
DIY Crochet Lavender Bag Charm Free Pattern | Easy Amigurumi Keychain
There is something almost magical about a tiny crocheted charm dangling from a bag strap or keyring. It is small enough to finish in an afternoon, useful enough to give as a gift, and personal enough to make someone feel truly seen. A lavender bag charm hits all of those notes at once. It looks adorable, it smells wonderful, and it introduces you to the fundamentals of amigurumi without the intimidating commitment of a full stuffed animal. Whether you are a beginner who just learned how to hold a hook or an experienced crocheter looking for a quick, satisfying project, this free pattern is exactly what you need.
In this post I will walk you through every step of making your own crochet lavender bag charm keychain, from materials and abbreviations all the way to finishing and customization ideas. Grab your hook, your yarn, and a little dried lavender, and let us get started.
Why Make a Lavender Bag Charm?
Before we dive into the pattern itself, it is worth taking a moment to appreciate why this particular project is so worthwhile.
Lavender has been used for centuries as a natural calming scent. Tucking a small amount of dried lavender into a pouch and carrying it with you means you always have a gentle, soothing fragrance on hand during a stressful commute, a long workday, or a moment when you need to slow down and breathe. Unlike synthetic air fresheners or heavy perfumes, lavender is subtle and universally loved.
As an amigurumi project, a lavender bag charm is perfect for building skills. Amigurumi is the Japanese art of crocheting small stuffed figures, and it relies on a handful of techniques that appear over and over again: the magic ring, working in continuous rounds, increasing and decreasing, and sewing pieces together. This little charm uses all of those techniques in a small, manageable format. If you finish this project and feel confident, you will be well prepared to tackle larger amigurumi figures like animals, food characters, and fantasy creatures.
And of course, handmade gifts are always special. A set of these lavender charms in different colors makes a beautiful, thoughtful present for birthdays, holidays, or just because. The materials cost very little, but the time and care that goes into each one are priceless.
Materials You Will Need
One of the best things about this project is how affordable and accessible the supply list is. You likely already have most of these items at home.
Yarn: Sport weight or DK weight cotton or acrylic yarn works beautifully here. Cotton is especially lovely because it has a slight texture that gives the charm a soft, vintage feel, and it holds its shape well. Choose a color that speaks to you — classic lilac or lavender purple is an obvious choice and looks stunning, but dusty rose, sage green, cream, and even pale yellow are all gorgeous options. You will need very little yarn, so this is a wonderful stash-busting project.
Crochet Hook: A 2.5mm or 3mm hook is ideal for sport or DK weight yarn. You want your stitches to be tight enough that the lavender filling does not poke through the gaps. If your gauge is loose, go down a hook size.
Dried Lavender: You can find dried culinary or craft lavender at most health food stores, craft stores, or online. You will only need a small amount — about one to two tablespoons per charm. Make sure it is properly dried to avoid any mold or moisture inside your finished charm.
Polyester Fiberfill or Toy Stuffing: A small pinch of this goes in alongside the lavender to help the charm hold its rounded shape. You do not need much at all.
Stitch Marker: A locking stitch marker or even a piece of contrasting yarn works perfectly. This keeps track of the beginning of each round since amigurumi is worked in a continuous spiral rather than joined rounds.
Tapestry Needle: For weaving in ends and sewing any additional pieces onto the charm.
Scissors: Any sharp pair will do.
Split Ring or Lobster Clasp Keychain Hardware: Available at craft stores or online in packs. These allow you to attach the finished charm to a bag strap, backpack zipper, or keyring. You can also use a simple jump ring if you prefer.
Optional Embellishments: Small plastic safety eyes if you want to give your charm a little face, embroidery floss for stitching details, small ribbon bows, or tiny buttons.
Abbreviations and Stitch Guide
This pattern uses standard US crochet terminology. Here is a quick reference for every abbreviation used.
MR — Magic Ring (also called Magic Circle)
ch — chain
sl st — slip stitch
sc — single crochet
inc — increase (two single crochets worked into the same stitch)
dec — decrease (invisible decrease: insert hook into front loop of next stitch, then front loop of following stitch, yarn over and pull through both loops, yarn over and pull through remaining two loops)
BLO — back loop only
st(s) — stitch(es)
rnd — round
FO — fasten off
If you are brand new to amigurumi and have never worked a magic ring before, it is worth watching a quick video tutorial before beginning. The magic ring creates a tight, invisible center that is much neater than starting with a chain and joining it into a ring. Once you have done it two or three times it becomes completely intuitive.
