Waffle Stitch Crochet: Step-by-Step Tutorial, Diagram and Ear Warmer in 3 Sizes

Waffle stitch crochet combines double crochet (dc) and front post double crochet (FPdc) in a raised grid. Those post stitches give the fabric its thick, squishy feel and little recessed squares. This page shows how to crochet waffle stitch, includes a crochet waffle stitch diagram, and brings together free projects chosen for warmth, absorbency, structure, or softness. The free ear warmer pattern in 3 sizes is also on this page, ready for a smaller project before a blanket.

How Waffle Stitch Works

A front post double crochet wraps around the upright stem of a stitch in the previous row. The hook travels behind that stem, entering from the front and returning to the front, instead of going through the stitch's top loops. Finish it like an ordinary dc. Alternating these raised stitches with regular dc builds the waffle texture described in Sarah E. White's explanation.

The post stitches use extra yarn to build that depth. Robin describes the result as squishy and warm. The two faces look different: in Dora's version, Row 2 faces the right side, where the waffle grid develops, and Row 3 faces the back. The diagram below shows 8 rows of the swatch used on this page and in our ear warmer, with the turning ch 3 counting as a dc.

Waffle Stitch Step by Step

Use this small swatch to learn the repeat before choosing a waffle stitch crochet pattern. It uses the same rows as our ear warmer below: the turning ch 3 counts as a dc, and the last stitch of each row goes into the top of the turning chain. Abbreviations are ch for chain, dc for double crochet, and FPdc for front post double crochet.

1. Choose a smooth combed #4 worsted yarn and an H/8 (5 mm) hook for practice; Mary Maxim suggests a 5 to 5.5 mm hook for worsted. Chain a multiple of 3 + 2; ch 17 gives the 15 stitches shown in the diagram.
2. For Row 1, dc in the 4th chain from the hook and in each chain across; the 3 skipped chains count as the first dc. Count 15 stitches, then turn.

3. Begin Row 2 with ch 3, which counts as a dc. Work an FPdc around the next stitch: yarn over, insert the hook from front to back to front around its stem, and complete it like a dc.
4. Continue Row 2 with *dc in the next 2 stitches, FPdc around the next stitch*, repeating to the last stitch; dc in the top of the turning chain. You have 15 stitches. The photo shows this row partway through.

5. For Row 3, ch 3 and turn; dc in the next stitch, then *FPdc around the next 2 stitches, dc in the next stitch*, repeating across and ending with dc in the top of the turning chain. Each dc sits on a raised FPdc, and each pair of FPdc wraps the 2 dc below.
6. Alternate Rows 2 and 3 through Row 8. The raised lines now frame recognizable waffle squares.

7. Count 15 stitches across the final row. Fasten off and weave in the ends. Compare the grid side with the flatter back.

Common Problems

For curling, Mary Maxim suggests a simple sc border and blocking to even out the fabric. If the sides lean inward, Last Minute Laura points to tight edge stitches. Keep the edge tension relaxed and the stitch count consistent. A short swatch makes these changes easier to see than a full blanket does.

For tight posts, Mary Maxim recommends relaxing your grip when the fabric starts drawing inward. Turning chains vary between tutorials: Robin counts ch 3 as a dc, as this swatch does, while Dora works a ch 2 that does not count. Keep the chosen rule through every row. Amanda also recommends finishing after Row 2 for a neat edge.

Robin's video, How to Crochet the Waffle Stitch, shows the hook moving around the posts and the texture developing across successive rows. Watch the placement closely, then return to the written swatch above. Her turning chain counts as a stitch, as in the swatch above.

Our Free Pattern: Waffle Stitch Ear Warmer in 3 Sizes

Materials

• #4 worsted acrylic or wool blend yarn
• H/8 (5 mm) hook
• Yarn needle and scissors
• Estimate 1.5 yd per square inch of band at design gauge, rounded up; allow extra yarn for optional edging and cinch.

