Gourdgeous Crochet Pumpkins

Fall decor has never been faster with the Gourdgeous (Gourds, get it?) Crochet Pumpkins. Any beginner can make these in no time, using only a crocheted rectangle sewn into a pumpkin shape. Each ball of recommended yarn makes 2 pumpkins. Customize the look by switching up colors, yarn thickness and hook size, or stem material.

ABBREVIATIONS

• ch - chain
• RS - Right Side
• WS - Wrong Side
• hdc - half double crochet
• st(s) - stitch(es)
• lp - loop
• sc - single crochet

No gauge; finished pumpkin size depends on amount of stuffing. Sample pumpkin is 5in wide and 4in tall.

Throughout: ch2 does not count towards stitches.

• Approximately 50 yds Lion Brand Wool Ease Thick & Quick (1 full ball makes 2 pumpkins), or equivalent super bulky yarn
• 5 yds contrasting color yarn for stem
• Size N13/9mm crochet hook
• Polyester Fiberfill
• Tapestry needle
• Scissors

Ch 22.

Row 1 (RS): hdc in 3rd ch from hook and in each ch across (20 sts). Ch 2, turn.

Row 2 (WS): hdc in back lp only across. Ch 2, turn.

Rows 3-20: Repeat row 2.

Cut yarn, leaving a 30in tail.

Fold work in half so that beginning ch is touching last row, RS facing out.

Using tapestry needle, whipstitch beginning ch to inside loop of end row.

Thread yarn tail through every other edge st and cinch tight. Secure with a knot but do not cut yarn.

Fill open end with polyester fiberfill.

Push tapestry needle with tail yarn through center of closed end, through the fiberfill, and out the open end.

Weave tail yarn through every other edge st and cinch tight, both closing the hole and pulling the pumpkin flatter.

Secure with knot, trim yarn, and weave in ends.

With contrasting yarn for stem, make an adjustable ring (or ch1) and sc 4 in that space.

Sc on top of first st to join in the round.

Sc around for 7 rounds. Cut yarn, leaving a 10in tail.

Use remaining tail yarn to sew to pumpkin top.

Alternatively, affix a twig or cinnamon stick using hot glue, or sew on a fabric stem.