Paintbox Yarns Pips the Pumpkin Crochet Pattern

Paintbox Yarns Pips the Pumpkin Crochet Pattern

What Is Being Made

Pips the Pumpkin is a free downloadable crochet pattern designed by Irene Strange that creates an adorable stuffed pumpkin toy. The finished pumpkin measures approximately 6 inches (15 centimeters) tall, making it a perfect size for a decorative accessory or small gift. This intermediate-level project combines multiple yarn colors to create a realistic pumpkin with contrasting green leaves and stem details.

Techniques Used

This pattern is worked in the continuous rounds method, which means you crochet in spiral rounds without joining at the end of each round. A stitch marker is used to denote the start of each round, helping you keep track of where your round begins and ends. The pattern incorporates decrease stitches worked throughout the construction, with instructions provided for both regular decreases and invisible decreases. The sample shown uses invisible decreases, which create a neater, more professional appearance by inserting the hook under the front loop of the first stitch and both loops of the second stitch before completing the decrease as a regular single crochet.

The pattern also includes sewing and finishing techniques. When closing the pieces, you pick up all front loops with a tapestry needle using the leftover length of yarn and pull tight to secure the opening. This method creates a clean, finished edge on your completed pumpkin.

Stitches Used

• Chain stitch (ch) - used for foundation and construction
• Single crochet (sc) / Double crochet (dc) - the primary stitch used throughout (US and UK terminology provided)
• Decrease stitches (dec) - worked to shape the pumpkin and create definition
• Back loop only (blo) - selective stitching into the back loop for textural effects

Materials Required

This project uses Paintbox Yarns Cotton Aran yarn, available exclusively at Lovecrafts.com. You will need 1.8 ounce (50 gram) balls in the following colors: Blood Orange (A) for the main pumpkin body, Racing Green (B) for the leaves, Spearmint Green (C) for additional foliage details, and Blush Pink (D) for accent pieces (small amount used). A US G/6 (4mm) crochet hook is required for this pattern. Additional materials include toy stuffing for filling the pumpkin, a stitch marker to track your rounds, a yarn needle for sewing seams and closing openings, and a pair of 3/8-inch (10mm) black safety eyes for the pumpkin's face. The pattern notes that Paintbox Yarns cannot accept responsibility for the finished item if any yarn other than the recommended yarn is used, as yarn quantities are based on average requirements and sizes are approximate.

Pattern Notes

This intermediate crochet pattern is written using US terminology with UK terminology provided in italicized round brackets for international crocheters. Repeat figures are indicated in square brackets with the number of repetitions stated afterwards. The pattern includes instructions for the smallest size with variations for larger sizes given in parentheses. Where only one figure is given, it applies to all sizes. A warning is included that safety eyes and small pieces are choking hazards and not suitable for children under 36 months.