Looking for inspiration for your next crochet project? We’re here to help!
Whether you’re looking for something to fill a few hours, or a major undertaking, we’ve got options to suit. Our list covers everything from handy household items to novelty gifts – and everything in between.
So if you’re ready to get out that crochet hook, step this way!
What to Crochet
1. Granny square
Granny squares make great crocheting projects, whatever your level of expertise. When you’re just starting out, you can make them in simple single crochet. Expert crocheters can use intricate patterns and designs.
They’re quick to finish, and perfect for using up odds and ends of yarn. They’re useful in their own right – they make great coasters. Or if you’ve made lots, you can sew them together to make bigger projects like shawls or blankets.
2. Scarf
A scarf is another project that’s easy to tailor to your level of experience. Simple patterns are great for beginners, while advanced crocheters can experiment with intricate colorwork or 3-D embellishments.
Scarves don’t have to be just for winter, either. A lighter yarn and open pattern can create a garment that works well in the warmer months too.
3. Blanket
Blankets come in a wide range of sizes and designs. There are blankets for single, double and king-size beds, cribs, children’s car seats, bassinets and to cover laps. They make wonderful gifts too.
If you’re in a hurry, choose a thicker yarn and larger hook to work up your fabric quickly. Baby blankets work best with thinner yarns, though, so baby won’t overheat.
Don’t be put off using wool for blankets because of fears about washability. Most woolen yarns will be fine in a washing machine, as long as they’re washed at a cooler temperature with specialist wool detergent.
4. Beanie hat
Crochet beanie hats are lovely and snuggly when the mercury drops! And if you’re looking for a bigger project, why not make a matching set with gloves and a scarf?
Yarns made from more elastic fibers work well for beanie hats, because they’ll need to stretch over your head. Wool is particularly good, especially yarns that have been tightly spun.
5. Bucket hat
If beanies are great for winter, a crochet bucket hat is the perfect summer accessory. Choose yarns that are thick enough to hold their shape. Fibers that will keep your head cool, like cotton or linen, are a good choice here.
Choose between plain or brightly colored patterns featuring stripes or flowers. You can even incorporate granny squares in the design.
6. Gloves
Crochet gloves not only look great, they’ll keep you warm and toasty when the temperature drops. And if you don’t fancy the hassle of making fingers, fingerless gloves and mittens are just as good.
Choosing thicker yarns will create a heavier fabric that will keep you warm. They’ll also work up into fabric quickly, so you’ll be able to finish your project fast.
7. Throw
A throw is a great way to show off your crochet skills in your home! Choose a thinner yarn for a lightweight coverlet for a spring evening. Alternatively, a throw made from thicker yarn will stay in place better if spread out on a sofa or chair.
Choose colors to coordinate with your interiors or use a contrasting shade to add a splash of color to a neutral room.
8. Sweater
For more experienced crocheters, crafting clothes can be immensely rewarding. And crocheted sweaters are both attractive and practical.
You’ll need to make sure your gauge is right so that the sweater comes out the right size. Making up a gauge swatch before you start on the pattern will save you time down the line.
9. Throw pillow
A cushion or throw pillow is a wonderful way to add traditional charm to any interior. You can crochet one in the round, or create a square or rectangular design. Crochet experts might even want to craft a novelty pillow in the shape of a flower or animal.
Whatever design you choose, use a yarn that’s color-fast and elastic. The latter will make things much easier when you’re pulling the cover over your pillow insert.
10. Shawl
We love crochet shawls in all weathers! Choose chunky yarns and designs with cabling or bobbles for the colder months. Silky yarns and open, lacey patterns work perfectly in the summer.
Shawl designs are easy to convert into ponchos too. Just make them longer. Adding fringing or tassels will complete the look.
11. Baby clothes
Who doesn’t love seeing a baby dressed in crochet clothes? Socks, cardigans, even dresses look super-cute in crochet. And they make wonderful gifts for new arrivals.
Thin yarns in natural, breathable fibers are a sensible option here. When babies are small, their bodies don’t regulate their own temperatures well. Lightweight crochet fabrics will help avoid them overheating.
12. Amigurumi
Crochet and amigurumi are a match made in heaven. There’s a huge range of gorgeous toys to crochet, and they make perfect gifts.
