Crochet Scrunchie Pattern: 7 Easy Free Designs

Looking for the perfect crochet scrunchie pattern to try today? You are in the right place! Scrunchies are back in a big way, and crochet scrunchies are one of the most popular easy crochet projects trending on TikTok right now. They take just minutes to make, use very little yarn, and they make fantastic handmade gifts.

In this post, we are sharing 7 free crochet scrunchie patterns that any beginner can tackle. Whether you want to learn how to crochet or you just need a quick stash-busting project, each crochet scrunchie pattern below comes with simple step-by-step instructions.

Why You Will Love This Crochet Scrunchie Pattern

There are so many reasons to love making crochet scrunchies. First, they are incredibly fast — most patterns take between 15 and 30 minutes from start to finish. That makes them the perfect easy crochet projects for a quick crafting session.

Second, they are beginner-friendly. If you already know the easiest crochet stitches like single crochet and double crochet, you can make every pattern in this list. Third, scrunchies are practical. Everyone uses hair ties, and a handmade scrunchie is a thoughtful gift that friends and family will actually use.

Finally, each crochet scrunchie pattern here uses just a small amount of yarn. They are the ultimate scrap-busting project. Grab some leftover best yarn for beginner crochet and get started right away.

What You Need to Get Started

Before diving into any crochet scrunchie pattern, gather these basic supplies:

• Elastic hair bands: standard fabric-covered elastic hair ties work perfectly
• Yarn: cotton or acrylic worsted weight (4) yarn — check our yarn guide for recommendations
• Crochet hook: 4mm (G/6) or 5mm (H/8) depending on your yarn weight
• Scissors
• Yarn needle for weaving in ends

Tip: if you are new to reading patterns, bookmark our crochet abbreviations guide for quick reference. Understanding common yarn weight standards from the Craft Yarn Council will also help you choose the right materials.

7 Easy Crochet Scrunchie Patterns

Here are seven beautiful designs. Every crochet scrunchie pattern below works with the same elastic band base, so once you learn the technique you can mix and match stitches freely.

1. Classic Single Crochet Scrunchie

This is the simplest crochet scrunchie pattern and the best place to start. It uses only single crochet stitches worked in continuous rounds around the elastic.

Instructions:

• Make a slip knot and ch 50 (or enough to fit snugly around your elastic band).
• Place the elastic band alongside your chain. Fold the chain over the elastic and join with a sl st to the first ch, encasing the elastic inside the loop.
• Round 1: Ch 1, SC in each ch around. Join with a sl st to the first SC. (50 SC)
• Rounds 2-5: Ch 1, SC in each ST around. Join with a sl st. Repeat until the scrunchie looks full.
• Fasten off and weave in ends.

This classic pattern creates a smooth, even texture that is perfect for everyday wear.

2. Shell Stitch Scrunchie

The shell stitch adds beautiful scalloped edges that give your scrunchie a lacy, decorative look. It is one of the most popular variations of the crochet scrunchie pattern because it looks impressive but is surprisingly simple.

Instructions:

• Follow the setup from Pattern 1 to create your base round of SC around the elastic.
• Round 2: Ch 3 (counts as DC), *skip 2 ST, 5 DC in the next ST, skip 2 ST, SC in the next ST. Repeat from * around. Join with a sl st.
• Rounds 3-4: Repeat Round 2. Fasten off and weave in ends.

The result is a gorgeously ruffled scrunchie that looks like it belongs in a boutique.

3. Double Crochet Scrunchie

If you want a slightly looser, more textured look, try this double crochet scrunchie pattern. It works up even faster than single crochet because each row is taller.

Instructions:

• Set up your base round with SC around the elastic (same as Pattern 1).
• Round 2: Ch 3 (counts as DC), DC in each ST around. Join with a sl st to the top of the ch 3.
• Rounds 3-5: Repeat Round 2 until the scrunchie is full and covers the elastic completely.
• Fasten off and weave in ends.

This pattern has a lovely drape and works especially well with softer acrylic yarns.

4. Half Double Crochet Scrunchie

Half double crochet strikes the perfect balance between the tightness of single crochet and the height of double crochet. This crochet scrunchie pattern creates a dense but not stiff fabric.

Instructions:

• Create your SC base round around the elastic.
• Round 2: Ch 2, HDC in each ST around. Join with a sl st to the first HDC.
• Rounds 3-6: Repeat Round 2. Fasten off and weave in ends.

This is a great middle-ground option if you find single crochet too slow and double crochet too loose.

5. Bobble Stitch Scrunchie

Bobble stitches add fun, puffy texture to your scrunchie. This is a slightly more advanced crochet scrunchie pattern, but still totally doable for confident beginners.

Instructions:

• Create your SC base round around the elastic.
• Round 2: Ch 2, *HDC in next 3 ST, Bobble (5 DC in one ST, pull through all loops), HDC in next 3 ST. Repeat from * around. Join with a sl st.
• Round 3: Ch 2, HDC in each ST around. Join with a sl st.
• Rounds 4-5: Repeat Rounds 2-3. Fasten off and weave in ends.

The bobbles create a playful, textured look that stands out in any hair type. Browse LoveCrafts for inspiration on color combinations that make bobble stitches really pop.

6. Ribbed Scrunchie

The ribbed crochet scrunchie pattern mimics the look of knitted fabric. It uses back-loop-only stitching to create stretchy ridges.

Instructions:

• Create your SC base round around the elastic.
• Round 2: Ch 1, SC in the back loop only (BLO) of each ST around. Join with a sl st.
• Rounds 3-8: Repeat Round 2. Fasten off and weave in ends.

Working in the back loop creates natural ridges that look like ribbing. This is one of the best crochet scrunchie patterns if you want a stretchy, comfortable fit that gently grips the hair.

7. Flower Scrunchie

This crochet flower scrunchie pattern adds a small crocheted flower on top of a basic scrunchie for an adorable, feminine touch. It is perfect for gifts and special occasions.

Instructions for the scrunchie base:

• Make the classic single crochet scrunchie (Pattern 1) in your preferred color.

Instructions for the flower:

• With a contrasting color, ch 5 and join with a sl st to form a ring.
• Round 1: Ch 2, *5 DC in the ring, sl st in the ring. Repeat from * 4 more times (5 petals total).
• Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Use the tail to sew the flower onto the scrunchie.

How to Attach Elastic to Your Scrunchie

The technique for enclosing the elastic is the same across every crochet scrunchie pattern in this post. Here is the basic method:

First, chain enough stitches so your chain fits around the elastic with a little room. Place the elastic on top of your chain, then fold the chain over it and work your first round of stitches through both layers. This encases the elastic inside a tube of crochet fabric.

As you add more rounds, the scrunchie will naturally ruffle and gather around the elastic. Keep going until the fabric fully covers the elastic and the scrunchie looks nice and full.

If your elastic feels too tight once enclosed, simply switch to a larger elastic hair tie or add a few more chains to your starting chain.

Crochet Scrunchie Tips for Beginners

Here are some tips that will help you get the best results with any crochet scrunchie pattern:

• Count your stitches: Use a stitch marker to track the start of each round. Losing your place is the number one cause of uneven scrunchies.
• Check your tension: If your scrunchie looks stiff, try going up a hook size. If it looks too loose and holey, go down a hook size.
• Choose the right elastic: Standard fabric-covered hair elastics (about 2mm thick) work best. Avoid rubber bands — they will snap and break your stitches over time.
• Weave in ends securely: Since scrunchies stretch a lot when worn, make sure your woven-in ends have some give so they do not pop out.
• Block your scrunchie: A quick spray of water and gentle shaping while drying can help even out your stitches.
• Make multiples: Once you have the hang of one crochet scrunchie pattern, batch-make several in different colors. They are addictive!

Common Questions About Crochet Scrunchie Patterns

How do you crochet a scrunchie for beginners?

Start by making a slip knot, chain enough stitches to fit around your elastic band (usually 40-50 chains for worsted yarn), then work single crochets in each chain around the elastic. Join with a slip stitch and repeat 2-3 rows until the scrunchie looks full and covers the elastic completely.

What is the best yarn for crochet scrunchies?

Cotton yarn is the best choice for crochet scrunchies because it has good stretch, holds its shape after washing, and does not cause frizz. Acrylic worsted weight yarn also works well and comes in many colors. Avoid very fluffy or textured yarns.

How long does it take to crochet a scrunchie?

A basic crochet scrunchie takes about 15-30 minutes to complete, making it one of the fastest crochet projects. More elaborate designs with shell stitches or flower patterns may take 30-45 minutes.