Welcome, fellow makers! If you are looking for a quick, satisfying project that uses up leftover yarn and makes a fantastic gift, you are going to love making your own crochet scrunchie. This beginner-friendly pattern takes just minutes to whip up and adds a wonderful, handmade touch to any outfit.
Whether you want to create a sleek everyday hair tie or a big, voluminous statement piece, this project is budget-friendly, highly customizable, and a joy to make. Grab your hook, and let’s dive right in!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: About 15–20 yards of Worsted Weight (Category 4) yarn, cotton, or velvet yarn. (Scrap yarn works great!)
- Crochet Hook: Size US G/6 (4.0 mm) or H/8 (5.0 mm), depending on your yarn choice.
- Notions: A sturdy, seamless elastic hair tie, a yarn needle, and a pair of scissors.
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- US Terms
- ch: Chain
- sc: Single crochet
- dc: Double crochet
- sl st: Slip stitch
- st(s): Stitch(es)
- Note: Work all of your stitches directly *around* the elastic hair tie rather than into previous stitches for Round 1.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- Attach Yarn to Elastic: Create a slip knot on your hook. Insert your hook through the center of the elastic band, yarn over, pull through the elastic and your slip knot to secure the yarn.
- Round 1 (Foundation): Chain 1 (does not count as a st). Work 30 to 45 single crochet (sc) stitches directly around the elastic band until the elastic is completely hidden. Gently push your stitches together so they are compact, then join with a slip stitch (sl st) to the first sc.
- Round 2 (Creating Ruffles): Chain 3 (counts as your first dc here and throughout). Work 2 double crochet (dc) stitches into every single stitch around. (Alternatively, work 3 dc per st for extra volume).
- Join Round: Once you have worked your way around the entire circle, join with a slip stitch to the top of the initial chain-3.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Secure Your Ends: Fasten off your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Use your yarn needle to weave the tail securely into the back of your stitches for a clean, professional finish.
- Control the Scrunched Look: Don’t be afraid to pack your stitches closely together in Round 1. The more stitches you fit onto the elastic, the frillier and more voluminous your finished scrunchie will be!
- Experiment with Textures: Try using chunky velvet or chenille yarn with a slightly larger hook for a luxurious, 90s-inspired statement accessory.
- Practice Tension: Keep your tension even so the underlying elastic stretches comfortably without twisting or poking through the yarn.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: