Neck warmers (cowls, infinity scarves, and little funnel necks) are the best quick projects: cozy, fast to crochet, and stunning with texture or color. Below you’ll find five easy-to-follow, beginner-friendly — but interesting — neck warmer patterns written in US crochet terms:
- Crochet Serendipity Cowl Neck Warmer Pattern
- Crochet Bow Neck Warmer Pattern
- Crochet Velvet Twist Neck Warmer Pattern
- Crochet Striped Neck Warmer Pattern
- Crochet Secret Garden Infinity Scarf Pattern
Each pattern includes: skill level, materials, gauge, sizes & how to customize to your neck, a clear step-by-step make-along for the body + finishing (closures, bows, twist), blocking & care, and styling/variation ideas. I’ll also give general tips at the end for fit, yarn choices, and troubleshooting so your cowl turns out exactly how you want it.
Quick general notes (read this first)
- Yarn & hooks: I use worsted weight (#4) yarn and a 5.0 mm–6.5 mm hook for most patterns unless noted. Swap yarn weight & hook to change drape and speed.
- Sizing concept: Neck circumference for adult women typically ranges 14–18″ for snug cowls and 16–22″ for loose cowls. I give sample stitch counts for 20″, 22″, 24″ finished circumferences (adult small/medium/large). You can also measure the wearer and calculate starting chain from your own gauge (see below).
- Gauge check (recommended): For worsted yarn with 5.5 mm hook many makers get roughly 4 sc = 1 inch. But always make a 4″ swatch in the stitch pattern you’ll use and measure stitches per inch. Use that real number to calculate foundation chain = (desired finished circumference in inches) × (stitches per inch).
- Joining in the round: I recommend working cowls in continuous rounds (spiral) for invisible joins, or join each round with a slip stitch if you prefer ringed rounds. I’ll note when I prefer spiral.
- Abbreviations (US): ch = chain, sc = single crochet, hdc = half double crochet, dc = double crochet, tr = treble, sl st = slip stitch, st(s) = stitch(es), sk = skip, BLO = back loop only, FLO = front loop only, RS = right side, rep = repeat, … = repeat section.
- Finishing: Weave ends with tapestry needle; block lightly if needed.
1. Crochet Serendipity Cowl Neck Warmer Pattern
A soft, squishy textured cowl that looks more complex than it is — great for showing off yarn with subtle color changes.
Skill level: Beginner → Intermediate (basic textured stitches)
Finished sizing (sample):
- Small (snug): 20″ circumference × 8″ height
- Medium (loose): 22″ × 9″
- Large (slouch): 24″ × 10″
Materials (medium sample):
- Worsted weight (#4) yarn — ~180–250 yds depending on height & size
- Hook: 5.5 mm (I use 5.5mm for a dense, cozy fabric)
- Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch marker
Gauge (approximate / test on your yarn): 4 sc = 1″ (use this for the sample counts below); swatch in pattern to confirm.
Pattern repeat: Multiple of 8 stitches. (That makes it easy to scale — 80, 88, 96 stitches work well for the sample sizes.)
Why this stitch?
The Serendipity stitch alternates textured (post-like) rows with flatter rows for a reversible, cushy fabric that traps warmth.
How to customize to your neck
- Measure neck circumference or choose one of the sample sizes.
- Use your stitches per inch (from your swatch) and multiply by desired circumference to get foundation stitch count. Round to the nearest multiple of 8 to match the repeat. Example using 4 st/in: 22″ × 4 = 88 sts (works for the medium sample).
Serendipity Cowl — step-by-step (worked in rounds, medium sample)
Foundation (medium — 22″ circumference example)
- ch 88, join with sl st to first ch, being careful not to twist. Place marker at beginning of round.
Round 1 (setup round)
- ch 1, sc in each ch around. Join with sl st to first sc if you want a joined round, or continue in spiral and place marker. (88 sc)
Round 2 (texture foundation)
- ch 2, sk next st, dc in next st repeat around. This creates small open texture base that the post work will use.
Round 3 (Serendipity row A — post work)
- ch 1, * (fpdc around the dc made in previous round, sc in the ch-2 space) * repeat around. The front-post double crochet (fpdc) pulls up a ridge; the sc between keeps fabric stable.
