Granny squares aren’t just for blankets anymore. In this project, they come together to create a cozy crochet granny square balaclava that’s practical, playful, and endlessly customizable. Whether you love using up scraps or planning a perfect color palette, this is a satisfying way to turn simple squares into a warm, wearable accessory.

If you are looking for a granny square crochet project, this one is fast and fun! And, makes a perfect crochet winter accessory!

This is a perfect project for beginner crocheters. All you need are eight (8) granny squares.

Bry with a partial front view of granny square balaclava on the mountain

What is a balaclava?

A balaclava is a head covering that keeps your head, neck, and mouth area covered in cold weather and wind. The eye area (and sometimes the nose area) is left open. It’s like a hoodie with a cowl neck! It’s always made with breathable fabrics or fibers, like this one, crocheted with yarn.

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Why is it called a balaclava?

This head covering was named after the Battle of Balaclava in the Crimean War in 1854. The British wore knitted head coverings to stay warm, which later became known as a Balaclava after the location where they fought in the cold.

What type of yarn should I use to crochet a balaclava?

It’s best to use a medium-weight / worsted-weight, like you would use for crocheting hats or sweaters.

Any type of fiber will work; it depends on the sensitivities of the wearer and your budget.

Wool yarns are warm and wonderful. They come in a wide variety of colors and blends. Keep in mind that many people have sensitivity to wool next to their skin. Check with the wearer, if you are making this for someone else.

Synthetic fibers, like acrylic, are more affordable. Select a soft synthetic yarn, as some acrylic yarns, when they are crocheted, are a little stiff and not very soft.

This is a perfect scrap yarn project for a fun and colorful bacaclava!

One Balaclava

How to Crochet a Granny Square Balaclava

Active Time: 10 hours

Total Time: 10 hours

Difficulty: Beginner

Learn how to make a balaclava with granny squares and keep warm this winter with our crochet balaclava tutorial.

Beginner-friendly instructions, perfect weekend project!

Keep warm in a fashionable granny square balaclava!

Make it scrappy, or use coordinated color yarns. Most of all, have fun!

Materials

Worsted / medium weight yarn - can use scraps or skeins of yarn. If making solid color, 2 skeins of yarn is enough.

Tools

Crochet hook appropriate for the yarn you select
Jumbo darning needle with curved ends, I like the Clover brand
Scissors

Instructions

Start by crocheting eight (8) granny squares. Finished size of the granny square should be approximately 5-inches. I used five (5) rounds per square. TIP: Make one granny square first and measure it to see how many rounds to crochet on your granny square for the right size finish.
Layout your granny squares as shown below. Download Granny Square Balaclava Layout.
Begin joining the granny squares in the order on the diagram. I joined the granny squares with a whip stitch. Place the right sides of two granny squares together.
From the wrong side, using a jumbo darning needle threaded with a yarn that will blend in the seam, take two stitches in the first hole, securing the yarn end.
Next, take your needle and place it into the inside loops of the next crochet stitches, joining the squares.
Continue stitching, picking up the inside loops of each of the crochet stitches, from back to front, forming a whip stitch.
Here are two granny squares joined.
VIDEO: How to Join Granny Squares with a Whip Stitch.
Pick your next granny square and add according to the diagram above.
Once your bacaclava is joined together, I like to finish the edge with a scallop edge crochet finish.
VIDEO:How to Add a Scallop Edge to a Crochet Project
And, here is a finished granny square balaclava, ready for a cold winter day!

Notes

NOTE: Make one granny square and measure carefully using the yarn you plan on using for your balaclava. If your granny squares are too big, or too small, your balaclava won't fit.

Tips & Ideas for Making Your Granny Square Balaclava

If your balaclava is too loose for you, weave a drawstring around the face opening. A half-inch silk or grosgrain ribbon works great.

For a modern look, limit the colors you use to one or two colors.

For a retro look, use yarn scraps. Don’t have yarn scraps? Buy 6-8 skeins of yarn that work well together and create your own scrappy look. That’s what I did for the tutorial above.

For a fun look, add a pom-pom or tassel to the top of the hat of the bacaclava.

Related: How to make pom poms with yarn – 7 ways
Related: How to make tassels

Bry with a back view of granny square balaclava on the mountain

Fixing common mistakes

It’s important that all of your granny squares are the same size. Check your tension as you crochet. Too loose and your bacaclava will be too big. Too tight and your bacaclava might be too tight.

Remember that most yarns have some stretch. Take that into consideration when choosing our yarn. If you choose a yarn with too much stretch, your bacaclava may feel too big.

Want a nice soft crochet hood? Start with a nice soft yarn. My first crochet balaclava, I used an inexpensive acrylic yarn from a big box store. I didn’t want a large investment as I tried to design the bacaclava. The result? A stiffer hat/cowl that isn’t soft next to your face and neck. It’s cute, but won’t be worn. Here it is in bright colors: