Penguin Hat & Costume
Crochet Penguin Hat & Costume
My daughter was a chubby little 5 month old when she wore this adorable crochet penguin hat and costume for her first Halloween. Since she wasn’t able to walk up to doors yet (or eat candy for that matter!) it made a lot of sense to make her a baby costume that featured something supremely snuggly to keep her warm during trick or treating.
This sweet penguin hat and snuggle sack were the perfect handmade costume solution.
The sweet little sack had a blanket effect and kept her toes tucked in and warm. Paired with the matching hat and a long sleeve shirt, this costume kept her super warm….and darn stinking cute too!
This crochet pattern calls for worsted (4) weight yarn. The penguin sack pattern includes all baby sizes Newborn through 6-12 Months and the penguin hat pattern features all sizes Newborn through 3-10 Years.
This crochet pattern offers a beautiful opportunity to craft a handmade gift or costume for any little one (boys and girls alike!) in your life.
I have also written a knit version of this cute penguin pattern. You’ll find my knit penguin hat and snuggle sack pattern here.
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Poppy Penguin Hat and Snuggle Sack Crochet Pattern
Average Head Circumference Size Chart
13-14″ (33-35.5cm)
14-15″ (35.5-38cm)
14-17″ (35.5-43cm)
16-19″ (40.5-48cm)
18-20″ (45.75-50.75cm)
19-20.5″ (48.25-52cm)
Materials
- Yarn: Approximately 375 – 600 yards of worsted (4) yarn (Approx. 300 yards black, approx. 50 yards white, and approx. 25 yards orange for smaller sizes. Approx. 500 yards black, approx. 75 yards white, and approx. 25 yards orange for larger sizes) (I used Red Heart Super Saver)
- Crochet Hook: Size 5.5 mm (I/9) OR whatever size is needed to obtain gauge
- Yarn or Tapestry Needle
- Stitch Marker
- 2 – 5/8” (16mm) Buttons for eyes
Gauge
7 sts and 4 rows = 2 inches (5 centimeters) in Double Crochet
***It is important to check your gauge!***
Abbreviations
- SC: Single Crochet
- DC: Double Crochet
- FPDC: Front Post Double Crochet
- BPDC: Back Post Double Crochet
- CH: Chain
- SC2tog: Single Crochet next two sts together
- DC2tog: Double Crochet next two sts together
- **: Repeat the section in between the two stars
**This pattern is written in US terms**
Newborn Pattern
Penguin Cocoon
Chain 52 using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching first and last sts together.
Round 1: CH2, Starting with the same stitch you slipped into, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch (52 total sts not including starting chain)
Round 2: CH2, *FPDC next stitch, BPDC next stitch* Repeat around, slip stitch into first stitch (52 total sts)
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 3: CH2, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch
Round 4: CH2, skip the first stitch, DC in each stitch around to last stitch, 2 DC in last stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (52 total sts)
Repeat Rounds 3&4 until your project measures approx. 11.5 inches (29.25cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (43 total sts)
Round 2: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (34 total sts)
Round 3: CH2, *DC2tog, DC the next stitch, DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (25 total sts)
Round 4: CH2, *DC2tog, DC2tog, DC the next stitch* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (16 total sts)
Round 5: CH2, *DC2tog* Repeat around (8 total sts)
Continue to DC2tog until the hole at the bottom of your sack is closed. Cut yarn with an approx. 7 inch yarn tail. Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the bottom hole, and secure and weave in all ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Chain 16 using white yarn
Row 1: DC into the third chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (14 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures approx. 7” (17.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 10 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 8 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (10 total sts)
Row 3: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (8 total sts)
Row 4: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, DC2tog (6 total sts)
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet border around the edge of this piece to make it look more tidy.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The flat side should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: Single crochet in the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work
(5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 3 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (7 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 5 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (9 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC in each stitch across, Turn Work
Rows 5&6: Repeat Row 4
Row 7: *CH1, SC in each of next 3 sts, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing feet to cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
Newborn Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 5 until your hat measures approx. 5” (12.75cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 13 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Rows 2-6: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 7: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 0-3 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon
Chain 60 using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching first and last sts together.
Round 1: CH2, Starting with the same stitch you slipped into, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch (60 total sts not including starting chain)
Round 2: CH2, *FPDC next stitch, BPDC next stitch* Repeat around, slip stitch into first stitch
(60 total sts)
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 3: CH2, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch
Round 4: CH2, skip the first stitch, DC in each stitch around to last stitch, 2 DC in last stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (60 total sts)
Repeat Rounds 3&4 until your project measures approx. 12 inches (30.5cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (51 total sts)
Round 2: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (42 total sts)
Round 3: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (33 total sts)
Round 4: CH2, *DC2tog, DC next stitch, DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (24 total sts)
Round 5: CH2, *DC2tog, DC2tog, DC next stitch* Repeat 3 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (15 total sts)
Continue to DC2tog until the hole at the bottom of your sack is closed. Cut yarn with an approx.
7 inch yarn tail. Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the bottom hole, and secure and
weave in all ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Chain 16 using white yarn
Row 1: DC into the third chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (14 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures approx. 7” (17.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 10 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 8 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (10 total sts)
Row 3: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (8 total sts)
Row 4: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, DC2tog (6 total sts)
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet border around the edge of this piece to make it look more tidy.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The flat side should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: Single crochet in the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work
(5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 3 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (7 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 5 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (9 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC in each stitch across, Turn Work
Rows 5&6: Repeat Row 4
Row 7: *CH1, SC in each of next 3 sts, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing feet to cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
0-3 Month Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 8 sts* Repeat around (50 total sts)
Round 6: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 6 until your hat measures approx. 5.5” (14cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 13 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Rows 2-6: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 7: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 3-6 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon Pattern
Chain 70 using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching first and last sts together.
