Valley Yarns Scilla Crochet Pattern

Valley Yarns Scilla Crochet Yarn Bowl

Project Overview

Scilla is a quick, satisfying crochet project designed by Sarah Teague that creates a functional yarn bowl—a practical container for holding yarn while you work. This intermediate-level design is ideal for crafters seeking a smaller project between larger undertakings or a thoughtful handmade gift for fellow yarn enthusiasts. The finished yarn bowl measures 4 inches tall with a 6½ inch diameter, making it a compact yet useful addition to any crafter's workspace.

Crochet Techniques and Stitches

Scilla employs the waistcoat stitch as its primary technique, which creates a dense, textured fabric that visually resembles knitting while maintaining the speed and ease of crochet construction. This stitch choice produces a thicker, more structured fabric ideal for a yarn bowl that will hold its shape and support yarn weight. The project is worked in the round, building the bowl from the center outward in continuous rounds to create a seamless, integrated structure.

The design incorporates stranded colorwork techniques, allowing crafters to work with two or three colors depending on which design variation they choose. This two-tone and multi-tone approach adds visual interest and complexity while remaining accessible to intermediate-level crocheters who have mastered basic colorwork methods.

Design Variations

Scilla offers three distinct design options, each available in multiple colorways:

• Design 1: A two-color design using Valley Yarns Valley Superwash Super Bulky in contrasting color combinations. Available in Colorway A (Burgundy and Castaway Coral), Colorway B (Peacock and Tiki Turquoise), and Colorway C (Steel Grey and Grey Gardens).
• Design 2: A charted colorwork option offering more adventurous color patterning. Requires slightly higher yarn quantities, particularly in the primary color. Available in the same three colorway options as Design 1.
• Design 3: A three-color design combining two accent colors with a neutral base. This most complex option introduces a third color (Natural, Tan, or White depending on colorway) for enhanced visual depth and pattern complexity.

Materials and Yarn Specifications

Scilla is designed to be crocheted with Valley Yarns Valley Superwash Super Bulky, a premium yarn composed of 100% Extra Fine Superwash Merino Wool. Each ball contains 100 grams and yields 55 yards, providing the substantial weight and quick coverage necessary for this project's efficient construction. The super bulky weight allows the waistcoat stitch to create a particularly dense, structured fabric suitable for a functional container.

Yarn requirements vary by design: Design 1 requires 2 balls total (1 ball each of two colors), Design 2 requires 3 to 4 balls depending on colorway, and Design 3 requires 4 to 5 balls incorporating three distinct colors. A 7.0 mm crochet hook is used throughout the project.

Skill Level and Craftsmanship

Rated for Adventurous Beginner to Intermediate crocheters, Scilla balances accessibility with engaging technique work. While the waistcoat stitch and stranded colorwork require foundational crochet knowledge and comfort with color changes, the project's small scale and straightforward construction make it an excellent stepping stone for developing these skills without the commitment of a large garment.