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If you love texture and anything bobbles, then you’re in the right place! I am truly amazed how a bobble stitch can be used in so many different ways to create pattern, warmth and texture. Therefore, I’d like to share with you my favourite free bobble stitch crochet patterns. There are so many good ones to choose from.
This roundup features all sorts of different crochet patterns, from Christmas stockings and hats, to cosy blankets, bags and garments. There’s even a bobble stitch sheep thrown in!
These patterns are at a variety of different levels, but most will be suitable for beginner to intermediate crocheters.
Some only use a couple of different stitches, whilst others have quite a few to create different effects. But, without doubt, all of them include the bobble stitch in some way!
If you find a pattern you’d like to have a go at, make sure that you pin this roundup to keep it safe!
What is a bobble stitch?
A bobble stitch is a group of stitches, usually US double crochet, which are worked into the same base stitch and are closed together at the top.
They are usually crocheted on the wrong side of the fabric and poke through to the front to make that bobbly texture. And they are usually surrounded by flatter, simple stitches, so that the bobble is more pronounced.
Obviously there are many variations and each design shared here will use bobbles in a slightly different way.
You will see in the patterns that the bobble stitch is usually included as a special stitch in the pattern instructions. This is because you can have bobbles with 3 stitches, or 4 or 5, and it is really up to the designer to specify how they would like their bobbles to be made. A few patterns use a modified bobble too!
In the majority of the patterns, the bobble stitch has been abbreviated to BO, but do check the pattern notes for clarification on this.
Let’s look at a 5-dc bobble!
If you’d like to have a little practice at bobble stitches before you choose which pattern to make, here is a little tutorial.
- Make a foundation chain of any odd number, plus a turning chain.
- Single crochet into the second chain from hook.
- Yarn over and insert your hook into the stitch after the single crochet.
- Yarn over and pull up a loop (3 loops on your hook).
- Yarn over and pull through the first 2 loops (2 loops on your hook).
- Repeat steps 3 – 5 four more times, always going into the same base stitch (6 loops on your hook).
- Yarn over and pull through all loops.
- Continue repeating steps 2 – 7 to complete a row of bobbles, ending on a final single crochet.
The next row that you do will need to be a single crochet (or similar) row, since the bobbles all need to be on Wrong Side rows, to ensure they pop out the same side. You can carry on like this to create a little swatch.
What’s the difference between bobble, puff and popcorn stitches?
The bobble stitch, the puff stitch and the popcorn stitch all look very similar and can easily be confused. They are all constructed by making groups of stitches into the same base stitch and are all closed together at the top.
A puff stitch is made by making a group of incomplete half double crochet stitches into the same stitch. You then complete them by drawing through all of the loops on your hook.
A popcorn stitch is made by making 5 double crochet stitches into the same stitch. Then drop the loop on the hook and insert it into the first double crochet stitch you made, from back to front. Insert your hook back into the dropped loop, yarn over and pull through both loops.
As you can see, these 3 stitches are similar but not exactly the same. There are some patterns included in the round up, which feature a couple of these stitches together, so make sure you don’t muddle them up.
Other techniques I might need
Many of the free bobble stitch crochet patterns I have chosen will need some sort of seaming, such as joining together bag panels and adding straps.
Often instructions are provided but if you prefer to try a different seaming method, check out my post on joining crochet squares together for more information on three different crocheted methods. If you prefer a sewn seam, you could use a whip stitch.
Each of the patterns that I’ve included use mostly single crochet, half double crochet and double crochet stitches, as well as the bobble stitch.
There is also plenty of opportunity to practice different stitches, such as the puff stitch, thermal stitch, waistcoat stitch and working in the front and back loops.
How do I choose the right free bobble stitch crochet patterns for me?
Choosing the right pattern completely depends on a number of things: what would you like to make; who are you making it for; what experience do you have with crochet; and what will you be using the item for?
You need to make something that you like the look of and that you will enjoy making. There is no point in crocheting something that you don’t love. If you can imagine how and where you’ll use the finished piece, you are much more likely to complete it.
You also need to choose a pattern that is right for your skill level and experience. I’ve added the skill level and main stitches used to all the patterns to save you having to open each pattern to find out if they are right for you.
It is good to try new stitches, but be careful not to put yourself too far outside your comfort zone, otherwise you will risk not finishing it!
