Learn to crochet
How to make a crochet pattern bigger or smaller
To make a crochet pattern bigger, use a larger hook with thicker yarn, or keep the same yarn and add stitches and rows. For flat pieces, multiply the width you want by your stitches per inch and round to the pattern's stitch multiple. For pieces worked in rounds, add rounds with the same increases. Yarn needed grows with area.
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Which way of resizing a crochet pattern should you use?
Choose the method by how much bigger you need the piece and whether its shaping has to stay the same.
| Method | How much it changes size | Best for | Watch out for |
|---|---|---|---|
| Larger hook, same yarn | A little | Blankets, scarves, amigurumi | Looser, more open fabric |
| Thicker yarn and larger hook | A lot | Blankets, toys, baskets | Much more yarn by weight; heavier fabric |
| Add stitches to the foundation | Width only | Rectangles and rows | Keep the stitch multiple |
| Add rows | Length only | Scarves, blankets | Extra yarn |
| Add rounds | Width of circles and squares | Granny squares, hats, rugs | Continue the increase pattern |
How do you work out how many stitches to add?
Your gauge swatch tells you exactly how many stitches make an inch, so resizing becomes simple multiplication.
- Crochet a gauge swatch in the pattern stitch and count the stitches over 4 inches (10 cm).
- Divide by 4 to get stitches per inch; for example, 16 stitches over 4 inches is 4 stitches per inch.
- Multiply the width you want by stitches per inch; for a 30 inch blanket that is 30 × 4 = 120 stitches.
- Check the pattern's stitch multiple, such as "a multiple of 6 plus 1", and round to the nearest number that fits — here 121.
- Add the turning chain or foundation chains the pattern calls for on top of that count.
- Work rows until the piece reaches the length you want, measuring flat and unstretched.
How do you make a hat or granny square bigger?
Pieces worked in rounds grow by repeating the increase pattern. A flat circle or hat crown keeps adding the same number of stitches each round, usually 6 in single crochet or 12 in double crochet, until it reaches the diameter you want; then work even rounds for a hat's height. A granny square simply continues with more rounds of clusters and corners.
How much more yarn does a bigger piece need?
Yarn needed grows with area, not width. A blanket that is 20% wider and 20% longer uses about 44% more yarn (1.2 × 1.2 = 1.44), and a piece twice as wide and twice as long needs roughly four times as much. Buy extra from the same dye lot, and use a yardage calculator for the new size.
Patterns to practise on
How to crochet a classic granny square
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 35 yd
Free pattern
Easy moss stitch crochet dishcloth
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 100 yd
Free pattern
Simple half double crochet baby beanie in the round
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 130 yd
Free pattern
Quick round crochet coaster in cotton
- Skill level
- Beginner
- Yarn weight
- Medium (#4)
- Hook size
- 4.5 mm hook
- Yardage
- 18 yd
Free pattern
Frequently asked questions
Can I make an amigurumi bigger without changing the pattern?
Yes. Use thicker yarn with a larger hook and keep the fabric tight so stuffing doesn't show; the proportions stay the same.
How do I make a crochet pattern smaller?
Reverse the same methods: a smaller hook and thinner yarn, or fewer stitches and rows while keeping the stitch multiple.
Will changing hook size change the look of the stitch?
A larger hook opens the fabric and adds drape; a smaller hook makes it firmer. Swatch first to check you like the result.