The Rustic Rib Pumpkin is a 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.
At a glance:
- Skill level: Beginner
- Stitches used: Slip stitch (front loop only, back loop only)
- Sizes: Extra Small, Small, Medium, Large, Extra Large
- Hook size: 10.00 mm (adjust for yarn weight)
- Yarn weight: Super bulky (e.g., Lion Brand Re-Spun Thick & Quick)
- Extras: Step-by-step video tutorial, free printable crochet tag PDF available
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.
Made from super bulky yarn and a 10.00 mm crochet hook you can imagine how quickly these pumpkins make up. I have included 5 different sizes so you can make an extra small pumpkin all the way up to an extra large pumpkin. This easy crochet pumpkin pattern is considered a beginner skill level using only slip stitch for the entire pumpkin.
Even though this is an easy crochet pattern keeping track of when you should be working in the front loop or the back loop can get a little tricky. This is why I have decided to do a step-by-step video tutorial for you be sure to watch if you need a little extra help.
Construction
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.
How to Crochet the Rustic Rib Pumpkin (Overview)
1. Make the rectangle
- Chain to desired height (see size chart).
- Work slip stitches in back loop on wrong side rows, front loop on right side rows.
- Repeat until the rectangle measures the correct width.
2. Form the pumpkin
- Fold the rectangle with right sides facing.
- Slip stitch or sew short ends together to create a tube.
- Use long tail to gather and close the bottom.
3. Stuff and close
- Add stuffing until pumpkin is firm but squeezable.
- Gather and close the top opening.
- Pass the yarn needle through center from top to bottom 2–3 times to define shape.
4. Add the stem
- Hot glue a twig, cinnamon stick, or fabric stem in place.
- Decorate with ribbon, jute twine, or faux leaves.
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.
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Watch Video Tutorial Here
The latest on Youtube:
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
Finished Measurements & 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..
Note: Do colour changes every two rows for striped pumpkins.
Did you make any of these?
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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”
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
- Work in front loop right side facing.
- Work in back look wrong side facing.
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.
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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.
FAQ’S
Common Question about Making Pumpkins
How long does it take to crochet a pumpkin:
These pumpkins work up incredibly fast! It takes me about 30 minutes to make a small not including the decorating and stuffing.
How many rows for a crochet pumpkin:
Each size you make will require a different number of rows – however if you are customizing your size make it so that when folded short ends together it makes a square this is perfect.
How to attach cinnamon stick to crochet pumpkin?
Apply hot glue to one end of the cinnamon stick. Press it onto the pumpkin and hold until set.
Add ribbon or twine around the base of the cinnamon stick for decoration.
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.
