Guest Author - Kate Pullen

Hair Scrunchies are easy to crochet and quick to finish. The possibilities to adapt and vary a basic scrunchie pattern are almost endless, different yarn and stitch combinations can alter the finished effect dramatically. The only problem with these little crocheted treats is that they can become addictive!

A crocheted scrunchie is formed by simply crocheting around a shop bought hair ponytail band or piece of elastic. The only criterion is that the stitches allow for the stretch of the elastic. This is why the pattern below is so flexible as it allows plenty of give, yet gives a tight and compact finished fabric.

Any yarn can be used, smooth cottons and acrylics are easier to work with. Fine crochet thread worked with a fine hook also works well, and chunky yarns are quick and easy to finish. A fine silk with pearl and crystal beads would make a lovely adornment for the hair to complement the most special of outfits. Very fluffy yarns such as mohair are also suitable and can look wonderful when finished. This is a great way to use up odds and ends of yarn and to create scruchies to match every outfit!

Instructions
Taking any yarn and the relevant size hook, simply crochet around the elastic band as follows.

Slip stitch around the elastic, * chain 7, slip stitch around elastic*. Repeat from * to *. Continue working around the elastic until it is full of stitches. Keep pushing the stitches tight to ensure that there is a compact fabric and that none of the elastic shows through. The more tightly the stitches are compacted, the more dense the finished effect.

This is so easy to adapt! Make lesser chain stitches for a more subtle textured finish, or more chain stitches for a more flamboyant finish. Altering the number of chain stitches, for instance adding some very long chains randomly will give an unusual effect with long tendrils creeping out from the main body of the scrunchy.

The addition of beads or sequins will add texture and additional color to the scrunchy. Simply thread the beads or sequins onto the yarn before starting and drop a bead into place when required.

Adding a picot to the middle of each chain loop will add further interest and texture.

Hair scrunchies are great for selling at bizarres and fetes, and can be a good fund raiser for charities.