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Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern

Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern
4.7★ Rating
6-8 Hours Time Needed
1.4K Made This
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Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic knitting experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

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All-Day Adventure

Requires 8-10 hours, ideal for a full day of immersive knitting.

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Cozy Accent

A warm touch for your space that transforms ordinary corners into inviting nooks filled with handmade charm.

About This Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern

This enchanting gnome pillow pattern combines Scandinavian folklore charm with practical home decor functionality. The design features a sitting gnome with a distinctive pointed red hat that adds height and character, while the soft gray body creates a perfect cushion for relaxation. With adorable details like tiny red mittens with fingers, festive shoes with gray legs, and a flowing white mustache made from curly chain stitches, this pattern brings personality to every stitch. The yellow belt closure adds a pop of color and whimsical detail that completes the gnome's charming appearance.

Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

Working in continuous spiral rounds, this pattern uses basic single crochet stitches with strategic increases and decreases to shape the pillow body, hat, and accessories. The construction method allows you to create dimension through color changes and back loop techniques, resulting in a three-dimensional gnome that stands beautifully on its own.

Why You'll Love This Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern

I absolutely love this gnome pillow pattern because it transforms simple stitches into a character full of personality and charm. The satisfaction of watching the pointed hat take shape row by row and seeing those tiny mittens come together is incredibly rewarding. What makes this pattern special is how it combines functionality with whimsy - you're creating both a comfortable pillow and an adorable decoration that brings smiles to everyone who sees it. The repetitive nature of the single crochet stitches makes it relaxing to work on, while the color changes and detail work keep it interesting throughout. Plus, there's something magical about crafting a piece that captures the spirit of Scandinavian folklore and Christmas tradition in one huggable creation.

Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern step 1 - construction progress Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how versatile this gnome pillow pattern can be with just a few creative modifications. Instead of the classic Christmas red hat, try crocheting it in deep purple or forest green for a year-round woodland creature vibe, or go with pastels like soft pink and lavender for a spring gnome that celebrates the changing seasons.

For the moustache, you could experiment with different textures by using a fuzzy eyelash yarn instead of the standard white, which creates an even fluffier, more whimsical beard effect. I've also seen beautiful variations where crafters add small flowers or leaves tucked into the hat band for a garden gnome aesthetic, or tiny bells sewn onto the hat tip for a musical jingle element.

The belt is another great area for personalization - instead of plain yellow, try using variegated yarn that creates a rainbow effect, or add tiny crocheted flowers, hearts, or stars as embellishments. You could even crochet a small buckle using black and gold yarn for a more polished, Santa-style look.

If you want to make this gnome extra special for a child, consider adding a small pocket to the body section where little treasures can be tucked away, or create a name tag that can be sewn onto the hat. For a couples' gift, make two gnomes - one with a beard (male) and one with long braided yarn hair (female) in complementary colors.

Finally, the arms can be positioned differently before sewing - have them holding small crocheted accessories like a tiny heart, a miniature Christmas tree, or even a small book for a reading gnome theme.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Not using stitch markers when changing colors between gray and red sections, which can cause misalignment in the hat and body junction ✗ Overstuffing the pillow body makes it too firm and loses the comfortable cushion feel, while understuffing causes it to lose shape and flop over ✗ Forgetting to leave long tails when finishing pieces like arms, legs, and nose, making it extremely difficult to sew them securely to the pillow body ✗ Crocheting too tightly when working the spiral rounds causes the pillow to curl and warp, preventing it from sitting flat and maintaining proper gnome shape

Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern

Create your own charming gnome pillow with this delightful crochet pattern that brings Scandinavian magic to your home decor. Standing at approximately 45x35cm in sitting position, this adorable dwarf features a classic red pointed hat, cozy gray body, and whimsical white mustache that makes it perfect for Christmas celebrations or year-round display. Using soft Himalaya Dolphin baby or YarnArt Dolce yarn, you'll craft a cuddly companion complete with tiny mittens, festive shoes, and a bright yellow belt closure. Whether placed under the Christmas tree with gift bags or displayed as home decor, this gnome pillow combines functionality with enchanting personality to create a treasured handmade piece that everyone will love.

Intermediate 6-8 Hours

Materials Needed for Gnome Pillow Crochet Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Himalaya Dolphin baby yarn in red (1.5 skein), gray (2 skein), beige, white, and black (less than 0.5 skein each), yellow for belt
  • 02
    YarnArt Dolce yarn as alternative option in matching colors

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 3.5mm (or 4mm)
  • 02
    Needle with large eye for sewing
  • 03
    Holofiber (stuffing material)
  • 04
    Stitch markers
  • 05
    Scissors
  • 06
    Straight pins for marking belt placement
  • 07
    Optional: cardboard oval inserts for shoe soles

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— Pillow Body :

Row 1 :

Crochet 90 ch with gray yarn

Row 2 :

Connect with first loop, crocheting 1sc (first loop of 2nd row) and crochet 89sc {90}

