This charming chicken potholder is perfect for adding a touch of rustic farmhouse charm to your kitchen while protecting your hands from hot dishes. This pattern is designed for intermediate crocheters comfortable with working in the round and understanding basic color changes. Let's get clucking!
Materials:
- Worsted weight cotton yarn in yellow (main color), red (comb), and black (eyes and beak)
- 4.0 mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle for weaving in ends
- Stitch markers (optional)
- Fiberfill stuffing (optional, for a plusher chicken)
Abbreviations:
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- inc: increase (2 sc in one stitch)
- dec: decrease (crochet 2 stitches together)
- rnd: round
- st: stitch
Pattern Notes:
This pattern uses magic ring for starting the body. If you are unfamiliar with this technique, there are many helpful tutorials available online. The pattern is written for a relatively flat potholder; you can adjust the number of rounds to create a thicker one if desired. Remember to always check your gauge before beginning.
Body:
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in magic ring (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (12)
- Rnd 3: sc, inc repeat around (18)
- Rnd 4: sc, sc, inc repeat around (24)
- Rnd 5-8: sc in each st around (24)
- Rnd 9: sc, sc, dec repeat around (18)
- Rnd 10: sc, dec repeat around (12)
- Rnd 11: dec in each st around (6)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
Comb:
- Row 1: Ch 5, sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across (4 sc)
- Row 2: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (4 sc)
- Row 3: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (4 sc)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Beak:
- Row 1: Ch 2, sc in 2nd ch from hook (1 sc)
- Row 2: Ch 1, turn, inc (2 sc)
Fasten off, leaving a long tail.
Eyes:
Make two small black circles by creating a magic ring and working 6 sc into it. Fasten off.
Assembly:
- Stuffing (Optional): If you’re making a plush chicken, lightly stuff the body before closing the hole.
- Sewing: Sew the opening closed. Sew the comb onto the top of the chicken's head. Sew the beak to the front of the face. Sew the eyes onto the face.
- Finishing: Weave in all loose ends.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)
Can I make this potholder bigger or smaller?
Yes! To make a larger potholder, simply add more rounds to the body section before beginning the decreases. To make a smaller potholder, decrease the number of rounds. Adjust the number of rounds in the comb and beak sections as needed to maintain proportion.
What type of yarn is best for this project?
Cotton yarn is recommended for its durability and heat resistance. However, other heat-resistant yarns may also be suitable.
Can I use different colors?
Absolutely! Feel free to experiment with different color combinations to create your unique chicken potholder.
Is it difficult to make?
This pattern is suitable for intermediate crocheters comfortable with working in the round. The techniques are relatively straightforward, but beginners might find it challenging.
How long does it take to make?
The time it takes to complete this project will depend on your crocheting speed. Allow 1-2 hours, depending on your experience.
This pattern provides a fun and functional way to add a cheerful touch to your kitchen. Happy crocheting! Remember to share your finished creations – we’d love to see them!