Gauge

Design gauge: 16 sts and about 8.4 rows = 4 in (10 cm) in waffle stitch. FPdc rows lean the fabric a little shorter; measure your swatch.

Sizes

• Child: head 18–19 in; finished 17.10 in (43.4 cm) around, 3.75 in (9.5 cm) wide; 36 rows; about 97 yd.
• Adult S/M: head 21 in; finished 19.95 in (50.7 cm) around, 3.75 in (9.5 cm) wide; 42 rows; about 113 yd.
• Adult L: head 22–23 in; finished 21.85 in (55.5 cm) around, 3.75 in (9.5 cm) wide; 46 rows; about 123 yd.

Abbreviations

US terms: ch = chain; dc = double crochet; FPdc = front-post double crochet: yarn over, insert hook from front to back to front around the post of the next stitch, yarn over and pull up a loop, then yarn over and pull through two loops twice; sc = single crochet; sl st = slip stitch; st = stitch; sts = stitches.

How to work FPdc

1. Yarn over; insert hook from front to back to front around the post of the next stitch.
2. Yarn over and pull up a loop; yarn over and pull through two loops twice.

Pattern

Work flat lengthwise: the foundation makes the width and rows build the length. Turning ch 3 counts as a dc. Work the final stitch into the top of the turning chain.

1. Row 1: Ch 17. Dc in 4th ch from hook and in each remaining ch across; skipped 3 ch count as a dc. [15 sts]
2. Row 2: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn. FPdc around next st, *dc in next 2 sts, FPdc around next st; repeat from * to last st, dc in top of turning ch. [15 sts]
3. Row 3: Ch 3 (counts as dc), turn. Dc in next st, *FPdc around next 2 sts, dc in next st; repeat from * to last st, dc in top of turning ch. [15 sts]
4. Repeat Rows 2–3 until you have 36 (42, 46) rows total for Child (Adult S/M, Adult L), ending with Row 2. [15 sts each row]

Finishing

1. Fasten off, leaving a tail. Bring the two short ends together without twisting and align the 15 stitches.
2. Whip stitch through both layers across all 15 pairs of stitches, or join with 15 sl sts; fasten off and weave in ends.
3. Optional edging: join yarn at the seam and work 2 sc in each row-end around each long edge; join with a sl st. Work 72, 84 or 92 sc per edge for Child, Adult S/M or Adult L, respectively.

Cinch

Optional cinch: ch 5; sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch (4 sc). Ch 1, turn; sc in each st for 11 more rows (12 rows total). At 4 sc rows per inch this makes a 3 in (7.6 cm) strip; adjust rows to wrap snugly. Wrap around the seam, sew the short ends together and weave in ends.

Checked row by row by our pattern checker; not yet tested in yarn — tell us if you spot a problem.

Warm: Hats, Ear Warmers and Cowls

For accessories, waffle texture puts the soft, raised fabric where warmth matters. These free patterns show two approaches: a textured section beneath a smoother crown, or waffle fabric across the whole piece. Use each designer's gauge and sizing rather than transferring the practice swatch counts to a wearable.

Waffle Brim Beanie

Breann Mauldin's beanie pairs a plain double crochet crown with a plush waffle brim. The contrast puts the texture around the ears and keeps the top visually simple. The free instructions include two adult sizes, approximately 20 in (51 cm) and 22 in (56 cm) around, with lengths of 8 in (20 cm) and 8.5 in (22 cm). Rated easy+, it is presented as a unisex project for gifts and charitable giving, with options for a fitted or slouchier look.

You'll need: #4 worsted yarn, 3.5 oz (100 g); an H/8 (5 mm) hook, yarn needle, and scissors.

Free pattern by Breann Mauldin, Hooked on Homemade Happiness

Off Piste Waffle Stitch Hat

This bobble hat carries waffle texture through the body above a narrow ribbed brim. The slightly slouchy shape gives the deep grid room to stand out. The free teen/small adult version measures about 19.7 in (50 cm) around and 9.4 in (24 cm) tall, including its brim. Dora rates the pattern intermediate because of the post-stitch increases. Choose it when the practice swatch feels comfortable and you are ready to combine texture with shaping; additional sizes belong to the paid PDF.

