This Easy Ribbed Pumpkin free crochet pumpkin pattern perfect for beginners. Worked entirely in slip stitch ribbing with front and back loop rows, this chunky pumpkin is made with super bulky yarn and a 10 mm crochet hook. The pattern includes five sizes from extra small to extra large, plus a step-by-step video tutorial. Perfect for fall decor, these pumpkins work up quickly — as fast as 30 minutes for the small size.
The Rustic Rib Free Crochet Pumpkin Pattern, is a free crochet pattern that will bring a touch of rustic charm to your fall decor. With its cute stitch pattern that echoes a knit look, this chunky crochet pumpkin is perfect for crocheting smaller or larger pumpkins that will enhance your dining room table or any space in need of seasonal warmth.
The construction of this crochet pumpkin is the same no matter if you are making a small or large size pumpkin. Simply work a repeat row of slip stitches until you reach the length for the pumpkin size you are making and fold rectangle in half and leave a long yarn tail for closing the bottom and top opening.
Key Takeaways / TL;DR
- The Rustic Rib Pumpkin pattern uses slip stitch ribbing worked exclusively in front and back loops to create a knit-like texture with super bulky yarn and a 10mm hook.
- The construction method involves creating a flat rectangle, folding it into a tube, gathering both openings, and threading yarn through the center to define the pumpkin shape.
- The pattern includes five sizes ranging from extra small (3.5″ x 2.5″) to extra large (5.5″ x 4.5″), with size determined by the number of foundation chains and rows worked.
- Hook size must be adjusted to match yarn weight to ensure the fabric remains dense enough to prevent stuffing from showing through the stretchy slip stitch fabric.
- Striped pumpkins are created by changing colors every two rows while maintaining the slip stitch ribbing pattern throughout.
Tips for Beginners
- Keep starting chain tension slightly tight, then work rest of stitches loosely.
- Adjust hook size to match yarn weight, the fabric should be dense enough so stuffing doesn’t show.
- For striped pumpkins, change color every two rows.
- When making custom sizes, fold your rectangle in half to check proportions before seaming.
Scroll down for the complete free crochet pumpkin pattern.
I want to also add that although this pumpkin is made from super bulky yarn it is a great time to dive into your stash even two strands of chunky yarn together works great.
One thing to note – if you are using a different yarn – perhaps a lighter weight yarn be sure to go down a hook size. This particular stitch makes a very stretchy fabric but you want to make sure that when it is stretched it still remains dense so that the stuffing does not show through. Be sure to adjust your hook size as the yarn requires.
Customization
Resizing your Pumpkin
- The starting chain affects the height of the pumpkin.
- The number of rows affects the width of the pumpkin.
Smaller Pumpkin:
- Smaller Hook: Use a hook 1–2 sizes smaller (e.g., 8.00 mm or 9.00 mm) for a more compact pumpkin.
- Fewer Chains: Start with fewer chains in the foundation row to make the pumpkin shorter.
- Fewer Rows: Work fewer rows to make the pumpkin less wide (e.g., stop at 7″ or 8″ across instead of 9″).
Larger Pumpkin:
- Larger Hook: Use a larger hook (e.g., 11.5 mm or 12.00 mm) for a bigger pumpkin.
- More Chains: Start with more chains to make the pumpkin taller.
- More Rows: Continue adding rows to make the pumpkin wider.
The Center-Pull Shaping Secret
You’ve done all the hard work. Your pumpkin is stuffed, the top and bottom are closed, and it’s starting to look like a pumpkin. But there’s one little step that really brings the shape to life: the center pull-through.
This is what takes your pumpkin from a stuffed tube to those cute, rounded pumpkin sections we’re looking for.
Here’s how to do it:
- Once both openings are closed, thread a 5″ yarn needle with a 24″ strand of matching yarn.
- First pass: Insert the needle through the exact centre of the top and bring it out through the exact centre of the bottom. Pull firmly to create an indentation in the centre, but don’t cut the yarn.
- Second pass: Take the needle back through the bottom and up through the top, coming through at a slightly different angle. Pull firmly again.
- Third pass: Repeat one more time to help secure the shape, then knot the yarn securely at the bottom.
- As you pull the yarn through the centre, the stuffing is pushed outward and the ribbed stitches naturally start to form those lovely pumpkin sections.
- The trick is in how tightly you pull. You want to pull firmly enough to create about 5–7 natural-looking ribs, but not so tightly that the top and bottom pucker or the pumpkin loses its shape.
If you don’t pull quite enough, your pumpkin will look more like a round ball. Pull too tightly, and it can become a little too squished. Just keep adjusting the tension until those beautiful pumpkin ribs start to pop.
And that’s it! This one little step makes such a difference and gives your finished pumpkin that extra bit of dimension.
Watch Video Tutorial Here
Tips for beginner crocheters! Watch the video all the way through a few times so that you know what to expect.
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Notes
- For the starting chain only try to keep the tension fairly tight.
- For the remainder of the pumpkin keep stitches loose: It’s important to work your stitches very loosely throughout this pattern, especially when slip stitching. Tight stitches can make it difficult to insert the hook into the next row, which may lead to frustration.
