Ingredients
- 120 yards of worsted weight yarn (weight 4, medium), preferably cotton or a cotton-acrylic blend
- 1 H-8 (5.0 mm) crochet hook
- 2 ounces (57 g) of polyester fiberfill
- 1 yarn needle with a blunt tip
- 1 pair of sharp scissors
- 1 stitch marker (optional)
- 1 tape measure (for checking gauge and finished size)
- 1 small dry twig or wooden stem, about 1 to 2 inches long (optional)
- A small amount of brown yarn or embroidery thread for the stem (optional)
Instructions
- Make a slip knot, then chain 18, keeping the chain relaxed.
- Row 1: Make 1 single crochet in the second chain from the hook and in each chain across. You will have 17 single crochet stitches. Turn your work, then make 1 turning chain.
- Row 2: Work 1 single crochet in the back loop only of each stitch across. You will still have 17 stitches.
- Rows 3 through 18: Repeat Row 2 for 16 more rows, keeping 17 single crochet stitches in every row.
- When you finish Row 18, fasten off with a tail about 18 inches long.
- Fold the rectangle so the first row meets the last row. Use a slip stitch through both layers to join the short sides, or sew them together with a yarn needle.
- Turn the joined piece so the seam rests inside. Thread the remaining yarn tail around one open edge, passing the needle under the top loops of each row. Pull gently to gather the edge, then secure with a few stitches.
- Stuff the pumpkin with small handfuls of polyester fiberfill, aiming for a softly firm shape.
- Gather the second open edge in the same way, adding or removing fiberfill as needed.
- For the pumpkin grooves, use a long strand of matching yarn to create gentle dips around the pumpkin.
- Add a stem using brown yarn or a dry twig, securing it with stitches if necessary.
- Weave in the ends and shape by hand if needed.
Notes
Keep this decoration away from toddlers and pets. Cotton yarn is recommended for ease of cleaning and durability.
- Prep Time: 20 minutes
- Cook Time: 120 minutes
