Soft yarn wraps tightly around your neck and ears to keep the biting winter wind away, creating a cozy cocoon that feels like a constant hug. This project combines a simple scarf with a deep, structured hood, topped off with two rounded bear ears that add a playful touch to your outdoor wardrobe. Even if you only know how to chain and double crochet, you will find this assembly straightforward and quick to finish. We focus on basic stitch increases to shape the hood, ensuring you build confidence as you work through each section of this charming, functional accessory.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

The Classic Crochet Granny Square is the fundamental building block for countless textile projects, from cozy patchwork blankets to sophisticated tote bags. You will appreciate how quickly this pattern works up once you grasp the rhythm of the clusters and chain spaces. It is an excellent way to utilize leftover yarn scraps, as you can change colors every round to create a unique, scrappy aesthetic or keep it monochrome for a clean, modern look. Because the construction is repetitive, it serves as a meditative project that is easy to pick up and set down without losing your place.

I have made dozens of these squares for a scrap-yarn blanket and they are so consistent and fast to produce. The instructions are very clear for maintaining the corner shape throughout the rounds.

— Sarah, long-time maker

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 30 to 45 minutes per square
Construction: Working in joined rounds from the center outward
Finished Dimensions & Sizing: Approximately 6 inches by 6 inches when using worsted weight yarn

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) acrylic or cotton blend, approximately 20 yards per square.
Hook Size: 5.0 mm (US H-8).
Notions: Tapestry needle for weaving in ends, sharp scissors.
Yarn Substitutions: You can use DK weight yarn for a smaller square or bulky yarn for a larger square. Note that changing yarn weight will significantly alter the final dimensions and will require a hook size adjustment to maintain proper tension.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch = chain
st/sts = stitch/stitches
sl st = slip stitch
dc = double crochet
dc cluster = a group of 3 dc stitches worked into the same space
sp = space (the hole created by the chains in the previous round)

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

This square is worked in the round, joining at the end of each round and chaining up to begin the next. Each corner consists of 3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc in the same chain space.

Rnd 1: Start with a magic ring or ch 4 and sl st to the first ch to form a loop. Ch 3 (counts as first dc), work 2 dc into the ring, ch 2. *Work 3 dc into the ring, ch 2; repeat from * two more times. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (12 dc total, 4 ch-2 corners).
Rnd 2: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the first ch-2 corner space. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same corner space. *Ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner space; repeat from * around. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (24 dc, 4 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 corners).
Rnd 3: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the first ch-2 corner space. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same corner space. *Ch 1, 3 dc in the next ch-1 space, ch 1, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the next corner space; repeat from * around. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (36 dc, 8 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 corners).
Rnd 4: Sl st into the next 2 sts and into the first ch-2 corner space. Ch 3, (2 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in the same corner space. *Ch 1, (3 dc in the next ch-1 space, ch 1) across to corner, (3 dc, ch 2, 3 dc) in corner space; repeat from * around. Join with a sl st to the top of the beginning ch 3. (48 dc, 12 ch-1 spaces, 4 ch-2 corners).

Finishing

Fasten off your yarn, leaving a 6-inch tail. Use a tapestry needle to weave the end securely into the back of the clusters. If you are making multiple squares, block them by pinning them flat to a foam mat and lightly steaming them to ensure consistent size before seaming.

Care & Washing Instructions

Machine wash in cold water on a gentle cycle using a mild detergent.
Lay the square flat on a clean towel to air dry, reshaping it with your hands while damp.
Avoid using a tumble dryer, as high heat can shrink acrylic or cotton fibers and ruin the stitch definition.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Maintain consistent tension throughout the dc clusters to ensure the square lies flat without ruffling or cupping.
Place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round to easily identify where to join with your slip stitch.
Weave your yarn tails in different directions through the dc stitches rather than just looping them around, as this prevents them from pulling out over time.
If you want a larger square, simply continue adding rounds by working 3 dc in each side space and the corner sequence in each corner space. Keep in mind this will require significantly more yarn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a different hook size than recommended?

Yes, you can use a smaller hook to create a tighter, stiffer fabric or a larger hook for a drapier, more open result. Just be aware that changing the hook size will alter the finished dimensions of your square.

How do I join these squares together?

You can join squares using a flat slip stitch seam, a whip stitch through the back loops, or by crocheting them together with a round of single crochet. Choose the method that matches the desired finish of your final project.

Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?

This pattern is highly recommended for beginners because it only requires three basic stitches: chain, slip stitch, and double crochet. It helps you practice counting stitches and identifying spaces within a manageable frame.

Can I sell items made from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell finished products made from this pattern as long as you credit the design. Please check the specific terms of use provided by the pattern source if you are selling items on a commercial scale.

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Seeing your soft bear hood take shape is a rewarding experience that keeps you warm all season long. You can personalize this further by switching to a chunky wool blend for extra thickness or using contrasting colors on the ear patches to give your bear a unique character. Sharing a photo of your finished work helps others get started on their own creative path. Explore the rest of our pattern library for more winter accessories that you can hook up during your quiet weekends at home.