How to Crochet a Double Ruffled Scrunchie

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Gather materials and create the base

Choose two contrasting yarn colors that complement each other — the first color forms the base and one ruffle layer, while the second color creates the contrasting ruffle. A size H or I hook works well depending on how thick or full you want the finished scrunchie to be; a larger hook produces a chunkier, airier result. To begin, make a slipknot with your starting color and chain 30 stitches. Join the chain with a slip stitch to form a closed ring — this loop is the foundation of your scrunchie.

Step 2 — Build the increasing rounds

Work 4 rounds of double crochets in your starting color, increasing the stitch count with each round to build fullness in the base. Work 9 double crochets in round 1, 15 in round 2, 23 in round 3, and 37 in round 4. These increasing rounds are what give the scrunchie its gather and volume — each round fans out slightly more than the last, creating the foundation that the ruffle layers will build from. Keep your tension relaxed throughout so the rounds lay open and don't pull inward.

Step 3 — Work the front loop ruffles

For round 5, switch to your second contrasting color. Working only into the front loops of the round 4 stitches, follow this alternating pattern: two double crochets, then four single crochets. Repeat this sequence — two dc, four sc — all the way around the ring. Working into the front loops only leaves the back loops free for the second ruffle layer in the next step. You can work additional rounds using this same front-loop pattern to build up more volume on this side of the scrunchie — the more rounds you add, the fuller and more dramatic the ruffle becomes.

Step 4 — Work the back loop ruffles

Switch back to your starting color for the second ruffle layer. This time, work only into the back loops of the round 4 stitches — the loops that were left unworked in Step 3. Follow the same alternating pattern: two double crochets, then four single crochets, all the way around. Because you're working into the back loops on the opposite side of the base, this ruffle fans out in the other direction from the first, creating the double ruffle effect. Again, you can work multiple rounds in the back loops to match the volume of the front ruffle layer.

Step 5 — Finish and style

Once you're happy with the volume of both ruffle layers, fasten off and weave in all loose ends with a yarn needle or your hook, tucking them securely into the stitches on the inside of the scrunchie where they won't be visible. Gently pull apart the ruffles along both edges to open them up and add dimension — this simple step makes a big difference to the final look. To secure the scrunchie, use a safety pin, a small bow of ribbon, or simply wear it straight off the hook. Customize freely with different color pairings, hook sizes, or stitch ratios to make each scrunchie uniquely your own.

Frequently asked questions

What materials do I need to make a double ruffled scrunchie?
You'll need yarn in two contrasting colors, a size H or I crochet hook (adjust based on your preferred scrunchie size and thickness), and scissors.

How do I change colors and work the front loop ruffles?
After completing round 4 of the base, switch to your new color for round 5. Work only into the front loops of the round 4 stitches, following a pattern of two double crochets followed by four single crochets. Repeat this sequence around the ring. Work multiple rounds in this way to increase the volume of the front ruffle layer.

How can I customize my double ruffled scrunchie?
Experiment with different yarn color combinations, hook sizes, and stitch ratios in the ruffle rounds. Adding extra ruffle rounds increases volume, while a smaller hook and finer yarn produces a more delicate result. You can also vary the dc and sc pattern ratio for a different ruffle texture.

Enjoyed this tutorial?

Find 60+ free tutorials on YouTube. Grab a pattern from the Etsy shop, or go deeper with a community membership.

Free tutorials on YouTube →    Shop on Etsy →    Join the community →