Get Warm! Knit and Crochet Balaclava Patterns
Have you noticed that knit and crochet balaclava patterns are trending this year? Perhaps we all just want to stay extra warm and cozy as the temperatures drop. Maybe we’re getting outdoors and doing more skiing and other snow activities. Or maybe it’s just that we’ve gotten so used to masks as part of our daily fashion that a balaclava makes a lot of style sense right now. Whatever it is, these knit and crochet balaclava patterns for all ages should keep you crafting through the winter.
What Is A Balaclava?
Even if you’re not familiar with the term, you’ve probably seen a balaclava before. Basically, if you take a ski hat and combine it with a neck gaiter, you get a balaclava. It’s a very warm head and face accessory. Oftentimes, eyes peer out from the balaclava and otherwise the balaclava covers the entire face. However, sometimes there are both eye and mouth holes and sometimes the whole face is open. The point is to keep you all covered up and extra warm. We use these for skiing and other outdoor activities during the winter.
Crochet Balaclava Patterns
If you’re wondering how to crochet a balaclava, then these patterns should help you out:
Crochet Ribbed Balaclava
The ribbed crochet stitches on this balaclava pattern make it an extra warm, squishy design. You can make the opening small for just the eyes or wider if you wider if you want more of the face to show. This is a terrific simple design worked in affordable Red Heart Super Saver yarn. The above link is for the kids’ size and here’s the adult crochet balaclava pattern:
Crochet Polar Bear Balaclava for Babies
This crochet balaclava pattern has the whole face open since it’s designed for little ones who might not like their mouths covered. Polar bears inspired this design. It is so perfect for winter photo ops!
More Crochet Balaclava Patterns
Knit Balaclava Patterns
Want to learn how to knit a balaclava? These patterns will guide you:
Striped Knit Balaclava Pattern
Although this is a “striped pattern” it actually has more of a sophisticated color blocking effect. It’s made using Bernat Pop!, a worsted weight acrylic yarn. It’s a self-striping yarn but because of the size and shape of a balaclava, these are thick stripes. It is a very effective stylish choice and you have lots of colors to choose from in this yarn.
Patons Haute Hood Knit Pattern
If you’re looking for a really sophisticated version of the balaclava, then this is the design for you. It’s a runway-inspired look designed to catch the eye as a standout accessory. The texture on the design is fun to knit and cozy to wear. Some of the sophistication comes from the yarn choice: Patons Kroy Sock Yarn.
Kids’ Knit Balaclava Pattern
At the other end from “runway” is “character-inspired” like this kids’ knit balaclava pattern. It uses two big pom poms to create “ears” on the balaclava. It’s a fun design and kids are sure to love wearing this cozy accessory.
More Knit Balaclava Patterns
You Might Also Like:
- 36 Free Knit and Crochet Snowman Patterns
- 10 Free Knit and Crochet Winter Fun Patterns
- Chill Out Winter Hat Pattern
Frequently Asked Questions
What exactly *is* a balaclava?
Honestly… it’s like if you took a super warm ski hat and combined it with a neck gaiter, you know? It’s meant to keep your whole head and face nice and toasty, perfect for when it gets really cold outside. Sometimes it just has eye holes, other times mouth holes too… it’s all about staying covered up!
I’m new to crochet, can I make one of these?
So here’s the thing… the “Crochet Ribbed Balaclava” is listed as advanced beginner, which is totally doable! It uses affordable yarn and you can even adjust how big the face opening is. Plus, there’s a cute polar bear one for babies that’s also crochet!
Are there any knit options if I’m more of a knitter?
Yes! The page has a few really fun knit ones. There’s a “Striped Knit Balaclava Pattern” that looks super stylish with its color blocking, and even a “Kids’ Knit Balaclava Pattern” that has adorable little ears on it. So much to choose from!
What kind of yarn is used in these patterns?
Well, it varies a bit! For the crochet ribbed balaclavas, they mention using Red Heart Super Saver yarn, which is a great affordable option. For one of the knit ones, it uses Bernat Pop!, and another sophisticated knit pattern uses Patons Kroy Sock Yarn. So you’ve got choices depending on the pattern!
Why are balaclavas trending right now?
That’s a great question! The post mentions a few reasons… maybe we all just want to be extra warm and cozy as it gets colder, or perhaps more people are heading outdoors for snow activities. It also muses that since we’ve gotten so used to masks, a balaclava just makes sense as a fashion statement now too! It’s a mix of warmth and style, I think.
Categories: Crochet, Free Patterns, Knitting
