How to crochet a pullover hoodie for children

Absolutely! I can guide you through a detailed step-by-step process for crocheting a pullover hoodie for children. I’ll break it down into materials, techniques, and step-by-step instructions so it’s beginner-friendly but also thorough.

Materials Needed

1. Yarn: Medium-weight (worsted) yarn is best for children’s hoodies. Choose a soft, washable yarn like acrylic or cotton blends.

2. Crochet Hook: Usually recommended hook size is 5 mm (H/8) for worsted yarn. Adjust based on your gauge.

3. Scissors

4. Tapestry Needle for weaving ends

5. Measuring Tape

6. Stitch Markers (optional but helpful)

Basic Techniques Required

Before starting, ensure you know how to:

• Chain stitch (ch)

• Slip stitch (sl st)

• Single crochet (sc)

• Half double crochet (hdc)

• Double crochet (dc)

• Increase and decrease stitches

• Make a ribbed edge (optional)

Step 1: Take Measurements

For children, standard approximate measurements:

• Chest: Measure around the widest part

• Length: Shoulder to desired hem

• Sleeve: Shoulder seam to wrist

Step 2: Make the Body

You can choose top-down or bottom-up construction. Top-down is easier for sizing.

Top-Down Method:

1. Start with the neck:

   • Chain a length that fits around the neck comfortably (e.g., 28-32 ch for toddlers).

   • Join with a sl st to form a ring.

2. Yoke (shoulder shaping):

   • Work in rounds using double crochet (dc) or half-double crochet (hdc).

   • Increase evenly on four sides (front, back, two shoulders) every 2–3 rounds until chest measurement is reached.

3. Split for sleeves:

   • When yoke is wide enough, divide the work: place sleeve stitches on hold using stitch markers or scrap yarn.

   • Continue crocheting the body in the round to the desired length.

Bottom Edge (optional ribbing):

• Work 1–2 inches in front post and back post double crochet (FPDC/BPDC) for a stretchy ribbed hem.

Step 3: Make the Sleeves

1. Pick up the stitches left for the sleeves.

2. Work in rounds using hdc or dc, increasing evenly until the widest part of the upper arm.

3. Decrease gradually toward the wrist for a snug fit, or leave straight for a looser fit.

4. Add ribbing at the cuffs (1–2 inches) using FPDC/BPDC.

Step 4: Make the Hood

1. Pick up stitches around the neckline: Attach yarn at the center back neck.

2. Work in rows back and forth:

   • Use hdc or dc stitches for a cozy texture.

   • Increase 1 stitch at each end every few rows to give a rounded top.

3. Continue until the hood is long enough to cover the head.

4. Optionally, add a ribbed edge around the face opening.

Step 5: Assembly

1. Sew underarm seams if working in pieces.

2. Weave in all ends using a tapestry needle.

3. Block lightly if needed (wet or steam blocking) to shape the hoodie.

Step 6: Optional Embellishments

• Add a front pocket (kangaroo style): crochet a rectangle and sew it to the front.

• Add a drawstring using a chain stitch through eyelets in the hood.

• Embroider a small motif or applique for fun.

Tips

• Always check the gauge: 4×4 inches in pattern stitch should match your pattern’s suggested gauge.

• For toddlers, slightly looser fit is better for comfort.

• Soft yarn is essential—children have sensitive skin.

• Color-blocking sleeves or hood adds a playful design.

If you want, I can also draw a simple crochet diagram and pattern chart for a children’s hoodie so you can follow it visually—it makes the process much easier.

Do you want me to make that diagram?

Watch tutorial: