
25 Free Crochet Sunflower Patterns (Step by Step Pattern)
A bright, cheerful sunflower can light up any project—from blankets and home decor to cute accessories and toys. If you’re looking for a batch of free, beginner-friendly or intermediate patterns you can try one after the other, this post is your guide. Each pattern below includes a clear materials list, stitch abbreviations, a finished size, and a step-by-step pattern you can follow. The sunflowers here range from tiny appliqués that brighten up a cardigan to larger squares and pillows that become statement pieces in a living room. Ready to crochet your own field of sunshine? Let’s dive in.
Introduction: Why Sunflowers in Crochet?
Sunflowers are not just pretty; they’re durable and versatile for crochet projects. They offer a classic combination of bright yellow petals and a deep brown center, with vibrant green leaves for contrast. When you crochet with sunflowers, you can:
- Create quick, satisfying projects like coasters or bookmarks.
- Build a coordinated home decor set (pillows, table runners, wall hangings).
- Assemble a sunlit bouquet of amigurumi or applique flowers for gifts.
- Experiment with color shifts (sunny yellow, golden yellow, brown centers, and various greens) to suit your style or season.
Tips for choosing yarn and hooks
- Weight: Most of these patterns use worsted weight (Category 4) yarn or lightweight variants; you can adapt to DK or sport with a smaller hook and smaller gauge.
- Colors: Classic sunflower colors are yellow for petals, brown for centers, and green for leaves. You can also try orange petals or a dark sunflower center for a different mood.
- Size: If you want a larger project, switch to a bulkier yarn and a bigger hook. If you want a mini project, use a finer yarn and a smaller hook.
- Tension: Crochet gauge matters for size. If your project turns out too small or too large, adjust by changing the hook size or using a lighter/diner weight yarn.
Abbreviations commonly used in these patterns
- ch: chain
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- tr: treble crochet
- inc: increase (2 stitches in the same stitch)
- dec: decrease
- MR: magic ring (adjustable ring)
Pattern 1: Classic Sunflower Motif Square
Overview: A cheerful sunflower motif you can join into a blanket or use as a tile in a wall hanging.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarns in brown, yellow, and a leaf green (optional)
- Hook size: 4.5 mm (US F-5) or size to obtain gauge
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
Finished size: About 6×6 inches (per square), depending on tension
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- With brown, MR, ch 1, work 6 sc into the ring. Join with sl st to the first sc.
- Round 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each stitch around (12 sc). Sl st to first sc.
- Round 3: Switch to yellow. In each of the 12 stitches around, work 2 sc in the stitch. You should have 24 sc around.
- Create petals: In each of the 12 spaces between the current stitches, work a petal cluster: in each space, work 5 dc in the same space, then sl st to the base. Repeat around until you have 6 petals (2 petals per edge space).
- Fasten off and weave in ends. If you’d like a green leaf, chain 8, sl st back along the chain, and attach to the lower edge of the square.
Finishing tips: Block lightly to even edges and enhance the petals’ shape. You can join several of these squares into a blanket or wall panel.
Pattern 2: Sunflower Coasters (Set of 4)
Overview: Quick, durable, and perfect for a housewarming gift or a sunny table setting.
Materials:
- 2 skeins worsted weight; one yellow, one brown
- Hook 4.0 mm (US G-6)
- Scissors and yarn needle
- Optional: fabric stiffener or clear spray for more rigidity
Finished size: About 4 inches across
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, sl st
Step-by-step pattern
- With yellow, MR, ch 1, 8 sc into the ring. Join with sl st to first sc.
- Round 2: Ch 1, 2 sc in each stitch around (16 sc). Sl st to first sc.
- Switch to brown. Round 3: Sc in next 2 stitches, inc in the next stitch; repeat around to create a center ring (approximately 24 sc total).
- Round 4: With brown, sc around the outer edge to smooth. Sl st and join. Fasten off, leaving a tail.
- Assemble: If you want, add a small yellow ring around the brown center by repeating steps with yellow in a new round.
- Weave in ends and block flat.
Finishing tips: For a smoother coaster, weave in ends carefully and block with a light spray.
Pattern 3: Mini Sunflower Appliqué
Overview: A tiny sunflower perfect for embellishing hats, bags, scarves, or sweaters.
Materials:
- DK weight yarns in yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 3.5 mm (US E-4)
- Tapestry needle
Finished size: About 1.5–2 inches in diameter
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- With brown, MR, ch 1, 6 sc into ring. Join.
- Round 2: Switch to brown, inc in each stitch around (12 sc).
- Move to yellow. Round 3: In each of the 12 stitches, make 2 sc in the stitch (24 sc total).
- Create petals: Working in the back loops only, sc in the next 6 stitches, then sc in the next 12 stitches to form the petals, securing at the base.
- Fasten off and weave in ends. If desired, add a small green leaf by chaining 6, sl st back, and attaching to the base of the center.
- If using as an appliqué, sew onto fabric or garment with a small running stitch around the petals.
Pattern 4: Large Sunflower Wall Hanging Panel
Overview: A decorative wall panel to brighten a room.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in sunflower-themed colors
- Hook 5.0 mm (H)
- Wooden dowel or rod for hanging
- Needle and thread for mounting
Finished size: Approx. 12×12 inches (panel only)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, sl st, dc, tr
Step-by-step pattern
- Center disc: With brown, MR, ch 1, 6 sc; join. Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 sc).
- Petal construction: Attach yellow around the edge in clusters: in each space, work a cluster of 5 dc, then a ch 1, skip next space, and repeat around. You should create about 6-8 petals.
- Outer ring: Switch to green and work a few rows of sc or hdc to create a leafy border. This helps frame the flower.
- Prepare for hanging: Attach the panel to a dowel using a simple running stitch or sew a small fabric loop at the top.
- Fasten off and weave in ends. Block lightly to smooth shapes.
Finishing tips: Use a backing fabric or felt behind the panel for stability, and finish the dowel with rope or tassels for a more rustic look.
Pattern 5: Sunflower Pillow Front Panel
Overview: A cozy cushion front that shines in a living room or bedroom.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarns (yellow, brown, green)
- Hook 4.5 mm
- Pillow form (size dictated by your pillow insert)
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
Finished size: About 12×12 inches (front panel)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec, sl st
Step-by-step pattern
- Create the center circle: With brown, MR, ch 1, 6 sc in the ring. Join.
- Increase to form a circle: Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around. Round 3: Alternate single increases to reach a total of 24–30 sc (depending on desired circle size).
- Add petals: Switch to yellow and work evenly spaced petals around the edge: e.g., for 8 petals, attach yellow near every 3rd or 4th stitch and repeat a small petal pattern: ch 3, 6 dc, sl st to base to form petal tip, repeat around.
- Outer border: Add a simple green border if desired to resemble leaves.
- Assemble: Sew the front panel to a pillow back or to the pillow form with a seam around all sides, leaving a small opening for inserting the pillow. Close the opening with a mattress stitch or whip stitch.
- Fasten off and weave in ends. Lightly block if needed.
Pattern 6: Sunflower Tote Bag Charm
Overview: A cute, removable sunflower charm you can attach to a tote or handbag.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarns (yellow, brown, green)
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Keyring or lobster clasp
- Tapestry needle
Finished size: About 4–5 inches tall (including stem)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, sl st
Step-by-step pattern
- Create a compact sunflower center: With brown, MR, ch 1, 6 sc; join.
- Build center: Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 sc).
- Petals: Attach yellow on the outer edge and work a simple petal: 5 dc in the same stitch, sl st to the base, then rotate to the next petal position. Repeat around to create 6 petals.
- Stem and leaf: Switch to green; chain 15 and sl st back to the base to form a small stem. Add a leaf by chaining 4 and attaching to the stem with a few sc.
- Assembly: Sew the completed sunflower onto a small loop that can slide onto a keyring or bag strap. Attach to a clasp if you want a detachable charm.
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Pattern 7: Sunflower Bookmark
Overview: A delightfully quick bookmark that adds cheer to any reading corner.
Materials:
- DK weight yarn (yellow, brown)
- Hook 3.25–3.5 mm
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: About 2 inches wide by 6–7 inches long
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Body: With yellow, MR, ch 1, work 20–28 sc into the ring (depending on desired thickness). Join to first sc.
- Petal edge: Switch to brown. Single crochet around the outer edge to create a small border to keep shape.
- Center circle: Create a small brown circle at the top center by ch 6, sl st into first ch, and attach to the bookmark for a center illusion.
- Finish: Weave in ends. Optionally, add a tassel or a ribbon at the top.
Pattern 8: Sunflower Baby Bib
Overview: A sunny bib to brighten up baby outfits.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn (yellow, brown, green)
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Bib backing fabric or felt (optional)
- Snaps or Velcro for closure
Finished size: About 7×9 inches (adjustable for baby size)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- Starting circle: With brown, MR, ch 1, 6 sc; join.
- Increase to create round shape: Round 2: 2 sc in each stitch around (12 sc). Round 3: Switch to yellow; 2 sc in the next stitch, single in the next, repeat around to form a gentle flower ring.
- Petals: Switch to yellow. In the next round, single color to create petals by pulling up long petals around the circumference: 8–10 petals, each formed from a series of dc stitches across spaced around the edge.
- Strap and closure: Attach a simple strap by chaining a length long enough to go around the neck and connect with a snap/clasp closure.
- Attach bib backing or felt: If you’re using fabric backing, cut to bib shape and stitch to the bib.
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
Pattern 9: Sunflower Scrubby
Overview: A practical kitchen scrubby with a sunny look.
Materials:
- Cotton yarn (yellow, brown, green if you want leaves)
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Scissors and tapestry needle
- Optional: sturdy cotton twine for hanging
Finished size: About 4 inches across
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Brown center: With brown, MR, ch 1, 10 sc; join.
- Surrounding ring: Use yellow and rotate around: 2 sc in each stitch around (20 sc).
- Outer ring: Switch to yellow and work a few rows of sc around to create a fluffy edge that doubles as scrubbing texture.
- Finishing: Fasten off. Weave in ends. If you want extra texture, you can add a few rows of alternated sc and dc in the outer edge to mimic a scrub pad.
Pattern 10: Sunflower Table Runner Centerpiece
Overview: A decorative table runner that adds a sunny glow.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 4.5 mm
- Table-safe backing fabric or felt
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: Varies based on desired length; suggested center panel ~12×6 inches
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- Create 4–6 sunflower motifs following Pattern 1 or Pattern 7 for the center petals, joining motifs as you go to form a longer strip.
- Add leaves: Create 2–4 simple leaf motifs using green yarn as separate components and attach to the sides of the center motifs.
- Assembly: Join the motifs with a single crochet border or slip stitch along the sides to create a clean seam.
- Backing: Attach a contrasting backing fabric to the back for a clean finish.
- Finish: Add fringes or tassels at the ends if desired.
Pattern 11: Sunflower Basket
Overview: A small, sturdy basket for trinkets or craft supplies.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in yellow and brown
- Hook 5.0 mm
- Basket base form or stiff cardboard (optional)
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: Approximately 6–8 inches in diameter and 4–6 inches tall
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Base: Create a tight circular base using brown or yellow as you prefer. Start with MR, 6 sc in ring, and increase evenly to form a flat bottom.
- Sides: Switch to yellow; work around in rounds, keeping stitches even to form a tall side wall. Add 1–2 increases every other round to keep the circle gentle in shape.
- Rim: Switch to brown for a decorative rim if desired, or continue in yellow. Work 1–2 rows of sc around, closing with a sl st.
- Handles: Attach two small handles by sewing on brown strips on opposite sides.
- Finishing: Secure all ends; optionally line with fabric or plastic to create a sturdy interior.
Pattern 12: Sunflower Plant Pot Cozy
Overview: A cozy to brighten a potted plant or a small herb pot.
Materials:
- DK weight yarn in yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Pot or container to match size
- Tapestry needle
Finished size: Fits standard 4–6 inch pots
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- Base: Create a circle with brown center and yellow petals around (similar approach to other motifs) or form a more straightforward round tube with color changes.
- Body: Work a few rounds in yellow to form the body of the cozy; you can add green stripes or leaves by switching color on alternate rounds.
- Fit: Place around the pot and adjust with gentle shaping so it fits snugly. Use a drawstring or elastic to secure if needed.
- Finishing: Weave in ends. Optionally line with fabric for a neater finish.
Pattern 13: Sunflower Amigurumi Plush
Overview: A soft toy sunflower with a happy face.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarns in yellow, brown, and optional black for a face
- Hook 3.75–4.0 mm
- Fiberfill stuffing
- Safety eyes (optional)
- Needle
Finished size: Approximately 6–8 inches tall (depending on stuffing)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- Head/center: Create the round center using brown yarn. Use MR to form a compact circle and crochet around with a few rounds (sc or dc depending on your preference).
- Petals: Attach yellow to the outer edge and crochet petals around the circle by creating a series of elongated stitches (sc or dc) in a petal shape around the edge.
- Assembly: Stuff the center lightly; stitch petals to form a rounded flower. Add a face if desired with safety eyes and a stitched smile.
- Stem: Crochet a slim stem in green and attach to the back of the flower.
- Finishing: Weave in all ends; adjust stuffing as needed for a balanced look.
Pattern 14: Sunflower Hair Band
Overview: A cute headband featuring a sunflower centerpiece.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Hairband base or elastic
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: Fits most adults (adjust if needed)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Crochet a smaller sunflower center (brown) using MR and 2–3 rounds.
- Petals: Surround with yellow petals, using a few rounds of sc or dc to give shape.
- Attach: Sew the sunflower to a band or elastic band to form a decorative headband.
- Leaves: Add small green leaves at the base if desired for extra charm.
- Finishing: Secure ends and ensure the band is comfortable and non-slip.
Pattern 15: Sunflower Headband Accent
Overview: A smaller accent piece for a bag or hat.
Materials:
- DK weight yellow and brown
- Hook 3.75–4.0 mm
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: About 3–4 inches diameter
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Make a small brown center (MR, 6 sc, 2 rounds).
- Petals: Add 8 yellow petals around—each petal as a small cluster of stitches.
- Attach: Stitch the sunflower onto a small circle or band that can clip to clothing or bags with a pin or clip.
- Finishing: Weave in ends.
Pattern 16: Sunflower Baby Booties
Overview: Cheerful booties for newborns or infants.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn in yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Elastic or ribbon
- Needle
Finished size: For newborns (you can adjust pattern for older babies)
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc, dec
Step-by-step pattern
- Sole: Start with a small circle in brown or yellow, then expand to form the sole with a few rounds.
- Body and petals: Switch to yellow for the body; crochet a round with a few petals at the top near the opening.
- Straps: Add a small strap or tie with green or brown to secure the bootie on the foot.
- Finishing: Weave in ends. Try on a newborn foot for fit and adjust with the elastic.
Pattern 17: Sunflower Ornament Ball
Overview: A spherical ornament using several sunflower motifs.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yellow, brown, and green
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Stitch marker
- Thread and needle for assembly
Finished size: About 3–4 inches in diameter
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Create multiple sunflower motifs (Pattern 1–Pattern 3) in yellow and brown.
- Crochet or sew the motifs onto a hollow cotton or foam ball base to form a spherical shape.
- Add leaves and stem as desired with green yarn.
- Allow to dry completely if using any glue, then add a ribbon for hanging.
Pattern 18: Sunflower Car Charm
Overview: A tiny sun-loving charm ideal for car mirrors or keychains.
Materials:
- Fine yarn in yellow and brown
- Hook 2.75–3.0 mm
- Small metal ring or keychain
- Tapestry needle
Finished size: About 1.5 inches in diameter
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: MR, 6 sc, join.
- Petals: Work a small ring of petals around the center using tight stitches to keep a compact size.
- Assembly: Attach to ring or keychain, ensuring secure attachment. Weave in ends.
- Finishing: Add a tiny green leaf if desired.
Pattern 19: Sunflower Lantern Cover
Overview: A whimsical lantern cover to cast sunny shadows at dusk.
Materials:
- Cotton yarn in yellow and brown
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Lantern or LED tealight candle
Finished size: Fits standard jar or lantern size
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Create a small brown circle with MR and 6 sc.
- Petals: Add yellow petals around the center with a light cluster or small shells to create a floral ring.
- Sides: Work 2–3 rounds of yellow around for the outer shell and create a lip at the top for a clean fit.
- Assembly: Slide the lantern into the cover (ensure it is flame-safe).
- Finishing: Weave in ends and adjust the fit.
Pattern 20: Sunflower Dishcloth
Overview: A practical dishcloth with a sunny look.
Materials:
- Cotton yarn (worsted weight)
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Needle and scissors
Finished size: About 8 inches square
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Create a small brown center using MR and 6 sc in the ring.
- Petals: Work yellow petals around the edge by creating clusters of stitches (5–6 dc in one stitch for each petal), spacing petals evenly.
- Border: Work a row of sc in yellow to finish the edges and give a neat look.
- Finishing: Weave in ends and block lightly if needed for shape.
Pattern 21: Sunflower Quilt Block
Overview: A large quilt block featuring a sunflower motif.
Materials:
- Cottons in yellow, brown, and lime green for leaves
- Quilt-friendly batting
- Sewing needle
- Thread
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Create a small brown circle in the middle as the focal point.
- Petals: Attach yellow patches around the center to mimic petals.
- Leaves: Add green leaf patches on the sides.
- Assembly: Quilt blocks join with standard quilting technique (sashing, corner seams).
- Finishing: Bind the quilt as desired.
Pattern 22: Sunflower Wall Art Panel
Overview: A single-panel wall art with a sunflower centerpiece.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn
- Hook 4.5 mm
- Canvas or frame
Finished size: About 12×12 inches
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Create a sunflower motif (Pattern 1 or 3) to be the focal point.
- Surround: Add decorative surrounding rings in green to resemble leaves around the flower.
- Mount: Attach the crochet piece to a frame or canvas.
- Finishing: Optional framing or mounting for a neat display.
Pattern 23: Sunflower Wind Spinner
Overview: A sunlit, dynamic home decor piece for a breezy corner.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn
- Hook 4.0–4.5 mm
- String or thread for hanging
Finished size: Each sunflower motif about 4–5 inches; entire spinner depends on the number of flowers
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc
Step-by-step pattern
- Create multiple small sunflowers using a consistent pattern (Pattern 2 or Pattern 7).
- Attach each sunflower to strings of varying lengths to create a wind spinner look.
- Tie the strings to a central ring or stick.
- Add a simple top loop to hang.
Pattern 24: Sunflower Curtain Tiebacks
Overview: A sunny option to hold back curtains.
Materials:
- Worsted weight yarn (yellow, brown, green)
- Hook 4.0 mm
- Scissors and tape measure
Finished size: About 4–6 inches per tieback
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Create a sunflower motif (like Pattern 1) as the centerpiece.
- Add a small green stem and leaf motif.
- Attach to a fabric tieback or string to wrap around the curtain rod.
- Finishing: Weave in ends and wrap a few around the rod for a secure hold.
Pattern 25: Sunflower Doily
Overview: A pretty doily with a sunflower motif for a coffee table or dresser.
Materials:
- Cotton yarn
- Hook 3.5–4.0 mm
- Doily stand or flat surface to block
Finished size: About 12 inches in diameter
Abbreviations: MR, ch, sc, inc
Step-by-step pattern
- Center: Create a small circle using brown and increase to form a round center.
- Petals: Add yellow petals around the center. You can use a pattern that includes 8–12 petals, evenly spaced.
- Outer ring: Work several rounds of ch and dc to create a lacy edge that resembles a flower.
- Finishing: Block on a doily stand; weave in all ends and steam block if needed.
Tips for finishing and customizing your sunflowers
- Color changes: Swap in deeper oranges or lighter yellows to capture different sunlit looks. You can even do a variety of petal colors for a mixed bouquet.
- Size adjustments: Increase or decrease the number of petals or rounds to alter finished size. For blankets, chain multiple motifs and join them using a simple join-as-you-go technique.
- Blocking: Blocking helps petals hold their shape and boundaries. Use gentle steam blocking for most worsted weight projects. For cotton projects, pin to a foam board and lightly wet to set shape.
- Finishing touches: Secure yarn ends well to keep the sunflower motif from loosening. Use a tapestry needle for clean finishing. If you’re making a wearable, consider adding a fabric liner or back to reduce itchiness.
Final thoughts
You now have a full spectrum of 25 free crochet sunflower patterns to choose from, spanning small appliqués, functional items, and bold home decor. Whether you’re compiling a sunlit crochet gallery for your blog, making gifts for friends and family, or adding seasonal cheer to your home, these patterns offer a bright, sunny array of options. The key with sunflowers is to focus on color balance (yellow petals, brown centers, green leaves) and to consider the texture you want (soft amigurumi, sturdy coasters, or decorative mats). With the step-by-step guidance above, you can tackle each project with confidence, adapting sizes and colors to fit your project goals.
If you’d like, you can take this collection further:
- Create a cohesive set by choosing a core sunflower motif and reproducing it in different items (coaster, pillow, wall panel).
- Mix sizes: Use multiple sizes of sunflowers on a single blanket or wall hanging for depth.
- Add personalization: Mix in initials or small motifs for a personalized gift.
Happy crocheting, and may your stitches bloom into sunny creations that brighten every space you share them in. If you have a favorite sun-loving project from this list, tell me about it in the comments, or share photos of your finished sunflowers. I’d love to see how you use these patterns in your home or wardrobe.