Our Favorite Free Crochet Patterns of 2021

Crochet blankets and afghan designs are pretty standard patterns but are definitely on the ambitious end due to how long they can take to complete. If you have the patience and the time to work one of these up, though, you'll definitely be rewarded! These crochet patterns are snuggly and oh-so-warm! Pro tip: Work with chunky or super bulky yarn to help speed up the process!

Editor's Fave, Centaur Mandala Afghan: Self-striping yarn is so satisfying to work with since the yarn does all of the work for you. Beginners and experienced crocheters alike will enjoy the simple stitches and relaxing repeats in this pattern.

Baby blankets are a little more manageable than regular afghan designs since they're so much smaller, and you guys really love them too since so many of them made our best-of list! From rectangular crib blankets to colorful afghans and heirlooms you'll pass down from generation to generation, these little designs are amazing shower or birthday gifts!

Editor's Fave, 6 Hour Baby Blanket: It is a rare treat to find such a quick and easy baby blanket pattern, and this one is adorable to boot. It's worked up in crocheter favorite Bernat Blanket Yarn, which is super soft and quick to crochet.

Crochet bag patterns are a fun way to flex your crochet skills beyond dishcloths, scarves, and blankets, but still easy enough to tackle for amateur crocheters. Crochet totes are always popular, but this year readers also loved pretty crochet purse patterns.

Editor's Fave, Chocolate Tote: Everyone needs a classy and spacious bag to bring to the office or out running errands, and this gorgeous tote is a great option. The pattern even includes several pockets to hold necessities.

Crochet hats are a must-make for many crocheters - they're quick and simple projects that everyone always needs in the winter, and they're endlessly customizable. Only four hats made our best-of list this year - but each one of them is an awesome and versatile pattern. 

Editor's Fave, Candy Floss Beanie: Brighten up even the dreariest of cold days with the cheerful candy colors of this cute beanie. It is also a super simple pattern that even beginners can make in no time at all.

Can guests tell you crochet the moment they walk into your home? If not, it's time to get started on one of these crochet patterns for the home or the kitchen. These cute crochet home accents will add a touch of charm to any living space.

Editor's Fave, Crochet Organizer Caddy: Never lose the remote again with this handy crochet organizer! This functional organizer caddy slips easily over the arm of your favorite chair or the couch to keep all of those little odds and ends within arm's reach.

Crochet ponchos were bigger than ever in 2020, and these ponchos were your favorites! Loose and airy, these garments are the perfect piece to just toss on over a tee or a tank for a quick cover-up. You can even wear these over a long-sleeve shirt to be even warmer!

Editor's Fave, Boho Poncho:  There's something about the effortless style of this pattern that I can't stop staring at, and the flirty fringe adds a bohemian touch to this design. I need one!

Crochet scarves and cowls are a must for any experienced crocheter! The scarves and cowls that made the list of our top 100 patterns are some of our absolute faves. Choose from any of these beginner-friendly designs you'll love, from a loopy fashion scarf to simple and airy designs. 

Editor's Fave, Aurora Borealis Crochet Scarf: This stunning scarf has all of the beauty of the Northern Lights, like a painting made of yarn! The bulky yarn is warm and cozy, and the self-striping yarn does all of the colorwork for you.

Bigger than your typical scarf and so warm and cozy to wrap around yourself, crochet shawls and wraps are just as popular as scarves to make! These designs were some of your favorites this year, and all feature simple, repeating patterns anyone can handle. These wraps are stylish and warm and are the perfect little coverup for anything from a holiday party to a chilly day in the office. 

Editor's Fave, Magic Spell Shawl: Not only is this shawl pattern very easy to work up, but it made with just a single skein of yarn. Pick a special skein of pretty yarn out of your stash, and work up this beautifully textured, lightweight shawl.

So many gorgeous sweaters and tops made our best-of list this year, and they are all fan favorites! Sweaters and tops are a little trickier than scarves and hats since they require more precise measurements and shaping, but a cozy handmade sweater or top will always get you attention and compliments.

Editor's Fave, Cozy Blanket Cardi: The worst part of working up a cozy blanket is that you can't wear it like a sweater—until now! This incredibly cute and comfy cardigan will make you feel like you're walking around in an afghan, but in a stylish way.

Finally, we have a little bit of everything in this section. These patterns are the designs that didn't quite fit elsewhere, but don't let that deter you! Choose a cozy crochet slippers pattern, or a pretty little flower to add to any project you crochet.

Editor's Fave, One Hour Slipper: Shell stitch is so fun to crochet, and these slippers couldn't be quicker or easier to make. Raid your yarn stash for worsted weight yarn in your favorite color, then make a pair for yourself and everyone else you know!