How to Crochet a Scrunchie (Beginner-Friendly Guide + Free Pattern)
Crocheting a scrunchie is one of the easiest and most satisfying small projects you can makeโwhether you're brand new to crochet or just want a fun way to use up yarn scraps. These cute, frilly hair ties are quick, customizable, and make the perfect gift, stocking stuffer, or personal treat. Plus, theyโre a great way to practice your stitches and experiment with different yarn textures.
In this tutorial, weโll walk you through how to crochet a scrunchie, step-by-step. Weโll use super bulky chenille yarn for a fluffy finish, but you can use any yarn you like! Weโre also including a free pattern to get started right away.

What Youโll Need
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Yarn: Super bulky or jumbo yarn is great for a plush, full scrunchie. Try chenille or velvet-style yarn for extra softness.
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Hook: Use the hook size recommended for your yarn. For chenille yarn, we suggest a 7 mmโ9 mm hook.
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Hair Elastic: A basic elastic hair tie (plain or covered).
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Scissors
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Yarn Needle (optional): For weaving in ends.
Easy Crochet Scrunchie Pattern
This pattern is perfect for beginners. The round base uses a simple chain and double crochet stitch to build a beautiful ruffle around the hair tie.
Pattern:
Rnd 1:
Make a slip knot and place it on your hook.
Insert your hook through the middle of your hair elastic, yarn over, and ch 2.

Rnd 2:
Work 55 double crochets (dc) around the elastic.

ย Finish the round by working a slip stitch (sl st) into the first dc of the round to complete your frilly circle.

Fasten off and cut the yarn, leaving a short tail. Weave in the ends using your fingers or a yarn needle.
Thatโs it! Youโve got a fluffy, fun crochet scrunchie ready to wear or gift.

Customization Tips
Want to make your scrunchies even more fun? Here are a few easy ideas:
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Use variegated yarn for a multicolor swirl effect.
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Add more dc stitches if you want extra ruffles.
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Switch to half double crochet (hdc) for a slightly tighter frill.
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Use thinner yarn and a smaller hook for a more delicate look.
Why Crochet Scrunchies Make Great Gifts
Crochet scrunchies are the kind of handmade item everyone loves to receive. Theyโre small, useful, and stylish. You can make a whole bundle of them in one afternoon, and theyโre perfect for:
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Birthdays
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Stocking stuffers
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Craft fairs
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Teacher gifts
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Friendship bracelets with flair
And because you can customize them with any yarn or color, theyโre super easy to match with someoneโs favorite shades or school colors.
Try These Fun Variations
Once youโve got the basic scrunchie pattern down, try experimenting with:
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Chunky velvet yarn for a dreamy, retro look.
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Lacy cotton yarn for a boho summer vibe.
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Adding beads to the edge for a glam twist.
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Crocheting a bow and sewing it to the front!
Beginner-Friendly & Scrap-Yarn Approved
One of the best parts about making crochet scrunchies is that they use very little yarnโmaking them an excellent scrap project. If youโve got leftover yarn from making a blanket, plushie, or scarf, this is the perfect way to use it up without waste.
And if you're new to crochet? Scrunchies are a great place to start! Youโll practice essential skills like:
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Making a slip knot
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Working into a ring (the elastic)
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Creating double crochets
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Finishing off and weaving in ends
Youโll walk away with a functional, adorable hair accessory and more confidence in your crochet skills.
Wrap-Up: Your First Scrunchie, Done!
Crocheting a scrunchie is fast, fun, and full of possibility. Whether youโre keeping it for yourself or gifting it to a friend, this tiny project is proof that handmade doesnโt have to be complicated. With just a few stitches and a hair tie, youโve created something stylish and practical.
If you loved this project, try pairing your scrunchie with a matching headband, plushie, or tote bagโall great next steps for beginner crocheters.
And donโt forget to check out our Chenille Yarn Collection for the softest yarns perfect for scrunchies, plushies, and more.
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