Round 1: CH2, Starting with the same stitch you slipped into, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch (70 total sts not including starting chain)
Round 2: CH2, *FPDC next stitch, BPDC next stitch* Repeat around, slip stitch into first stitch (70 total sts)
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 3: CH2, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch
Round 4: CH2, skip the first stitch, DC in each stitch around to last stitch, 2 DC in last stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (70 total sts)
Repeat Rounds 3&4 until your project measures approx. 13.5 inches (34.25cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (61 total sts)
Round 2: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (52 total sts)
Round 3: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (43 total sts)
Round 4: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC the next stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (34 total sts)
Round 5: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, slip stitch into first stitch (25 total sts)
Round 6: CH2, *DC2tog, DC the next stitch* Repeat 7 more times, DC the next stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (17 total sts)
Round 7: CH2, *DC2tog* Repeat 7 more times, DC the next stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (9 total sts)
Continue to DC2tog until the hole at the bottom of your sack is closed. Cut yarn with an approx. 7 inch yarn tail. Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the bottom hole, and secure and weave in all ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Chain 24 using white yarn
Row 1: DC into the third chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (22 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures approx. 9” (22.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 20 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (22 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 18 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (20 total sts)
Row 3: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 16 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (18 total sts)
Row 4: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 14 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (16 total sts)
Row 5: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 12 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (14 total sts)
Row 6: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 10 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Row 7: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 8 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (10 total sts)
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet border around the edge of this piece to make it look more tidy.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The flat side should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: Single crochet in the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work
(5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 3 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (7 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 5 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (9 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC in each stitch across, Turn Work
Rows 5&6: Repeat Row 4
Row 7: *CH1, SC in each of next 3 sts, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing feet to cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
3-6 Month Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 4 sts* Repeat around (54 total sts)
Round 6: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 6 until your hat measures approx. 5.75” (14.5cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 17 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (16 total sts)
Rows 2-8: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 9: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 4 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Baby 6-12 Months Pattern
Penguin Cocoon Pattern
Chain 80 using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching first and last sts together.
Round 1: CH2, Starting with the same stitch you slipped into, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch (80 total sts not including starting chain)
Round 2: CH2, *FPDC next stitch, BPDC next stitch* Repeat around, slip stitch into first stitch
(80 total sts)
Repeat Round 2 until your project measures approx. 1.5” (3.75cm) in length from the starting edge.
Round 3: CH2, DC in each stitch around, slip stitch into first stitch
Round 4: CH2, skip the first stitch, DC in each stitch around to last stitch, 2 DC in last stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (80 total sts)
Repeat Rounds 3&4 until your project measures approx. 15 inches (38cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Round 1: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 7 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (71 total sts)
Round 2: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 6 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (62 total sts)
Round 3: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 5 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (53 total sts)
Round 4: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 4 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (44 total sts)
Round 5: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 3 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts, slip stitch into first stitch (35 total sts)
Round 6: CH2, *DC2tog, DC each of the next 2 sts* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, DC the next stitch, slip stitch into first stitch (26 total sts)
Round 7: CH2, *DC2tog, DC the next stitch* Repeat 7 more times, DC2tog, slip stitch into first stitch (18 total sts)
Round 8: CH2, *DC2tog* Repeat around, slip stitch into first stitch (9 total sts)
Continue to DC2tog until the hole at the bottom of your sack is closed. Cut yarn with an approx. 7 inch yarn tail. Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the bottom hole, and secure and weave in all ends.
Penguin Belly Pattern:
Chain 24 using white yarn
Row 1: DC into the third chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (22 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Repeat Row 2 until your piece measures approx. 9” (22.75cm) from the starting edge.
Decreases:
Row 1: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 20 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (22 total sts)
Row 2: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 18 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (20 total sts)
Row 3: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 16 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (18 total sts)
Row 4: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 14 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (16 total sts)
Row 5: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 12 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (14 total sts)
Row 6: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 10 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (12 total sts)
Row 7: CH2, DC2tog, DC each of the next 8 sts, DC2tog, Turn Work (10 total sts)
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet border around the edge of this piece to make it look more tidy.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam this piece to the center front of the cocoon just above the start of the decreases. The flat side should be closest to the decreases.
Penguin Feet Pattern:
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: Single crochet in the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work
(5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 3 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (7 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, 2 SC in first stitch, SC in each of next 5 sts, 2 SC in last stitch (9 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC in each stitch across, Turn Work
Rows 5&6: Repeat Row 4
Row 7: *CH1, SC in each of next 3 sts, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat 2 more times to create 3 toes.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing feet to cocoon)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam these pieces on either side of the base of the belly.
6-12 Month Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 4 sts* Repeat around (54 total sts)
Round 6: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 26 sts* Repeat (56 total sts)
Round 7: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 7 until your hat measures approx. 6.25” (15.75cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 17 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (16 total sts)
Rows 2-8: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 9: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 4 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Toddler 1-3 Year Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 4 sts* Repeat around (54 total sts)
Round 6: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 5 sts* Repeat around (63 total sts)
Round 7: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 7 until your hat measures approx. 6.75” (17.25cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 21 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (20 total sts)
Rows 2-9: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 10: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 6 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 4 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
Child 3-10 Year Hat Pattern
Create a Magic Circle with 6 DC sts in the center using black yarn
Join in the round by slip stitching into first stitch.
Place stitch marker. You’ll be working in Continuous Rounds.
Round 1: 3 DC into each stitch around (18 total sts)
Round 2: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in next stitch* Repeat around (27 total sts)
Round 3: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 2 sts* Repeat around (36 total sts)
Round 4: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 3 sts* Repeat around (45 total sts)
Round 5: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 4 sts* Repeat around (54 total sts)
Round 6: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 5 sts* Repeat around (63 total sts)
Round 7: *2 DC in next stitch, DC in each of next 20 sts* Repeat around (66 total sts)
Round 8: DC in each stitch around
Repeat Round 8 until your hat measures approx. 7.25” (18.5cm) from the crown, HDC in next stitch, SC in next stitch, slip stitch into next stitch.
Fasten off. Weave in all ends.
Penguin Face Pattern
Chain 21 using white yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (20 total sts)
Rows 2-9: CH1, SC into each stitch across, Turn Work
Row 10: *CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 6 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 4 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC each of the next 2 sts, SC2tog, Turn Work, CH1, SC2tog, SC2tog, Fasten off and weave in all ends* Connect new strand of yarn and repeat for second set of sts.
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing face to hat)
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to seam face piece to center front of hat just above the edge.