Round 4 (Row B — flat)
- ch 1, sc in each st around (through both loops). This keeps the interior smooth and reversible.
Round 5
- Repeat Round 3.
Alternate
- Continue alternating Row A (post ridges) and Row B (flat sc) until the cowl height measures ~9″ (for medium) or desired height. Typical: 12–14 rounds of the pair = ~9″.
Finish
- End with one round sc, fasten off, weave in ends. If you worked in spiral, be sure to shift your marker up as you go.
Finishing tips
- Optionally block the cowl flat to even stitches (light steam or lay flat damp).
- To make a shorter neck warmer (neck gaiter), stop earlier (6–7″ height). To make slouchier, increase rounds.
Styling & variations
- Use a plush chenille yarn for an ultra-soft Serendipity cowl (increase hook by 1 mm for drape).
- Use two contrasting colors alternated every 2 rounds for bold stripes that emphasize the ridges.
2. Crochet Bow Neck Warmer Pattern
A charming cowl with an integrated bow — wears like a statement collar and fastens with a hidden snap or button.
Skill level: Beginner (basic shaping + applique)
Finished sizing (sample):
- One-size: 22″ circumference × 8″ height (bow sits centered front)
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn — ~200 yds total (main color) + small contrast for bow if desired
- Hook: 5.5 mm
- Small sew-on snap or decorative button + thread or tiny snap halves
- Tapestry needle, scissors
Gauge: 4 sc = 1″ (test your yarn & hook)
Construction overview
This pattern makes a short cowl tube, then creates a separate bow piece that wraps around the cowl and fastens at the back (or you can sew it down). Because the bow is removable (via a snap), you can swap bows or remove for machine washing.
How to size
- Calculate foundation stitches as before (st/in × circumference). For the one-size example use 88 sts (22″ × 4 st/in). Keep stitch count an even number so bow wraps evenly.
Body of the cowl — step by step
Foundation (22″ example)
- ch 88, join into ring without twisting.
Round 1
- ch 1, sc in each ch around. (88 sc)
Round 2–12 (work to height ~8″)
- ch 1, hdc in BLO in each st around — working BLO creates a subtle ridge on the outside and smooth inside. Repeat for 10 rounds or until the cowl height is 8″. Adjust rounds for your desired height.
Edge finish
- Work 1 round sc evenly around to tidy both top and bottom (finish one end then fasten off; rejoin and do the other end), or fold the cowl and seamed to form a double-thick band (optional).
Bow piece (make 1)
Bow rectangle
- ch 30 (or choose width you prefer for bow fullness). Row 1: sc in 2nd ch and across (29 sc). Row 2–8: sc across (or use hdc for softer drape). Row 9: fasten off leaving a long tail to wrap around cowl.
Bow wrap band (center)
- ch 6, sc across for 3–4 rows — this becomes the small band that cinches the bow when wrapped.
Assembly
- Fold rectangle into bow shape by pinching center to create bow loops; wrap the small band around center to secure, or use the long tail to sew the band to back.
- On inside of cowl at the back, sew one half of snap (or a small button loop) and sew the other half to the inside of the bow band — now bow is removable. Alternatively, sew bow permanently to front center.
Styling & variations
- Make the bow in a contrast color for visual pop.
- Use bulky yarn and a larger hook to make an oversized bow cowl for dramatic coats.
Care
- Remove bow before machine washing if using delicate yarn; otherwise fasten snaps and wash on gentle.
3. Crochet Velvet Twist Neck Warmer Pattern
A faux-twist cowl that looks like a braided neckpiece — no complicated cabling required. Uses short rows and overlapping seams to create a twist effect.
Skill level: Intermediate (short rows & seaming)
Finished sizing (sample): 22″ circumference × 9″ height (twist visible at front)
Materials:
- Bulky or soft velvet yarn (chenille) — ~250–300 yds depending on size
- Hook: 8.0 mm (or size recommended by yarn)
- Tapestry needle, 4-6 small hidden snaps or buttons (for closure and to keep twist in place)
Gauge: Because velvet yarn can compress, check 3 sc = 1″ as a rough guide; swatch is critical.