Supplies for bobble stitch crochet
Pattern
As I’ve said, choosing the right pattern for you is essential and I have 30 for you to choose from! Take your time choosing and make sure it’s right for you.
All of the patterns are free to view on the designer’s blog which is a great way to read through and try out a pattern without committing any money.
Once you have chosen one (or more), you will be able to buy the premium pdf download, which you can then save and print off.
This is great for writing notes on and keeping track of where you are. It also means you’ll have the pattern for the future, if you want to make it again!
Yarn
The pattern will include the recommended yarn that the designer used in most cases. They will always supply the weight (referred to as category) and the amount of yarn you’ll need for each size.
You are of course welcome to use a different yarn of the same weight, or some from your stash.
One of the most important things when choosing yarn is to make sure that you work a gauge swatch. This is particularly important for wearables, to ensure the garment fits correctly. It is less important for the blanket patterns, where the size isn’t essential, but it still gives you a good idea of how big your finished piece is going to be.
Working a gauge swatch is going to be very important if you are using a different yarn. You may need to adjust by changing hook size to get to the correct gauge.
I’ve added the information about the yarns with each pattern for you to look at quickly whilst selecting your pattern.
Hook
Your pattern will let you know the crochet hook size that the designer used but you can always adjust according to the yarn you’re using or if your stitches are tighter or looser than most people’s. The best thing to do is to work a gauge swatch first and then adjust accordingly.
Notions and Other Materials
The other essentials you might need while making some of these patterns are:
- Scissors to break your yarn.
- A tapestry needle to weave in your ends.
- Stitch markers are often helpful for keeping count of stitches, especially when you’re shaping different pieces
Ready to get started with your bobble project?
So I think it’s time we got to the patterns. Below you will find 30 amazing free bobble stitch crochet patterns! I’ve organised them by project type to make it easier, so you’ll find Christmas patterns first, followed by blankets, home décor, garments, and finally bags at the end!
Let's dive in and find something amazing to crochet next!
Christmas Bobble Stitch Patterns
Crochet Christmas Tree Hat – Free Pattern
This Christmas tree hat is such fun, and you can make one for the whole family, with 3 different sizes included in the pattern! With easy to follow instructions, pictures and a video tutorial for the pom pom on the top, this is a great pattern for advanced beginners.
Crochet Bobbles and Stripes Santa Hat
Here we have another fun Christmas hat - how are you going to choose? Made in traditional red and white, the bobbles on this hat add such a wonderful texture. It comes in multiple sizes, so you can make one for everyone. There is no particular yarn specified for this project, so it could be a great stashbuster.
Crochet Christmas Tree Pillow – Free Pattern
How beautiful is this Christmas tree pillow? It's made as a removable case, so you can switch up your sofa pillows in time for the holiday season. The bobble stitches in this pattern look wonderful as fairy lights and the tree itself has been designed to look very realistic.
Crochet Bobble Stocking Free Crochet Pattern
No Christmas is complete without a stocking to hang on the fireplace! This Christmas stocking pattern is truly stunning. The neutral colour of the stocking paired with the pink fur trim makes this a super trendy project. Made in super bulky yarn, it is quick to work up, has amazing texture and has a really cosy winter vibe.
Bobbles and Stripes Christmas Stocking
Another stocking for you now! If you loved the bobbles and stripes Santa hat, then you'll love this stocking too. I couldn't not include it, as it's beautiful. That red and white together just screams Christmas, and the addition of pom poms is fabulous. The bobbles here are made in a white which contrasts with the red to really make those textured bobbles really stand out.
Cinnamon Bobble Tree Ornament free crochet pattern and video
Need a quick, last minute gift, or fancy whipping something up last minute for the Christmas tree? These cinnamon bobble tree ornaments are just the thing! They can be made in any colour you like to match your Christmas décor. I love the natural colours used here, which go so well with the wooden bead and cinnamon stick trunk.
Bobble Stitch Blankets
Bobble Crochet Baby Blanket (+7 Bonus Sizes)
This cosy bobble blanket would make a great gift for a new baby, whether it's a boy of girl. The bobbles add a wonderful texture and makes the blanket look super cosy. It can be made in a variety of different sizes, so why not make one for yourself too? The blanket is made holding 2 strands of yarn together at the same time, so it works up pretty quickly.
How to Crochet the Loops and Bobbles Blanket
This blanket is full of so much texture, combining loops and bobbles together. It has a modern boho vibe, made in just one colour, which I think really highlights the texture. However, you could make it in any colour(s) you like to totally radicalise and personalise it for yourself.
Bridget Bobble Blanket free crochet pattern by DivineDebris.com
This blanket pattern looks just so snuggly! Another modern design, the bobble stitches here have been created in diamond and triangle shapes to give a geometric, yet cosy and textured feel. The Bridget blanket is made in rows using only 3 stitches, so is a nice easy project that could be done in front of the TV.
Bobble Stitch Crochet Blanket
I love the colours and textures in this modern baby blanket. Made with beginners in mind, this is a great pattern to practice the bobble stitch and front and back loop work. It is crocheted in a repeating pattern, which makes it quick to work up and relaxing to make. Despite a relatively simple repeat, this blanket is really eye-catching and stunning.
Bobble Stitch Home Décor
How to Crochet the Burst of Sunshine Pillow
Even in the depths of winter, this pillow is sure to give you joy, both whilst making it and using it! It's beautiful to look at, soft and cosy, and the cover is removable. This pillow pattern is made of a front panel and a back panel, with a zip opening, using simple stitches, which makes it a great project for a beginner to learn the bobble stitch.
Modern Diamond Bobble Stitch Crochet Cushion
This crochet cushion is super classy and would love fabulous in a modern lounge. The diamond pattern created by bobbles (or the absence thereof) is really eye-catching. The geometry and texture is stunning, without being too fussy. This pattern is perfect to stretch your crochet knowledge, whilst not being too complicated. There are two options to create, a positive and a negative as it were. You can create one for the back and one for the front of the cushion or just choose your favourite.
How to Crochet a Chunky Bobble Draft Blocker – Free Pattern
This is such a clever idea for a crochet project. In these times of high energy prices, anything we can do to keep warm is fantastic. I love the pattern created by the bobbles on this design, it makes it look more like a decorative cushion than a draft excluder. It is made in a chunky, bulky weight yarn, so it's quick to work up too.
Bobblidy Boo Crochet Basket
I love this basket pattern. The colours and low, wide shape ,adorned with bobbles, just screams fall at me! It is made in super bulky yarn, which gives it great stability and means that it works up super fast too. A set of three together would look great.
Crochet Bobble Basket Pattern
This crochet basket pattern is super versatile. It can be used as a regular basket, or as a plant pot cover. This is such a wonderful idea, as you can make a load to match your home decor and cover up those ugly flower pots. Fabulous for a mini Christmas tree or poinsettia too!
Crochet Bobble Heart Potholder
A quick make now with this cute bobble heart potholder. It is made with two layers of cotton to make it nice and thick. The bobble stitches here are used to create the heart shape, which is made even more pronounced by using a different colour. This is a good beginner project for learning bobbles and colour changes.
Free Cactus Crochet Pattern – Cactus Wall Hanging
How about creating your very own piece of art to hang on the wall? That is what this cactus wall hanging pattern is all about. The cactus shape is created using the bobbles to make it really pop. And the striped background is really cleverly designed to represent the land and sky. There is also a solid background version if you prefer.
Georgia Tapestry Wall Hanging FREE Crochet Pattern — Juniper & Oakes
Another wall hanging here, this one is a more modern, simple design. However there is a lot to it to create this elegant pattern. The bobble stitches here are used in the centre to create texture and interest. They are bordered on each side by an intricate looking cable design. Tassels are added underneath to finish the piece. Made in worsted weight yarn, you can use any colour you like to match the room it's going to be hung in. You could even make it in more than one colour if you preferred.
Crochet Napkin Ring
This napkin ring is a must have for every dinner party. It's certainly on my to-make list! It's such an elegant and classy design with three rows of bobbles encased in a beautiful border. It can be made out of scrap yarn in any colours you like to create a table setting for the season. They would also make amazing wedding favours. There is a second version too, with the bobbles in diagonal lines.
Flower Power Crochet Steering Wheel Cover Pattern
I couldn't not include this pattern when I saw it. Steering wheel covers seem to have gone out of fashion, but I think this might bring it back on trend! Such a great idea for keeping your hands warm on those early morning drives. Based on the traditional granny square, this steering wheel cover pattern is made of 7 sunburst granny squares, which are then joined together and folded over the steering wheel.
Crochet Bobble Sheep
This sheep pattern is just the epitomy of cuteness, don't you think? It would make a great spring display with some fresh flowers and foliage. But really it is so cute that you're going to want to keep it on display all year round. I love how the sheep's fleece has been created with the bobbles, and those ears are so adorable.
Bobble Stitch Garments
Triangular crochet shawl pattern
On to garments now! This shawl has such a beautiful texture. The bobbles are crocheted in a different colour, which makes them stand out. The gaps in the stitch pattern make this shawl feel light enough for spring and fall, but the bobbles and texture make it feel cosy enough for winter. Made as a repeating pattern, this is a good pattern for whipping up in front of the TV.
Rustic Candy Corn Cowl - Crochet Pattern by Remington Lane Crochet
I love this rustic cowl. It's got all of the autumn vibes and that texture looks super snuggly and warm for those chilly days. I also think it is a great height, not to high to get in the way, but high enough to keep out the wind. The bobbles on this pattern are arranged in an arrow shape across the front, and the top and bottom have a beautiful edging.
Free Crochet Bobble Ear Warmer Pattern
Ear warmers are an essential for winter and those in between days. I also find they are great if you have your hair tied up and a hat won't fit. This design has a pretty bow on the front, with lots of texture added through the use of the bobbles and the herringbone double and half double crochet stitches. The pattern can be made in any yarn, making adjustments for size as you go, although a couple of worsted weight yarns have been recommended.
The Snowbound Bobble Beanie – Free Crochet Pattern
The texture warmth and comfort of this beanie really jumped out at me. It looks like just the thing you need for snowy days, as the name Snowbound Bobble Beanie suggests. It is made out of super bulky yarn, which means it will work up quickly, as well as being nice and warm. Made using only a few stitches, this is a great project for adventurous beginners to try their hand at.
Beads and Bobbles Sweater Crochet Pattern
This Beads and Bobbles Sweater has such a pretty pattern. The different patterns and textures are created using a combination of bobbles, puffs and beads, so a great one to practice all of these similar but slightly different stitches. The pattern is available in sizes XS to 5XL and the colour choice is all yours. Bright and bold, or neutrals, it's your decision. Another great thing about this pattern is that it's seamless, so no sewing the pieces together at the end.
Bags with Bobbles
Bobble Basketweave Bag - Free Pattern as Crochet Along
The bobble basketweave bag is a definite must-have! It is a great size and is a beautiful design, using the basketweave stitch and bobble stitch to create interest and texture. The thermal stitch and waistcoat stitch also feature, so lots of techniques to try your hand at. The bag is lined with felt and a zipper is added, along with eyelets for a cord handle.
Chevron Bobble Tote Bag - Free Crochet Pattern
This modern bag design is elegant and classy and could be used as tote bag or handbag. It doesn't even really look like it's crocheted. The chevron design gives focus to the piece and adds just the right amount of texture. I love the effect of the light grey highlights on a dark grey base. The strap on this bag is attached using metal slides.
Free Crochet Purse Pattern – The Bobblelicious Bag
Another modern and classy bag pattern! It is a really fun shape, with the bobbles worked in circles. The addition of the chain handle really makes this bag look shop bought, so you can be proud to say you made it! It is lined with a zipper too! This one is made in chunky yarn holding two strands together, which means it is going to work up pretty quickly.
Crochet Bobble Bag Pattern: Caribbean Sunset Bag
A lot of these patterns have been more wintry, but this bag is definitely a summer make! Made in beautiful oranges and blues, the design is reminiscent of a sunset at the beach (in the Caribbean or elsewhere). A great size for a project bag, or for your book and water as you head off for a day at the beach or pool. The bobbles add interest and texture against the striped coloured background.
Conclusion
Wow, what am amazing selection of free bobble stitch crochet patterns! Which one did you choose? It’s a really hard decision! I really hope you found the perfect thing to make, whether it’s a Christmas decoration, a blanket or a draft excluder. I would love to know if you make one (or some!). Please share them with me in the HanJan Crochet Facebook group or on Instagram – don’t forget to tag #hanjancrochet.
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