27 Free Crochet Applique Patterns (Easy Ideas)

In this blog post, you will see 27 free crochet applique patterns (easy ideas) that are perfect for adding a personal touch to your crafting. 

Whether you’re looking to embellish clothing, home decor, or accessories, these fun and quick projects are suitable for all skill levels. 

Each pattern comes with clear instructions, making it easy for beginners to follow along. 

Get ready to explore a variety of shapes and themes, from flowers and animals to seasonal motifs. 

Grab your yarn and crochet hook, and let’s start on these delightful designs!

What Is A Crochet Applique?   

A crochet applique is a small decorative piece made using crochet techniques, often created as a standalone motif that can be attached to larger projects. 

These appliques come in various shapes and designs, such as flowers, animals, hearts, or geometric patterns, 

Typically made with fine yarn or thread, they add texture, color, and personalization to handmade or store-bought items. 

Crochet appliques are versatile and beginner-friendly, making them an excellent way to practice crochet skills or use up leftover yarn. 

What Can You Use Crochet Appliqués For?

Crochet appliques are incredibly versatile and can be used to enhance and personalize a wide variety of items. 

They are perfect for decorating clothing, such as hats, scarves, sweaters, or baby outfits, adding a unique, handmade touch. 

Appliques can also be used to embellish home decor, like blankets, pillows, curtains, or tablecloths, creating themed or seasonal designs. 

They work beautifully as standalone decorations for garlands, ornaments, or wall art and can even be attached to cards or gift wraps for a creative twist. 

Whether sewn, glued, or pinned, crochet appliques are a simple way to add charm and character to almost any project.

Is It Easy To Crochet An Applique?

Crocheting an applique is generally easy and beginner-friendly, as most appliques are small, quick projects that use basic stitches.

Many applique patterns involve simple shapes, such as flowers, hearts, or stars, which are made with common stitches like single crochet, double crochet, or slip stitches. 

Because of their size, they’re a great way to practice new techniques, work with different yarn weights, or use up leftover yarn from other projects. 

The key to success is paying attention to detail, as small appliques require neat, precise stitches for the best results. 

With a little patience and practice, even a beginner can create beautiful, decorative appliques for a variety of uses. 

What Supplies Do You Need To Crochet An Applique? 

To crochet an applique, you’ll need a few basic supplies. 

Start with yarn or crochet thread in the colors of your choice, depending on the size and detail of the applique.

Cotton yarn or thread is often preferred for its crisp stitches and durability. 

Choose an appropriately sized crochet hook, typically smaller than what you’d use for larger projects, to ensure the applique holds its shape. 

You’ll also need scissors for trimming yarn and a yarn needle/tapestry needle for weaving in ends or sewing the applique onto a base. 

Optional but helpful tools include stitch markers to keep track of your progress and a blocking mat for shaping and flattening the finished piece. 

You might also need extra embellishments like buttons or safety eyes.

These supplies are all you need to create a variety of decorative and functional appliques.  

• Yarn Weight Guide {+Conversion Chart}
• Yarn Types Explained: A Guide To Different Fibers 
• How To Read A Yarn Label (Step By Step)

How To Apply Appliques?    

Applying appliques involves attaching them securely to a base fabric or item while ensuring they are aligned and smooth.

• First, position the applique on the desired area and pin it in place to prevent shifting. 
• For a seamless look, use a matching thread or yarn and a sharp needle for hand sewing. 
• Work small, even whipstitches or blanket stitches around the edges of the applique, making sure the stitches catch both the applique and the base fabric. 
• If the base is knitted or crocheted, you can use yarn to attach the applique with invisible or decorative stitches. 
• For non-fabric bases, like wood or plastic, use a strong adhesive suitable for both materials. 

Always check the durability of the attachment, especially if the item will be washed or handled frequently.

Which adhesive is appropriate for applique?    

The appropriate adhesive for attaching an applique depends on the materials of both the applique and the base, as well as the intended use of the project. 

For fabric-to-fabric applications, fabric glue or a fusible webbing like HeatnBond is ideal, as these provide a strong bond and remain flexible after drying. 

If you’re working with non-fabric surfaces like wood, metal, or plastic, a strong craft glue such as E6000 or a hot glue gun can be used, although these may not be suitable for washable items. 

Temporary adhesives like spray adhesives or fabric basting sprays can be used to position appliques before sewing. 

Always check the adhesive label for compatibility with your materials and test on a small area if you’re unsure about potential residue or stiffness. 

For items that will be frequently washed, sewing is often the more durable option.

How Do You Stiffen Crochet Applique?   

To stiffen a crochet applique, you can use a variety of methods depending on the desired level of stiffness and the materials available. 

A common technique involves using a homemade starch solution, which is made by mixing equal parts water and liquid starch (or dissolving cornstarch in water). 

Dip the applique into the solution, gently squeeze out the excess, and shape it as desired on a flat surface. 

Pin the edges in place if needed and allow it to dry completely. 

Other options include using a mixture of glue and water (in equal parts) or a fabric stiffener product. 

For a more permanent solution, you can use a clear acrylic spray or a sugar-water solution, but these may make the applique less flexible. 

Always test the stiffening method on a small piece of the yarn first to ensure it doesn’t alter the color or texture.

Will hairspray stiffen crochet?    

Yes, hairspray can be used to stiffen crochet, although it is more of a temporary solution compared to other stiffening methods. 

To use it, lay the crochet piece flat or shape it as desired, then spray an even coat of hairspray over the surface. 

Allow it to dry completely before handling. 

This method works best for small, lightweight projects like appliques or ornaments that don’t need to be washed or handled frequently. 

However, keep in mind that the stiffening effect from hairspray may wear off over time or with exposure to moisture. 

For a more durable result, consider using fabric stiffeners, starch, or a glue-water mixture. 

How do you flatten a crochet applique?  

To flatten a crochet applique, blocking is the most effective method. 

Start by gently soaking the applique in lukewarm water to relax the fibers. 

Once soaked, remove the excess water by pressing it gently between two towels—avoid wringing it out to maintain its shape. 

Lay the applique flat on a blocking board or another flat surface covered with a towel, and pin it in place to hold the edges and corners in the desired shape. 

For stubborn creases or curls, you can lightly steam it using a handheld steamer or an iron on a low setting, ensuring you don’t press the iron directly onto the yarn. 

Allow the applique to dry completely before removing the pins to ensure it stays flat. 

Related Post: Blocking Knits – How To Block Knitting Guide

Crochet Lessons

If you are a new maker and need help with the crochet basics, check out the crochet lessons here – Crochet Lessons {With Video Tutorials}.

There, you will find tutorial posts for the basic crochet stitches and all the crochet techniques a newbie needs to know.   

And if you need more video tutorials, check out my YouTube channel here – Handy Little Me – YouTube.

For extra help and to connect with more makers, check out the Handylittleme Facebook group. 

You can also find us on all social media outlets, such as Pinterest, Instagram, Twitter, Etsy, Ravelry, and TikTok. 

Free Crochet Patterns

For more crochet inspiration, check out the free patterns below…

• Free Crochet Easter Eggs Pattern
• 50 Best Crochet Stitches For Blankets And Afghans
• Crochet Round Rug Pattern
• 70 Useful Crochet Projects To Make For Your Home
• 35 Free Easter Crochet Patterns
• 35 Free Cotton Yarn Crochet Patterns
• Crochet Dishcloth Pattern Set
• Crochet Washcloth Pattern
• How To Crochet A Blanket
• 50 Stash Busting Crochet Patterns
• 40 Free Granny Square Crochet Patterns
• Crochet Blanket Sizes And How Much Yarn
• Outlander Shawl Crochet Pattern
• Crochet Beach Cover-Up Pattern
• 20 Heart Crochet Patterns (Free Amigurumi Ideas)
• 21 Tea Cozy Crochet Patterns (Free + Cute)
• 30 Free Crochet Dog Sweater Patterns (Easy Ideas)