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49 Free Knit & Crochet Cat Patterns

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Show your love of cats with these free cat-related patterns from Yarnspirations! There are patterns for clothes and accessories for you, home decorations, and even some patterns just for your cat!

Psst! If you love dogs, see the collection of dog patterns!

49 Free Knit & Crochet Cat Patterns

Clothes & Accessories

Everyone will know you love cats when you walk around with these sweaters and accessories! Use the costumes for Halloween or for everyday dress up.

Crochet Kitty Hat & Cowl Set Free Crochet Pattern

Home Decor

Your decorations will only be enhanced by showing off pillows, blankets and more with the outline of your favorite animal.

Knit Kitty Bolster Free Knitting Pattern

Cat Toys (for Humans)

Snuggle up with these stuffed cats!

Crochet Cat Free Crochet Amigurumi Pattern

Patterns for Cat

Don't forget your cat! These patterns will amuse and delight your pet.

Kitten Ears Crochet Pet Bed Free Crochet Pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of cat-themed projects can I knit or crochet?

So many! Stuffed cat toys and amigurumi cats are the most popular. But this collection goes way beyond stuffed animals… there are cat-themed blankets, cat ear hats, cat mittens, bags with cat motifs, coasters, and even little catnip toys for the actual cats in your life. Whether you're a cat person making things for yourself, or you're looking for the perfect handmade gift for the cat lover in your life, there's something here for everyone.

Are cat amigurumi patterns good for beginners?

Many of them are! Simple cat plush patterns use basic stitches in the round and straightforward shaping. The key is starting with a design that has simple, clean shapes rather than lots of fiddly details. If you're new to amigurumi, look for patterns labeled beginner or easy, or ones with fewer separate parts to assemble. The fewer the pieces to sew together, the more beginner-friendly it tends to be. Your first cat might not be perfect… but it'll be adorable. They always are.

What's the best yarn for knitting or crocheting a stuffed cat?

Smooth, plied yarn in worsted weight is ideal because it shows stitch definition clearly and creates a sturdy fabric that holds stuffing without showing through. Acrylic is popular because it's machine washable (important for toys!), comes in every cat color imaginable, and is very affordable. Avoid fuzzy or textured yarns for your first cat toy… they make it harder to see your stitches and count accurately. Save the fluffy novelty yarns for a fun fur effect once you're comfortable with the basics.

Can I make cat toys for actual cats with yarn?

Yes! Several patterns in this collection are designed as cat toys… catnip pouches, little crinkle toys, and play mice. A few notes for safety: use natural fibers where possible and avoid any synthetic stuffing or embellishments that could be ingested. Always supervise cats with handmade toys. Skip the button eyes for actual cat toys (use embroidery instead) and make sure there are no small parts that could detach. Cats can be surprisingly rough on their toys!

How do I embroider realistic-looking cat features on an amigurumi?

Less is more for cat faces! Use a tapestry needle and black or dark brown yarn for the features. For eyes, make oval shapes rather than perfect circles for a more feline look. A small triangle for the nose, and a simple Y shape or tiny mouth beneath it. Whiskers can be added with stiff thread or thin yarn threaded through the cheeks. Pin everything in place before you commit… facial placement has a huge impact on the personality of your finished cat. Move things around until it looks right to you!

Crochet Edgings Patterns: Borders, Trims, and Books of…

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Recently in BiCrafty Bootcamp, we talked about how the right crochet border puts the cherry on top of any project. We provided a whole bunch of tips for adding crochet edgings to both knit and crochet projects. Additionally, we recommended some books for finding great crochet edgings. But there are so many terrific crochet edgings patterns out there that we didn't want to stop there. That's why we've put together a roundup of patterns and additional books on the topic as a resource for you to bookmark and use with any crochet project.

crochet edgings patterns

Marly Bird Projects With Crochet Edgings Patterns

Sometimes a crochet project doesn't require a border. However, more often than not, the border finishes off the piece perfectly. Therefore, most of my crochet patterns have edging borders that you can use on not just that project but also on other designs. Here are some of the specific crochet patterns that I think you'll like exploring the edgings on:

Crochet Pom Pom Border

crochet pom pom border

In this photo tutorial, you'll learn how to use bobbles to create a pom pom style border around a crochet blanket (or any other crochet project for that matter.

Crochet Attached I-Cord Border

crochet attached icord border

Did you know that you can use an I-Cord. asa border for crochet projects? We don't see this done nearly enough. After all, it's truly unique and adds texture and intrigue to your finished piece. Here's some video instruction for this one:

Crochet Shell Border

crochet shell stitch border

There are so many different variations on the crochet shell stitch. Any of them can work well as a border for crochet projects. In BiCrafty Bootcamp, we created a granny stitch bandana shawl with a shell stitch border. This post explains how to get the math right for the border and also includes the border pattern instructions. This is one of the simplest crochet edgings pattern that still makes a bold design impact.

