The Scaly Serpent Pencil Case: A Free Crochet Pattern for a Textured, Cabled Organizer

Introduction: The Scaly Serpent Pencil Case

Unleash your creativity with a project that combines function with fierce style. The Scaly Serpent Pencil Case is a unique, textured organizer that uses the mesmerizing crocodile stitch to mimic the scales of a serpent. This pattern creates a tactile, visually stunning accessory that is perfect for your desk or bag. The rich, earthy color palette of Deep Forest Green and Golden Ochre gives it a modern, handcrafted look. Whether you are a seasoned crocheter or a confident beginner looking for a challenge, this pattern will guide you through creating a sturdy, beautiful pencil case that stands out.

Materials Needed

Before you begin, gather the following materials. Using the specified yarn and hook will ensure your case matches the intended size and texture.

• Yarn: Worsted weight cotton yarn (e.g., Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton) in two colors:
  • Main Color (MC): Deep Forest Green (approx. 100g / 200 yds)
  • Contrast Color (CC): Golden Ochre (approx. 50g / 100 yds)
• Hook: Size H/8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
• Notions: Yarn needle, scissors, one button (approx. 1/2 inch to 3/4 inch diameter)
• Gauge: 4 crocodile scales (each scale is 2 rows) = 4 inches across, 6 rows of scales = 4 inches tall. Tip: Make a gauge swatch to ensure your case is the correct size.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Notes: The crocodile stitch is worked in rows of scales. Each scale is created by working a cluster of double crochets into a single stitch, then chaining to create the 'scale' shape. The case is worked flat from the bottom up, then folded and seamed. Read through all instructions before starting.

Abbreviations: ch = chain, sc = single crochet, dc = double crochet, sl st = slip stitch, st(s) = stitch(es), MC = Main Color, CC = Contrast Color, sc2tog = single crochet 2 together (decrease).

Base (worked in MC)

This creates a solid, flat foundation for the case.

• Row 1: Ch 26, sc in 2nd ch from hook and across. (25 sc)
• Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (25 sc)
• Rows 3-4: Repeat Row 2. (25 sc)

Body (Crocodile Stitch Pattern)

This section creates the textured scales. Pay close attention to where you place your stitches.

• Row 1 (Scale Row - MC): Ch 3 (counts as first dc), turn. *Skip next 2 sts, work 5 dc into next st (this is the base of the scale), ch 1, skip next 2 sts, sl st into next st.* Repeat from * to * across. You will have 5 scales. End with a sl st in the last st.
• Row 2 (Scale Row - MC): Ch 3, turn. *Work 5 dc into the ch-1 space of the first scale from the previous row, ch 1, sl st into the top of the same scale (the sl st from previous row).* Repeat from * to * across. End with a sl st in the last st. (5 scales)
• Row 3 (Scale Row - CC): Ch 3, turn. *Skip next 2 sts of the scale from previous row, work 5 dc into the next st (the sl st from previous row), ch 1, skip next 2 sts, sl st into the next st (the sl st from previous row).* Repeat from * to * across. End with a sl st in the last st. (5 scales)
• Row 4 (Scale Row - CC): Ch 3, turn. *Work 5 dc into the ch-1 space of the first scale from the previous row, ch 1, sl st into the top of the same scale.* Repeat from * to * across. End with a sl st in the last st. (5 scales)
• Rows 5-12: Repeat Rows 1-4 two more times, alternating MC and CC every 2 rows. You will have 12 rows of scales total (6 scales in height).

Top Edge (worked in MC)

This creates a smooth edge to attach the flap.

• Row 13: Ch 1, turn. Sc evenly across the top edge, working 1 sc into each scale's top sl st and 1 sc into each ch-1 space. (25 sc)
• Row 14: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across. (25 sc)
• Fasten off MC.

Flap (worked in MC)

This creates the pointed flap that closes the case.

• Row 15: Join MC with a sl st to the first st of Row 14. Ch 1, turn, sc in each of the next 12 sts. (12 sc) Note: You are only working on half the stitches to create the flap.
• Row 16: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in next 8 sts, sc2tog. (10 sc)
• Row 17: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in next 6 sts, sc2tog. (8 sc)
• Row 18: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in next 4 sts, sc2tog. (6 sc)
• Row 19: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc in next 2 sts, sc2tog. (4 sc)
• Row 20: Ch 1, turn, sc2tog twice. (2 sc)
• Fasten off, leaving a long tail (approx. 12 inches) for sewing.

Button Loop

• With MC, ch 12. Sl st to the center of the flap tip (the last 2 sc stitches) to form a loop. Fasten off.

Assembly

Follow these steps to finish your pencil case.

1. Fold the body in half so the bottom edge (Row 1) meets the top edge (Row 14). The scales should be on the outside. The flap will extend beyond the top edge.
2. Sew the side seams: Using the long tail from the flap, sew the side seams together using a whip stitch or mattress stitch. Start at the bottom and work up to the top edge. Leave the top open (the flap will cover it).
3. Attach the button: Sew the button to the front of the case, centered below the flap, so the button loop fits over it snugly. Position it about 1 inch down from the top edge.
4. Weave in all ends using a yarn needle to hide them inside the case or along the seams.

Your Scaly Serpent Pencil Case is now complete! Fill it with your favorite pens and pencils, and enjoy your unique, handcrafted organizer.