๐งถ 13 Small Things To Crochet
๐ ๏ธ The Ultimate Maker's Toolkit
I've tested thousands of craft tools over the years. Whether you are quilting, crafting, or building mixed-media art, these are the top 5 absolute non-negotiable tools I personally recommend to guarantee professional results.
๐ชก SINGER Heavy Duty 4452 Sewing Machine
The sewing community highly recommends this as the ultimate "bulletproof" entry-level machine. Its heavy metal frame powerfully pushes through thick denim and heavy quilt layers that would instantly jam a standard plastic machine.
โ๏ธ Fiskars 8" Orange-Handled Scissors
Never settle for dull dollar-store blades. Wirecutter repeatedly names Fiskars the absolute best all-purpose craft scissor due to its legendary precision-ground blades and an ergonomic grip that prevents hand-cramping.
๐ฅ Gorilla Dual Temp Hot Glue Gun
Named Wirecutter's top choice because it literally does the work of two tools. It features dual-temperature settings offering low heat for delicate florals and blistering high heat for heavy wood adhesion repairs.
๐๏ธ Mod Podge Waterbase Gloss Sealer
The absolute undisputed champion of decoupage and paper crafts. Experts rely exclusively on this exact water-based formula because it glues, seals, and finishes beautifully without yellowing or flaking over time.
๐จ Apple Barrel Acrylic Paint (2 oz)
The quintessential, incredibly inexpensive craft paint. Woodworkers and hobby painters swear by its smooth flow and matte finish, providing massive value and remarkably thick color coverage on rough surfaces.

1. Coasters
- Best For: Housewarmings, quick gifts, protecting your coffee table from ring marks.
- Vibe: Cozy, practical, surprisingly chic.
- Why it works: They are super fast and use minimal yarn.
Ditch those sad, stained coasters you found at a garage sale. Whipping up a set of four in a chunky cotton yarn, maybe in a vibrant mustard yellow or a calming sage green, takes no time at all.
You can experiment with different stitches too, like a simple single crochet square or a more intricate mandala design. Your furniture will thank you, probably.
Pro Tip: Use mercerized cotton for a smoother finish and better absorbency. Itโs a game-changer.
2. Keychains
- Best For: Stocking stuffers, backpack bling, not losing your keys in the abyss.
- Vibe: Playful, personalized, “look what I made” proud.
- Why it works: They are tiny, adorable, and super customizable.
Think mini avocados, tiny stars, or even a sarcastic little ghost. All you need is some scrap yarn, a small keychain ring, and maybe some poly-fil for stuffing your tiny amigurumi creations.
A bright neon pink heart or a pastel blue cloud can totally elevate your key game. Plus, they make excellent last-minute birthday add-ons.
Pro Tip: Attach a small bell inside for an extra jingle and to find your keys faster. Youโre welcome.
3. Scrunchies
- Best For: Bad hair days, adding a pop of color, channeling your inner 90s icon.
- Vibe: Retro, fun, surprisingly functional.
- Why it works: They are quick to make and always in style.
Grab an elastic hair tie and some soft yarn, like a velvet or chenille for extra luxuriousness. A few rows of double crochet around the elastic and boom, instant hair accessory.
Imagine a forest green velvet scrunchie or a multi-colored chunky yarn one. Theyโre super gentle on your hair, unlike those basic elastic torture devices.
Pro Tip: Use a hair tie with a strong elastic so your scrunchie actually holds your hair. Nobody wants a saggy scrunchie.
4. Earring Dangles
- Best For: Making a statement, using up embroidery floss, impressing your artsy friends.
- Vibe: Boho, delicate, effortlessly cool.
- Why it works: They are extremely small and only require a tiny bit of thread.
Who knew you could crochet earrings? Using fine thread or embroidery floss and a tiny hook, you can create intricate lace patterns or simple geometric shapes.
Think tiny white doilies or delicate black teardrops, finished with some earring hooks. These are perfect for practicing your super-fine motor skills and looking fabulous while doing it.
Pro Tip: Stiffen your finished earrings with a mix of PVA glue and water for better shape retention. Nobody likes floppy earrings.
5. Tiny Food Amigurumi
- Best For: Desk decor, dollhouse accessories, making people hungry.
- Vibe: Adorable, whimsical, “don’t eat that.”
- Why it works: They are bite-sized projects that bring big smiles.
We’re talking mini donuts with sprinkles, tiny strawberries, or even a minuscule slice of pie. These little guys work up fast using worsted weight yarn in realistic colors like beige, red, and brown.
Theyโre perfect for practicing your amigurumi shaping and detailing. Plus, they look impossibly cute sitting on a shelf or tucked into a plant pot.
Pro Tip: Use safety eyes for faces on tiny fruit, or embroider small details with black thread for a more polished look.
6. Bookmarks
- Best For: Avid readers, thoughtful gifts, marking your spot in that epic fantasy novel.
- Vibe: Literary, charming, “I actually read physical books.”
- Why it works: They are thin, flat, and quick to make.
Forget dog-earing pages, that’s just barbaric. Crochet a stylish bookmark in a pretty lace pattern or a simple striped design using cotton or acrylic yarn.
A long, thin strip in variegated blues or a cute little animal peeking over the top of your book is way better. Add a tassel for extra flair and sophistication.
Pro Tip: Use stiff cotton yarn for bookmarks so they don’t flop around in your book. No one wants a flimsy bookmark.
7. Small Gift Tags or Card Embellishments
- Best For: Adding a personal touch, making gifts extra special, using up tiny yarn scraps.
- Vibe: Thoughtful, handmade, “I really tried for you.”
- Why it works: They are incredibly small and can be made in minutes.
Crochet tiny hearts, stars, or simple flowers to glue onto gifts or greeting cards. A little red heart on a brown paper package immediately elevates the presentation.
These are fantastic for busting those minuscule yarn scraps you just can’t bring yourself to throw away. Suddenly, your trash is treasure.
Pro Tip: Use a hot glue gun for quick and secure attachment to cards or gifts. Just be careful not to burn yourself, obviously.
8. Mini Produce Saver Bags
- Best For: Storing garlic or shallots, eco-conscious gifting, feeling super organized.
- Vibe: Sustainable, rustic, “I’ve got my life together.”
- Why it works: They are small, mesh-like, and surprisingly useful.
These little mesh bags, often made with a simple chain and double crochet pattern, are perfect for keeping small produce fresh. Think a breathable home for your precious garlic cloves or those fancy shallots.
Use a natural fiber like un-dyed cotton or hemp yarn for an authentic, earthy feel. Theyโre way cuter than plastic bags, let’s be real.
Pro Tip: Make sure your stitches are loose enough to create a mesh, allowing for proper airflow. Nobody wants moldy produce.
9. Face Scrubbies or Makeup Removers
- Best For: Sustainable beauty routines, pampering yourself, using up cotton yarn.
- Vibe: Eco-friendly, spa-like, “I woke up like this.”
- Why it works: They are small, reusable, and great for your skin.
Replace disposable cotton pads with these soft, crocheted circles. Use a gentle cotton yarn in soft pastels or natural tones for maximum spa vibes.
They feel amazing on your skin and are machine washable, making them a win for both you and the planet. Your face will thank you for the upgrade.
Pro Tip: Use 100% cotton yarn for these; acrylic won’t absorb water properly and can feel scratchy. Your skin deserves better.
10. Mug Cozies
- Best For: Keeping drinks warm, adding personality to your mug, avoiding burnt fingers.
- Vibe: Hygge, comforting, “my mug is better than yours.”
- Why it works: They are quick to make and add instant charm to any beverage.
A simple rectangle with a button closure, or a tube-like design, can transform any plain mug. Imagine a cozy in a variegated autumnal yarn or a bold chevron pattern.
They keep your hands safe from hot drinks and make your morning coffee feel extra special. Plus, they make a great gift paired with a fancy tea bag.
Pro Tip: Measure your specific mug before starting to ensure a snug, custom fit. Nobody wants a saggy mug cozy.
11. Hair Clip Covers/Embellishments
- Best For: Upgrading plain hair clips, adding a touch of whimsy, using tiny scraps.
- Vibe: Adorable, bespoke, “I’m crafty and I know it.”
- Why it works: They are tiny and instantly transform a basic accessory.
Crochet small flowers, bows, or even little animals to glue onto plain snap clips or barrettes. A simple white flower on a black snap clip looks super cute and chic.
This is another perfect project for those micro-scraps of yarn you just can’t part with. Your hair accessories game will be next level, trust me.
Pro Tip: Use fabric glue for a strong, lasting bond that can withstand daily wear and tear. Don’t let your embellishments fall off.
12. Appliques or Patches
- Best For: Customizing clothes, covering up holes, adding flair to bags.
- Vibe: Quirky, personalized, “I fix things with style.”
- Why it works: They are flat, versatile, and can be any shape.
Whip up a tiny rainbow, a whimsical mushroom, or a geometric shape to sew or glue onto jeans, jackets, or tote bags. A bright yellow star on a denim jacket screams personality.
These are fantastic for adding a pop of color or covering a small tear with panache. Suddenly, that old denim jacket is cool again.
Pro Tip: For a more secure attachment, sew your appliques on in addition to using fabric glue. Safety first, fashionably.
13. Coin Purses or Mini Pouches
- Best For: Storing earbuds, loose change, tiny treasures, feeling organized.
- Vibe: Handy, cute, “I know where all my quarters are.”
- Why it works: They are small, functional, and can be closed with a drawstring or zipper.
A small, circular, or rectangular pouch can hold all sorts of tiny essentials. Use a sturdy cotton yarn in a fun stripe pattern or a solid jewel tone.
Add a simple drawstring or even a small zipper for closure, and youโve got the perfect home for your AirPods or emergency lip balm. No more digging through your giant purse for change.
Pro Tip: For a sturdier pouch, crochet with a smaller hook than recommended for your yarn weight. It helps things keep their shape.
Our Top Recommended Finds
- Ergonomic Crochet Hook Set: Your hands will thank you after all that tiny stitch work. Less strain, more fun.
- Yarn Winder and Swift: For managing those smaller skeins and making sure your yarn stash stays neat, not a tangled mess.
- Blocking Mats with Pins: Essential for shaping your finished small pieces, especially for coasters or appliques, giving them that polished, professional look.
Which of these will you try first?
See? No need to tackle a king-sized blanket right away. These small projects are your ticket to creative bliss, quick wins, and a seriously impressive stash of handmade goodies.
So, grab that hook and some yarn. What tiny masterpiece are you going to whip up first?