Nose Pattern
Chain 6 using orange yarn
Row 1: SC into the second chain from hook and each chain across, Turn Work (5 total sts)
Row 2: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch, SC2tog, Turn Work (3 total sts)
Row 3: CH1, SC2tog, SC next stitch (2 total sts)
Row 4: CH1, SC2tog
Fasten off and weave in all ends (leave an approx. 12” tail to use for sewing nose to hat)
(Optional) Add a Single Crochet edging to make your project look more tide. Do 3 SC sts in each corner if you add an edging.
Use your yarn or tapestry needle to secure the nose to the center bottom of the hat with the bottom tip hanging over the edge.
Add two buttons for eyes directly above the nose.
(Optional) Add hair by creating a knot at the very top of the hat and cutting with short strands sticking up.
This design, a written work and images are a copyright of
©MelodysMakings and may not be copied or reproduced in any way.
You have permission to sell finished products made from this pattern, but please leave a link to my website, www.melodys-makings.com, in your product listing specifying that I am the designer of this pattern. Thank you for supporting me as a work at home mother!
98 Comments On “Penguin Hat & Costume”
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I have bipolar disorder & the depressions are crushing. I finally found the right medications (at least for now) to keep me stable. Being an invisible illness, many people look at you sideways. The well-meaning “you just need to do things that make you happy” or “what do you have to be depressed about? Look at your blessings.” most definitely not only don’t help, but make things worse. Gee, don’t you think I’d rather be happy? My blessings don’t always make it through the messed-up brain chemicals. I am happy for those who can find the right prescription or non-medication way to get through it & very empathetic to those who haven’t got treatable depression.
I was also diagnosed with bipolar disorder when I first went to the doctor. Medications made me feel suicidal, so I was unable to stay on them. I’m not sure now as I’ve been tracking my cycles and my depressions seem very coordinated with my time of the month. However, whatever the cause, there are times in life and chemical causes that simply throw us into this place. You’re right that sometimes well meaning people just don’t understand <3
The depression has made me look deeper into myself. For most of my life I have sought my feelings of well being from the approval of others. Well you know how that goes. No matter how much approval I got it was never enough. I looked how I treated others and finally realized I haven’t been treating myself the same. So while I still am giving encouragement and support to others, I have begun to do the same for myself too. I noticed I am not as depressed as I’m not depending on others for my well being.
I LOVE this comment Sallyann! I too am learning the importance of taking care of yourself first and foremost. Looking deeper within for happiness is an important step to healing. Thank you for sharing.
Thank you for the free pattern. Yes, I have experienced depression in my life. I am fine now, and am determined to be positive every day. I regret those times I was depressed, because it affected my children & husband very much…not in a good way. I feel so Blessed now & appreciate every breath & day of my life. I feel life is too short to waste. I’m sharing your posts, because there might be others out there struggling. I do believe “This too shall pass!”❤️
Thanks for joining in the conversation! Glad to hear you’re in a positive life place now <3
I have had depression for over fourty years. I get on meds and a great doctor and then they leave state for some reason. Then here you are with no meds and doctor. I stayed in my bedroom for two years before I could make myself to find another doctor. I am without a doctor now. I’m getting back where I can’t be around people. When I have to go to Walmart I break out in a sweat and it don’t stop till I leave there. I don’t get dressed when I am at home. I lay in bed most the time. On my phone looking at crochet patterns. I am now 62 and I want to die and get this over with.
Janice, I’m sending you SO MUCH love and hugs for your journey. I hope you find bits of encouragement and help throughout this month and that you’ll return here for support. You’re not alone <3
I wanted to thank you for your nice email reply concerning day 1 that I
had sent you yesterday it was encouraging. I have an appt at the end of
this month to start to get help with my anxiety/depression and will let
you know if I think it’ll be of any help to me and my various problems
that I’m dealing with from the past years in my life.
I’m so glad you have an appointment later this month. You’re so welcome for the support – that’s what this discussion is all about! I hope you’ll find lots of useful bits here along the way 🙂
I had postpartum depression a couple of years ago, but I’m fine now. Currently I live with severe anxiety and occasional panic attacks.
When I realized that I actually had a mental health issue, I knew that I didn’t have to continue to suffer through it – I just need to ask for help. Also I realized that I actually had mental health issues for a long time, but I ignored them because I didn’t want to accept it.
I think the stigma associated with mental health issues prevents so many people from even acknowledging the issues within their own lives, let alone seeking out help. I’m glad you’ll be along for the journey, and I appreciate you participating in the conversation!
Just wondering did you ever suffer post partum/natal depression? 5 miscarriages is a lot. I don’t have kids by choice but can’t imagine the toll it took mentally. That’s another subject that leads to men and women’s depression.
For a few months I suffered depression but all it did to me was make me extremely tired and lethargic. And I just had no drive to do anything. I was almost finished a present for a friend’s baby who was 5 weeks old and I’ve only just finished it and she just turned 12 weeks but I’ve been fine for the last month.
I think putting my hand up for an easy pattern test helped pull me out because the designer asked me to do the other pattern to and I only had a week to do it.
That and being able to get my preferred brand of medication was a big help!
I was first diagnosed with bipolar depression, but my moods also seem to be very tightly coordinated with my cycle. So it’s hard to know for sure. Sadly meds didn’t help for me (made me extremely suicidal) so I had to dig into other resources to help make a shift.
Thanks for your encouraging comment – I hope you’ll continue to follow along and add to the discussion!
Like you I have suffered loss. And felt desolate.
This is so brave of you to post like this.
Sending you so much love.x
Thank you for stating that suicide is not selfish it is due to a broken heart. My daughter in law died from depression 12 years ago. There is so much stigma and pain around that. I have held loved ones and cried while they told me they hurt too much to go on living.
Hi Melody,
Depression is more common than many think. I had postpartum with both of my pregnancies and it took me a long time to recover. That was because when last child was almost 2 years old, my father-in-law died, my husband was assaulted at his work place, and on the same day my father-in-law died, we got a certified letter of my husband’s dismissal from his job. Those were dark troublesome time. Shortly after, my husband was diagnosed as Bipolar and my youngest daughter as having moderate to severe Autism. My world was turned upside down and foolish, ignorant and selfish people blamed me for my daughters Autism and my husband’s Bipolar. I felt horrible and even tried to end my life. I found help for myself, my husband and well, all of us including my oldest daughter. She suffered too. But, you know, I have a great faith in God. And when you are depressed, you are thinking right. But thanks to my God I recovered. I get the blues, but no severe depression. I’m also medicated…lol…but I don’t have a mental disfunction as Bipolar. It is a neuron-disfuntion which requires attention. It is a lot of things. But take courage dear. Women suffer more than men, but when a men does, it is difficult. Love ya.
Thanks for this inspiring comment Chelin! So much love to you. I hope you’ll continue to follow along and share awesome comments like this one throughout the month!
Janice,
Our journeys sound so much alike, I’m 61 and my place of peaceful “Zen” is when I’m crocheting. I can barely be around people without feeling closed in.
I battle depression daily, and win small victories daily.
Take care of yourself, we are creative women!☺️
Crochet can be such a great meditation. Yes – we are powerful, creative women!!! We will get through. I hope you’ll continue to follow along throughout the month and hopefully snag a few useful pieces of info 🙂
Hi Melody- In response to your comment: “Have you ever experienced depression? Was life trying to tell you something important?” – I believe that more than “life” trying to tell me something, I discovered that my body was trying to tell me something. After 5 pregnancies, failed marriages, the death of both my parents – my BODY was trying to tell me something. IT WAS WORN OUT. I was never one to eat healthy and I had just used up all that my body had to give. I am regaining “a life” again and I’ve done it by completely changing my diet. It has made all the difference in the world. I have an up beat happy deposition, mental energy, physical strength and ability. I’ve not arrived but I am on solid footing and making good time. I hope something of this post will ring true for you and I will be praying for God’s guidance and direction for you. Much love and prayers. rae
Yes, yes, yes!!!!! Depression is our body’s way of telling us we need more self care or care in general. You’ll see me getting deep into that over the next few days. Thank you for this amazing comment – I sure hope you’ll continue to follow along and add great insights like this one to the conversation 🙂
Thanks for sharing your story. Mine started with an ovarian cancer diagnoses and after emergency surgery had to hear they had to do a full hysterectomy, meaning no chance on kiddies. This nearly broke me and had me in very deep depression for years…I am still battling, some days just to get up is hard work. But I work, so have no choice. Crochet a filet pattern for Christmas is keeping me happy and busy, whenever I have a free moment. Thanks for this lovely set – penguins are always favourites
I do suffer from bouts of bad depression, a couple of times to the point of suicidal thoughts. Most recent bout began when my dad passed away in March of this year. Normally, I can bring myself out of my “funk” but this time, I just seem to be stuck. I have no drive, no passion, and just seems to spin my wheels even when trying to do daily activities. I don’t really talk to people about it as most don’t want to hear negativity. You end up feeling alone, in the dark, with no map or gps. I find comfort by praying a LOT, singing, and reading my Bible. I have faith that I will come out on the other side of this, it’s just a matter of when. I’m so glad that you are talking about this subject, it’s very important.
Sending lots of love and hugs to you, Loretta. I hope you’ll continue to follow along throughout the month and find lots of words of support and encouragement here.
Some of us suffer from a depression that comes from being trapped in a bad marriage, being morally, verbally and emotionally abused, domestic violence and more. I had them all! I was in my 30 and I just got worse and worse as the years rolled on and my 2nd marriage to a man who claimed to love my son, but didn’t and hurled lies, vicious words and constant insults to my son and I over a 9 year span. When my son was 13 he snapped after being once again verbally and emotionally assaulted by this man. Something inside of me just broke.
I threw him out, went back to counseling with my kids, was diagnosed with clinical depression, went onto anti-depressants for 2.5 years and slowly but surely became myself again.
But in the depths of that black hole I was in, all I could think about was driving my car into a logging truck. We have lots, as I live in the mountains near Yosemite Natl. Park. I didn’t, obviously, and that was only because I couldn’t stomach the idea of that man raising our daughter or even being around my son alone.
So my kids saved me and they don’t even know it.
I haven’t read the first blog, but I hope that you are on your way to recovery as well.
Namaste,
Jana
Hi Melody
You have such adorable children and you have an incredible talent in designing some of the most imaginative patterns in knit as well as crochet. You are a wonderful giving person and with all that has happened in the last 7 years it is no wonder that you feel overwhelmed. I’m sure you know that you have access to a lot of people who truly love and care about you so if you ever just want to talk don’t hesitate to call or text or email. I am retired so am home a lot of the time and my hobby is crochet. I would be happy to chat with you and see if we can develop a game plan for when you feel you need a pick me up. We can pick each other up along with your other readers. I am here. Hugs ?
Thank you Carol! Boy it truly does help to know that I have such an amazing support system around me, and that so many others experience similar times in their lives. I hope you’ll continue to follow along throughout the month and to leave awesome, inspiring comments like this one. It makes a difference to SO MANY!
I had 4 beautiful sons,nd a loving husband. But I wasn’t content with myself. My upbringing taught me I had no worth. Hard to get over that. But with 2 years with a great counselor, I changed my life. Now I have 4 grown sons who are absolutely amazing! Don’t know how I did it, but they have more self esteem than I ever could.
Bless you for sharing your experience and your lovely patterns. It helps knowing others are going through difficult times and continue to care about others.
Thank you for sharing your story. I myself have not dealt with depression but I have friends and family members that have.
I battle with depression and anxiety. I have someone very dear to me that has been battling an addiction to opioids and it has been very stressful the past couple years. I feel so bad for this person and have been doing everything in my power to help them thru this tough time, which means my feelings often take the backseat. We all are fighting the fight one day at a time.
One day at a time. Absolutely! Thank you for sharing this story. I’m sending lots of love and hugs to you.
The worst experience I had with depression was when I was in grad school studying chemistry, hoping to get my Ph.D. and go into industry (I had already decided I didn’t want to go into academia). I went through a period of deep depression, but as you said, it’s often the universe’s way of telling you something. With a lot of prayer and soul searching, I realized that I didn’t want to do research–I wasn’t meant to do research. I was called to be a teacher. When I finally made that decision, I felt like a huge weight was lifted off my shoulders. Looking back on the last 20 years of my life, I KNOW that being a teacher is a gift and a calling.
WOW! Love this comment and story. Amazing how your body was telling you something and once you recognized that, things changed. Thank you so much for sharing, and I hope you’ll continue to follow along and share useful insights like this one.
I was diagnosed with clinical depression in high school. My depression is caused by a chemical imbalance, meaning my brain simply does not naturally create enough “happy” chemicals for me to function in a healthy manner without some sort of outside assistance. So, I have been on anti-depression medication for the last 10 years. It took me a few years in the beginning to accept the fact that I will be on medication for the rest of my life, hating to think that something inside me was broken. What ended up helping me make peace with that knowledge was a comment from a doctor.
“Think about all the people who suffer through this, but have no access to medication or help.”
For some reason, that really struck me. After that, I never intentionally stopped taking my medication. And I really am one of the lucky ones. Everyone in my immediate family has some sort of issue, mental or otherwise, so talking about these issues was and still is simply par for the course. There is no judgement or shame. So it’s never felt as though it was something I needed to hide from others. It’s just a part of my life.
Thank you for this helpful comment Charity! Your doctor was so right – this isn’t something to be ashamed about. Just something to be thankful there really is help available out there for. I hope you’ll continue to follow along and add awesome comments to the conversation like this one 🙂
Losing a baby was the hardest for me even worse than my childhood and a lot of other painful things. My heart feels for you losing 5. Helping others helps me when I am able.
My heart breaks for you and anyone going through depression. I’ve never been thigh it myself, but people close to me are.
I applaud you for openly discussing you challenging journey through your depression. I find it amazing how difficult it is to admit to any mental illness. Our society will empathize with diseases such as diabetes, high blood pressure etc but a chemical imbalance in our brain that affects how we function somehow is not an illness to be treated. I hope with courageous people like you our society will take the steps to identify mental health as important as physical health. Not as a weakness but as a disorder meriting all the treatment and support to maintain ones health.
Thank you for this encouraging comment Peggy! It is hard to openly talk about….yet when we take that courageous step is when I believe the healing truly begins.
I am almost 60 yrs old and my depression started when I was 14. I lost my mother then to cancer. It got steadily worse after I lost my oldest brother to suicide when I was 21 and he was 27. I learned to deal with it the best I could. I am married with 2 children, one of whom also suffers from depression and attempted suicide and luckily failed when he was 16. My oldest brother left behind a son, and just a couple of months ago, my nephew took his own life at 38. I think of suicide pretty much every day, cry at the drop of a hat, but am determined to stay in this world because I know how devastating suicide is for the family left behind. I don’t have friends by choice because just getting through work and home life keeps me busy enough. I have two gorgeous twin grandchildren who are 5 and they love coming down and doing crafts with me. I try every day to find something to keep me here, and so far, so good. I have never been on drugs for my depression, never really discussed it with anyone, just taking it one day at a time. Crocheting for my family is a godsend.
Thanks for taking the time to discuss it here, even though it’s not something you’ve done before. I love your inspiring attitude about finding something worthwhile in each day. I hope you’ll continue to follow along and add great comments to the conversation like this one – we need to keep the discussion going! Sending love and hugs to you and your family <3
Thank you for sharing your story & all of this with us. It really helps to know that you are not alone in things. I was diagnosed with depression once before, during a stressful time, and feel like I still struggle with it sometimes during very stressful times or when my thyroid is is even worse than usual. My husband is a large part of my stress & “doesn’t believe in depression.” So that doesn’t help. I saw one of your comments earlier that you had been diagnosed with bipolar disorder but was not able to stay on the meds because they made you feel suicidal. Please make sure that your doctor has diagnosed you with the correct type of bipolar disorder. There are two types. One of my college instructors lost her husband to suicide after he was diagnosed with the type of bipolar & was on the wrong meds. Thank you again for sharing.
Thank you for sharing your story too! I hope you’ll continue to follow along throughout the month 🙂 I super appreciate your kind words of encouragement too.
I so understand where you are coming from. I have over the years suffered from depression when i have been put under too much stress. Often there is the added component of suppression of self from the outside and unhealthy people relationships added to the mix. It has taken me 58 years to learn not to let unhealthy for me people remain in my inner circle. Because i now wont deal and carry other peoples burdens and emotional backpacks i am often lonely and by myself but at least i can learn to heal that in my own way. I sound confident but there are those days… specially where i dont work in education anymore.
But i am able to talk to others, and the added bonus is my rather grownup children say i am super strong and they are proud to call me their mom. I was so many years ashamed, ashamed of depression, ashamed of past mistakes, ashamed of hiding, ashamed of making wrong decisions. My children cured me of that now where they are older and we can talk open about this. 4 of 5 of my children are interested in mental health and like me work or volunteer in education, socialwork and mental health. My daughter in law has genetic depression and i am proud of her every day.
I was tested for all kinds of stuff and finally they came to the conclusion low self esteem and depression as conclusive, some other diagnosea were inconclusive. What rankles the worst is non medical trained people giving a diagnoses. How many times people have said i am bipolar or autistic i have lost count. And they were not kind about it either.
This is so very very true. I was made to feel ashamed of myself. ANd i definitely treat others way better than i do. It is one reason i have turned back to being an artist. I also let myself go, dont care how I look whether i eat good etc…. Now i made a contract with myself, i am making myself my own wardrobe, piece by piece. I sewed dresses and whole outfits for my children and myself in the past. Part of the contract is to also finish the handwork as well, and then wear them.
What a COOL WAY to do something for yourself! I love it. Thanks for sharing these words of encouragement. I hope you’ll continue to follow along throughout the month and to share such awesome insight.
my friend was diagnosed with borderline a while ago. he thinks i should go and get tested for it as well since there is no clear answer to where my depressed and odd feelings come from and why they disappear again without a reason either. im hesitant because it means lifelong medication and i don´t know if im up for that either. in any case im fine for now and i hope you are too
Hey Lynn! I feel similarly about medication and had similar hesitations. Meds didn’t actually end up working out for me, so I had to find other resources which I’ll be sharing here throughout the month. I hope you’ll continue to follow along and maybe find a few of them useful!
