Hearts are a fun and easy project that every crocheter should try. This free crochet heart pattern is perfect for beginners who want to practice simple stitches, while still being quick and enjoyable for more experienced makers. You can use these crochet hearts as keychains, appliqués, gift toppers, or even string them together for festive garlands. Since this crochet heart tutorial only uses basic stitches, it works up fast and makes an ideal beginner-friendly project that you’ll love making again and again.
Table of Contents
Why Crochet Hearts Are So Great
Crochet is a wonderful way to express yourself, and hearts are one of the most versatile projects you can make! Here’s why this pattern is perfect for every skill level:
- Quick and Satisfying: You can complete a heart in under 30 minutes, making it the ideal project when you have a short burst of creative energy. It’s the perfect way to get an instant feeling of accomplishment without the commitment of a large project.
- Uses Up Scraps: Got a bunch of leftover yarn from a bigger project? This is a great way to put those scraps to good use and prevent waste. You can create a colorful collection of hearts and feel good about reducing your stash.
- Highly Customizable: Experiment with different yarn weights and colors to create hearts for any occasion, from a Valentine’s Day garland to a festive holiday ornament. For a cozier look, try a chunky yarn. For a more delicate design, use a lightweight yarn and a smaller hook.
- Perfect for Gifts: A handmade heart is a thoughtful and personal touch for gifts, whether you’re attaching it to a card or sewing it onto a blanket. They are also wonderful for last-minute gifts, as you can easily whip one up in no time.
Beginner’s Crochet Heart Pattern Information
This pattern is written using US crochet terms.
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Materials
- Yarn: I used a Drops Loves You 7 yarn in the color Pink (15). Any worsted-weight yarn will work for this project, and I recommend a smooth cotton or acrylic blend for beginners. For substitutions, you could try Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton, or for a similar budget-friendly feel, Hobbii Friends Cotton 8/4 or Hobbii Rainbow Cotton 8/4.
- Crochet Hook: Choose a hook size suitable for your yarn. I used a 3mm crochet hook, which created a nice, dense fabric for the heart.
- Scissors: A small, sharp pair of scissors is a must for cutting your yarn. I love these sharp embroidery scissors for precision.
- Yarn Needle: This is a crucial tool for weaving in your ends at the end of the project to keep your work neat. I use these bent-tip tapestry needles.
Finished Size
Depends on your yarn and hook. My hearts are around 2 inches wide x 1.5 inches tall (5 x 3 centimeters).
Gauge
Not essential for this project. Just be sure to maintain consistent tension if you’re making multiple hearts so they are all the same size.
Understanding the Pattern’s Construction
This project is worked in the round, starting with a magic ring. The first round creates a flat circle, and the second round shapes that circle into the two lobes of the heart and the distinct point at the bottom. Knowing this is particularly helpful for choosing gradient or variegated yarn, as the color changes will create a beautiful, swirling effect that moves from the center outward.
Crochet Abbreviations You’ll Need
This pattern uses common US crochet terms. If you’re new to crochet, this can feel like a new language! Use this quick guide to check if you’re familiar with the stitches. If you need a refresher on any of them, just click the link for a detailed tutorial.
- mr – magic ring
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- sl st – slip stitch
- tr – treble crochet
Watch the Stop-Motion Video Tutorial!
For a quick visual guide, watch this stop-motion video that walks you through every step of the pattern in under 30 seconds.
- Pay close attention to the way the yarn is pulled through the magic ring in the first few seconds.
- Notice how the final stitch is shaped to form the heart’s point.
Crochet Heart Pattern
To ensure your hearts come out beautifully every time, follow these steps. For a quick overview, you can watch the stop-motion video to see the process in action.
The pattern is made in rounds, starting with a magic ring. If you need help with this step, check out my tutorial on how to master the magic ring.
How to Make a Crochet Heart: A Step-by-Step Guide
Round 0 (R0): Start with a magic ring (mr). This creates a secure beginning without a hole in the center of your heart.
Round 1 (R1):
- Chain 3 (ch 3). This counts as your first double crochet stitch.
- Double crochet (dc) 11 times into the center of the magic ring.
- You should now have a total of 12 stitches.
- Slip stitch (sl st) into the top of your starting chain 3 to close the round.
Round 2 (R2):
- Skip the first 2 stitches.
- Treble crochet (tr) 8 times into the third stitch.
- Double crochet (dc) in each of the next 2 stitches.
- In the next stitch, work one double crochet and one treble crochet.
- Chain 1 (ch 1).
- In the next stitch, work one treble crochet and one double crochet.
- Double crochet (dc) in each of the next 2 stitches.
- Treble crochet (tr) 8 times into the next stitch.
- Finally, slip stitch (sl st) between the first and last stitches of Round 1.
Finishing Touches: Fasten off and weave in your ends with a yarn needle to secure your work. Your heart should now have its classic shape with two lobes and a distinct point at the bottom.
Shortened Pattern for Experienced Crocheters
For those who prefer a quicker read, here is the full pattern in standard format:
- R0: Start with an mr.
- R1: ch 3, dc 11 into ring, sl st to top of ch 3 (12 dc total)
- R2: skip 2, tr 8 into third st, dc in each of next 2 st, [dc, tr] in next st, ch 1, [tr, dc] in next st, dc in each of next 2 st, tr 8 into next st, sl st between first and last st of R1 (24 st, ch 1 at bottom point)
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Tips for a Perfect Crochet Heart
Don’t worry if your first heart isn’t flawless – that’s part of the fun! Here are some tips to help you get the best results:
- Mind Your Tension: Consistent tension is crucial for a well-shaped heart. If your stitches are too loose, the heart might lose its shape, while stitches that are too tight will be difficult to work into.
- Blocking: If your finished heart looks a bit uneven, you can “block” it. Simply pin it into the correct shape and lightly steam it to set the stitches. This can give your heart crisp, clean lines and a professional finish.
- Use a Stitch Marker: If you have trouble counting stitches or finding the start of a round, use a stitch marker on your first stitch. It’s a simple way to prevent mistakes and frustration.
- Count Your Stitches: Make it a habit to count your stitches after each round. This ensures your project is the right size and shape and helps you catch any errors early on.
What Next With Crochet Hearts?
Now that you’ve mastered the pattern, what can you do with your new hearts?
- Appliqués: Sew your heart onto bags, hats, or blankets for a charming, personal touch. A simple whip stitch works great.
- Garlands: Create festive decor for any celebration by stringing multiple hearts together with a simple chain stitch or twine.
- Keychains: Turn your heart into a cute accessory by attaching a keyring to the top.
- Gift Toppers: Tie or glue a heart onto a wrapped gift for an extra special handmade touch.
If you enjoyed this pattern, consider expanding your skills by learning how to turn it into a heart granny square.
Final Thoughts
Crochet hearts are quick, versatile, and always well-received. They make excellent last-minute gifts and are a great way to use leftover yarn. Once you get the hang of this simple pattern, you’ll be able to create a whole collection in no time.
What colors are you excited to use for your first crochet heart? Share your ideas in the comments below!
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