Granny Heart with Flower Center - Free Pattern
The Goldfish Coin Purse is a fun and functional crochet project that brings together charm and practicality. This small accessory is perfect for storing coins, keys, or other tiny essentials, while adding a playful touch to your everyday items.
Unlike regular coin purses, a goldfish coin purse combines creativity with a cute aquatic theme, making it an excellent gift for kids, friends, or anyone who appreciates handmade crafts.
One of the reasons the Goldfish Coin Purse is so popular is its whimsical design. The coin purse is shaped like a goldfish, complete with fins, a tail, and sometimes little embroidered eyes.
This design not only makes the purse visually appealing but also turns it into a conversation starter. Whether you are carrying it in your bag or displaying it on a desk, it immediately attracts attention for its creativity and unique look.
Another advantage of the Goldfish Coin Purse is its versatility. This crochet pattern can be customized in multiple ways: different yarn colors, embroidery details, zipper choices, or even adding lining for extra durability. You can make a series of fish in different colors for a coordinated set, or create a personalized version for someone special. The possibilities are virtually endless, making this project perfect for both beginners and experienced crocheters.
Before starting your Goldfish Coin Purse, it’s important to gather all necessary materials and tools to ensure a smooth crafting process.
You’ll need yarn in your preferred colors. Most patterns use cotton or acrylic yarn for durability and ease of shaping. For a traditional goldfish look, orange yarn is ideal, but you can get creative with gold, red, or even pastel shades. Using two or more colors for accents, such as fins or tail, can enhance the final appearance.
A suitable crochet hook is essential. Depending on the yarn weight, most crafters use hooks between 2.5 mm and 3.5 mm for amigurumi-style accessories. Using a slightly smaller hook than recommended ensures tight stitches, which prevents the stuffing from showing through and gives the purse a neat look.
Safety eyes or embroidery thread will help create the fish’s facial details. Safety eyes are recommended for decorative purposes, while embroidered eyes are safer if the purse will be used by children. A small amount of black or white yarn can be used to add highlights or expression.
You’ll also need stuffing material such as polyester fiberfill to give the purse its shape. While the purse is small, stuffing helps maintain a round and plump look, giving it a more realistic goldfish appearance.
Other tools include a tapestry needle for sewing parts together and weaving in yarn ends, stitch markers for keeping track of rounds, and scissors. Optionally, you can use a small zipper or button closure to secure the coins inside. Having all materials ready before you start will make your crafting process much smoother.
Creating a Goldfish Coin Purse involves making the fish body, adding fins and tail, and assembling all parts together into a functional accessory.
Begin with the fish body. Most patterns start with a magic ring at the base, crocheting in continuous rounds using single crochet stitches. Gradually increase the stitches to create a round or oval shape for the main body. Before closing the final round, insert stuffing to maintain a plump shape.
Next, create the fins and tail. Fins are usually small triangles or semi-circles crocheted separately and sewn to the sides of the body. The tail can be slightly larger and shaped with increases and decreases to create a flowing, natural look. You can experiment with different stitch patterns to give the tail texture and movement.
For the facial details, attach safety eyes or embroider small eyes on either side of the head. Adding a small mouth using black yarn or thread enhances the charm of your Goldfish Coin Purse. Some crafters like to add tiny fins on top of the head for extra cuteness.
Now it’s time to assemble the purse. If you are adding a zipper, sew it carefully along the top opening of the fish. Make sure the edges align evenly so that the purse closes smoothly. Alternatively, a button or snap closure can also be used, depending on your preference.
Check the overall shape and adjust if necessary. You can add extra stuffing to the fins or tail for better structure, or make small tweaks to the sewing placements to ensure the goldfish looks balanced. Small details like positioning the eyes or adjusting the tail can make a significant difference in the final appearance.
Finally, weave in all loose ends and trim excess yarn. This finishing touch makes your Goldfish Coin Purse neat and professional, ready to use or gift.
One of the best things about making a Goldfish Coin Purse is the potential for customization. You can personalize your project to suit your style, holiday theme, or recipient preferences.
Experiment with yarn colors. Orange is traditional, but gold, red, or pastel shades work beautifully. You can even make striped patterns or use variegated yarn for a more unique look. Color combinations can also highlight fins, tail, or body details.
Consider adding embroidery. Small stitched details, like scales or subtle patterns on the fins, can make your goldfish appear more lifelike. A little blush on the cheeks using yarn or fabric paint adds extra cuteness.
Adding charms or small beads is another fun option. Tiny beads on the fins or along the body can mimic scales, making your coin purse sparkle. Just ensure the beads are securely attached to prevent them from falling off.
For gifting, you can make matching sets of goldfish purses in different sizes or colors. These sets are perfect for children, friends, or as party favors. You can also place small trinkets inside before gifting for a delightful surprise.
A practical idea is to add a lining inside the purse. Using fabric lining increases durability, prevents coins from poking through stitches, and gives the accessory a polished, professional finish. Choose a light-colored fabric to make it easier to see coins inside.
Finally, consider seasonal variations. A goldfish coin purse with a red or green body can be a festive Christmas gift, while pastel colors make a perfect Easter accessory. Seasonal customization keeps the project fresh and relevant year after year.
Even though the Goldfish Coin Purse is a small project, a few tips can improve its quality and appearance.
Keep stitches tight and consistent. Tight stitches prevent stuffing from showing and make the purse sturdier. Adjust your hook size if needed to maintain consistency.
Use stitch markers for each round to track increases and decreases accurately. Amigurumi projects often require precise shaping, and markers prevent mistakes.
Add stuffing gradually. Overstuffing can distort the shape, while under-stuffing results in a floppy fish. Aim for a firm, plump body without stretching the stitches.
Pay attention to sewing placement. Attaching fins and tail symmetrically ensures the purse looks balanced. Check the overall shape before finishing the last stitches.
Experiment with yarn textures. Smooth cotton creates a polished look, while fluffy or textured yarn can add a playful effect. Just ensure the yarn works well with your hook size.
Lastly, enjoy the process. Handmade projects are as much about creating as the finished product. Take your time, add personal touches, and celebrate the charm of a small but delightful Goldfish Coin Purse.
What is a goldfish coin purse?
A small crochet purse shaped like a goldfish, used for coins, keys, or small items, combining function and cute design.
Is it suitable for beginners?
Yes, basic crochet stitches like single crochet, increases, and decreases are used, making it beginner-friendly.
How long does it take to make one?
Depending on your experience, it usually takes 3–5 hours to complete a single goldfish coin purse.
Which yarn should I use?
Cotton or acrylic yarn works best. You can use orange, red, gold, or even pastel shades depending on preference.
Can I add a zipper or lining?
Yes, adding a zipper or fabric lining improves functionality and durability. Both options are recommended for practical use.
Can I customize the fish?
Absolutely. You can change colors, add embroidery, beads, or even create seasonal variations.
Is it safe for children?
If using safety eyes, supervise younger children. For baby-safe options, embroider eyes and avoid small beads.
Can I gift it?
Yes, it makes a charming handmade gift for birthdays, holidays, or as a fun collectible.
The Goldfish Coin Purse is a delightful blend of creativity, functionality, and charm. From choosing yarn and colors to assembling the body, fins, and tail, every step offers an opportunity to create a unique and personalized accessory. Whether for personal use, gifting, or decorative purposes, this coin purse brings joy to both makers and recipients.
Now that you know how to make a Goldfish Coin Purse, I encourage you to try it yourself, experiment with colors and designs, and share your results. Your opinions and suggestions can inspire even more creative ideas for future crochet projects.
