As the weather turns cooler and the leaves start to fall, many of us crave projects that evoke the warmth and comfort of autumn. I’m thrilled to share with you a brand-new crochet stitch—the Pumpkin Stitch! This textured stitch is perfect for adding cozy, intricate details to your handmade blankets, scarves, and more.

Inspired by my love for vintage patterns from the 1920s and earlier, the Pumpkin Stitch takes its roots from an antique stitch I discovered in a beloved old handiwork book. There’s something magical about revisiting these old patterns and breathing new life into them for modern crafters. The Pumpkin Stitch is my homage to autumn, bringing the rustic charm of the season into your next crochet project.

Why the Pumpkin Stitch?

If you’re looking to add texture to your crochet work, the Pumpkin Stitch is a fantastic choice. This stitch creates a beautifully raised pattern that adds depth and a little “pop,” making it perfect for cozy blankets, scarves, or even home decor like pillows. The stitch is simple to learn, but the effect is elegant and eye-catching—much like its vintage counterparts.

I’ve included a video tutorial to walk you through each step of this unique stitch, as well as the written instructions below.

Pumpkin Stitch Tutorial: Step-by-Step

Before we dive in, make sure you have your yarn and hook ready. This stitch works well with medium-weight yarns, but feel free to experiment with different textures to find the perfect look for your project!

Materials:

– Any yarn of your choice (medium-weight yarn recommended for the texture) I’ve used Lion Brand 24/7 Cotton Yarn

– Corresponding crochet hook. I used a size 4mm hook

Pumpkin Stitch Instructions:

1. Foundation Row:** Start with a multiple of 2 + 3 chain stitches.

2. Row 1: hdc into the third chain from the hook, and hdc across the row.

3. Row 2 (Pumpkin Row): ch 2 (sc in first st, fpsc around next stitch) repeat across

Repeat Row 2 until your piece reaches the desired length.

ch – chain
sc – single crochet
hdc – half double crochet
fpsc – front post single crochet

Creative Ideas for Using the Pumpkin Stitch

The Pumpkin Stitch adds a lot of texture and dimension, making it a great choice for several autumn-inspired projects:

Cozy Scarves: The raised texture gives scarves a thicker, more luxurious feel—perfect for wrapping up on chilly days.

Throw Blankets: Add warmth and rustic charm to your home by making a throw blanket using this stitch. The stitch pattern creates a lovely rhythm, making it both fun and relaxing to crochet.

Home Decor: Try this stitch on pillows or even table runners to bring an autumnal touch into your home.

Watch the Video Tutorial!

I’ve created a step-by-step video tutorial to help you master the Pumpkin Stitch! Whether you’re a beginner or an experienced crocheter, this video will guide you through each part of the stitch and give you tips for getting the best texture possible.

Final Thoughts on the Pumpkin Stitch

The Pumpkin Stitch has quickly become one of my favorite crochet stitches for fall. Its vintage roots, combined with the modern appeal of rich texture, make it the perfect choice for your autumn crafting. Whether you’re creating gifts for loved ones or treating yourself to something cozy, this stitch is sure to be a hit.

Have you tried the Pumpkin Stitch? Share your thoughts or photos of your creations in the comments below! And don’t forget to subscribe to my newsletter for more crochet tips, free patterns, and inspiration from The Unique Sheep.

Happy crocheting!