Beginner Lace Border

beginner lace border crochet

My Throw Me a Kiss Shawl has one of my favorite crochet edgings patterns for beginners. It looks complicated but it's not hard at all. This five-round crochet border pattern is eye-catching, isn't it?

Perfect Crochet Blanket Border

modern mosaic blanket border

Sometimes you just figure out the perfect crochet border for a piece. For example, I created a nine-round repetitive crochet border for my Chic Modern Mosaic Block Throw. It really complements the design so perfectly. However, it's also a great border for other crochet blankets and projects as well.

Multi-Color Crochet Border Pattern

colorful crochet edgings patterns

My Stitch Sampler Baby Blanket is rich with lots of texture and colors. Therefore, it only seemed right to create a border that was also rich in color. Like other crochet edgings patterns, this one works for a lot of different projects.

Simple Border for Joined Motifs

crochet edging patterns for motifs

My Granny Square Motif Cardigan is a series of joined motifs. At the end, the edges were a little bit bumpy. For example, the squares include picots, so those were popping out away from the squares. In other words, the motifs didn't have a flat edge. The simple crochet border that I created for this pattern shows you how to give a clean edge to these types of joined motifs. Here's a video that gives you a better idea:

Etsy Crochet Edgings Patterns and Books

You can always head to Etsy to find good crochet patterns. In addition to individual crochet edgings patterns, some sellers sell entire books about crochet borders. Most often these are vintage crochet books. They provide you with classic and unique crochet borders for a range of different projects. Here are a few that caught my eye.

Disclosure: I'm an Etsy affiliate. If you make a purchase from these links, I receive a small percentage of the sale. Your price doesn't change.

Mini Heart Crochet Border Pattern from CrochetalotDesigns

ni Heart Crochet Border Pattern from CrochetalotDesigns

Learn how to add a row of crochet hearts to any project. This is a simple two-round crochet border, yet the design packs a lot of impact.

Crochet Flower Border Pattern from TulipolgaShop

Crochet Flower Border Pattern from TulipolgaShop

This thick and beautiful crochet border pattern is unique. Do you have the perfect project that it would finish off nicely?

La Vie en Rose Crochet Border Pattern from AppleBlossomDreams

Vie en Rose Crochet Border Pattern from AppleBlossomDreams

With 11 pages of step-by-step instructions for the border alone, this crochet pattern gives you everything that you need to create the perfect edging. The pattern for the full blanket is sold separately if that interests you.

Thread Crochet Lace Edgings By Creeksendinc

Thread Crochet Lace Edgings By Creeksendinc

These crochet edgings patterns are designed for thread crochet. However, you can always use thicker yarn instead depending upon your project. These are designed with a repeat that allows you to grow the edging as long as you need for any project.

Bleeding Heart Edge Crochet Pattern from Once Again Findz

Bleeding Heart Edge Crochet Pattern from Once Again Findz

This is one of the crochet edgings patterns designed to add on to fleece blankets, towels, etc. Of course, you can also add the border to crochet and knit projects, as well.

Wide 1940's Crochet Edging Pattern from Angie'sCrochetAttic

Wide 1940's Crochet Edging Pattern from Angie'sCrochetAttic

If you've created a really simple project, then you might want to make a more elaborate border for it. This wide border can add a lot of design impact to any piece. Note that the pattern is written in vintage 1940's language.

7 Fun Baby Blanket Crochet Edgings Patterns from Crochet Garden

7 Fun Baby Blanket Crochet Edgings Patterns from Crochet Garden

This is another set of crochet edgings patterns designed to add on to ready-made fleece baby blankets. As with any other crochet border, these will work on a wide range of other projects as well. These are simple, but beautiful and effective edgings.

35 Crochet Edgings Patterns from CuddleTyme

5 Crochet Edgings Patterns from CuddleTyme

CuddleTyme sells five different packets of crochet edgings patterns. Each packet contains seven different borders to learn. Each includes different skills levels and different styles. They're especially designed for baby items but work on a range of other projects as well.

50 Thread Crochet Edgings Vintage Crochet Patterns from HeirloomKnitPatterns

50 Thread Crochet Edgings Vintage Crochet Patterns from HeirloomKnitPatterns

With more than four dozen different crochet borders to choose from, you'll easily find plenty to use here. Designed for thread crochet, you can adapt them for other yarn weights. Some of the thicker ones are also great patterns on their own to use for garlands and other decor.

70+ Japanese Crochet Edgings Patterns from SaNataStyle

70+ Japanese Crochet Edgings Patterns from SaNataStyle

There look to be so many beautiful, unique crochet border patterns in this collection. Do note, however, that this is is a Japanese crochet booklet. Therefore, you have to know how to read crochet symbol charts in order to complete these designs. Don't know how? Check out the first several videos in BiCrafty Bootcamp: Crochet Lessons for Knitters to get the hang of it!