Gauge
Because this is a small decorative item rather than a garment, gauge is not critical. However, you want your stitches to be fairly tight so the lavender does not escape through the gaps. After completing Round 3, your circle should measure approximately 2.5 centimeters (1 inch) in diameter. If it is significantly larger, go down a hook size. If you are struggling to get your hook into the stitches, go up a hook size.
Free Pattern: Crochet Lavender Bag Charm
This pattern creates a small round ball shape — the body of the charm — with an optional decorative loop at the top. The finished charm measures approximately 4 centimeters (about 1.5 inches) in diameter, not including the hanging loop or keychain hardware.
Body of the Charm
Round 1: Start with a magic ring. Work 6 sc into the ring. Pull the tail to close the ring. (6 sts)
Place your stitch marker in the first stitch of the round. Move it up at the beginning of each new round so you always know where you are.
Round 2: Inc in each st around. (12 sts)
Round 3: Sc 1, inc repeat around. (18 sts)
Round 4: Sc 2, inc repeat around. (24 sts)
Round 5: Sc 3, inc repeat around. (30 sts)
Round 6: Sc in each st around. (30 sts)
Round 7: Sc in each st around. (30 sts)
Round 8: Sc in each st around. (30 sts)
At this point your piece should look like a small open bowl or cup. This is the halfway point. Now is the time to add safety eyes if you are giving your charm a face. Position them between Rounds 4 and 5, spacing them about 6 stitches apart. Attach them firmly before continuing because once the opening is closed you will not be able to reach inside.
Round 9: Sc 3, dec repeat around. (24 sts)
Round 10: Sc 2, dec repeat around. (18 sts)
Now stuff the charm. Add your dried lavender first, working it gently into the center of the piece. Then add a small pinch of polyester fiberfill around the lavender to help the ball keep its round shape. Do not overstuff — a lightly filled charm will be slightly squishy and pleasant to squeeze, and it will allow the lavender scent to release more easily.
Round 11: Sc 1, dec repeat around. (12 sts)
Round 12: Dec around. (6 sts)
Cut the yarn, leaving a tail of about 15 centimeters (6 inches). Thread the tail onto your tapestry needle and weave through the front loops of the remaining 6 stitches. Pull gently to close the opening. Weave in the end securely by running the needle back and forth through several stitches inside the ball.
Hanging Loop
The hanging loop is what connects your charm to the keychain hardware. There are two ways to make it.
Simple Yarn Loop: Cut a length of yarn about 20 centimeters (8 inches) long. Fold it in half to form a loop. Using your tapestry needle, pull both cut ends through the top of the charm (where you began your magic ring — that center point). Tie the ends in a secure knot inside or as close to the top of the ball as possible, then trim any excess. Thread the loop through your keychain hardware.
Crocheted Chain Loop: Reattach your yarn at the top center of the charm by inserting your hook into the magic ring center, drawing up a loop, and chaining 15. Slip stitch back into the first chain to form a ring. Fasten off and weave in the end. This gives a slightly more polished, intentional look.
Either method works beautifully. The crocheted chain loop is a little more durable for everyday bag use, while the yarn loop is faster and perfectly fine for lighter use.
Optional: Adding a Lavender Flower Embellishment
If you want to take your charm to the next level, you can add a tiny crocheted lavender flower to the top. This looks especially sweet when the charm is a gift.
Flower (make 1):
Start with a magic ring. Chain 3. Work 2 dc into the ring, ch 3, sl st into the ring — repeat this sequence 4 more times so you have 5 petals total. Pull the ring closed. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Use the tail to sew the flower to the top of the charm, right over the hanging loop attachment point. This hides any messiness at the top and adds a beautiful decorative touch. You can make the flower in the same color as the body of the charm for a monochromatic look, or use a contrasting color for a pop of interest.
Finishing Tips for a Polished Result
The difference between a charm that looks handmade in the best possible way and one that looks unfinished usually comes down to a few finishing details.
When weaving in your ends, do not simply run the tail through a couple of stitches and trim it close. Instead, weave back and forth in multiple directions through several stitches before trimming. For a charm filled with lavender, the inside is not visible, so you can be generous about how much tail you leave inside.
After stuffing and closing your charm, gently roll it between your palms to coax it into a perfectly round shape. The heat and pressure of your hands will help the fiberfill settle evenly.