Row 3-14 (13 rows) :

90sc with gray yarn {90}

Row 15-18 (4 rows) :

90sc with black yarn {90}

Row 19-35 (17 rows) :

90sc with gray yarn {90}

Row 36 :

Crochet with red yarn in front loops of 35th row: 90sc {90}

Row 36 :

Crochet with red yarn in back loops of 35th row: 90sc {90} (This is basic 36th row)

Row 37 :

Crochet with red yarn in front loops of 36th row: 90sc {90}

Row 37 :

Crochet with gray yarn in back loops of 36th row: 90sc {90}

Info :

Do not cut off red yarn, do not tighten loop - will crochet hat later. Continue with gray yarn in both loops of 37th row

Row 38-40 (4 rows) :

90sc with gray yarn {90}

Info :

To keep top flat, crochet 8-9 more sc. Leave long tail for sewing, tighten loop, sew top of pillow, secure thread and hide inside. Do not fill yet

Belt :

Crochet 21ch with yellow yarn, tighten last loop, leave thread for sewing. Mark with pins where belt closure will be and sew on. Secure thread and hide ends inside

Info :

Fill pillow with holofiber evenly, fill lower edges well to help pillow hold its shape

— Hat :

Info :

Return to 37th row, continue with red yarn in both sides of loops as usual. Start numbering from row 3

Row 3-6 (4 rows) :

90sc {90}

Row 7 :

(13sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {84}

Row 8 :

(12sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {78}

Row 9 :

(11sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {72}

Row 10 :

(10sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {66}

Row 11 :

66sc

Row 12 :

(9sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {60}

Row 13 :

(8sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {54}

Row 14 :

54sc

Row 15 :

(7sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {48}

Row 16 :

(6sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {42}

Row 17 :

42sc

Row 18 :

(5sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {36}

Row 19 :

(4sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {30}

Row 20 :

30sc

Row 21 :

(3sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {24}

Row 22 :

(2sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {18}

Row 23 :

18sc

Row 24 :

18sc

Row 25 :

(1sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {12}

Row 26 :

12sc

Row 27 :

(dec) - repeat 6 times {6}

Info :

Secure thread and hide inside

— Pompon :

Row 1 :

6sc in magic ring with white yarn {6}

Row 2 :

(inc) - repeat 6 times {12}

Row 3 :

(1sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {18}

Row 4-6 (3 rows) :

18sc

Row 7 :

(1sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {12}

Info :

Fill with holofiber

Row 8 :

(dec) - repeat 6 times {6}

Info :

Leave thread for sewing. Tighten loop and sew pompon to hat

— Nose :

Row 1 :

6sc in magic ring with white yarn {6}

Row 2 :

(inc) - repeat 6 times {12}

Row 3 :

(1sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {18}

Row 4 :

(2sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {24}

Row 5 :

(3sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {30}

Row 6 :

(4sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {36}

Row 7-9 (3 rows) :

36sc

Row 10 :

(4sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {30}

Info :

Leave thread for sewing. Fill nose and sew close to hat. Tighten thread and hide inside nose

— Arms (Make 2) :

Finger :

Row 1: 6sc in magic ring with red yarn {6}, Row 2: 6sc. Fold edges and sew together crocheting 3sc together

Mitten :

Row 1: 6sc in magic ring with red yarn {6}

Row 2 :

(inc) - repeat 6 times {12}

Row 3 :

(1sc, inc) - repeat 6 times {18}

Row 4-7 (4 rows) :

18sc

Row 8 :

(1sc, dec) - repeat 6 times {12}

Row 9 :

2sc, add finger crocheting together with mitten 3sc, 7sc {12}

Row 10 :

12sc

Row 11 :

Crochet 12sc with gray yarn in back loops, do not tighten loop or cut thread

Row 11 :

Crochet 12sc, sl st with red yarn in front loops of 10th row and tighten loop

Info :

Secure red yarn and hide inside. Fill mitten with holofiber and continue with gray yarn

Row 12-18 (7 rows) :

12sc with gray yarn

Info :

Do not fill arms. Sew arms to pillow on sides between 24th and 25th rows counting from bottom

— Legs (Make 2) :

Row 1 :

Crochet 8ch with red yarn

Row 2 :

Starting from 2nd loop from hook: 6sc, 3sc in 1 loop, 6sc, 3sc in 1 loop {18}

Row 3 :

6sc, inc, inc, inc, 6sc, inc, inc, inc {24}

Row 4 :

8sc, inc, 1sc, inc, 9sc, inc, 1sc, inc, 1sc {28}

Row 5 :

8sc, inc, 1sc, inc, 1sc, inc, 9sc. Finish row here, do not crochet to end. Move marker - beginning of next row will be here

Row 6 :

Crochet 31sc in back loops

Info :

Optional: Cut oval from cardboard to put inside shoes for flatter sole shape

Row 7 :

