What to Crochet When Sad: 18 Ideas to Brighten Up Your Mood

by strommercrafts / March 11, 2024

Hello everyone! Today, I’ve got a list of What to Crochet When Sad. These crochet ideas can be a mood lifter when life gets a bit challenging. We all face ups and downs—whether it’s a tough break-up, the loss of a loved one (human or furry), or just the everyday struggles that can leave us feeling low.

But here’s the good news: crochet has a magical way of boosting our spirits! If you’re curious about the therapeutic benefits of crochet, you can check out my previous post, Therapeutic Benefits of Crochet. In the meantime, let’s explore what you can crochet when those gloomy days come around.

When you’re feeling down, it’s normal to lack the mental energy to decide on a crochet project. There are so many patterns out there, and it can be overwhelming! That’s where I come in—I’m here to help. I hope this list sparks some inspiration and helps you crochet something that brings a bit of sunshine back into your days!

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#1 Comforting Blanket

Crochet a cozy, oversized blanket in your favorite colors (or pick colors that represents how you’re feeling). You can use any type of yarn you wish, but choosing a soft, chunky yarn will work up faster and feel better on the skin.

Experiment with different types of stitches. You can go for the tried and true single crochet, or try more intricate stitch patterns. Pick something that aligns with your skill level to avoid unnecessary frustration.

Consider adding a border to help frame the blanket and make it look complete.

#2 Amigurumi Friends

Consider crocheting cute, stuffed animals, plants, or dolls to keep you company.

Give your amigurumi buddies different colors to represent their unique personalities. Add small details, such as embroidered faces or accessories to personalize your friends.

#3 Mug Cozy/Coasters

Make crochet mug cozies/coasters to give your favorite drinks a hug. Select a pattern that matches your style, whether it’s a textured stitch or a cute design. You can adjust the cozy/coaster to fit your mug by adjusting the number of stitches in the pattern. Sip and enjoy!

#4 Crochet Cowl/Scarf

Crochet a stylish accessory to keep you warm and snug. Use a variety of stitch patterns, such as cables, or a ribbed design. Try stitches that help thicken up your scarf for added warmth. You could even make a matching set with a coordinating hat or gloves.

#5 Crochet Positive Affirmation Banner

Crochet banners that have uplifting words or phrases to decorate your space. You can try making small, individual flags that spell out uplifting words or phrases. Experiment with different font styles with your stitches. You could hang them on a string or sew the flags together to form a longer banner.

Check out Stitch Fiddle to help map out your own crochet positive affirmation banner.

#6 Crochet a Pillow to Hug

Crochet a soft, huggable pillow for moments when you need comfort. Crochet a square or a rectangular pillow, using bulky, velvet yarn for the best huggable feel.

There are many different stitch and color designs for crochet pillows. You can even use Stitch Fiddle to help design your very own.

Dark Souls Crochet Pillow Pattern

#7 Aromatherapy Sachet

Make small sachets that you can fill with calming herbs to help you relax. Crochet the pouches using lace or a mesh stitch for breathability.

Fill the pouches with dried lavender or another calming herb of your choice. Consider attaching a loop to hang the sachets where needed or simply place them in drawers and closets.

#8 Crochet a Blanket/Toy/Accessory for Your Pet

Crochet something special for your furry, scaly, or feathery friend to enjoy. Choose a durable, washable yarn for pet-friendly crochet patterns. You can experiment with different shapes or sizes for pet toys. Crochet a blanket or a sweater in colors that suite your pet to help them stay warm and comfy.

#9 Soothing Eye Mask

Crochet an eye mask to help get the rest you need. Use soft and breathable yarn since the fabric will be touching your skin.

Feels Like Butta Yarn from Lion Brand has the softest, squishiest yarn to crochet an eye mask in my opinion!

Add a strap with a button or a tie to help secure and adjust the fit as needed. Consider adding an extra layer of fabric to really help block out the light.

#10 Gentle Baby Blanket

Crochet a baby blanket to give a little one warmth and comfort. Use soft yarn with a pastel color palette. Gift your blanket to a family member or friend.

If you don’t know anyone expecting, consider donating your baby blanket to your local hospital or women’s shelter.

#11 Rainbow Wall Hanging

Brighten up your space with a colorful and uplifting wall hanging. Choose your favorite yarn colors to crochet a cheerful rainbow.

There are different crochet patterns out there to achieve a rainbow wall hanging. You can go for the tapestry crochet technique, color block, or crochet a rainbow in a semicircle, switching colors as you go.

Add fringe or tassels to the bottom for a playful touch.

#12 Bookmarks

Crochet an elegant bookmark for your favorite books. Experiment with various shapes, such as the classic rectangle, hearts, or even funny little characters. Incorporate lace or openwork stitches for a delicate feel.

You can try my Grim Reader Crochet Skull Bookmark or the Blissful Crochet Bookmark pattern to mark the book you’re reading.

#13 Gratitude Jar Cozy

One thing to crochet when you’re sad is a gratitude jar cozy. It might seem silly to do for yourself, but sometimes you gotta be the one cheering yourself on, especially if no one else is.

Decorate a glass jar with a crochet cozy for daily gratitude notes. Make sure it fits snugly around your jar. Use cable or shell stitches to add a little visual appeal.

#14 Crochet Socks/Slippers

Crochet cozy slippers or socks to keep your feet warm and snug. Choose a soft, breathable yarn.

Use different stitch patterns, such as ribbing for the cuffs and a different textured stitch for the foot.

Go the extra mile and add pom-poms, buttons or be silly and add contrasting colors for the toes or heel.

#15 Stress Ball Covers

We all feel stress, but you might feel more so when sad. Consider crocheting a stress ball cover with durable and stretchy yarn.

Use tight stitches or tighten your tension when making your ball. Add an embellishment like a crochet applique of your choice to give your stress ball a personal touch. Use different colorways for variety.

#16 Mindful Yoga Mat Bag

Crochet a bag that can hold your yoga mat, that way you can easily carry it with you wherever you go. Stretching and yoga may make your body feel better when you’re a little down.

#17 Calm Corner Basket

Crochet a sturdy basket to hold your favorite self care items in a relaxation corner of your home. Fill it with items like candles, a journal, your favorite skin products, or snacks.

Consider crochet handles to easily transport your basket around as needed. Don’t know what sort of yarn to use for your basket? My post on 7 Best Yarns for Crochet Baskets will help!

#18 Journal Cover

Lastly, crochet a cover for a journal or diary. Add a crochet pocket of pens or small notes you want to keep. Use textured stitches or add your own personalized touch with a crochet applique that reflects you.

I hope you enjoyed this list of What to Crochet When Sad: 18 Ideas to Brighten Up Your Mood. Remember, when life gives you lemons, crochet a basket for them!

While these crochet ideas might not entirely dispel your sadness, they can offer a creative and comforting outlet. It’s important to take care of yourself during challenging times. Get some rest, stay hydrated, engage in regular exercise, and consider taking your crochet project outdoors to bask in the sun.

Take small steps each day, and don’t forget that it’s okay not to be okay. Your well-being is the priority! 💕