The Book of Edgings Crochet and Knitted from The Perfect Pattern

The Book of Edgings Crochet and Knitted from The Perfect Pattern

This is a vintage book of crochet edgings patterns and knit edgings patterns dating back to the 1930's. This looks like a fun resource for the bicrafty people in the group!

Vintage 1960's Book of 37 Crochet, Knit, and Tatted Edgings from HeirloomKnitPatterns

Vintage 1960's Book of 37 Crochet, Knit, and Tatted Edgings from HeirloomKnitPatterns

If you're BiCrafty and / or you know how to tat, then this is a strong resource. What's also great about these types of books is that they can inspire you to come up with your own similar crochet edgings patterns for the items you're working on.

Leisure Arts Crochet Edgings Patterns and Books

Leisure Arts is another good resource for these patterns.

Full disclosure: These links are affiliate links. Thank you for your support!

Heart Crochet Edging Pattern

heart crochet edging pattern

This is an interesting crochet edging pattern that you can add to any project. It's specifically designed as a thread crochet addition to a pillowcase. However, the instructions make it easy to add fewer or more hearts as needed.

Thread Crochet Mantle Skirt Edging Pattern

Thread Crochet Mantle Skirt Edging Pattern

Similarly, this is a crochet pattern to add thread edging to fabric for your mantle. It would also make a beautiful wide blanket border.

Leisure Arts Crochet Edging Stitch Guide Book

Leisure Arts Crochet Edging Stitch Guide Book

According to the book's description, the nearly 100 pages include “ornate scallops, zigzag, border roses, bachelor buttons.”

50 Fabulous Thread Crochet Edgings by Susan Lowman

50 Fabulous Thread Crochet Edgings by Susan Lowman

As you might have noticed, lots of crochet edgings books focus on thread crochet. Historically, people did a lot of work with thread. Now, of course, we have so many fabulous yarn weights to choose from. Don't hesitate to adapt a pattern with a different yarn even though it calls for thread.

5 Baby Blanket Crochet Border Patterns

5 Baby Blanket Crochet Border Patterns

These five patterns are designed for thread crochet added to fleece blankets. But as you know, you can adapt them to suit other projects.

Leisure Arts Edgings For Kids With Crochet Hook Book

Leisure Arts Edgings For Kids With Crochet Hook Book

This is a really unique book. It's designed to show you how to add thread crochet edgings to various kids' items such as bibs. The book comes with the hook you need. Moreover, it comes with a fabric piercer that simplifies the process of adding crochet edgings patterns to fabric.

More Crochet Edgings Patterns Books

Around the Corner Crochet Borders and Every Which Way Crochet Borders

Disclosure: This section includes Amazon affiliate links. I receive a portion of purchases made from those links. Your price doesn't change. Thank you for your support.

If you saw my recent Instagram post, then you know that I have a comprehensive knit and crochet book library. And if you follow BiCrafty Bootcamp, then you know that the two crochet edgings patterns books I most highly recommend are both by the fabulous Edie Eckman. Around the Corner Crochet Borders and Every Which Way Crochet Borders each have more than 100 unique crochet border patterns in them. Get these books and you'll never want for a crochet edging pattern again. Get those books here. That said, here are some other books that you might want to add to your collection as well.

The New Crochet Stitch Dictionary by Nele Braas and Eveline Hetty-Burkart

Crochet stitch dictionary featuring colorful patterns and textured stitches, accompanied by a pink background.

This is a comprehensive crochet stitch dictionary. Therefore it's not entirely edgings but also has motifs, stitch patterns, etc. However, the edgings section is quite complete. And you can't go wrong with a good stitch dictionary.

The Finer Edge: Crocheted Trims, Motifs & Borders by Kristin Omdahl

The Finer Edge: Crocheted Trims, Motifs & Borders by Kristin Omdahl

Although this book also has motif and garment patterns in it, the focus is on trims and edgings. It's innovative, though, in that Omdahl also shares unique ways to utilize borders. For example, learn how to repeat a border pattern to create an entire finished piece. Moreover, learn how to reverse engineer borders you see elsewhere.


The Complete Book of Crochet Border Designs: Hundreds of Classics & Original Patterns by Linda Schapper

The Complete Book of Crochet Border Designs: Hundreds of Classics & Original Patterns by Linda Schapper

With over 300 crochet border patterns, this book won't let you down.

50 Crochet Afghan Borders

crocheted afghan borders book

Each of these crochet borders was designed with a blanket in mind. You can add them to crochet blankets as well as knit blankets. This book was by the late Jean Leinhauser and has been published by Rita Weiss Creative Partners. Note: this book is also for sale through Leisure Arts.

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Frequently Asked Questions

What kinds of crochet edgings are covered in this collection?

A comprehensive range! Simple single crochet and slip stitch borders for clean, minimal finishing. Picot edgings with their delicate pointed loops. Shell and fan edgings that create beautiful scalloped borders. Ruffle edgings for dramatic, feminine flair. Lace edgings in various complexity levels. Spike stitch borders. Woven and braided edging effects. And references to edging books for deeper exploration. Both beginner-friendly and more advanced options are covered, from a quick single crochet cleanup round to elaborate multiple-row lace borders.

How do I choose the right edging for my project?

Match the edging style to the project's personality! A delicate lace shawl calls for a lacy picot or shell border. A chunky home goods project looks best with a clean single crochet or reverse single crochet border. A child's blanket might benefit from a fun ruffle or scallop. Baby items often use delicate picot or shell borders. The edging should complement the main stitch pattern without fighting it for attention. When in doubt, a clean reverse single crochet border works for almost anything and looks polished without being elaborate.

How many stitches should I pick up per inch for an edging?

This varies by stitch and yarn weight, but a common starting guideline: one stitch for every stitch along a horizontal edge, and approximately 3 stitches for every 4 rows along a vertical edge. The real test is whether the edging lies flat… too few stitches creates a pulling, puckered effect. Too many creates a ruffled, wavy effect. Work around the edge, then evaluate. If it pulls, add more stitches. If it waves, remove some. Make a note of what worked so you can apply it consistently on similar projects going forward.

Can I add an edging to knitting as well as crochet?

Yes! Crochet edgings are beautiful on knitted pieces and vice versa… mixing the two crafts at the border level is a classic finishing approach. Many experienced knitters add a crochet border to finished knit items for a polished, structured edge. The techniques are slightly different (picking up crochet chain into knit stitches vs. crochet stitches) but the result is beautiful. Marly's BiCrafty approach celebrates exactly this kind of cross-craft finishing… the best technique for the job, regardless of whether it's knit or crochet.

Do I need to buy special edging books or are there free patterns available?

Both exist! This blog post references edging books for crafters who want a deep library of options. But many beautiful edging patterns are available free online… Ravelry has thousands of free edging patterns searchable by stitch type and complexity. YouTube tutorials cover most common edging techniques visually. And Marly's blog has several free edging techniques in various pattern posts. Start with the free resources to learn the techniques… invest in a dedicated edging book if you find yourself wanting a curated reference library of options at your fingertips.

35 Graphic Knit and Crochet Sweaters (Designs with…

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One incredible thing you can do with sweaters is incorporate pictures! Sweaters don't have to be just solids, stripes, or classic Fair Isle designs. All of the graphic knit and crochet sweaters in this round-up have a picture of some kind on them.

You may have seen an example of this recently on Late Night with Seth Meyers. Designer Patty Lyons gave him a hand-knit vest with his show's logo on it! That's just one example of incorporating images into knit and crochet patterns.

How to Make Graphic Knit and Crochet Sweaters

You can add pictures to make graphic knit and crochet sweaters in a few different ways. With intarsia, you'll work small sections in each of the colors. In contrast, with Fair Isle, you'll switch between colors regularly and carry the yarn with you as you go around. With appliques, you'll make a separate patch of the design and add it to the sweater afterward. With duplicate stitch or embroidery, you'll make your sweater and then come back and sew the design in. Whichever method you use, you'll end up with a one-of-a-kind sweater featuring a design that you like!

Once you learn these techniques, you can use them on other projects. Change up the colors of the patterns for a completely different look. Or take a design from the front of a pullover and put it on the back of a cardigan. The sky's the limit, and pictures are a great way to be creative! Truly, once you find the techniques that you like, you can really go wild with graphic knit and crochet sweaters. The patterns below will guide you.

35 Graphic Knit and Crochet Sweaters Patterns - 5 designs shown - Rose, watermelon slices, snowflake, curling, and dinosaur.

Graphic Knit Sweaters Free Patterns

Here's our roundup of free patterns for graphic knit sweaters. There are so many different pictures you can put on a knit sweater. Moreover, as I mentioned earlier, there are many different techniques that you can use to create the design. You'll find holiday themes, animals, UFOs, flowers, and so much more.

In Bloom Pullover Free Knitting Pattern with rose picture on front - link to pattern

Graphic Crochet Sweaters

As we said, this is a roundup of graphic knit and crochet sweaters. Therefore, we can't forget the crochet sweater patterns! There are more free patterns for knitters in this design area. However, you'll find nine great graphic crochet sweater patterns below. Some of these are perfect for Halloween and fall, while others work all year round. Graphic knit and crochet sweaters are especially good for kids' clothes since children love to see their favorite animals or characters on their clothes.

Boy's Dino Sweater Free Crochet Pattern - link to pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

What does “sweaters with pictures” mean?

These are sweaters with graphic imagery knit or crocheted directly into the colorwork… animals, snowflakes, landscapes, abstract shapes, geometric designs. Instead of solid-color or striped sweaters, these have actual pictures in the fabric created through colorwork techniques like stranded knitting, intarsia, tapestry crochet, or mosaic methods. Think of the classic reindeer Christmas sweater as the iconic example… but the 35 patterns in this collection go far beyond reindeer into all kinds of stunning graphic designs.

What techniques are used to put pictures into knitwear?

Stranded colorwork (Fair Isle) is the most common for knitting… you carry multiple colors across the row and knit with each where the chart indicates. Intarsia is used for isolated motifs with no color repeat across the full row. For crochet sweaters, tapestry crochet and the waistcoat stitch create graphic imagery. Mosaic/slip stitch colorwork is another option. The technique choice affects the fabric density, the back of the sweater, and the complexity of making. Check individual patterns for which technique they use and make sure you're comfortable with it before committing to a full sweater.

What skill level are graphic picture sweaters?

Most are intermediate to advanced because garment construction plus colorwork technique is a lot to manage at once. However, some designs use a single colorwork panel (like a yoke sweater where only the yoke has the picture) which is much more manageable than all-over colorwork. For a first graphic sweater, look for patterns where the picture is concentrated in one section (yoke, front panel) rather than all over. That limits the colorwork complexity while still creating a stunning result. Don't attempt your first colorwork AND your first sweater simultaneously!

Can I make my own picture sweater with a custom design?

Yes! This is called making a “custom graphghan” or adapting a pattern with your own motif. You'd need to find or design a pixel-art chart of your desired image and substitute it into a suitable sweater construction. The chart needs to fit the stitch count of your sweater's appropriate section. Free tools like Stitch Fiddle let you create custom pixel charts. The technical challenge is making sure your custom image is sized and proportioned correctly for the knit gauge and the sweater section dimensions. It's intermediate-to-advanced but deeply satisfying when you pull off a truly personalized design.

How do I care for a colorwork picture sweater?

With extra care! Colorwork sweaters with multiple colors should be washed gently to prevent color bleeding between the different yarns. Cold water, gentle cycle, or hand wash. Turn inside out to protect the colorwork surface. Block flat to dry… hanging a colorwork sweater can distort the pattern. Check that all your yarns are colorfast before the first wash by wetting a small piece and pressing it to white fabric… if color transfers, you'll need to wash the finished sweater alone or treat the yarn before using it. Machine washable yarns simplify life significantly for a sweater you'll wear often.

6 Free Sloth Knit and Crochet Patterns

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Sloths are adorable! This slow-moving animal from the tropical rain forests in Central and South America spends most of its time in the trees. Bring one home with these free sloth-related patterns.

6 Free Sloth Knit and Crochet Patterns

Bella & Brian Knit Sloth

Use Red Heart Amigurumi yarn to knit this coordinating pair.

Download the free Bella & Brian Knit Sloth knitting pattern

Bella & brian Knit Sloth Free Knitting Pattern

Betsy & Bruno Crochet Sloth

Red Heart Amigurumi lets you crochet cute little projects like this one.

Download the free Betsy & Bruno Crochet Sloth crochet pattern

Betsy & Bruno Crochet Sloth Free Crochet Pattern

Crochet Sloth Hat

Crochet this hat now for an unusual Halloween costume!

Download the free Crochet Sloth Hat crochet pattern

Crochet Sloth Hat Free Crochet Pattern

Knit Sloth Toy

Hug a sloth with this free knitting pattern.

Download the free Knit Sloth Toy knitting pattern

Knit Sloth Toy Free Knitting Pattern

Crochet Sleepy Sloth Lovey

Let your baby in on the fun with this oh-so-soft lovey.

Download the free Crochet Sleepy Sloth Lovey crochet pattern

Crochet Sleepy Sloth Lovey Free Crochet Pattern

Tree Sloth Buddies to Crochet

Two friends are better than one with this pair of sloths!

Download the free Tree Sloth Buddies to Crochet crochet pattern

Tree Sloth Buddies to Crochet Free Crochet Pattern

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Frequently Asked Questions

Why are sloths so popular in yarn crafts?

Sloths became a beloved pop culture icon partly because of their wonderfully relatable nature… slow-moving, content, a little goofy-looking but somehow incredibly charming. For yarn crafters who identify with taking things at their own pace and doing what brings joy, there's something perfect about making a little sloth amigurumi. They're also just objectively adorable… that big smile, the long arms for hugging branches, the fluffy texture. Sloth amigurumi have become beloved gifts especially for people who appreciate their own slow-living, cozy lifestyle philosophy.

What makes a crocheted sloth look like a sloth?

The face and the arms! Sloths have distinctive round faces with a characteristic smile-like expression, small upturned nose, and round ears. The arms are disproportionately long compared to the body… that reach is what sloths are known for. A crocheted sloth needs those long arms to look right. They also tend to have a slightly round, somewhat flattened body. Long claws on the hands are a distinctive detail. Color-wise, sloths are typically grey-brown or tan with a lighter face and a darker mask-like marking around the eyes… getting those color zones right makes them instantly recognizable.

What skill level do I need for sloth amigurumi?