Design concept
Make a wide flat rectangle slightly longer than the neck circumference; seam ends with a 180° twist before joining so the tube has a faux-twist. Alternately, make a tube and twist before finishing for a Mobius-like look.
Step-by-step — Rectangle method (easier to control fabric)
Measurements & counts
- Decide finished circumference (22″ sample) and choose rectangle length = circumference + 2″ ease (for overlap during twist and seam). Example rectangle length = 24″. If gauge = 3 sc/in → required stitches = 24 × 3 = 72 sts (round to nearest even number).
Make rectangle
- ch 72. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch and across (71 sc). Turn.
- Row 2–30: sc across (approx 30 rows for ~9″ height; check your row gauge). Adjust rows to reach desired height. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for seaming.
Create the twist
- Fold rectangle so the right side faces out. Lay rectangle flat lengthwise and twist one short end by 180° (so one end is flipped). Bring short ends together and match corners.
Seam & secure
2. Seam the two short ends with mattress stitch or whipstitch through both layers; for added structure, place 2–3 small hidden snaps along the seam inside so you can open/flatten the cowl for washing. For a more Mobius look, you can give a full 180° twist before seaming.
Finish
- Weave in ends, check twist is smooth and even.
Variations & styling
- Make the rectangle wider for a slouchy funnel effect.
- For a double-twist (more sculptural), twist twice before seaming; this requires more length.
Care
- Chenille often needs gentle washing (hand wash recommended); remove snaps before machine washing if needed.
4. Crochet Striped Neck Warmer Pattern
A classic, endlessly customizable striped cowl — perfect for stash busting, color practice, or gift sets.
Skill level: Beginner (great first cowl)
Finished sizing (sample): S 20″, M 22″, L 24″ circumferences; height between 8–10″ depending on preference
Materials:
- 2–4 colors of worsted weight yarn — ~200–300 yds total
- Hook: 5.5 mm (or 5 mm for denser fabric)
- Tapestry needle
Gauge: Roughly 4 sc = 1″ (check swatch)
Why this pattern works
Simple single crochet rounds create a dense, warm band; color changes every 4–6 rounds make clean stripes.
Step-by-step (medium example — 22″ circumference)
Foundation
- ch 88, join to work in rounds without twisting.
Round 1
- ch 1, sc in each ch around (88 sc). Join with sl st or continue in spiral.
Rounds 2–5 (color A)
- sc in each st around for 4 rounds. Change color on last yarn over of round to avoid tails.
Rounds 6–9 (color B)
- Repeat sc in each st for 4 rounds with new color.
Repeat
- Continue alternating colors every 4 rounds (or 2 rounds for thinner stripes) until the cowl is ~9″ tall.
Edge finishing
- Work one round of sc in color A for tidy finish. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Optional ribbed brim
- If you want a stretchy, fitted top/bottom edge: before finishing, work 6 rounds of hdc in BLO to form a 1×1 rib.
Variations
- Use self-striping yarn on alternating bands to create complex effects with minimal switching.
- Add a row of contrasting surface slip-stitch embroidery around the middle for a polished accent.
Care
- Machine wash on gentle cold if using washable acrylic/cotton; dry flat.
5. Crochet Secret Garden Neck Warmer Infinity Scarf Pattern
A lacy, feminine infinity scarf with floral-like openwork — a delicate neck warmer that works well with fingering or DK yarn.
Skill level: Intermediate (lace repeats & attention to stitch placement)
Finished sizing (sample): 22″ circumference × 10″ width when doubled (make wider by adding pattern repeats)
Materials:
- DK / light worsted or fingering yarn — about 250–350 yds (DK) depending on width/length
- Hook: 4.0–4.5 mm for DK (looser fabric)
- Tapestry needle, stitch marker
Gauge: Lace fabric is about 3–4 pattern repeats = 1″ depending on hook; swatch before you start.
Pattern concept
Work a wide tube in a lacy repeat that produces floral-like clusters and vertical eyelets. This cowl looks lovely doubled around the neck (infinity) or worn single for drama.
