Looking to add a trendy yet cozy piece to your winter wardrobe? This crochet balaclava pattern combines style with warmth, perfect for those chilly days when you want to make a statement. I've fallen in love with how versatile this piece is – wear it as a full face covering, fold it back as a beanie, or scrunch it down as a neck warmer.
In this detailed guide, I'll walk you through creating your own balaclava with easy-to-follow instructions and clear step-by-step photos. Whether you're a beginner or experienced crocheter, you'll find this pattern surprisingly simple to follow. Let's get started on your new favorite winter accessory!
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Save this cozy balaclava pattern for your next crochet project – you'll thank yourself when winter comes!
Details About Balaclava
Let me share all the juicy details about this beautiful balaclava that I know you'll love! Each granny square measures 5.3 inches, and you'll need just 4 of them to create this stylish piece. Trust me, it's the perfect size to keep you snug without feeling bulky.
When finished, your balaclava will stand 10 inches tall, with a comfortable 22.8-inch circumference around the edge that sits perfectly on your head. I've found this size works wonderfully for most adults while maintaining that slouchy, fashionable look we're all after.
As for colors – this is where you can really let your creativity shine! I'm particularly fond of working with neutral tones like cream, beige, and gray for a classic look that goes with everything. But don't be afraid to play around! Some of my favorite combinations include earth tones like brown, rust, and cream for a cozy vibe, or winter pastels such as soft blue, lilac, and white for a dreamy look.
Remember, the beauty of making your own balaclava is that you can customize it exactly to your style. Have fun experimenting with different color combinations to create your perfect winter companion!
Recommended Yarn and Crochet Hooks
Let's talk about my favorite part - choosing the perfect materials for your balaclava! For this project, I absolutely love using Loopara 5 ply milk cotton yarn. Here's why it's become my go-to choice: it's incredibly soft against your skin, maintains its shape beautifully after washing, and has just the right amount of stretch to create those perfect granny squares. Plus, the stitch definition is absolutely gorgeous, making every detail of your work stand out!
For this pattern, you'll need a 4.0mm crochet hook - it's the sweet spot for creating granny squares that are neither too loose nor too tight. I've found this hook size works perfectly to create a fabric that's both sturdy and flexible, exactly what you want in a balaclava that'll keep its shape while being comfortable to wear.
Speaking of comfort, this is why I specifically recommend 5 ply milk cotton yarn for this project. Unlike pure wool which can be itchy, or acrylic which might not breathe well, milk cotton gives you the best of both worlds - the softness of cotton with added durability. It's just perfect for creating granny squares that hold their structure while remaining lightweight and breathable.
Materials needed for Balaclava
- Yarn – Loopara 5ply combed cotton
- Hook – 4.0mm
- Stitch Marker
- Scissors
- Leather Label
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- Magic ring
- ch - chain
- dc - double crochet
- sc - single crochet
- sc inc - single crochet increase
- sc2tog - single crochet 2 together
- sk - skip
- sl - slip stitch
How to Crochet Balaclava – Step by Step
Note: The tutorial uses different yarn colors for the crocheting and assembly processes. You can choose whatever color you like.
How to Crochet the Granny Square (Make 4)
Round 1: Chain 4, slip stitch into the first chain to form a ring.
Round 2: Chain 3, make 2 double crochets and chain 2 in the ring, then make 3 double crochets and chain 2 three more times. Slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3 to complete the round. You'll have four corners with chain-2 spaces.
Round 3: Slip stitch to the first chain-2 space. Chain 3, make 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets all in the same space. In each remaining chain-2 space, work (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets). Join with a slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3.
Round 4: Slip stitch to the chain-2 space. Chain 3, make 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets in the same space. Work 3 double crochets in the space between clusters. Repeat (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets) in each corner chain-2 space, with 3 double crochets in the space between clusters. Join with a slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3.
Round 5: Slip stitch to the chain-2 space. Chain 3, make 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets in the same space. Work 3 double crochets in each of the next 2 spaces between clusters. Repeat (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets) in each corner chain-2 space, with 3 double crochets in each space between clusters. Join with a slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3.
Round 6: Slip stitch to the chain-2 space. Chain 3, make 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets in the same space. Work 3 double crochets in each of the next 3 spaces between clusters. Repeat (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets) in each corner chain-2 space, with 3 double crochets in each space between clusters. Join with a slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3.
