A crochet scrunchie with long curls/spirals is a playful accessory that looks detailed but uses only basic stitches. The ruffled base covers a standard hair elastic, while six corkscrew strands add movement around a ponytail or bun. Varying the curl lengths creates a full look without making the scrunchie too heavy.
This project is ideal for leftover DK yarn. Choose one color for a simple finish or combine two or three coordinated scraps for a softer layered effect. Once you understand how the spiral forms, the pattern becomes quick and repetitive.
Crochet Scrunchie with Long Curls/Spirals Pattern
The scrunchie is worked directly around a strong hair elastic. A round of single crochet covers the elastic, and a second round of double crochet adds the ruffle. The long curls are attached directly to evenly spaced stitches, so there is very little sewing.
Skill level: Beginner
Finished base: Fits a standard 2-inch (5 cm) hair elastic
Curl length: Approximately 5–10 inches (13–25 cm)
Terminology: US crochet terms
Materials
- 30–40 g of DK or light worsted yarn
- 4 mm (G-6) crochet hook
- One strong, metal-free hair elastic
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Six removable stitch markers, optional
Soft acrylic or a cotton-acrylic blend creates comfortable curls with good bounce. Pure cotton gives excellent stitch definition but may feel heavier when the spirals are very long. Avoid fuzzy yarn until you are comfortable finding every chain.
Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- st(s) – stitch(es)
Pattern Notes
- The beginning chain does not count as a stitch.
- Do not stretch the elastic to its maximum while covering it.
- The stitch count for Round 1 can vary with the elastic and yarn thickness.
- Test the elastic after every round to make sure it still stretches comfortably.
- The spirals form naturally when several double crochet stitches are worked into each chain.
How to Crochet the Ruffled Scrunchie Base
Round 1: Cover the Elastic
Place the hook through the center of the hair elastic, pull up a loop, and secure the yarn with a sl st. Ch 1. Work sc stitches around the elastic until the band is fully covered. Slide the stitches together as you work, but do not pack them so tightly that the elastic cannot stretch.
Most standard elastics need approximately 36–44 sc. Join with a sl st to the first sc. Stretch the band gently. If the stitches separate too much, add a few more sc before continuing.
Round 2: Add the Ruffle
Ch 2. Work 2 dc in every stitch around. Join with a sl st to the first dc. The increases create a soft ring of crochet fabric around the elastic.
If you prefer a smaller ruffle, alternate 2 dc in the next stitch and 1 dc in the following stitch. The double crochet stitch adds fullness while keeping the base light enough for everyday wear.
Make the Long Crochet Spirals
Mark six points evenly around the scrunchie. The curls can all be one length, but alternating three sizes gives the accessory better movement:
- Short curl: Ch 28
- Medium curl: Ch 36
- Long curl: Ch 46
At the first marked point, join the curl color with a sl st and make the chosen foundation chain. Starting in the third chain from the hook, work 3 dc in every chain back toward the base. The strip will begin curling on its own. Sl st into the same base stitch and fasten off securely.
Repeat at the remaining markers in this order: short, medium, long, short, medium, long. Alternate colors if desired. After each spiral, run your fingers gently along the curl in the direction it naturally twists. Do not pull it straight.
For looser spirals, work 2 dc into each chain. For very tight corkscrews, work 4 hdc into each chain. Making a small test strand is one of the most useful mini crochet lessons because yarn weight and personal tension can change the result.
Finishing the Scrunchie
Weave every yarn end through the base rather than through the curls. Trim the ends only after testing each attachment with a gentle tug. Arrange the spirals around the elastic and check that no single side feels much heavier.
To refresh a curl, twist it gently in its natural direction and release it. If the yarn is washable, clean the scrunchie by hand in cool water, press it in a towel, and let it dry flat. Never wring or stretch the spirals while wet.
Color and Scrap Yarn Ideas
This is an excellent scrap yarn crochet project. Use remnants from a crochet hexagon, granny blanket, or crochet square patterns to make contrasting curls. Keep the base in one neutral shade, then add spirals in two or three colors from the same palette.
Blush and cream look soft and romantic. Lavender with pale blue feels playful, while sage and ivory create a calmer look. Bright rainbow scraps make a fun accessory for festivals or craft markets. Dark burgundy, charcoal, and cream produce a more grown-up version.
Simple Customization Options
For a fuller design, add two extra medium curls, but test the weight before adding more. For a lighter scrunchie, use four spirals instead of six. You can also alternate loose 2-dc curls with tighter 3-dc curls for extra texture.
Small crochet buttons can decorate the base of an adult accessory, but sew them very securely and keep them away from the elastic opening. Skip buttons, beads, and detachable decorations on accessories intended for babies or young children.
Tips for Clean, Even Spirals
- Count the foundation chain: Consistent lengths create a balanced design.
- Use smooth yarn: It is easier to place three stitches into every chain.
- Keep the chain relaxed: A tight foundation makes the first row difficult.
- Rotate instead of pulling: Encourage the natural curl with your fingers.
- Check the weight: Lightweight yarn protects the elastic from sagging.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this suitable for beginners?
Yes. It is one of the most satisfying beginner crochet projects for practicing chains, single crochet, slip stitches, and double crochet. The only challenge is keeping track of the chains while making each spiral.
Why is my spiral not curling?
Check that you worked multiple stitches into every chain rather than one stitch per chain. Three dc in each chain should create a clear corkscrew. A larger hook can help if the foundation chain is extremely tight.
Can I make the curls shorter?
Yes. Reduce the starting chain to 20–24 stitches for compact curls. The same technique works at any length, so this pattern is useful when exploring basic crochet stitches free from complicated shaping.
A Fun Accessory from Leftover Yarn
This crochet scrunchie with long curls/spirals combines a practical elastic base with colorful movement. The pattern is simple to customize, quick to repeat, and especially useful for turning small yarn leftovers into something wearable.
Start with six balanced curls, then adjust the lengths, colors, and fullness to suit your style. Once you make the first corkscrew, the construction becomes easy to remember—and every version can look completely different.