I agree that depression is a very hard thing for others who’ve never experienced it to understand. I’ve dealt with it off and on over the years, mainly when I was single and lived alone, and a very, dark time after my mother’s death & the aftermath of handling her estate. Since my husband’s death, I’m now dealing with grief as well as clinical depression. Fall and Winter are very hard for me, as it is so dark during the day where I live and my husband’s birthday, our anniversary and his date of death are all during that time frame. Crocheting got me through my husband’s illness and gave me comfort after his death, and I’ve found that doing things for others helps me focus less on myself. Some days, I still don’t make it out of bed and I’m embarrassed for anyone to know the horrible state that my house is in. I make a conscious effort to push myself to go out of doors more and be with people whenever I have an opportunity. My faith and hope for eternity have been a great help and comfort to me. We must reach out to each other in love and understanding.
Love and understanding. I feel that says it all! Thank you so much for sharing these insights and encouraging words. So much love going to you!
What I now see as I look back on my life, and the depression I would have is that part of mine was caused because I was always taking care of other family members. (My daughter and her son live with me). I was always solving their problems, and doing things for them, crocheting items they wanted, so I never got to do or make anything for me, or do activities just for me. I now take time for myself, still helping them, but only when it is convenient for me ( with some exceptions as my grandson is only 12). But making time, crocheting for just me, is helping. Earlier this year I made 7 baby Afghans, for new babies in my family, And when I finished the last one, is when I truly realized that I had come to hate crocheting. I am now crocheting a bag, a simple bag for me, and I am getting back my love of crocheting, so I guess what this long post is really about is that depression is made worse when you don’t do something for your self that you really want to do. It doesn’t get rid of my depression, but helps me feel better about myself, and gives me the courage to go on, and fight my depression. I realize this probably won’t work for everyone, but if it helps just one person suffer just a little less it will be worth my posting this. Love yourself if just for a few minutes each day, and try to increase those loving moments a little each day,
Thanks for sharing this! I agree that self care and putting ourselves first is HUGE in fighting depression. I think my issues were caused by very similar things….the fact that I never really spent time on myself and only on those around me. I’ll be going deep into self care on these blog. Hope you’ll continue to follow along and share great insights like this one <3
Hello Melody, yes, I have suffered from depression which was diagnosed 24 years ago and is ongoing. I take medication for it. I don’t know what the universe was telling me, or what I needed to do about. I’d like to know!
Thanks for being so open about your own journey. It is still a no-go topic in many areas of society.
Jane Turner
Thanks for sharing Jane! I hope you’ll continue to follow along and maybe find a few useful bits of information here throughout the month <3
I felt depressed awhile back when my Dad passed away and now my Mom passed away in Feb./2018, but during these horrible times I stay in prayer, enjoy family times with my daughter, son and just keep the thought of how blessed we all are with the simple things in life which equals happiness! And I love crocheting which is loved of everyone who see’s my projects!For God is love and gave everyone each a special life like a beautiful twinkling star!
Thank you for sharing these words of encouragement! Hugs and love to you. You’re an inspiration!
I have experienced deep depression myself. In 2013, I went through a period of deep depression for3 months. I didn’t eat but maybe once every 5 days. I had no appetite. I had had several things happen to me in the 18 months prior to the depression which led to the depression. I lost 60 pounds, I got down to 85 pounds. I finally went to the doctor, he started me on an antidepressant which finally brought me out of the depression. Now, 5 years later, I’m married to my high school sweetheart. With his help I continue to fight the depression, I also am fighting a life threatening disease called Aplastic Anemia. Basically my bone marrow has stopped making my blood cells. I have to have a unit of blood and platelets every week. The medicines used to treat the disease effected my kidney functions, so they have had to stop them. I should be depressed over this disease, it has made me fight again. I will not allow this disease to take me over. I’ve already volunteered to be the cook at VBS in my church next summer,2019. I have not found my high school sweetheart for this disease to kill me. I will fight as long as it takes for me to be cured. God bless each person who has shared their story. Depression is very deceptive, it sneaks up on you. The next thing you know, the dark cloud has covered you. Seek advice and help before the dark cloud has covered you.
Sending many love and hugs to you Mary! I’m inspired that even with all you’ve been through, you find ways to fight and encourage those around you. Keep on going!
Thankyou so much for opening up about this. I have managed depression all my adult life. At times its debilitating and devastating. People say it’ll pass but I know it’ll return.
Even more difficult than my own troubles with depression (coupled with anxiety these days) is now seeing my teens struggle too. Knowing I can’t take the pain away from them, not even say it’ll be okay, that it’ll get better. We only get used to it and cope better with appropriate strategies. I just recently (in the past year) have started seeing a therapist for the first time ever, as have my teens due to trauma from family violence and relationship breakdown. It’s helpful but not as helpful as hearing from others dealing with this who are being honest about the reality of living with these huge emotional issues.
You’re so welcome. I’m glad you find help and encouragement in my words, and I hope you’ll continue to check in throughout the month. Sending love and hugs to you and your teenagers…this is something I worry about with my own kids (especially my daughter) for the future.
oh my goodness thank you Melody for sharing this wonderful pattern. i was looking for a fun hat and snuggle sack for a soon to be great nephew.
You’re very welcome! Enjoy.
Hi Melody,
sometimes it is very hard for me to find words for my feelings. In the last few months it is more and more often that I need a timeout. I go upstairs in my bed and cry… Sometimes even one day long. My husband is very sad and doesn’t know what to do then. He tries to talk to me and says he is here, if I need him I shall tell it. I want to tell but I can’t. There are no words for all this. And it is too much to tell. I don’t know how to explain it. It is hard to get out of this trap. For now it worked but I am very afraid of the day it doesn’t. I am on my way to get help but even this is not easy. I was diagnosed with hashimoto in May and maybe this “downs” are part of this disease. I hope with the meds I got it will disappear.
This is a very important discussion you started! Thank you so much for this!
Thank you for your honesty! I’m so happy you’ll be getting some help….awareness is the first step. Sending love and hugs to you!
I wish you a deep and full recovery, Melody. Depression is often misunderstood but sharing our struggles in life is a way to dispell that. Sending hugs, Catherine x
Melody,
I am one of those with seasonal affective disorder, and battle depression every year from about now until about mid-March. I know what it is now, tho, and use light therapy to combat it. I have been onantidepressants, and was thankful for them until I learned coping skills that have allowed me to go without. I still have bouts, but they are hours or a day or two, not endless days. I have two children diagnosed with bipolar. My daughter has found the a regular schedule is very important for her to be stable. My son is still finding his way, but is doing better. God bless you for sharing, and starting a discussion about a subject that so many still hide and are ashamed of. Hugs!
And thank you for the adorable pattern! I have a great-niece arriving in February, and a great-nephew at about the same time!
Thanks for joining in the conversation! Many hugs and much love to you and yours.
Sending all of you loads of light, love and solidarity. You are truly not alone. I’ve been crying my eyes apart over these comments and the fact that my friend and lover of the last 18 years is leaving Friday for his home state, and I’ll probably never see him again.
I don’t want to slip back into that dark space because it scares me and because I worry about my health from the stress. I eat well, no sugars, no junk food, little alcohol, no drugs, but I’ve been under constant stress for the last 3 years from my alcoholic son who is violent and abusive like his father was (husband#1) He beat me over and over until I almost shot him in the head (not kidding here). I decided he wasn’t worth prison. The last time he hit me he broke my nose in 7 places and I still suffer PTSD to this day.
Please take care of yourselves. PLEASE get HELP if you need it. Please!!!!
much LOVE and concern. <3
Much love to you as well!
Melody, so many of us have some sort of depression or other mental illness. I am 62, and happy now that I have counseling and meds. I, at times felt like I should die. I have had depression starting as a very young girl when my periods started. Mom would ask me why I was crying, through my sobbing I said I didn’t know. Years went by like this, and a parental divorce at 11, acne, being bullied, Mom was a hard working factory worker with no monetary help (she was an abusive weekend alcoholic, but a sweet lady the rest of the week), Dad saw me before or well after some Christmasses. He’d buy me toys, but no affection. In my late 50’s, someone suggested I go to ALANON meetings. This really straightened out my head. I had no idea my childhood was so wrong. I was a sarcastic, depressed mess with very few friends. So, you are in good company. Advocate for yourself. Get professional help, and keep getting it. When you feel better, you will have less things to talk about to your counselor, and you might feel you don’t need the meds anymore. You might want to stop treatment (and $ paying for it), but, as in my case, the depression would come back after awhile, for no apparent reason. The cycle would start again. I’m in treatment for clinical depression now and will most likely be the rest of my life. To hell with the “stigma”, take care of yourself first so you can take care of your family. I’m sure God would want that for you and all of us with mental illness. I will pray for you Melody, and “us”.
Thank you for sharing and for your encouraging words!
I have suffered depression over the years. My husband travelled and I was a stay at home mum to four children. I was three thousand miles away from family and one of my sons was a challenge to raise. I started with post part up depression after my first was born and basically was told to get over it. With each child it came back and yet I did the same each time-got over it. With my husband gone a great deal of the time and coping with pain and problems with my son I cracked and tried to commit suicide. Since then I have taken medication only to have problems and had to stop them. The ugly head of depression rears its ugly head often and every once in awhile I need propping up and thankfully my husband is here to help.
Sounds like quite the tough situation being alone with 4 kids all the time. I’m glad you’re past that stage, but still sending lots of love and hugs your way. Thanks for joining in the conversation!
You’re very welcome, Melody! I think you’re amazing for using your influence in the world of fiber to minister to those who may be silently suffering. Thank you for bravely sharing your journey with us.
I had one major bout of depression. I think it falls under the category of postpartum because it came after my sixth child was born. Even though it was the only major one I remember, it was bad. It was so bad that shortly after coming home from the hospital with him I was determined to end it all. I went as far as turning all the burners on in the house and blowing out the pilot lights. I think the thing that help me to start coming out of it was I started thinking about my husband walking in the house and lighting up a cigarette as he always does and the house going up in flames. I have two major phobias… one is dying by burning and the other is dying by drowning. The shock of that picture of the house going up in flames and me and the two little ones and even my husband with it, was enough that I started coming out of it. I’m so glad because for a week or so I have never felt so bad. I have had minor depression every now and then since then and even before then but I think everybody has that to some degree. Just a general moping around, not wanting to be around others, feeling sorry for myself etc. I think some of those things that don’t work on major depression have helped me every time to come out of it. Somebody getting me talking, getting my mind off what I’m thinking, getting busy doing something, realizing that I have a lot to be happy. All these things have have helped me to get out of my minor blues. So I can see how others would think that hey that’s what you have to do but I know better. My mother-in-law has suffered major depression since she was 18 years old and she is now 84 years old. My husband suffered from depression that he refused to acknowledge until he was well into his 40s. He is gone now (brain tumor) but several of our children suffer from anxiety and depression too. It’s hard for me to know what to do and say at these times. With God’s help hopefully I will learn what to say.
I love you all…
Thank you for the heartfelt comment. Sending love to you and yours! I appreciate you sharing.
Hi…I was diagnossed with depresseion syndrome reaacting to stress…which means after a stressful period I fall into depression. Guess what…Life is stressful!!!! So after 8 depressions in 10 years, my shrink finally got the conclusion I need lifetime meds…so I can’t live without my med. Now..after 8 years of taking them I am happy to say I haven’t had a single episode. But meds are not magical. My journey begun with a therapy that tought me how to recognize the symptoms, manage the stress and the most important thing…to love me unconditionally. 5 years ago I had my last baby..she was premature (31 weeks). But I almost died. It was 3 days in the ICU, fighting for my life. Finally I embranced life. That was so stressful…but I didnt fall into depression. 3 years ago my dad was diagnozed with alzehiemer. Today he has no clue who I am. I am sooooo sad. But not depressed.
My message for you…embrance life. Your kids are your love. Fight it. Depression will not win your life. Keep on doing this…sharing and Crocheting!!!
Life is beautiful, always. Even the hard times. Those makes it worth the fight. Find love in yourself. And if you believe in something, God is always holging your hand.
Thanks for your words of encouragement!
In answer to your question, yes and still suffer with it. I ran away from home to be with a man I thought loved me, instead I was his punching bag for 19months. The only reason I had the courage to leave was because he tried to hurt our 7month old baby girl. After leaving him I suffered constant nightmares and was always watching over my shoulder for him. I then moved away and ended up in woman’s hostel because the next man I ended up with was emotionally abusive which sent my depression deeper. Going forward 10 years I moved closer to family and got remarried and was expecting twins, I lost one. My baby Micah became and angel and I couldn’t bond with cathan at all. Me and my husband split up after 3 years as I just couldn’t cope and he would not accept Micah ever existed. I’m now a single parent with 2 children who are my world but my daughter for the last 5 years has been in and out of hospital with suicide and has only just been diagnosed with bipolar and autism. She reminds me every day of her dad and so my nightmares continue but I love her so much and try to help her but because she has major anger she can go from really nice to nasty with in seconds and has attacked me a few times and her brother has found her a few times with slit wrists. It’s emotionally draining for me because I don’t know how to help her. She has since started her medication again and I pray to God she continues taking it as it really helps her. She is 16 and my son is 6. I love both my children but it’s very hard. The only thing I keep telling myself with kinda gets me through is there is always someone more worse off than myself. I am so grateful to you for creating this North Star as it’s not only insightful but amazing to read that we are just not alone and together we can get through this xxx
Sounds like you have been so strong throughout your life, and that you’re dealing with so much right now. I’m sending all sorts of love and hugs your way to you and your daughter <3
Ty so much that I finally had someone to talk to and know where I am coming from. I don’t have friends anymore. I just have my boyfriend that don’t understand me. Talk to and tell you my deepest darkest sercert. I want to thank you for bringing this up. I will never be able to know someone is listening. Ty
Sending love your way!
Thank you for sharing, I have many family members who are on medicine and I need to read more to understand more.
Hope you’ll find it helpful throughout the month 🙂
Yes, I have dealt depression, I’m still struggling with it now. My anxiety levels get so high when I start thinking about the trials I face with chronic pain and fatigue. When I start thinking about our finances and my medical bills I just want to curl up, cry, and not get out of bed. Crocheting has helped me tremendously, but by trying to turning it into a profitable business has not been going so well. Talking about it has helped some. I am in therapy and group therapy. I am trying to find my guiding star again but I’ve been let down SO many times it’s hard to trust again.
Maybe your guiding light is actually deep inside…that’s what I’m finding for myself. I’m the only person who can truly make myself happy and never let myself down. But it takes a lot of courage as it’s pretty deeply conditioned in most of us to compromise ourselves for others. Thanks again for all your great comments!!
Hi melody and other friends. Sorry I’m late.
I too have been through depression most of my life. I am 56 y/o. I am from a large family of 6 kids, I’m number 2. Also an Air Force brat, both parents had to work, dad went to all boys catholic school growing up and was beat by his dad daily until he left to join the AF at the age of 17. And yes it is very common to repeat the behavior. All of us kids were more or less treated like we were his slaves. Yes sir , no sir, or we would get punched in the mouth. I ran away a couple of times and lived with my grandparents a couple of times but always went back. I attempted suicide 2 times and both times I almost succeeded. I have been married twice. I got divorced because they became very abusive and I had them arrested. I was. It going to go through it in my adult years. Things started going smoothly in my 30’s then at 40 I had 2 strokes. Then came the deep depression. They put me on about 5 different medicines for it. Depression, mood stabilizers etc. I can just sit here and just start crying for no reason. I take care of my parents. My mom passed away in 2014. My dad has dementia and it is getting worse. He yells and cusses at me. He tells everyone I don’t feed him among other things. I just get so upset. I hate leaving the house anymore. All I do is knit and crochet and clean the house. I don’t sleep that much either. So this is my life. You probably didn’t think you would be getting a book. Sorry. But thanks for listening.
Anna Shuster-Smith
Anna! Sending so much love and hugs to you. Thank you for so openly sharing. I know it can be hard, but I truly believe there’s also healing to be had in sharing. I hope you continue to follow along and that perhaps you find some encouragement and wisdom in these posts and the conversations that follow <3
I have been dealing with depression since the passing of my mother and father merely 3 months apart. My 3 children were very young at the time and it’s been particularly hard not having them here for guidance and advice. It’s something I haven’t been able to get past.
I have had counselling and given medication.
Sending love and hugs your way. I can only imagine how difficult that must be <3
Thank you Melody.
I had discovered by luck that whenever a bad spell of depression hit, if I took up a new craft and really worked at it, I could make my way out of the dark places of depression. But that was before my marriage turned dangerous and I began to think I had Multiple personality disorder.
Medication was ordered, but no help to escape the danger of my marriage. With 3 children and having been out of work for nearly 14 years, I was terrified to leave until one night I found myself planning on driving my car off a bridge into feeezing waters and end it all. I didn’t but I understood I would need help and leaving the children with their father was wrong.
It has been over 20 years since I found myself on that bridge and I have turned to knitting mostly during my hard times but I still have hope for one day not being so hurt and scared all the time.
Thank you for opening a safe place to tell my story.
Sending big love and hugs your way…it’s certainly a life long journey. Crafting has been healing to me as well. Thanks for joining in the discussion.
I have C-PTSD, Manic Depressive Disorder, and Anxiety, add that to my severe ADHD and trying to focus on anything other than the bad thoughts is hard. I play video games, and crochet to try and pull myself out of it. Plus my husband and my kids act as a strong anchor point to what is good in my life.
Thank you for all the patterns, my daughter especially will love them all.
Brightest Blessings to you Melody.
Love that you have a solid list of things that help center you back into the good. Thanks for sharing!
Thank you for opening your heart. I am usually optimistic and active, but sometimes I do too much, untl I become exhausted and burned out, and have faced anxiety/depression from time to time.
Recently someone very close to me almost succeeded in ending her life, and I ran to her bedside. I am so thankful she got scared and sorry for her action, and that she reached out for help and is getting through this — and getting better. God bless all who are sharing this journey.