If your lavender scent fades over time — which it will eventually — you can refresh it by gently squeezing the charm. This releases more of the essential oils from the dried flowers inside. Alternatively, you can add a drop of lavender essential oil to the fiberfill before stuffing for an extra boost of fragrance that lasts longer.
Color and Customization Ideas
One of the most joyful parts of this project is how much room there is to make each charm your own. Here are some ideas to inspire you.
A classic color palette for lavender charms uses lilac purple or dusty mauve for the main body with a sage green loop, mimicking the actual colors of a lavender plant. This looks incredibly charming hanging from a natural linen tote bag.
For a more modern, minimalist look, try working the entire charm in cream or off-white cotton yarn. Skip the embellishments and let the simple round shape speak for itself. This neutral palette goes with everything.
For a gift set, make a series of charms in coordinating colors — perhaps three shades of the same hue, like light lavender, medium violet, and deep purple. String them together on a single large key ring for a gift that looks intentional and beautifully curated.
You can also vary the size of the charm by using a thicker yarn and larger hook. Bulky weight yarn with a 5mm or 6mm hook creates a charm that is closer in size to a small orange, which makes a bold, playful statement on a backpack.
If you want to give your charm a personality, add a simple embroidered face using embroidery floss and a tapestry needle. Two small French knots for eyes and a single straight stitch for a tiny smile is all it takes to transform a plain round ball into an irresistible little character.
Gifting and Packaging Ideas
Because this charm is small and lightweight, it is easy to package beautifully without spending much money.
Tuck the finished charm into a small glassine envelope with a handwritten tag listing the contents (dried lavender inside). This is especially thoughtful if the recipient has allergies — they will appreciate knowing exactly what is in their gift. A small kraft paper tag with twine looks rustic and lovely.
For a more generous gift, pair the lavender charm with a small bottle of lavender essential oil, a sachet of loose dried lavender, or a mini candle in a complementary scent. Arrange everything in a simple box or on a piece of tissue paper for a spa-inspired set that feels luxurious despite being entirely affordable.
If you are selling your charms at a craft fair or on an online platform, photograph them against a neutral background with a few sprigs of real lavender nearby. Natural light is your best friend for this kind of photography. A small wooden surface or linen fabric as a backdrop will make the colors of your yarn pop beautifully.
Troubleshooting Common Issues
My stitches are too loose and the lavender is poking out. Go down a hook size or try switching to a tighter yarn. Cotton tends to have less stretch than acrylic and may give you a tighter fabric naturally.
My ball does not look round — it is more like a flat disc. This usually happens when the increases are not distributed correctly. Double-check that you are working the pattern repeat all the way around each round without skipping any stitches. Using a stitch marker and counting carefully at the end of each round will prevent this.
My magic ring keeps coming undone. Make sure you are pulling the tail firmly to close the ring before beginning Round 1. After working the first few stitches into the ring, you can tug the tail again to tighten it further. Some crocheters prefer to work a slip stitch into the first sc of Round 1 after closing the ring, which locks everything in place.
The lavender scent is very faint even when new. Not all dried lavender is equally fragrant. Look for lavender that is labeled as high-oil or culinary grade, as these varieties tend to have stronger essential oil content. You can also add two or three drops of pure lavender essential oil directly to the dried flowers before stuffing.
Skill Level and Time Investment
This pattern is rated as beginner-friendly. If you are comfortable with single crochet and can work in the round, you have everything you need. The magic ring and invisible decrease are the two techniques most likely to trip up a complete beginner, but both can be learned quickly with a little practice.
In terms of time, most crocheters finish the body of the charm in 30 to 45 minutes. Add another 10 to 15 minutes for finishing, assembling the hardware, and any optional embellishments. That means you can realistically make two or three charms in a single afternoon sitting, which is wonderful if you are making a batch as gifts.
A Few Final Thoughts
There is a reason amigurumi has captured the hearts of crafters all over the world. These small, satisfying projects bring together skill-building and creativity in a format that is endlessly adaptable. A crochet lavender bag charm is not just a cute accessory — it is a small act of care, whether that care is directed toward yourself or toward someone you love.
The next time you feel the stress of the day beginning to creep in, reach for that little lavender charm on your bag strap, give it a gentle squeeze, and breathe in the calm. You made that. With your own hands, stitch by stitch, in an afternoon. That is worth something.
I hope this pattern brings you as much joy to make as it brings the people who receive your finished charms. If you give this project a try, I would love to hear how it goes. Happy crocheting.