Pattern Description:
This is a super simple and beginner-friendly crochet pattern for making oversized scrunchies that are a less damaging alternative for hair.
The pattern involves making single crochet stitches around an elastic hair tie, followed by two rounds of double crochet stitches to create ruffles and shape. The scrunchies can be customized with various colors.
Materials Needed & Measurements:
- Yarn: Caron Simply Soft Yarn. Colors including Blackberry (purple), Strawberry, Soft Green, and Blue Mint.
- Hook: Size F Crochet Hook.
- Notions:
- Elastic hair tie (specifically Goodie Brand Elastic Hair Ties, black bands for medium hair are used).
- Tapestry Needle.
- Measurements: 38 SC around the elastic hair tie, noting that the stitch count does not matter as long as it covers the entire hair tie well.
Stitches & Abbreviations Used:
- SC – Single Crochet
- DC – Double Crochet
- ch – Chain
- sl st – Slip Stitch
- join – Join to first stitch
- st(s) – Stitch(es)
- slip knot – Adjustable starting knot
Instructions for Making the Crochet Hair Scrunchie Pattern:
Step 1: Prepare the Hair Tie
Start with your chosen elastic hair tie. This will serve as the base for your scrunchie. Using a slip knot, attach your yarn to the hair tie. Make sure to pull the knot tight so it stays secure as you work around the band.
Step 2: First Round – Single Crochet Foundation (SC)
- Insert your hook into the center of the hair tie, yarn over, and pull through to begin your SC.
- Continue making SC stitches evenly around the entire elastic band. The stitches should completely cover the hair tie so that none of the elastic shows through.
- Tip: Aim for around 38 SC stitches, but don’t stress about the exact count. The goal is full coverage of the band, not precision.
- Once you’ve worked all the way around, join with a sl st to the first SC.
Step 3: Second Round – Double Crochet Ruffle (DC)
- Begin with a ch 2 (this counts as your first DC).
- In the same stitch, make 2 DC.
- Continue around the circle by placing 2 DC stitches into every SC from the previous round. This will start creating a light ruffled effect.
By the end of this round, your scrunchie will look fuller and begin forming its oversized shape.
- Join with a sl st to the top of the starting ch 2.
Step 4: Third Round – Adding More Ruffle (DC)
- Begin again with ch 2.
- This time, place 3 DC stitches into each DC from the previous round. This heavy increase dramatically boosts the ruffled effect, making the scrunchie appear larger and more decorative.
Work all the way around until you’ve filled the round with these clustered stitches.
- Join to the first DC with a sl st.
Step 5: Finish Off
- Cut your yarn, leaving about a 6-inch tail.
- Pull the yarn through the last loop on your hook to secure.
- Use a tapestry needle to weave in any loose ends carefully on the underside of the scrunchie. This prevents unraveling and gives the accessory a neat finish.
Customization Ideas
One of the best things about this scrunchie pattern is its flexibility. Here are some fun ways to make it unique:
- Color Choices: Alternate yarn shades every round to create striped or color-block scrunchies.
- Yarn Texture: Try velvet or chenille yarn for a plush, luxurious feel, or metallic yarn for a festive look.
- Size Adjustments: Use fewer DC stitches in Round 2 and 3 if you prefer a slimmer scrunchie, or add extra rounds for a dramatic oversized effect.
Final Thoughts
This crochet hair scrunchie pattern is quick to make and ideal for beginners learning the basics of working in the round.
With just a hair tie, some yarn, and a crochet hook, you can create a stylish accessory that is soft, reusable, and much gentler on your hair compared to store-bought elastic bands.
Crochet a batch in your favorite colors to match outfits, gift to friends, or even sell as handmade items. Once you get the hang of it, you’ll find yourself making scrunchies in under an hour!
