How to Make DIY Crochet Baby Scratch Mittens

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Create the foundation chain

Begin by chaining 34 stitches to form the foundation for your first mitten. This chain sets the base width of the mitten and determines how it will grow as you work through the subsequent rows. Keep your tension even throughout — a loose foundation chain will result in a floppy edge, while a tight one can make the mitten difficult to shape. Once your 34-stitch chain is complete, you're ready to start building up the body of the mitten.

Step 2 — Work double crochet and single crochet stitches

Work in rows, alternating between double crochet (dc) and single crochet (sc) stitches in a repeating sequence of dc, sc, dc, sc. Throughout this section you'll be increasing and decreasing stitches to gradually shape the mitten into a rounded form that fits snugly over a newborn's hand. The specific stitch counts per row are flexible — work the increases and decreases intuitively as the shape develops, and don't be afraid to try the mitten against your hand (or a newborn's) as you go to check the fit.

Step 3 — Join the work to form a circle

Once the mitten body is complete, use a slip stitch to join the beginning and end of the work together, forming a seamless circle. Work the slip stitch carefully through both layers to ensure a firm, invisible join — this is what gives the mitten its clean, finished edge with no visible seam. Pull the joining yarn tail through to the inside of the mitten so it can be woven in neatly in a later step.

Step 4 — Repeat for the second mitten

Follow exactly the same steps as above to create the second mitten. Work from the same foundation chain count of 34 and keep your tension consistent with the first mitten so they match in size and shape. It's helpful to lay both mittens side by side as you work to compare them — small differences in tension can add up, so checking regularly ensures you end up with a well-matched pair.

Step 5 — Create the wrist ties

To make each tie, chain 30 stitches, then slip stitch back down the entire length of the chain. Next, work a round of single crochet around the full circumference of the chain, joining with a slip stitch at both the beginning and end of the round. This gives each tie a neat, sturdy finish that won't fray or stretch out with repeated use. Repeat the same process to make a second tie — one for each mitten.

Step 6 — Sew in all ends

Before attaching the ties, take time to weave in all loose yarn ends on both mittens and both ties. Thread each end onto a yarn needle and work it through several stitches in different directions so it's well anchored and won't work loose with washing or wear. Trim any excess yarn close to the fabric. Getting all your ends secured at this stage makes the final assembly much cleaner and keeps the finished mittens looking tidy inside and out.

Step 7 — Attach the ties to the mittens

To attach each tie, insert one end down through the fabric on one side of the mitten, then up through the next eyelet and down through the one after that, weaving it through in a lacing pattern around the wrist opening. Repeat with the second tie on the opposite side of the same mitten, then do the same for the second mitten. When pulled gently, the ties create loops that secure the mitten comfortably around a baby's wrist — snug enough to stay in place without being constricting.

Step 8 — Check the finished size

The completed mittens should measure approximately 3 inches in diameter when laid flat and not cinched by the ties. This gives enough room for a newborn's hand to sit comfortably inside without feeling tight or restricted. If your mittens are coming up significantly larger or smaller than 3 inches, adjust your hook size or starting chain count for future pairs. A well-fitted scratch mitten stays on reliably and does its job of protecting a newborn's delicate skin from scratching.

Frequently asked questions

What crochet stitches are used to make DIY crochet baby scratch mittens?
The mittens are worked by alternating between double crochet (dc) and single crochet (sc) stitches in a repeating dc, sc, dc, sc sequence, with increases and decreases throughout to shape the mitten appropriately.

How do I join the work to form a circle when making crochet baby mittens?
Once the mitten body is complete, use a slip stitch to join the beginning and end of the work together, forming a seamless circle with a smooth, comfortable edge and no visible join.

How do I make and attach the ties to secure the mittens?
For each tie, chain 30 stitches, slip stitch back down the chain, then work a round of single crochet around the circumference and join with a slip stitch. Make two ties. To attach, weave each tie through the eyelets around the wrist opening, alternating down and up, to create loops that hold the mitten snugly in place.

What is the ideal finished size for crochet baby scratch mittens?
The finished mittens should measure approximately 3 inches in diameter when not cinched, giving enough room for a newborn's hand to fit comfortably without feeling constricted.

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