Round 7: Slip stitch to the chain-2 space. Chain 3, make 2 double crochets, chain 2, and 3 double crochets in the same space. Work 4 double crochets in each of the next 4 spaces between clusters. Repeat (3 double crochets, chain 2, 3 double crochets) in each corner chain-2 space, with 4 double crochets in each space between clusters.) three more times. Join with a slip stitch to the top of beginning chain-3. To finish, fasten off and weave in your ends securely.
How to Crochet the Tassel
Round 1: Start with a magic ring, make 6 single crochets into the ring, slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 2: Make 6 single crochets increase. Slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 3: Single crochet in each stitch around (12 stitches). Slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 4: Single crochet in each stitch around (12 stitches). Slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 5: Single crochet in each stitch around (12 stitches). Slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 6: Single crochet in next 2 stitches, single crochet 2 together (decrease), single crochet in next 5 stitches, single crochet 2 together (decrease), single crochet in last stitch. Slip stitch to join. Chain 1.
Round 7: Single crochet in each stitch around (10 stitches). Slip stitch to join. Fasten off and weave in ends. Create a braid of suitable length. Wrap the yarn around your hand about 20 times, then carefully slide it off and tie it securely in the middle.
Tips: Keep your tension consistent throughout all rounds for even squares. Count your stitches in each round to ensure accuracy.
Crochet Balaclava Assemble
How to Seam the Granny Square
Step 1: Arrange your four granny squares according to the layout shown in the pictures above and secure them with stitch markers.
Step 2: Use stitch markers to establish the basic shape of the balaclava as shown.
Step 3: Begin joining the squares using the mattress stitch method for invisible seams.
Step 4: Start with a secure knot for your first stitch, then match and join corresponding stitches one by one.
Step 5: Continue joining the remaining squares using the same method.
Step 6: Once the entire balaclava shape is joined, fasten off and weave in your ends.
How to Crochet the Hat Brim
Step 1: Chain 1, single crochet in same stitch, slip stitch, chain 1.
Step 2: (2 double crochets in next stitch, 3 double crochets in next stitch), slip stitch, chain 1.
Step 3: Single crochet in next stitch weaving in ends as you go, slip stitch, chain 1. Shell Pattern: (skip 1 stitch, 2 double crochets in next stitch, 3 double crochets in next stitch, single crochet in next stitch) repeat around. At corners: work 5 double crochets in same stitch, single crochet to complete corner, continue shell pattern.
Step 4: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch around, join with slip stitch to first single crochet, chain 1.
Step 5: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch around, join with slip stitch to first single crochet, chain 1.
Step 6: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch around, join with slip stitch to first single crochet, chain 1.
Step 7: Chain 1, single crochet in each stitch around, join with slip stitch to first single crochet, chain 1.
Step 8: Chain 1, (2 double crochets in side of single crochet, 3 double crochets in next single crochet stitch) around to form shells, single crochet between shells, join with slip stitch.
Step 9: Chain 1, single crochet between shells, (2 double crochets, 3 double crochets) in single crochet stitches to form shells on opposite side, single crochet between shells, join with slip stitch. Fasten off and weave in ends. Weave in ends securely.
How to Complete the Final Assembly
Step 1: Thread the braided cord through the brim edge, then use your crochet hook to pull it through the loops. Attach the tassel and secure it with a tight knot.
Step 2: Repeat the same process to attach the second tassel on the other side. And there you have it - your cozy balaclava is now complete.
Tips: Take your time when aligning the granny squares to ensure a symmetrical shape. Use plenty of stitch markers before joining - this will prevent any misalignment. Double-check your seams and tassel knots to ensure everything is securely fastened for long-lasting wear.
Care and Cleaning Instructions
Daily Care Tips
Keep your balaclava looking fresh by gently brushing off any dust or dirt after each wear. If you notice any loose threads, don't pull them – simply trim them with scissors. I also recommend letting your balaclava air out between wears to maintain its freshness.
Washing Methods
Show your balaclava some love by hand washing in lukewarm water with mild detergent. Gently squeeze (never wring or twist) to clean, then rinse thoroughly in cool water. Lay it flat to dry on a clean towel, reshaping as needed, and keep it away from direct sunlight to preserve the beautiful colors.
Storage Suggestions
I've found the best way to store your balaclava is to fold it gently and keep it in a drawer or storage box away from direct sunlight. Avoid hanging it, as this can stretch out the shape. During off-season, I recommend storing it in a breathable fabric bag to protect it from dust while allowing air circulation.
What’s Next?
If you enjoyed making this cozy balaclava, I'd love to see your creation! Share your finished project on Facebook, Pinterest, Instagram, or Twitter and tag me in your photos. Your beautiful work might inspire others to pick up their hooks and start creating too!
