DIY Crochet Balaclava: Our Inspirations to Get Started
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When December rolls around, it means: #1 – the cold that sets in, #2 – the urge to crochet that makes a comeback. Thus, my new challenge for the upcoming month is to make myself a crochet balaclava! More specifically, I have only a few days ahead of me to get it ready in time for my trip to England. So today, I propose to uncover inspirations for creating this accessory, which has surprisingly returned to the heart of trends. And who knows, maybe it will inspire you to crochet your own piece, which is much simpler to make than one might think!
The Balaclava: From Dislike to Trend
Making a comeback on the runways three years ago, the return of the balaclava brought back some bad memories… It must be said that as kids, this accessory was more synonymous with nightmares than style. Putting it on made us feel like a sausage in its casing, complete with the options “itchiness – claustrophobia – marks on the forehead and static hair.” Forgetting it at the bottom of the schoolyard was no simple accident…
Fast forward to 2025, now more at peace with the vision of a crochet balaclava – much trendier than the classic fleece version, or worse, the rainproof one with condensation – we are then seduced by the idea of giving it a second chance…
Indeed, changing from the traditional beanie and also providing neck protection, its advantages make it a piece to consider for the cooler days ahead. And on the style side, we have already explored the different ways to wear and match it in a previous article.
Thus, the time has come to create our first crochet balaclava!
Which Crochet Balaclava Model to Start With?
My crochet journey is quite recent. It began with a bucket hat last year, which I shared the DIY here. Then, a jacket, started this 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. And it must be said that once we know the basic stitches and can read a pattern, it is quite simple to manage.
The hardest part is, in reality, deciding which model to create, as the possibilities are endless…
1 – Between Closed, Open, Tied Balaclavas…
The first choice to make: the shape and attachment system of our crochet balaclava. For this, both practical and aesthetic sides should be considered.
Among the main categories, we have:
- the closed version, made from one piece with an opening for the face and one for the neck.
- open versions that can either button up or tie with thicker and longer ties.
- a “two-in-one” version, meaning an open piece that closes with two long ends wrapping around the neck like a scarf.
Furthermore, those who are not fully convinced by the balaclava may prefer a model resembling a scarf that ties around the head (“hide hood”).
2 – Wide or Fitted Model?
It is possible to make a crochet balaclava that is more or less fitted. It’s up to you to define the style you want and which model you feel most comfortable in. Additionally, it is possible to integrate ties at the openings to adjust the piece and prevent air from coming through.
3 – What Patterns to Create?
The great thing about crochet is that we can integrate patterns even into a solid color model! So, if you are not too adventurous with colors, you can still add a graphic detail with the stitches you use and combine.
Granny squares are particularly appreciated for this, as well as for easily combining multiple colors. This is ideal for beginners.
Another tip for a splash of colors without tangling the threads: multi-color yarns! This way, you will have a nice gradient even crocheting with just one stitch.
Wool or Cotton for a Crochet Balaclava?
Wool is warmer than cotton, making it preferable for a crochet balaclava worn in winter. However, a superwash yarn is recommended to avoid irritations. Additionally, possible allergies should be taken into account when choosing the model (merino, alpaca, cashmere…).
Tip: visit a haberdashery to choose the texture that suits you.
Here are some links to patterns and tutorials:
- Closed model with ties, color blend
- Closed balaclava, baggy with ties, solid color
- Balaclava-scarf tutorial
- Balaclava – scarf video
- Granny square model + video tutorial
- Granny square balaclava
- Loose balaclava
If you want to engage in other DIY activities this December, check out our ideas for DIY Christmas decorations!
Cover photo: Pexels, Article: Pinterest
