Pierced Bear Balaclava Crochet Tutorial – Free Pattern Description:

Skill Level: Intermediate

Materials Needed:

  • Worsted weight yarn in main color (MC) (brown or black for the bear)
  • Worsted weight yarn in contrasting color (CC) (white or light brown for the bear’s muzzle and ears)
  • Crochet hook (size appropriate for your chosen yarn weight)
  • Yarn needle
  • Scissors

Abbreviations:

  • ch: chain
  • st: stitch
  • sc: single crochet
  • hdc: half double crochet
  • dc: double crochet
  • sl st: slip stitch

Instructions:

Bear Face:

  1. Muzzle:
    1. With CC, ch 9.
    2. In second ch from hook, sc. Sc in each ch across. (8)
    3. Ch 1, turn. Sc in each st across. (8)
    4. Repeat Step 3 for a total of 4 rows.
    5. Fasten off CC.
  2. Ears (make 2):
    1. With CC, make a magic ring.
    2. Round 1: Ch 1, 6 sc in magic ring. (6)
    3. Round 2: 2 sc in each st around. (12)
    4. Round 3: Sc in next st, 2 sc in next st around. (18)
    5. Fasten off CC, leaving a tail for sewing.
  3. Balaclava:
    1. With MC, start with a foundation chain that fits comfortably around the wearer’s head (approximately 22-24 inches for an average adult).
    2. Join the last chain to the first chain with a slip stitch to form a ring. Be careful not to twist the chain.
    3. Round 1: Ch 1, sc in each ch around. Join with a sl st to first sc. (Make sure to measure the round on the wearer’s head after a few rows to ensure a snug fit.)
    4. Rounds 2-10: Repeat Round 1.
    5. On the last round, work hdc in each st around to create a slightly tighter edge that will help the balaclava stay in place.

Assembly:

  1. Sew the bear muzzle onto the front center of the balaclava, slightly overlapping the bottom edge of the balaclava. Use the yarn needle and matching yarn to secure it in place.
  2. Sew the ears onto the top corners of the balaclava, using the tails left from making the ears. Position them to your preference, slightly folding the top edge of each ear if desired.
  3. Weave in all ends and trim excess yarn.

Please note that this is a general description based on your request, and exact stitch counts, sizing, and specific design elements may vary based on the actual pattern you’re referring to. Always refer to the original pattern for the most accurate instructions.