- Colour Changes: Colour changes are done every two rows. Be sure that the last two rows of the pumpkin are worked in a different colour than the first two rows – this is very important to ensure even striping of the pumpkin. It is okay if your pumpkin is slightly shorter or longer than indicated on pattern. See the photo below
- Join the tube securely: When folding the short ends together to form a tube, you can either slip stitch or sew with a tapestry needle (I found using a slip stitch made a much cleaner seam). Make sure your seam is secure to avoid gaps in the pumpkin body.
- Stuff it firm, but flexible: When stuffing the pumpkin, I recommend filling it quite full for a better final shape. If you prefer a squishier texture, use less filling, but ensure the shape is even.
- Adding a stem or decoration: Consider using twigs, ribbon, or even cinnamon to top your pumpkin. You could match the look to your home decor or to suit who will be using the pumpkin.
Rustic Rib – Free Crochet Pumpkin Pattern
Skill Level
Beginner
Abbreviations
- blo – back loop only
- ch – chain
- flo – front loop only
- sc – single crochet
- sk – skip
- st – stitch
- sts – stitches
- sl st – slip stitch
- rpt – repeat
- Rs – right side
Gauge
Not required for this pattern. Finished dimensions are approximate and will change with the amount of stuffing used and tension of each individual crocheter.
Finished Measurements (diameter x height)
Note these sizes will vary depending on how full you stuff your pumpkin and how tight you pull the centre through the bottom of the pumpkin.
- Extra Small 3.5” x 2.5”
- Small 4” x 3”
- Medium 4.5” x 3.5”
- Large 5” x 4”
- Extra Large 5.5” x 4.5”
Construction Timeline by Size
| Pumpkin Size | Crochet Time | Assembly Time |
| Extra Small | 20-25 minutes | 10 minutes |
| Small | 30-35 minutes | 12 minutes |
| Medium | 40-45 minutes | 15 minutes |
| Large | 50-55 minutes | 18 minutes |
| Extra Large | 60-70 minutes | 20 minutes |
Materials Needed
- 10.00 mm hook
- Tapestry Needle
- Stitch Marker
- Poly-Fil or any other stuffing
- 5” Yarn Needle
- Twig, ribbon or cinnamon stick for stem.
- E6000 glue or glue and hot glue gun (if needed)
- Super Bulky Weight Yarn (shown here Lion Brand Re-Spun Thick & Quick)
- Colours used: Whipped Cream, Sephia Rose, Cinnamon Stick, Night Sky, Cameo, Espresso.
- I also used Lion Brand Thick & Quick in Fisherman, Mustard & Charcoal
Yarn Requirements
- X Small Pumpkin – Yarn: 45g, 29m, 1.59 oz, 32 yds
- Small Pumpkin – Yarn: 55g, 36m, 1.94 oz, 39 yds
- Medium Pumpkin – Yarn: 75g, 48m, 2.65 oz, 53 yds
- Large Pumpkin – Yarn: 95g, 61m, 3.35 oz, 67 yds
- X Large Pumpkin – Yarn: 110g, 70m, 3.88 oz, 78 yds
Please note that the actual amount of yarn needed may change depending on the yarn chosen always purchase a little more than you think you may need..
Yarn Weight Substitution Guide
| Yarn Weight | Recommended Hook | Pattern Adjustment |
| Super Bulky (original) | 10mm | Use as written |
| 2 Strands Chunky | 9-10mm | Use as written |
| Bulky Weight | 8mm | Add 2-4 chains |
| 2 Strands Worsted | 8mm | Add 3-5 chains |
Extra Small Pumpkin
If making a striped pumpkin colour changes are done every two rows.
Using 10.00 mm hook, ch 13.
Row 1: Slst in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (12)
Row 2: Slst in blo of each slst across. Turn. (12)
Row 3: Slst in flo of each slst across. Turn (12)
Rpt rows 2 and 3 until pumpkin measures 10” across.
Continue to “finishing steps” below.
Small Pumpkin
If making a striped pumpkin colour changes are done every two rows.
Using 10.00 mm hook, ch 15.
Row 1: Slst in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (14)
Row 2: Slst in blo of each slst across. Turn. (14)
Row 3: Slst in flo of each slst across. Turn (14)
Rpt rows 2 and 3 until pumpkin measures 11” across.
Continue to “finishing steps” below.
Medium Pumpkin
If making a striped pumpkin colour changes are done every two rows.
Using 10.00 mm hook, ch 17.
Row 1: Slst in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (16)
Row 2: Slst in blo of each slst across. Turn. (16)
Row 3: Slst in flo of each slst across. Turn (16)
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until pumpkin measures 12” across.
Continue to “finishing steps” below.
Large Pumpkin
If making a striped pumpkin colour changes are done every two rows.
Using 10.00 mm hook, ch 19.
Row 1: Slst 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (18)
Row 2: Slst in blo of each slst across. Turn. (18)
Row 3: Slst in flo of each slst across. Turn (18)
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until pumpkin measures 13” across.
