A soft crochet pumpkin is one of those little projects that instantly makes your space feel warm and seasonal. This one is made from a simple rectangle, shaped into a pumpkin and finished with a stem, so it is fun to make even when you want something quick and relaxing.
Why You Will Love This Project
This is a cute little project for fall decorating or gifting or using up yarn from your stash. The shape is simple and the ribbed texture gives it that classic pumpkin look.
Things You Need
- Yarn
- Crochet Needle
- yarn knitting needle
- The Scissors Stuffing
Select a hook and a yarn weight that will give you the desired fit and texture.
Best Yarn for This Project:
Pumpkins look great in a soft worsted or chunky yarn, as it helps them feel full and cozy. Choose a yarn that shows ribbing nicely for extra texture.
Level of Difficulty
Good for beginners
Size & Fit Chart
You can make the pumpkin wider or taller, depending on the size of the rectangle you start with. Continue to repeat to desired size, then shape and stuff to get the fullness you like.
Chain stitches employed
Half double crochet
The pumpkin is worked in a rectangle using half double crochet, and is clearly shown in the tutorial.
How to do it
Initiate the Foundation
Begin by making a rectangle in crochet. Keep your stitches even so the fabric has a nice shape.
Work the Main Section
Continue in rows to create the pumpkin’s body. The rows are worked so that they create a ribbed look, giving the finished pumpkin a nice texture.
Join or Form
Once you’ve finished the rectangle, bring the sides together to make a tube. Tie one end tightly and then add stuffing.
Complete the Edges
Once you have stuffed it, close the other end and mold the pumpkin with your hands. Add the stem on top to finish it off.
Helpful Hints
- Maintain even tension so the pumpkin looks smooth.
- Do not overfill or it will lose shape.
- Close the ends neatly with a yarn needle.
- Then finish off the top and shape the sides with your hands.
- Securely weave in ends, especially around the stem.
Things to Stay Away From
- Making the rectangle too small for the shape you want
- Pumpkin overstuffing
- Pulling unevenly at the gathered ends
- Not sewing well before stuffing (forgetting to)
- Leaving the stem attached loosely
Customization Suggestions
Try different fall colors, make a longer stem, make a whole set in different sizes or use a textured yarn for a more rustic look. Another cute addition is a little leaf or curl of yarn.
Style Advice
These pumpkins look great on a shelf, tray, entry table or mantel. They also create sweet handmade gifts for fall and Thanksgiving decorating.
Care Instructions
If you can, clean spot-wise. Wash in cool water if necessary, reshape and dry flat.
Time Required
This will take a few hours depending on your speed, yarn, size and stitch pattern.
Final thoughts
This simple and sweet crochet pumpkin is a great way to add a handmade touch to your fall decorating. It’s quick to make and easy to customize and it’s fun to make more than one.
FAQs
Can beginners make this pumpkin?
Yes, it is a beginner-friendly project with simple shaping.
Do I need exact yarn to make it?
No. You can use a yarn and hook size that gives you the look you want.
Can I make it bigger?
Yes. Make a larger rectangle and adjust the fullness as needed.
Do I have to add a stem?
No, but it helps give the pumpkin its finished look.
Is this good for stash yarn?
Yes, it is a great small project for fall-colored leftovers.
