Before You Begin
This crochet sunglasses case is designed around one simple idea: create a snug rectangular pouch that protects the lenses and keeps the sunglasses easy to carry.
Instead of relying on one fixed stitch count for every pair of glasses, the case is made to your sunglasses. That means you can adjust the starting chain and the number of rows according to the size and shape of the glasses you want to protect.
The finished project has a simple front and back body, a folded bottom, side seams, and a flap that closes over the top with a button. Once you understand the basic construction, you can easily make several versions in different colors.
Complete Tutorial Roadmap
Follow the project in this order. Each stage gives you a useful checkpoint before moving to the next part.
Check the width, height, and overall shape of the sunglasses.
Chain a width that comfortably accommodates the glasses.
Work simple rows until the body reaches the required height.
Fold the piece and secure the bottom seam.
Continue the back section upward to create the closure.
Position the button and create a secure closure loop.
Materials & Preparation
What You'll Need
- Worsted or medium-weight cotton yarn
- 4 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- One button for the closure
- Your sunglasses for measuring
Why Cotton Yarn?
Cotton is a particularly useful choice for a sunglasses case because it creates a structured fabric that does not stretch as much as many soft acrylic yarns. It also gives the finished case a clean handmade texture.
You can use another yarn if you prefer. Just remember that changing yarn weight or hook size will change the finished dimensions, so measure the case against your sunglasses as you work.
Choosing Your Button
A medium-sized wooden, resin, or decorative button works beautifully with this design. Choose a button that is easy to grip and large enough to stay securely attached to the crochet fabric.
Gauge, Fit & Finished Size
A sunglasses case does not need a strict gauge measurement because the project is designed around the item you want to store inside it. However, keeping your stitches reasonably even will make the case look neater and help it hold its shape.
Measure Before Crocheting
- Measure the widest part of your sunglasses.
- Add a small amount of ease so the glasses can slide inside easily.
- Measure from the bottom edge of the glasses to the highest point.
- Allow extra length for the flap.
If you want a more structured case, use tighter tension or a slightly smaller hook. If your fabric feels stiff and difficult to work, loosen your tension or try a slightly larger hook.
US Crochet Abbreviations
- ch — chain
- sc — single crochet
- sl st — slip stitch
- st — stitch
- rep — repeat
The main body of this project uses simple single crochet, making it a good practice piece if you are still becoming comfortable with basic crochet stitches.
Measure Your Sunglasses
Place your sunglasses flat on a table and measure the widest horizontal section. This measurement determines how wide your crochet foundation needs to be.
Next, measure the vertical height of the sunglasses when folded. Remember that the finished case needs enough depth to cover the entire pair.
Create the Foundation Chain
With your 4 mm crochet hook and cotton yarn, make a foundation chain that corresponds to the desired width of your sunglasses case.
Place the chain beside your folded sunglasses. The chain should span slightly wider than the glasses.
Do not make the foundation extremely tight. A tight starting chain can pull the bottom edge inward and make the finished case narrower than expected.
Work the Main Body
Begin working single crochet stitches across the foundation chain. Continue in rows, turning at the end of each row.
Keep your edges as straight as possible. Count your stitches from time to time, especially during your first few rows, because accidentally adding or losing stitches can cause the case to become wider or narrower.
Keep the Fabric Even
Insert your hook into the correct stitch at the beginning and end of every row. The first and final stitches are easy to miss when working single crochet, so slow down around the edges.
Check the Case Depth
Before closing the bottom, place the sunglasses on top of your crochet fabric and fold the lower portion upward.
The folded section should create enough room for the glasses without squeezing the sides. If the case is too short, continue crocheting more rows.
It is much easier to correct the size now than after the seams and button have been added.
Form the Bottom Seam
Fold the lower part of the crocheted rectangle upward to create the pocket that will hold the sunglasses.
Align both side edges carefully. The more accurately you align them, the cleaner the finished pouch will look.
Using your yarn needle and matching yarn, sew the bottom and side edges securely.
Seaming Options
You can use a simple whip stitch for a soft handmade seam, or a mattress style seam if you want a more concealed finish. Keep the stitches secure but avoid pulling so tightly that the edges pucker.
Create the Flap
The remaining upper section becomes the protective flap. Continue crocheting rows until the flap is long enough to fold comfortably over the opening.
Keep the flap aligned with the body of the case. If your edges begin leaning to one side, check that you are working into the final stitch of every row.
Shaping the End
The flap can remain rectangular for a simple modern look. You can also slightly round the corners by working decreases near the final rows. For a first attempt, keeping the flap simple makes the construction easier.
Add the Button Closure
Fold the flap over the front of the case and decide where you want the button to sit.
Mark the position with a stitch marker or a small piece of contrasting yarn.
Sew the button firmly onto the front of the case. Pass the yarn through the button holes several times and secure the yarn on the inside.
Create the Closure Loop
Make a small chain loop from the center or edge of the flap. The loop should fit comfortably over the button without stretching the crochet fabric.
Weave in the Ends
Once the case is assembled, use your yarn needle to weave every loose yarn tail securely into the inside of the fabric.
Work the needle through several stitches in different directions before trimming the excess yarn.
Avoid leaving long loose ends inside the case because they can catch on the sunglasses when they are inserted or removed.
Troubleshooting
My case is too narrow
Your foundation chain may be too short or your tension may be tighter than expected. Add width by restarting with a longer foundation chain.
My case is too loose
If the sunglasses move around too much inside the pouch, reduce the foundation width slightly or use firmer tension.
The sides are not straight
Check your stitch count at the end of every row. Missing the final stitch is one of the most common causes of tapered crochet rectangles.
The flap does not line up
Lay the case flat and compare both edges. If one side is longer, check whether stitches were accidentally added or skipped during the body or flap rows.
The fabric feels too floppy
Try a firmer cotton yarn, slightly smaller hook, or tighter tension. You can also add a simple fabric lining if you want additional structure.
Finishing & Final Checks
Before calling your sunglasses case finished, place your folded sunglasses inside and close the flap.
- Check that the glasses slide in without force.
- Make sure the lenses are fully covered.
- Check that the button closure stays secure.
- Look over both side seams for gaps.
- Trim any remaining yarn tails.
Optional Blocking
If your case looks slightly uneven, gently shape it while damp and allow it to dry flat. Do not stretch it aggressively because you want the finished pouch to maintain its protective shape.
Variations & Personalization
Try Different Colors
Make the body in a neutral cream, beige, brown, or gray for a classic accessory. Bright colors are perfect for summer projects, while darker shades create a more understated look.
Add Stripes
Change colors every few rows to create horizontal stripes. This is an easy way to make the same pattern look completely different.
Use a Decorative Button
A wooden button gives the case a natural handmade appearance, while a colorful resin button can turn the closure into a statement detail.
Add a Small Flower
Attach a tiny crochet flower to the front flap for a feminine, playful variation. Keep the decoration small so it does not interfere with the sunglasses.
Make It a Gift Set
Crochet a matching pouch for sunglasses, a small coin purse, or another accessory using the same yarn colors. Together they make a thoughtful handmade gift set.
Care & Storage
Cotton crochet accessories are easy to maintain, but always check the care instructions for the specific yarn you used.
- Keep the case away from excessive moisture.
- Clean gently rather than scrubbing the fabric.
- Allow it to dry completely before storing sunglasses inside.
- Store the case flat when it is not being used.
- Check the button and closure loop occasionally for wear.
If the case becomes misshapen, gently reshape it and allow it to dry flat rather than pulling aggressively on the stitches.
Why This Makes a Great Beginner Project
This sunglasses case is small enough to finish without committing to a large project, but it still teaches several useful crochet skills.
- Working consistent single crochet rows
- Keeping straight edges
- Measuring a project for a real object
- Creating a simple folded construction
- Joining crochet pieces with a yarn needle
- Adding buttons and simple closures
- Customizing size and color
Once you understand this construction, you can use the same basic idea to create cases for phones, reading glasses, crochet hooks, small notebooks, or other everyday items.
Happy Crocheting! 🧶
A small handmade case can turn an everyday accessory into something personal. Choose your favorite cotton yarn, measure your sunglasses, and enjoy making a practical project one stitch at a time.