You'll need: #4 worsted/light aran wool, about 235 yd (215 m); an H/8 (5 mm) hook, yarn needle, and a pom-pom if desired.

Free pattern by Michelle (Dora), Dora Does

Waffle Stitch Cowl

This matching cowl uses waffle stitch throughout a continuous loop, making the texture the main feature. It is worked in joined, turned rounds and measures approximately 28 in (71 cm) around by 7 in (18 cm) tall. Breann describes it as a soft, warm, unisex accessory and rates the instructions intermediate. It suits someone who wants the same textured fabric as the beanie in a neck warmer. The source also explains how to adjust the circumference or continue for extra height.

You'll need: #4 worsted yarn, 3.9 oz (110 g); an H/8 (5 mm) hook, yarn needle, and scissors.

Free pattern by Breann Mauldin, Hooked on Homemade Happiness

Absorbent: Dishcloths and Washcloths

A washcloth gives the grid a practical job as a textured cleaning surface. These projects use cotton or a cotton blend, and their smaller scale makes them useful choices for practicing the repeat. Yarn weights range from fine to worsted, so the finished squares have noticeably different proportions.

Fine-Yarn Waffle Washcloth

Jessica Underwood's washcloth uses fine yarn for an all-over waffle center framed by a simple border. The finished square measures 11 in (28 cm) on each side. Premier Cotton Fair combines cotton and acrylic, giving this version a softer drape than a heavier cotton cloth. Jessica rates it easy and recommends learning the stitch first if you are an adventurous beginner. Her Succulent sample is blue in person; she explains that it can look greener in photographs, including those online.

You'll need: #2 fine Premier Cotton Fair, about 172 yd (157 m); an F/5 (3.75 mm) hook and yarn needle.

Free pattern by Jessica Underwood, Stitching Together

Gray Sampler Waffle Washcloth

Grace's gray washcloth is part of the Sampler Stitch Washcloth Collection, with the dense waffle fabric taking center stage inside a simple edging. It measures approximately 9 in (23 cm) by 9.25 in (23.5 cm), making it nearly square. The designer rates it intermediate and recommends cotton for washcloths. This is a useful choice if you want a textured cloth to pair with other stitches from the collection. Its solid gray sample keeps the raised squares easy to see.

You'll need: #4 worsted Lion Brand Re-Up in Grey, 120 yd (110 m), just over one skein; an H/8 (5 mm) hook and tapestry needle.

Free pattern by Grace, Stitchberry

Cotton Waffle Washcloth in Two Sizes

Sarah E. White shows this cotton cloth as both a small square and a larger rectangle. The waffle grid covers the fabric to its edges; the small sample is worked in the Coneflower shade. The small version is 7 in (17.75 cm) square; the larger measures about 13 in (33 cm) by 10.5 in (26.6 cm). Choose the smaller cloth for a compact practice project. The written directions are followed by a photo tutorial showing the stitch placement in more detail.

You'll need: #4 worsted Lily Sugar'n Cream cotton, about 40 yd (37 m) for the small cloth or 143 yd (131 m) for the large; an H/8 (5 mm) hook.

Free pattern by Sarah E. White, Our Daily Craft

Sturdy: Bags, Baskets and Placemats

Structure comes from the whole construction: yarn, tension, and any reinforcement work alongside the raised grid. These two designs make that distinction clear. One uses the waffle only for a strong base and switches to mesh; the other adds a lining and plastic canvas to a double-waffle variation.

Waffle Market Bag

Fluffy Stitches' grocery bag starts from a circular base in waffle stitch, chosen because the base had to be strong, then switches to a light mesh that follows the waffle lines to add length without extra weight. A "waffly" edge forms the handles. The finished bag is 11 in (28 cm) wide and 16 in (40.5 cm) long, with 9 in (23 cm) straps. Rated easy, it suits farmers' market trips and anyone cutting down on plastic bags.

