DIY Crochet Balaclava: Our Inspirations to Get Started
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When December rolls around, it means: #1 – the cold is settling in, #2 – the urge to crochet is creeping back. Thus, my new challenge for the upcoming month is to make myself a crocheted balaclava! More specifically, I have only a few days to get it ready in time for my trip to England. So, today I’m inviting you to discover some inspirations to create this accessory, which has surprisingly made a comeback at the heart of trends. And who knows, it might inspire you to crochet one too, which is much simpler to make than you might think!
The Balaclava: From Disdain to Trend
Returning to the runways three years ago, the comeback of the balaclava had brought back some bad memories… It must be said that, as kids, this accessory was more synonymous with nightmares than style. Wearing one made us feel like a sausage in its casing, with the options of “itchiness – claustrophobia – marks on the forehead and static hair” included. Forgetting it at the bottom of the playground was no simple accident…
Flash forward to 2025, now more at peace with the vision of a crocheted balaclava – much trendier than the classic fleece version, or worse, the rainproof one with condensation – we are now tempted to give it a second chance…
Indeed, changing from the traditional beanie and also protecting the neck, its advantages make it a piece worth considering for the cooler days ahead. And in terms of style, we had already explored the different ways to wear and match it in a previous article.
Thus, the time has come to create our first crocheted balaclava!
What Model of Crocheted Balaclava to Start With?
My crochet journey is quite recent. It started with a bucket hat last year, which I shared the DIY here. Then, a jacket, started last summer and which I will continue next spring.
However, I noticed with this second creation that crochet is a bit like riding a bike: it comes back naturally. Once you know the basic stitches and can read a pattern, it’s quite easy to manage.
The hardest part is, in fact, deciding which model to make, as the possibilities are endless…
1 – Between Closed, Open, with Ties…
The first choice to make is: the shape and the fastening system of our crocheted balaclava. For this, both practical and aesthetic aspects need to be considered.
Among the main categories, we have:
- the closed version, made in one piece with an opening for the face and one for the neck.
- open versions which can either button up or tie with ties of varying thickness and lengths.
- a “two-in-one” version, meaning an open piece that closes with two long ends wrapping around the neck like a scarf.
Moreover, those who are not entirely sold on the balaclava may prefer a model resembling a scarf that ties around the head (“hide hood”).
2 – Loose or Fitted Model?
It is possible to make a more or less fitted crocheted balaclava. It’s up to you to define the style you want and which model you feel most comfortable with. Additionally, you can incorporate ties at the openings to adjust the piece and prevent air from coming through.
3 – What Patterns to Create?
What’s great about crochet is that we can integrate patterns even into a solid color model! So, if you’re not too adventurous with colors, you can still add a graphic detail through the stitches you use and combine.
Granny squares are particularly loved for this, as well as for easily combining multiple colors. This is ideal for beginners.
Another tip for a splash of colors without getting tangled up in threads: the multi-colored yarns! This way, you’ll have a beautiful gradient even while crocheting with just one stitch.
Wool or Cotton for a Crocheted Balaclava?
Wool is warmer than cotton, making it preferable for a crocheted balaclava worn in winter. However, superwash yarn is recommended to avoid irritation. Additionally, possible allergies should be considered when choosing the model (merino, alpaca, cashmere…).
Tip: visit a haberdashery to choose the texture that suits you.
Here are some links for patterns and tutorials:
- Closed model with ties, in a mix of colors
- Closed balaclava, baggy and with ties, in solid color
- Scarf-balaclava tutorial
- Balaclava – scarf video
- Granny square model + video tutorial
- Granny square balaclava
- Loose balaclava
If you wish to engage in more crafts this December, check out our ideas for DIY Christmas decorations!
Cover photo: Pexels, Article: Pinterest