Crochet 31sc as usual in both sides of loops, put cardboard inside shoe if using

Row 8 :

31sc

Row 9 :

dec, 1sc, dec, 1sc, dec, 21sc, dec {27}

Row 10 :

1sc, dec, 1sc, dec, 19sc, dec {24}

Row 11 :

dec, dec, dec, 16sc, dec {20}

Row 12 :

dec, dec, 16sc {18}

Row 13 :

18sc

Info :

Do not tighten loop or cut thread

Row 14 :

Crochet 18sc with gray yarn in back loops of previous row. Do not tighten loop or cut thread

Row 14 :

Crochet 18sc, sl st with red yarn in front loops of 13th row and tighten loop, secure thread and hide inside shoe

Row 15 :

Continue with gray yarn: 18sc

Info :

Fill shoe with holofiber, do not fill leg

Row 16-21 (6 rows) :

18sc

Info :

Tighten loop, leave long thread for sewing. Sew to bottom of pillow, distance from edge is about 4-5sc

— Moustache (Make 6) :

Row 1 :

Crochet 21ch with white yarn (or more for longer moustache)

Row 2 :

Start from 2nd loop from hook: crochet 3sc in each loop

Info :

Tighten loop, leave long thread for sewing. Make 6 details total and sew between nose and edge of hat, 3 details on each side

Assembly Instructions

  • After completing the pillow body with gray yarn through row 40, sew the top opening closed using the long tail left, ensuring it remains flat by crocheting those extra 8-9 stitches before closing
  • Attach the yellow belt by crocheting 21 chains, marking the placement with pins on the gray body section, and sewing it securely with the belt closure visible
  • Fill the entire pillow body evenly with holofiber, paying special attention to the lower edges and corners to maintain the sitting shape and structure
  • Sew the completed arms to the sides of the pillow between rows 24-25 counting from the bottom, positioning them naturally as if the gnome is sitting
  • Attach the legs to the bottom of the pillow approximately 4-5 single crochet stitches from the edge, ensuring they're evenly spaced for balanced sitting
  • Position and sew the large white nose close to where the hat meets the body, stuffing it firmly before closing to create a prominent feature
  • Arrange and sew all six moustache pieces between the nose and the hat edge, placing three curly pieces on each side for a flowing beard effect

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers consistently when working in continuous spiral rounds to track your starting point and avoid losing count
  • 💡Do not cut the red yarn after row 37 when working the body - you'll need it to continue directly into the hat construction
  • 💡The back loop and front loop techniques in rows 36-37 create the dimensional separation between the body and hat, so pay careful attention to which loops you're working into
  • 💡Fill the shoes with holofiber but leave the legs unfilled to maintain flexibility and help the gnome sit properly
  • 💡When sewing pieces, always leave long tails as specified - short tails make it nearly impossible to securely attach arms, legs, and facial features
  • 💡The cardboard inserts for shoe soles are optional but highly recommended for helping the gnome stand and maintain its shape over time

This enchanting Gnome Pillow pattern brings the magic of Scandinavian folklore into your home with every cozy stitch. Perfect for Christmas displays or year-round decor, this sitting gnome combines practicality with personality through its pillow functionality and adorable design details. From the classic pointed red hat to the curly white mustache, each element adds character and charm to create a handmade treasure. The pattern uses simple techniques like single crochet and basic shaping, making it accessible while still delivering impressive results. Happy crocheting, and may your gnome bring warmth and whimsy to your home! 🧶✨🎅

You ask,

we answer.

FAQs

Can I use different yarn than Himalaya Dolphin baby or YarnArt Dolce?

Yes, you can substitute with any similar bulky chenille or velvet-style yarn. Just keep in mind that different yarn weights will affect the final size of your pillow, and you may need to adjust your hook size accordingly to maintain proper gauge and drape.

Why do I need to work in both front loops and back loops in rows 36-37?

This technique creates the dimensional transition between the body and the hat, forming a natural ridge that separates the two sections. Working in separate loops allows you to crochet in two different directions from the same row, which is essential for the three-dimensional construction.

How do I prevent my gnome pillow from flopping over when sitting?

Make sure to fill the lower edges and bottom portion of the pillow body very firmly with holofiber, which creates a stable base. Also ensure the legs are attached at the correct position (4-5 stitches from the edge) and that you've stuffed the shoes while leaving the leg portions unfilled for flexibility.

Can I make the moustache longer or shorter?

Absolutely! The pattern suggests crocheting 21 chains for each moustache piece, but you can adjust this to your preference. For a longer, more dramatic beard, crochet more chains; for a shorter, tidier look, use fewer chains. Just maintain the same technique of crocheting 3 single crochets in each chain loop.

What's the purpose of the cardboard insert in the shoes?

The cardboard oval helps create a flatter, more defined sole shape that allows the gnome to sit more stably. While it's optional, it significantly improves the structural integrity of the shoes and helps the finished pillow maintain its sitting position without tipping over.