Charming Fall Décor: The Lil Chunky Pumpkin Crochet Pattern

As the leaves begin to fall and the air turns crisp, there’s no better time to bring some cozy charm into your home. The Lil Chunky Pumpkin crochet pattern, designed by Rachel Goulding of Little Miss Drop Stitch, is a delightful way to celebrate the season. Whether you’re decorating your home or making heartfelt gifts, these pumpkins are the perfect project to embrace the autumn spirit.

This pattern is a fantastic option for crocheters of all skill levels, offering a quick, satisfying project with room for personalization. Use chunky yarn for a bold statement piece or opt for doubled DK weight yarn for a softer, smaller version. Either way, you’ll end up with an adorable pumpkin that’s sure to be the centerpiece of your seasonal décor.

What Makes the Lil Chunky Pumpkin Special?

The Lil Chunky Pumpkin combines simplicity with elegance. The ridged texture, created using half treble crochet stitches worked in the back loop, gives this pumpkin a realistic and tactile appearance. Its versatile design allows you to adapt the size, colors, and even the yarn type to suit your style.

With an easy-to-follow written pattern and a step-by-step video tutorial, this project is approachable for beginners while still engaging for experienced crocheters. The segmented design adds an extra layer of realism, making these pumpkins an essential addition to any autumn crafting repertoire.

Materials You’ll Need

Yarn Options

1. Chunky Yarn (Bulky Weight)
   • Example: Sirdar Hayfield Bonanza in shade 011 Tumbled Autumn.
   • Gauge: 15 sts x 8.5 rows = 10cm/4” in half treble (back loop).
   • Total Used: ~50g (~74m) for one pumpkin.
   • Finished Size: ~16.5cm/6.5” (height) x 14cm/5.5” (width).
2. DK or Sport Weight Yarn (Doubled)
   • Example: Rico Ricorumi Cotton.
   • Gauge: 17 sts x 8 rows = 10cm/4”.
   • Total Used: ~55g (~126.5m across two colors).
   • Finished Size: ~13cm/5” (height) x 11.5cm/4.5” (width).

Tools

• Crochet Hook: 5mm (US H).
• Stuffing: Fiberfill or alternative stuffing material.
• Wool Needle: For sewing.
• Sharp, Thick Needle: To segment the pumpkin.

Before You Begin: Tips for Success

1. Master the Techniques: Familiarize yourself with half treble crochet (htr) stitches and working through the back loop (tbl). Video tutorials are available to guide you through these techniques.
2. Customize Your Colors: Mix and match yarn shades for a personalized look. Autumnal hues like burnt orange, mustard, and olive green work beautifully.
3. Adjust Size and Tension: Use smaller hooks and lighter yarn for mini pumpkins or larger hooks and super chunky yarn for oversized décor.

Step-by-Step Instructions

Below is an overview of the steps needed to complete the Lil Chunky Pumpkin. For detailed visuals and tips, follow the linked video tutorial.

Full Pattern: Click Here

Creating the Pumpkin

Main Body

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 23, leaving a long tail for sewing.
2. Row 1: Miss the first two chains. Work 21 htr stitches across.
3. Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Htr tbl in each stitch (21 sts).
4. Repeat Row 2: Continue until the piece measures 33cm/13”. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for assembly.

Stalk

1. Foundation Chain: Ch 10.
2. Row 1: Miss the first two chains. Work 8 htr stitches across.
3. Row 2: Ch 2, turn. Htr tbl in each stitch (8 sts).
4. Repeat Row 2: Continue for 7 more rows (9 rows total).
5. Shaping the Stalk: Roll the completed piece vertically and secure with whip stitches to create the stalk shape.

Assembling the Pumpkin

1. Form the Body: Fold the main body so the short ends meet. Sew the seam using whip stitches, with the right sides facing together. Turn the piece right-side-out.
2. Bottom Closure: Use the long tail to make a running stitch around the bottom edge. Pull the thread to gather, close the bottom, and secure with stitches.
3. Stuffing: Fill the pumpkin with stuffing to the desired firmness.
4. Top Closure: Make a running stitch around the top edge, insert the stalk, and pull the thread to gather. Secure the stalk in place with additional stitches.

Adding the Segments

1. Prepare Segment Yarn: Cut three lengths of yarn, each long enough to wrap around the pumpkin with extra for securing (~10cm extra).
2. Create Segments: Attach one end of a yarn length near the stalk, wrap it tightly around the pumpkin, and secure it on the opposite side. Repeat to create six evenly spaced segments.
3. Secure Tension: Ensure each segment is evenly tensioned to form the pumpkin’s characteristic shape. Stitch ends securely near the stalk.

Bringing Your Pumpkin to Life

Once your pumpkin is assembled, step back and admire your work! The ridged texture, earthy tones, and realistic segmentation create a charming handmade decoration that celebrates the beauty of autumn.

For a festive touch, consider embellishing your pumpkin with ribbon, buttons, or even a light dusting of glitter for a magical effect.

Embrace the Season with Handmade Charm

The Lil Chunky Pumpkin pattern is more than just a project—it’s a celebration of the cozy, creative spirit of autumn. Whether you’re crafting for yourself, loved ones, or local markets, these pumpkins bring warmth and personality to any space.

So grab your hook, yarn, and a cup of your favorite seasonal beverage, and let’s make this fall extra special, one stitch at a time!