Hooked On Style: The DIY Bag Charm Trend Taking Over Your Accessories

If your bag isn’t accessorized, is it even dressed? Enter Lee Sartori, the crochet queen behind Crochet Your Own Bag Charms, a playful, fashion-meets-craft guide that turns leftover yarn into the cutest conversation starters you’ll clip onto everything. From nostalgic ’90s icons to tiny fruits and feel-good motifs, these quick, customizable projects prove that personal style is all in the details—and sometimes, the smaller the better. We caught up with Lee to talk trend-driven crafting, creative self-expression, and why bag charms are having a major moment. —Noa Nichol

Bag charms are everywhere right now—what made you say, “Okay, crochet needs to be part of this trend”?

I love crocheting amigurumi, and when the Bag Charm trend started to take hold, it became clear that this would be the perfect vehicle for adorable, tiny crochet patterns! The possibilities for fun and unique bag charms made with your own hands are really endless. 

Your book is all about turning yarn scraps into statement pieces—what’s the most unexpected thing you’ve ever turned into a charm?

I think my favourite and most unexpected charm is the photo frame charm! It features a clear window surrounded by a cute crochet frame in which you can insert a small photograph. I added a photo of my cat, Toast, and it is one of my favourite charms in the book.

Be honest—are you team maximalist (charms on every zipper) or minimalist (one perfect piece)?

I would say I am a maximalist at heart. Not only in my crochet, but in my home decor, and my personal style. I love the idea of hanging a charm from every zipper and strap on a bag. 

If your personality had to be expressed as a bag charm, what would it be—fruit, animal, retro icon… or something totally unexpected?

I think it would probably be an animal, and in that category, likely a cat. I have rescued 4 cats in the past 6 years, and I love taking care of them.

A lot of these projects can be done in under an hour—what’s your go-to “I need a quick creative win” charm?

I would go with the Capybara Charm from the book! It is so cute, and combining it with an orange silicone bead on its head is absolutely adorable. He’s one of my favourites. 

Your designs have such a nostalgic, playful energy—how much of that is inspired by your own childhood or pop culture obsessions?

That’s so nice, thank you! I am a 90s baby, so I am inspired by vibrant cartoons, lots of colour, and a lot of whimsy. I think that really adds to my work in a positive and fun way. 

For someone new to crochet (or who thinks they’re “not crafty”), which charm would you tell them to start with—and why?

Crochet Your Own Bag Charms is a great book for beginners because all of the projects are small and approachable. Many of them are easy shapes as well. The Smiley Face, the Macarons, or the Gummy Bear would be a great first project to start with! 

Let’s talk styling—what’s your favourite way to use these charms to instantly elevate a bag or outfit?

I would say that combining charms into themes is a great way to style them! Pairing the palm tree with the sandal and the sunglasses would be amazing for a vacation! Or for pets, you could pair the dog with the cat. Changing the colours of the charms to match your bag is also a great way to get a fun and cohesive look.