Crocheting a baby hoodie is a rewarding project that blends warmth, comfort, and cuteness into one wearable piece. This versatile garment features a soft body with sleeves and a cozy hood attached—perfect for cooler weather or layering during outings. The baby hoodie can be made in various sizes, from newborn to toddler, and is typically worked using soft worsted-weight yarn, cotton blends, or baby acrylic yarn for easy washing and maximum softness. The hoodie can be customized with buttons, zippers, or left open like a cardigan.
The construction often starts at the yoke (top-down) or from the bottom up, depending on the pattern. In a top-down hoodie, you begin with a chain and work flat or in the round using stitches like half double crochet (HDC) or double crochet (DC). Increases are made at regular points to form the shoulders and body, and once the armholes are reached, the sleeve stitches are set aside. The body is then worked straight down to the waist. After that, sleeves are worked directly into the armholes in rounds or rows. The hood is typically crocheted by picking up stitches along the neck edge and shaping it with simple decreases, then seamed at the top or joined in the round.
Finishing touches make the hoodie extra special. You can add a button placket, zipper, drawstring, or decorative trim around the hood and sleeves. Ribbed cuffs or a ribbed waistband give it a snug, tailored look. Optional pockets or appliqués (like ears, animals, or initials) can personalize the design even further. A baby hoodie is a functional and stylish piece that makes an excellent gift or wardrobe staple, and it’s a fun, intermediate-level project for crocheters ready to go beyond basic garments.
Pattern and tutorial by Simona Crochet