Amigurumi is traditionally made using lighter weight yarns to craft smaller toys. But you can also use thicker yarns to create super-sized plushies, perfect for older children.
13. Key chain
If you’re looking for a project that won’t take too long to complete, how about a key chain or fob? This is a great way of using up leftover yarn. And you’ll be creating something that’s both attractive and practical.
Small amigurumi animals make great key fobs, or you can keep things simple with a simple crochet loop.
14. Potted plant
If you want to make something that’s a bit different, how about a crochet potted plant? There are some brilliant patterns available to make all kinds of fabric flora!
They make fun home decorations, and wonderful gifts. You could even go the extra mile and embroider the recipient’s name or initials on the pot.
Check the Patterns
15. Cell phone cover
A crochet cover brings traditional charm to modern tech. Cell phone covers look adorable in crochet fabric, and it works just as well for tablet covers too.
If you’re making a cover as a gift, just make sure you check the size of the recipient’s gadget first. No-one wants to spend hours crafting away, only to discover the cover won’t fit!
Add a button and a strap to close the top and keep the phone or tablet secure. The extra detail will look great too.
16. Tote bag
Tote bags work beautifully in crochet. Choose from designs featuring granny squares, or simpler patterns for a more under-stated look.
Thicker yarns are good for straps, and for bags you want to hold their shape. You can also add a lining to give your bag more strength.
17. Storage container
Crochet containers can provide practical storage solutions for your home. Choose your yarn with care to create either a traditional or a contemporary look.
Classic yarn fibers work well, but you can also experiment with more unusual options. Hemp, rattan and raffia all make strong containers that will hold their shape.
18. Coaster
Coasters are a quick and easy crochet project. If you have a little more time to spare, you could crochet a whole set of them. Tie them together with ribbon for a sweet and useful gift.
Most coasters are crocheted in the round, but you can create squares or other shapes too. We’ve even seen some gorgeous designs shaped as flowers and slices of fruit.
19. Dishcloth
Crochet dishcloths are easy to craft and make useful kitchen accessories. Choose a textured pattern and a strong yarn that will stand up to friction. And if you decide to use colorful yarn, make sure that it’s color-fast.
Cotton or hemp yarns are great for dishcloths because they’re robust. They’re also resistant to mold and mildew.
20. Doily
A crochet doily is a classic project that can add charm to any room in your home.
Circular designs look lovely as the centerpiece to a table, especially with a vase of flowers or bowl of fruit on top. Square and rectangular designs are perfect to protect side tables, dressing tables, or chests of drawers.
More experienced crocheters may want to add borders of crochet lace for a gorgeous antique look.
21. Coin purse
Crochet coin purses can be as simple or as intricate as you like, making them a great project for all skill levels. You can make them from a couple of granny squares, or follow more complicated patterns to create purses shaped as animals, flowers or fruit and veg.
Whatever approach you choose, adding a liner is a good idea to give your purse extra strength.
22. Bookmark
A bookmark is a quick and easy crochet project, but it can also be a real showstopper. It’s a great way of using up any scraps of yarn you have left over from other projects. And adding embellishments like tassels or beading will make your bookmark extra special.
A handcrafted bookmark makes a wonderful gift too.
23. Flower
Crochet flower with stem Crochet flowers with realistic stems are stunning projects that perfectly mimic nature's beauty. Starting with a wire core wrapped in green yarn for the stem, you'll build up layers of petals to create lifelike blooms.
Each flower becomes a miniature sculpture! While they take a bit more time than simple flat flowers, the results are absolutely worth it.
Create elegant long-stem roses, cheerful daisies, or dramatic sunflowers - they make wonderful home decorations and heartfelt handmade gifts that will last forever.
24. Leaf
Crochet leaf Crochet leaves are versatile projects that complement any floral creation. From simple oval shapes to detailed maple leaves, there's a pattern to suit every skill level.
They're wonderful for practicing increases and decreases, and you can experiment with different yarns for varied textures.
Add them to your crochet flowers for realistic arrangements, or string them together to make charming autumn garlands.
Summary: What to crochet
When it comes to what to crochet, the list of possibilities is endless. Choose from apparel for adults or children, accessories, or home décor. Whatever you make, you’ll have a choice of simple or complex designs to suit your experience and available time.
Best of all, you’ll be creating something that’s truly one of a kind. We wish you good luck with your next project!
