Description
Create a soothing and tactile crocheted pumpkin perfect for autumn decor or gifting. This project utilizes simple stitches and a rhythmic process to form a soft, rounded shape.
Ingredients
- About 75 yards (69 m) of worsted weight yarn, weight 4, medium
- H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
- Polyester fiberfill, about 2 to 3 ounces (57 to 85 g)
- Yarn needle with a rounded tip
- Scissors
- One stitch marker, optional
- Tape measure
- A small amount of contrasting yarn, optional
Instructions
- Make a magic ring, also called a magic circle, by wrapping the yarn around two fingers and pulling a loop through. Chain 1, then work 6 single crochet stitches (sc) into the ring.
- Pull the yarn tail gently to close the center, place a stitch marker in the first stitch, and finish with 6 stitches.
- Work 2 single crochet in each stitch around to count 12 stitches.
- Repeat the increase pattern: 1 single crochet in the first stitch, then 2 single crochet in the next stitch, to reach 18 stitches.
- Work 1 single crochet in each of the next 2 stitches, then 2 single crochet in the following stitch to achieve 24 stitches.
- Continue with 1 single crochet in each of the next 3 stitches, then 2 single crochet in the following stitch, resulting in 30 stitches.
- For the next round, work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches, then 2 single crochet in the following stitch for 36 stitches.
- Make 4 rounds of 1 single crochet in every stitch around, maintaining 36 stitches in each round.
- Begin shaping the top with a decrease: join two stitches into one, then work 1 single crochet in each of the next 4 stitches and make 1 decrease for 30 stitches.
- Work 1 single crochet in each of the next 3 stitches, then make 1 decrease to achieve 24 stitches, adding polyester fiberfill as it narrows.
- Continue with 1 single crochet in each of the next 2 stitches, then make 1 decrease for 18 stitches.
- Make 1 single crochet in the next stitch, then make 1 decrease for 12 stitches.
- Make 6 decreases around for 6 stitches, cut the yarn, and weave the tail through the front loops of remaining stitches to close the opening.
- For the stem, make a magic ring and work 6 single crochet into it without increasing, then work 4 rounds of 1 single crochet in each stitch for 6 stitches per round.
- Finish the stem with a slip stitch in the first stitch and sew it to the center of the pumpkin.
- Add detail by threading yarn around the pumpkin from base to top to create sections.
Notes
This pumpkin works well in various settings and makes a thoughtful gift. It is not intended as a toy, especially for young children.