You'll need: #4 worsted cotton-linen yarn, 680 yd (620 m), worked with 2 strands held together; an I/9 (5.5 mm) hook, stitch markers and a tapestry needle.

Free pattern by Fluffy Stitches

Double-Waffle Sling Bag

Shehnaaz's flap-front sling bag uses double waffle stitch, a variation that gives the body a quilted appearance. Plastic canvas and a fabric lining reinforce the shape, while a gold chain strap completes the pictured version. The bag is 9 in (23 cm) wide and is shown in Cream and Sandstone. It suits a maker comfortable combining crochet with sewing and hardware. The construction uses a long body rectangle plus two smaller side pieces, so finishing is an essential part of the project.

You'll need: #6 super bulky Lion Brand Cover Story Lazy Days, 180 yd (165 m); a K/10.5 (6.5 mm) hook, plastic canvas, lining fabric, magnetic snaps, and a strap.

Free pattern by Shehnaaz, Crochet Dreamz

Plush: Blankets and Pillows

For a waffle stitch crochet blanket or pillow, the grid becomes a broad, touchable surface. Compare the listed quantities before choosing: a throw takes a much larger yarn commitment than a washcloth. These examples also show how stripes and variegated yarn change the appearance of the same raised texture.

Pumpkin Spice Striped Waffle Throw

Kylee Keller's throw alternates broad Pumpkin Spice and Sugar Cookie stripes across an all-over waffle grid. The approximately 45 in (114 cm) by 60 in (152 cm) blanket uses the texture as its finish, with the sample left borderless. Rated late beginner/intermediate, it suits someone ready to repeat the stitch across a full afghan and change colors along the way. The designer chose large Pound of Love skeins because waffle stitch consumes plenty of yarn, and the material list specifies two skeins of each color.

You'll need: #4 worsted Lion Brand Pound of Love, four skeins total; an H/8 (5 mm) hook, yarn needle, scissors, and tape measure.

Free pattern by Kylee Keller, OkieGirlBling'n'Things

Blue, Yellow and Gray Waffle Blanket

Luisa Clare's striped blanket combines Royal Blue, Medium Sunshine Yellow, and Pale Grey in a soft waffle fabric with a simple border. The pictured sample measures 26 in (66 cm) by 32 in (81 cm); the page also gives eight suggested blanket sizes with estimated yarn quantities. Its baby-size suggestion is 30 in (76 cm) by 36 in (91 cm). Rated easy/confident beginner, this design suits someone who wants a smaller blanket option and a size table before committing to a larger throw.

You'll need: #4 worsted yarn and an H/8 (5 mm) hook; 1,060 yd (970 m) for the pictured sample, or an estimated 1,380 yd (1,260 m) for the suggested baby size.

Free pattern by Luisa Clare, Treasurie

Spice Market Waffle Throw Pillow

Megan Meyer's pillow pairs a waffle front panel with a plain double crochet back. The neutral-based Spice Market yarn brings multicolored accents into the grid, and optional tassels decorate the four corners. The cover measures 18 in (46 cm) square and is designed around a 20 in (51 cm) pillow form for a full shape. Choose it if you want a home accessory with one textured face and straightforward panel assembly. The designer also offers stuffing as an alternative to a pillow form.

You'll need: #6 super bulky yarn, 435 yd (398 m); an L/11 (8 mm) hook, yarn needle, and a 20 in (51 cm) pillow form or stuffing.

Free pattern by Megan Meyer, Left in Knots

Next Step

Start with the swatch, then choose a small project whose yarn and finished size suit your plans. Use the basic stitch symbols guide to build chart-reading confidence, compare the texture with honeycomb stitch, or explore more crochet headbands and hats, beanies, and berets for your next wearable.