Most sloth patterns are rated advanced beginner to intermediate. The body and head are relatively simple shapes. The challenge is the long arms (they need to be worked long enough and sturdy enough to be poseable or to hang in a natural sloth-like way) and the face details (getting the expression right). For a simple sloth with basic features, confident beginners can succeed. For a more detailed sloth with realistic coloring, claws, and a perfectly placed face, intermediate skills are helpful. The 6 patterns in this collection offer options across this range.

What yarn makes the best sloth amigurumi?

Grey-brown or tan worsted weight acrylic for the body… machine washable for a toy that will be loved. A lighter cream for the face. Darker brown or charcoal for the eye mask area. Small amounts of additional colors for claws and any detail work. For extra texture (sloths do have a shaggy quality), some crafters use a slightly brushed or textured yarn for the body while keeping the face smooth for better feature visibility. Safety eyes in the appropriate size and color bring the face to life… sloths typically have small, dark eyes.

Can I make a sloth amigurumi that actually hangs from things?

Yes! Poseable sloths that can hang from branches, curtain rods, or headboards are very popular. The key is making the arms long enough (significantly longer than you might expect from looking at photos) and sturdy enough to support the body weight. Stuff the arms firmly. Some crafters put pipe cleaners or wire inside the arms for posability… if you do this, make sure the wire is fully encased in fabric and not exposed. Test the hanging position before finishing the last arm… adjust length if needed so the sloth hangs naturally. A hanging sloth is genuinely delightful decor.

Crochet Motifs In The Round: Granny Squares (BiCrafty Bootcamp: Beginner Crochet Lessons for Knitters: Lesson 6)

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You've learned a lot about how to crochet in rows. Now you're ready to learn how to crochet in the round. Crocheting in the round takes many forms from working hats to creating tablecloths. We're going to start by learning how to crochet motifs in the round. Then you can join those motifs together to create a variety of other types of projects. To start, we'll learn the class crochet granny square. We'll make a granny square earwarmer, show you how to add a lining to it, and provide you with lots of tips to get you on the right foot working in the round.

What Is a Classic Granny Square?

The granny square is a quintessential crochet stitch. Even non-crocheters know what a granny square is most likely because of pop cultures depiction of it in many beloved movies and or tv shows. *Who here is thinking about the crochet granny square afghan on the back of the Conner's couch on Roseanne?

Dlisted | Hot Slut Of The Day!

Lucky you, you've already learned the basic granny stitch. Therefore, you know that it consists of sets of three double crochet stitches separated by spaces. Remember, Marly calls these 3dc granny sets. The classic granny square takes the granny stitch and adds corners and increases to make a square. And you do all this in the round.

That's right, you work this crochet square in the round with four corners and increases to allow for the square to get larger each round. For most squares, you begin in the center, using sets of double crochet and chains or spaces to create the corners of a square. Then you build out the square with each round. You can grow a crochet granny square as large as you want.

For BiCrafty Bootcamp, we'll start with small crochet motifs in the round. That way you can get a lot of practice. Plus you'll enjoy the instant gratification of a granny square project this week. We are sort of in love with it.

Now, it is important to note that there are a variety of ways to make a basic granny square, which might seem strange but it is true. You can make grannies with…

  • You can begin with a chain 4 and work granny sets and spaces into the 4th chain from hook or you can begin with an adjustable ring (we will learn more about this)
  • Chains between the granny sets (if you have been following along with the bicrafty bootcamp lessons you know that is what Marly calls the 3dc's in one st/sp) or no chains
  • You can make them in joined rounds with the right side always facing or turn the rounds
  • You can do them all in one color or many colors
  • You can work in continuous rounds without cutting the yarn or cut and rejoin the yarn in a different spot each round
  • You can make small squares that are then put together for a blanket or one large square that is big enough for a blanket
  • You can make them to be seamed or joined as you go (love the JAYGO method!)

…and those are only a few of the different ways you can make a basic granny square. The mind boggles.

Bitmoji Image

The point is that the way we are teaching you in BiCrafty Bootcamp is not the only way but it will show you the basic construction of not only a granny square in the round but motifs in general. You will take the knowledge you learn here and be able to apply it to other types of motifs in the round.

Magic Loop or Adjustable Ring vs Chain and join in the round

There are different ways to start a crochet project in the round. You can crochet a few stitches and then work a bunch of stitches into the first chain you made, you can crochet a very short chain then slip stitch it together to form a ring then working your first round of stitches into the center of the chain to begin the project, or you you can begin with a magic loop or adjustable ring, which easily closes so there's no hole in the center of your project.

Each start has its advantages and disadvantages and you should follow any set of instructions given in a pattern for your project. But, knowing the pluses and minuses of each start will help you become a better crocheter.

Stating motifs with chains

Pros:

  • easy to manage the chains
  • creates the first turning stitch (in most cases)
  • you can easily join with a slip stitch to create a solid ring

Cons:

  • leaves a opening in the middle
  • not flexible

Starting motifs with magic loop or adjustable ring

Pros:

  • closes fabric tight
  • very flexible
  • clean finish

Cons:

  • harder to manage at the start
  • can easily come undone if tails are not secured properly (DO NOT CROCHET OVER YOUR TAIL!)

In this weeks video, Marly demonstrates how to do magic loop or adjustable ring, but if you want a bit more detailed instructions you can check out this video ⬇️

Knitters Learning to Crochet

As knitters we are taught to work in the round we must use double pointed needles or circular needles to allow the stitches to then be worked in a spiral. With crochet, you are not grabbing any other tool to accomplish a motif in the round, you simply start a project and then work in the round (either in joined rounds or in a spiral…we will learn more about spiral later).

Another big takeaway for knitters is that when you start a project in the round with crochet you usually have to join with a stitch stitch. It isn't as easy as just starting your first round with your first stitch in the first stitch of the previous round like knitting. Marly has a funny story about learning this when she made her first socks (did you hear her talk about it in the live).

Just like knitting, when you work in the round to make a square or a circle or any other shape, you will have corners that require increases to allow for the growth of the fabric. For crochet, these increases can be done with chains or actual stitches. It all depends on the motif or stitch pattern.

Pink and gray graphic design promoting a scrappy granny ear warmer project with instructions for granny squares.

Lined Scrappy Granny Ear Warmer Crochet Pattern

This week you will learn how to crochet a basic granny square motif. Then we will show you how to combine granny squares to make an uber soft ear warmer. Moreover, we'll show you how to upcycle an old sweatshirt to line the crochet ear warmer. This makes the scrappy granny ear warmer actually warm, makes it soft, and makes it comfortable to wear.

Lined Granny Ear Warmer Crochet Materials

Yarn: Brava Mini Packs. Choose one main color. Then choose three additional colors per square. There are five squares total. Therefore, you might have 15 different colors; or you might mix and match colors across the squares.

Hook: Size H (5 mm) or any size hook to obtain the gauge. (WeCrochet Hook, TooShay Crochet Hook)

But if you want to learn some different ways, check out some of these videos. Learn more about how to crochet a granny square here. And here's some video help too:

Notions: Locking stitch markers from WeCrochet (optional), Chenille and tapestry needles for weaving in ends

For Lining: old sweatshirt material (or new fleece), scissors (or rotary cutter and cutting mat), sewing pins, sewing needle and thread (or sewing machine)

Scrappy Granny Ear Warmer Pattern Notes

  • Change colors in last draw through 2 of stitch before color change
  • Each granny square consists of four rounds
  • Each square has four colors
  • The main color is the same for all of the squares
  • Make the center colors of the squares different or the same, it is up to you

Scrappy Granny Ear Warmer Pattern Instructions

Motifs (make 5)

With Color A

Ch 4, join with sl st to 1st ch to make a ring, do not turn. 

Round 1: Ch 3 (counts as a dc now and throughout) 2 dc, ch 1, *3 dc, ch1; repeat from * 3 times, hdc in 3rd ch of tch to join.

Change to Color B (see notes)

Round 2: Ch 3, (2dc, ch 1, 3 dc) around post of hdc, *ch 1, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next corner ch-1 sp, repeat from * twice more, hdc in 3rd ch of tch to join.

Change to Color C 

Round 3: Ch 3, 2 dc around post of hdc, *ch 1, (3 dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next corner ch-1 sp, ch 1, 3 dc in next ch-1 sp; repeat from * twice more, ch 1, (3dc, ch 1, 3 dc) in next corner ch-1 sp, hdc in 3rd ch of tch to join.  

Change to Color D

Round 4: Ch 1, sc around post of hdc, *sc in each st and ch-1 space to corner ch-1 space, 2 sc in corner ch-1 sp; repeat from * last corner ch-1 sp, 2 sc in corner ch-1 sp, sc in next 3 sts, slip stitch to first sc to join.

Fasten off.

Joining The Motifs

Lay the motifs out flat in a row.

The slip stitch join is worked through the outermost loop of each square which is the back loop of one and the front loop of the other. (see video for help) Tip for knitters: joining this way is very similar to a three-needle bind-off.

With the color D, use a slip stitch, join the left side edge of motif 1 to the right side edge of motif 2. Fasten off.

With the color D, use a slip stitch, join the left side edge of motif 2 to the right side edge of motif 3. Fasten off.

With the color D, use a slip stitch, join the left side edge of motif 3 to the right side edge of motif 4. Fasten off.

With the color D, use a slip stitch, join the left side edge of motif 4 to the right side edge of motif 5. Fasten off.

This will make the motifs joined five in a row, fold the ear warmer in half so the left side edge of motif 5 matches up to the right side edge of motif 1, join with a slip stitch, do not cut the yarn on the final slip stitch of this join.

Border for Joined Granny Squares

This border is worked around the ear warmer across all the stitches of the granny square along the top, then along the bottom.

