A685 Crochet Scrunchie Basic

A685 Crochet Scrunchie Basic

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How to Crochet a Scrunchie

Create a fun handmade accessory with this easy crochet scrunchie project. Using a simple crochet technique around an elastic hairband, this project is a quick way to use leftover yarn and create a practical everyday item.

The scrunchie can be customised with different yarn colours and textures, making it a great beginner crochet project or a handmade gift idea.

Project: Crochet Scrunchie (Basic)

Pattern: A685

Craft type: Crochet

Difficulty: Easy

Approximate project time: 1 hour

What You Will Need

Materials

  • Lincraft Cotton 8ply Yarn – 1 x 50g ball
  • Elastic hairband

Equipment

  • 4mm crochet hook
  • Wool needle for sewing in ends
  • Scissors

Alternative Yarns

This scrunchie is designed using Cotton 8ply yarn. Since this is a small accessory project, it is suitable for experimenting with different yarns and textures.

Choose a yarn that can comfortably wrap around the elastic while still creating enough fullness and stretch.

  • Cotton 8ply – creates a neat, structured scrunchie with excellent stitch definition.
  • Acrylic 8ply – soft, affordable and available in many colours.
  • Merino or wool blends – add warmth and a soft textured finish.
  • Bamboo blends – create a smooth drape and lightweight feel.
Helpful hint: Thicker yarns will create a fuller scrunchie, while finer yarns will create a more delicate gathered effect.

Measurements

  • Finished size: Approximately 10cm

Tension

Tension is not important for this project. Crochet tightly enough to cover the elastic securely while allowing the scrunchie to stretch comfortably.

Construction Overview

The crochet scrunchie is made in three simple steps:

  1. Work double crochet stitches around the elastic hairband.
  2. Add a second round of treble crochet stitches to create fullness.
  3. Finish and secure all loose ends.

Cover the Elastic Hairband

  1. Using a 4mm crochet hook, begin working around the elastic hairband.
  2. Work 50 double crochet stitches evenly over the hair elastic.
  3. Slip stitch into the first stitch to join the round.
Crochet tip: Spread the stitches evenly around the elastic so the crochet fabric gathers naturally without leaving gaps.

Add the Scrunchie Texture

  1. Chain 3. This counts as the first treble crochet stitch.
  2. Work 1 treble crochet into the same stitch.
  3. Work 2 treble crochet stitches into every stitch around.
  4. Slip stitch into the top of the beginning chain to join.

This round increases the fullness of the scrunchie and creates the gathered crochet texture around the elastic.

Create Extra Fullness

For a fuller scrunchie, repeat the treble crochet round once more. This will increase the stitch count and create a more gathered appearance.

  1. Repeat the treble crochet increase round.
  2. Continue until the desired fullness is achieved.
  3. Fasten off securely.

Finishing

  1. Cut the yarn, leaving a small tail.
  2. Thread the yarn tail onto a wool needle.
  3. Weave in all loose ends neatly.
  4. Gently stretch and shape the scrunchie around the elastic.
Finishing tip: Make sure all yarn ends are securely woven in, as hair accessories are handled and stretched frequently during use.

Customisation Ideas

  • Use leftover yarn from other crochet projects.
  • Create matching scrunchies in different colours.
  • Add a second yarn colour for stripes.
  • Experiment with textured or fluffy yarns.
  • Make smaller versions for children.
  • Create sets as handmade gifts.

Care

Follow the care instructions for your chosen yarn. Cotton and acrylic yarns can generally be gently washed when required.

Allow the scrunchie to dry completely before storing and reshape the crochet fabric after washing.

Get a copy of the instructions Download guide

Things you'll need