarn. Keep in mind that changing yarn weight may alter the finished size and the fit of the Yarn Zip.

Is the Yarn Zip difficult to attach?

No, the Yarn Zip is designed specifically for yarn crafts. You can attach it using a crochet hook with slip stitches or a tapestry needle with yarn, making it much easier than sewing in a traditional zipper.

Can I make this purse larger?

The size is determined by the initial chain of 60 and the subsequent decreases. To make it larger, you would need to increase the starting chain and adjust the decrease rounds proportionally, though this would require modifying the pattern significantly.

What is the purpose of the seeds?

The seeds are purely decorative, adding to the realistic watermelon appearance. They are made with black yarn and stitched to the narrow end of the purse.

Can I use this pattern for other fruits?

Yes! The shape and color blocking can be adapted for other fruits like strawberries or oranges by changing the yarn colors and adjusting the number of decrease rounds.

This Watermelon Coin Purse is a fun introduction to the Yarn Zip and a great way to practice adding zippers to crochet projects. Keep it as a coin purse, use it as a notions pouch, or add a crochet i-cord strap and turn it into a playful crossbody bag. Once you see how easy the Yarn Zip is to attach, you will be looking for excuses to add zippers to all your crochet projects!