Repeat multiple
- The sample lace repeat is multiple of 12 stitches + 2 to make pattern math easy.
Step-by-step (medium example)
Foundation
- Decide width (10″ final width) and circumference 22″. Swatch your lace to find stitches per inch. For the example I’ll use a foundation of 92 sts (multiple of 12 + 2 → 12×7 + 2 = 86? Wait—recalculate: 12×7 =84 +2=86. For 92 choose 12×7 +? Actually 12×7=84, adding 2 gives 86. To get 92 we need 12×7 + 8? Better to use 86 for medium). Use 86 as foundation: ch 86, join.
Round 1 (setup)
- ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in each ch around. (86 dc)
Round 2 (lace round A)
- ch 3, skip next 2 sts, sc in next st, ch 3, cluster (3 dc) in next st, ch 2, sc in next st, ch 3, skip next 2 sts, dc in next 3 sts — this is a decorative sample cluster/eyelet row. Repeat … to end. Use stitch markers to mark each repeat.
Round 3 (lace round B)
- ch 3, dc into cluster tops and sc into single stitches to anchor motif, creating vertical alignment. Essentially alternate A and B to build pattern.
Repeat
- Repeat Rounds 2 & 3 until height reaches 10″ (or desired width). Because the lace is open, your cowl will be airy and drape beautifully.
Edge
- For a tidy border, do one round of sc in BLO to create a subtle scallop; optionally work a picot round for decorative finish.
Tips for lace success
- Keep stitch markers at pattern boundaries so you don’t lose track.
- If you want denser look, use a smaller hook or hold two strands of fingering yarn together (but then it’s no longer fingering).
Styling & wearing
- Wear doubled for warmth and a feminine scalloped edge neckline.
- Make longer (more circumference) and loop twice for a layered infinity scarf.
Care
- Hand wash for delicate yarns; block flat to open lace pattern and set shape.
Final finishing tips, common troubleshooting & FAQ
Blocking & shaping
- Textured/cozy cowls (wool, acrylic): Light steam or shape flat with steam and let dry. Don’t over-stretch acrylic.
- Lace cowls (Secret Garden): Soak, gently squeeze water, pin to measurements on blocking board and let dry to open lace.
How to adjust any pattern to your measurements
- Make a 4″ swatch in the pattern and measure your stitches per inch (spi) and rows per inch (rpi).
- Desired circumference (in inches) × spi = foundation stitch count. Round to the nearest full pattern repeat (I list repeats in each pattern).
- Desired height (in inches) × rpi = number of rounds needed.
Troubleshooting
- Cowl too tight: Add 1–2 inches to circumference or use a larger hook.
- Cowl too floppy: Use a smaller hook or hold extra strand(s) of yarn.
- Pattern not lining up at the join: Check that your foundation chain is a multiple of the stitch repeat. If working in spiral, place a stitch marker to mark round start and count repeats.
- Visible seam in joined rounds: Work in spiral (no join) or pick up stitches and work a slip-stitched join with matching color.
Yarn & color tips
- Neutral basics: Camel, charcoal, cream and navy are forever classics.
- Statement color: Make the bow or the twist in the contrast color to turn a simple cowl into outfit focal point.
- Texture pairing: Pair smooth yarn for the main body with plush or fuzzy yarn for the trim/bow for a luxe look.
Safety & wearability
- Avoid long loose ends on cowls that could catch near zippers or jewelry. Weave ends securely.
- For children’s cowls remove small detachable parts (buttons, beads) or fasten them extremely securely.
Quick reference: skill levels & recommended patterns
- Beginner: Striped Neck Warmer, Bow Neck Warmer
- Advanced Beginner: Serendipity Cowl
- Intermediate: Velvet Twist Neck Warmer, Secret Garden Infinity Scarf
Conclusion
These five warmers cover the cozy basics (Striped & Serendipity), the sweet and wearable (Bow), sculptural texture (Velvet Twist), and feminine drape (Secret Garden). For a first project try the Striped Neck Warmer — it’s fast, forgiving, and a great way to get comfortable with crocheting in the round. If you want a show-stopper for gifting, the Bow Neck Warmer is both quick and memorable.
