How to Crochet a Scrappy Forest Hood

Materials & tools you'll need

Step 1 — Determine the size of your rectangle

Wrap a measuring tape around your neck, up to where a headband would sit on your forehead, and add an inch or two to that measurement. Most people will need approximately 22 inches. Chain a length to match your measurement, then single crochet into the second chain from the hook and work across to the end, forming the foundation row of your rectangle.

Step 2 — Work the color work rows

Swap out one colour of yarn every row to build up the colour work across the rectangle. Working into the back loops only for each single crochet row creates a pretty ribbed texture that suits this project well. You can use regular single crochet, half double crochet, or double crochet, whichever stitch you prefer, as long as the piece stays rectangular in shape.

Step 3 — Complete the rectangle

Keep working row by row, swapping colours as needed, until your rectangle measures approximately 99 stitches wide by about 50 rows tall. Take your time through the colour changes and check your row count periodically to make sure the rectangle is building up evenly on both sides.

Step 4 — Sew the rectangle into a hood

Fold the finished rectangle over and sew up one end to begin shaping the hood. Add ties to the back of the hood for closure, then continue working on the hood shape, adding appliqué and ruching details in the back as desired to give the piece its whimsical, forest-inspired character.

Step 5 — Add finishing touches

Weave in all remaining yarn ends securely with your yarn needle for a neat, tidy finish. To complete the Scrappy Forest Hood, add a pompom or another embellishment of your choice, positioning it wherever suits your design. Your finished hood is ready to wear and makes a lovely, colourful way to use up leftover scraps of yarn from other projects.

Frequently asked questions

What materials are needed for the Scrappy Forest Hood?
You'll need sport weight yarn held with two strands together, a 5mm hook, scissors, a yarn needle for weaving in ends, and a measuring tape. Use a warm brown and green for the hat base, keeping the brown running throughout, then bring in accent colours such as purplish pink, orange, gold, or purple for the remaining rows.

Who is this crochet project suitable for?
The Scrappy Forest Hood is designed to be beginner-friendly while still offering interesting colour work for seasoned crocheters. The stitches themselves are simple, so it's a great project for building confidence with colour changes.

How do I determine the size of my rectangle?
Wrap a measuring tape around your neck up to where a headband would sit on your forehead, then add an inch or two. Most people need approximately 22 inches. Chain a length to match this measurement, then single crochet into the second chain from the hook and work across to form the foundation row of your rectangle.

What steps are involved in the color work?
Swap out one colour of yarn every row to build up the colour work. Working into the back loops only for each single crochet row creates a pretty ribbed texture. You can use single crochet, half double crochet, or double crochet, whichever you prefer, as long as the piece stays rectangular.

What finishing touches can I add?
Once the hood is sewn together, weave in all your ends for a neat finish, then add a pompom or another embellishment of your choice to complete the Scrappy Forest Hood.

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 →