Round 1: Ch 3, dc in each sc around, join to the 3rd ch of the tch, do not turn.

Round 2: Ch 1, sc in same stitch as join, and in each dc around, join with a slip stitch in the first sc.

Fasten off. 

Flip ear warmer over to add border to other side.

With color D, join yarn with a sl st between motifs #5 and #1,

Round 1: Ch 3, dc in each sc around, join to the 3rd ch of the tch, do not turn.

Round 2: Ch 1, sc in same stitch as join, and in each dc around, join with a slip stitch in the first sc.

Fasten off. 

Lining your Granny Ear Warmer

Step 1. Grab an old sweatshirt, a cutting mat, and a rotary cutter. Good old fabric scissors and a steady hand would work as well! I’m a big fan of reuse and recycle, and found this pretty colored child’s sweatshirt for $1.49 at my local thrift store! It was super soft. Therefore I knew it would work well for this project. 

Step 2. Cut out a large square of fabric. For me, it was the entire back of this sweatshirt. It might differ for you. You just want to be sure you have enough fabric for both sides of your headband. 

Step 3. Next, measure your fabric to the size of your headband. Remember, you’re going to want it to be slightly larger than the headband to account for your hem. After all, a hem allows you to have a nice clean edge. 

Step 4. Pin your lining onto the earwarmer. This will keep everything in place as you work and allows you to make sure your edges are straight.

!

Step 5. Hand sew or machine sew your lining onto your earwarmer! Ta-da! 

Crochet Motifs in the Round Video Instruction

Additional Videos and Patterns You Might Like

Now that you're learning how to crochet motifs in the round, particularly granny squares, you might want to check out:

Feel The Heat Mittens Bernie Sanders Style

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At the beginning of the year, I created the Feel The Heat mittens Bernie Sanders style. He'd made such an impression at the inauguration with his mittens I just had to create my version. Regardless of what you think about the politician, as a crafter, you can appreciate the style of the mittens. My mittens aren't exact replicas of his. However, his design inspired me. Plus, of course, they're cozy mittens that you can continue to wear throughout fall and winter. So they aren't so much a political statement as they are an everyday wearable accessory.

The Inspiration for These Knit and Crochet Mittens

Sen. Bernie Sanders wore memorable mittens to the 2021 inauguration — and now you can make your own! I've had tons of people reach out to me about patterns, and they're now available: a free crochet pattern AND a free knitting pattern for the Feel The Heat Mittens Bernie Sanders Style by Marly Bird. (My mittens were inspired by the mittens Bernie Sanders wore, and I have no affiliation with him or with the original mittens. These are a fashion statement, not a political statement.)

Feel The Heat Mittens Bernie Sanders Mittens Halloween - patterns by Marly Bird

The original mittens were made of recycled sweaters, cut up, and sewn together. I've designed colorwork patterns in the knit and crochet patterns that look similar to the ones that Bernie wore. I designed my patterns in worsted weight yarn in the round.

Feel The Heat Mittens Bernie Sanders Style Patterns

These patterns each have colorwork charts you can print out and follow. Plus, there is a video for each of them to walk you through it!

*Disclaimer: Let me state clearly that neither this pattern nor myself are affiliated with or endorsed by Sen. Sanders. This pattern is an artist’s interpretation of the original pattern and not a 100% copy, as that would not be right.

If you make this pattern, please share it with me on social media! #MarlyBird #MMMDI #MarlyBirdYouTubeChannel

Get the free crochet pattern for the Feel The Heat Crochet Mittens

Feel The Heat Crochet Mittens - Bernie Sanders-inspired mitten pattern by Marly Bird

Get the free knitting pattern for the Feel The Heat Knit Mittens

Feel The Heat Knit Mittens - Bernie Sanders-inspired mitten pattern by Marly Bird

You don't have to like Bernie Sanders to love these mittens. BiCrafty people can make both the knit and crochet versions. Change up the color choices to suit your style.

Also on the Blog

Frequently Asked Questions

Are these exact replicas of Bernie Sanders' mittens?

Honestly… no, they aren't exact replicas. My mittens were inspired by the ones Bernie Sanders wore, and I've designed colorwork patterns that look similar. Think of them as a crafty tribute, not a perfect copy!

Can I get these patterns for free?

Yes! You can totally grab both the free crochet pattern and the free knitting pattern right here on the blog. I want everyone to be able to make their own cozy mittens!

What kind of yarn did you use for these?

So here's the thing… I designed these patterns using worsted weight yarn. It's a great weight for cozy mittens that are perfect for fall and winter wear.

Do I have to be a fan of Bernie Sanders to make these?

Not at all! You don't have to like Bernie Sanders to love these mittens. They're a fun fashion statement and a cozy accessory that anyone can appreciate and wear.

What if I need help with the pattern?

Don't worry, I've got you covered! These patterns each come with colorwork charts you can print, and I've also made a video tutorial for each one to help guide you through the process.