Mindfulness crochet offers a way to tune in to your craft, be present as you stitch, and sink deep into relaxation. Even if you don't actively practice mindfulness, repetitive, soothing crochet patterns can help you de-stress.
With the crochet patterns below, you don't have to do a lot of thinking. You don't have to calculate stitch repeats, change colors every few stitches, or check your pattern constantly. Instead, you can just stitch away, almost mindlessly, reaping all of the benefits of crochet.
-
01 of 10
Granny Squares
junpinzon, iStock, Getty Images Plus
The traditional granny square is the ultimate no-thinking-required crochet pattern. Once you've got the basic formula down, you'll never need to look at the pattern again.
You can make a bunch of small granny crochet motifs to join into a project later. Or you can just make one large, ongoing crochet granny square, which you can use as a blanket.
If you don't do any color changes then you really don't need to think about it as you work. You can use a mutli-colored yarn to create a colorful design without those color changes.
-
02 of 10
Large Crochet Circle
Just like you can get into a mindful state when crocheting a large granny square, you can accomplish the same aim with a large crochet circle. There's a little bit more counting required with the circle than the square, because you have to count correctly to increase it right so it lies flat. The rhythmic counting itself can lull you into a state of relaxation, though, so don't count this project out when it comes to meditative crochet. Make a large circle to use as a tablecloth, rug, or throw.
-
03 of 10
Easy Single Crochet Scarf Free Pattern
Single crochet is one of the simplest crochet stitches that you will ever learn. Work it in rows to create almost anything. In this case, you'll crochet row upon row of single crochet to make a simple, but effective, scarf. If you're seeking a beginner crochet project that can quickly become a relaxing one then this is a great place to start.
-
04 of 10
Fast, Easy Crochet Baby Blanket
You could make a crochet baby blanket using just single crochet stitches or another repeating basic stitch. That's definitely one way to approach meditative crochet. However, you can make it a little more interesting when you combine single crochet with chain spaces. The texture is just slightly different, enough to be more intriguing to the eye and touch but not so much as to be difficult. It's a really relaxing project.
Continue to 5 of 10 below. -
05 of 10
Easy Moss Stitch Crochet Scarf Free Pattern
When you strategically combine single crochet and chain stitches, you are actually working the moss stitch. Use the repeating stitch pattern to create a skinny scarf. Or adapt the pattern to make a thicker crochet scarf. It's a very easy crochet pattern that you can definitely make over and over if you're looking for a meditative crochet project.
-
06 of 10
Seed Stitch Crochet Washcloth or Blanket
The seed stitch is similar to the moss stitch, except that instead of combining single crochet with chain stitches, it combines single crochet with double crochet. You just alternate those stitches across the row - not much focused thinking required. You can use this tutorial to learn how to crochet the seed stitch then use that information to make projects as small as washcloths or as large as crochet blankets.
-
07 of 10
Crochet Floor Pouf Free Pattern
This tutorial will show you how to make a linked double crochet stitch. Once you've learned, you'll use it to make two circles. They are worked in a spiral, which itself promotes meditation. Seam the two circles together to create your floor pouf.
-
08 of 10
Textured Crochet Pillow Cover Free Pattern
You will start this crochet pillow cover with a little bit of focus to create the ribbing that holds the buttons. However, then you'll enter a meditative easy row repeat that will carry you through the rest of the project. And once you're done you'll have a cozy pillow to relax your head upon.
Continue to 9 of 10 below. -
09 of 10
Good Vibes Crochet Blanket Pattern
Designer Rachele Carmona created a set of 6 crochet patterns that she calls "relaxghans." Each design is coloful and beautiful, but it's not complex. She notes that crochet should "destress you not restress you." You can purchase all six patterns as a set. However, this one is available for free on the blog.
It's a bit more detailed than most of the other patterns on this list. That's okay, though. Sometimes you want to balance focus with mindless crochet and this is the kind of project that allows for that.
-
10 of 10
Easy Tunisian Crochet Potholders
Ruth Jenkinson, Dorling Kindersley, Getty Images
It takes a little bit of effort to learn Tunisian crochet if you are new to this niche of the craft. However, once you get the hang of it, you can use a simple stitch in the technique to create a single pattern. This gives you the chance to practice meditative, relaxing crochet. These crochet potholders, worked in Tunisian Simple Stitch, are a perfect example.