Continue to “finishing steps” below.
Extra Large Pumpkin
If making a striped pumpkin colour changes are done every two rows.
Using 10.00 mm hook Ch 21
Row 1: Slst in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across. Turn. (20)
Row 2: Slst in blo in each slst across. Turn. (20)
Row 3: Slst in flo in slst across. Turn (20)
Repeat rows 2 and 3 until pumpkin measures 14” across.
Continue to “finishing steps” below.
Finishing Steps
- Fold the rectangle with the right sides facing each other.
- Align the short ends, then join them either by sewing or slip stitching across the edge to create a tube. Leave an extra long tail for closing the ends of the crochet pumpkin.
- Close the bottom of the pumpkin. Using a yarn needle and tail of yarn weave the needle back and forth between stitches and pull as you go until the bottom of pumpkin is closed. Keep the yarn on the needle for the next step.
- Close the top – Using a yarn needle and tail of yarn weave the needle back and forth between stitches do not pull closed.
- Stuff it – At this point you will want to stuff your pumpkin with poly-fil to desired firmness. I filled mine to about medium density it made for easier shaping when done. If you want them to be a bit squishier use less filling.
- Pull the yarn until the top of pumpkin is closed.
- Keep the yarn on the needle for the next step. Once the top of the pumpkin is closed push the needle from the top through the bottom of the pumpkin 2-3 times and fasten off.
Top it off
Now that your pumpkin is stuffed and closed, it’s time to add a fun finishing touch! There are many ways to top off your pumpkin, so think about where or how it will be used. For a classic, rustic look, you can use a twig or cinnamon stick as the stem.
If you’d like a softer, more playful option for little hands, try a loop of ribbon. To add a bit more character, tie a small bow of jute twine or velvet ribbon around the base of the stem, or glue on some faux leaves for a seasonal flair. Secure your chosen topper with hot glue or E6000 glue, ensuring it stays in place.
Stem & Topper Options by Use Case
| Use Case | Best Topper | Attachment Method |
| Baby/Toddler Safe | Ribbon loop | Sewn through top |
| Rustic Farmhouse | Natural twig | Hot glue or E6000 |
| Scented Display | Cinnamon stick | Hot glue |
| Gift/Market Sale | Jute twine bow + faux leaves | Hot glue combination |
Did you make any of these?
I would love to see what you have made be sure to mention @prettydarnadorable or tag me using #prettydarnadorable on Instagram so I can see your creations!
F.A.Q.
Variegated yarn works beautifully with this pattern and creates an organic, multi-toned effect without changing colors manually. The slip stitch ribbing will create vertical color striping naturally as the yarn colors pool. Choose a variegated yarn with colors that shift gradually rather than abruptly for the most cohesive look.
Stuffing amount varies by desired firmness, but approximate amounts are: Extra Small (1 cup), Small (1.5 cups), Medium (2 cups), Large (2.5 cups), and Extra Large (3+ cups). The pumpkin should feel firm but slightly squeezable, not rock-hard or floppy. Distribute stuffing evenly before closing the top opening.
Yes, cotton yarn creates a denser, more structured pumpkin compared to acrylic. Because cotton has no stretch, use a hook one size larger than recommended for your cotton yarn weight to maintain fabric flexibility. Cotton pumpkins hold their shape exceptionally well and have a sophisticated, weighted feel perfect for farmhouse or modern decor.
The squat pumpkin shape depends on correct width-to-height proportions in your rectangle. Before seaming, fold the rectangle in half to check that it forms a square shape. If it’s more rectangular (taller than wide when folded), add more rows to increase width. The center pull-through technique also creates vertical definition that makes the pumpkin appear wider and more authentic.
Most Important Insights to Remember
- Slip stitch ribbing worked in alternating front and back loops creates a knit-like vertical texture that naturally forms pumpkin ribs when the piece is assembled and shaped with center pull-through stitching.
- The rectangle should form a near-perfect square when folded in half before seaming, which ensures proper width-to-height proportions for an authentic squat pumpkin shape rather than a round ball.
- Foundation chains should be worked with tighter tension while all subsequent rows use looser tension to create stable edges without producing stiff, inflexible fabric that resists gathering and shaping.
- Hook size must be adjusted based on yarn weight to maintain fabric density that prevents stuffing from showing through the naturally stretchy slip stitch fabric while allowing enough drape for smooth assembly.
- The triple center pull-through technique transforms a stuffed tube into a dimensional pumpkin by compressing center stuffing outward and forcing the ribbed texture into 5-7 distinct vertical segments that mimic real pumpkin anatomy.
- Whether you make just one or a whole patch, the Rustic Rib Pumpkin free crochet pattern is a quick, beginner-friendly project that adds instant fall charm to your home. With its simple slip stitch ribbing, chunky texture, and endless size and colour options, it’s the perfect mix of easy and customizable. Grab your hook, some super bulky yarn, and a bit of stuffing — in less than an evening, you’ll have a cosy, handmade pumpkin ready to display or gift.
Be sure to download these free crochet pumpkin tags below.
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