The crochet pumpkin backpack is a delightful accessory perfect for Halloween or any time of year you want to add a whimsical touch to your outfit. Crafted to resemble a classic jack-o’-lantern, this backpack features a vibrant orange body with ribbed texture to mimic pumpkin ridges, green leaves at the top, and a curling brown stem. The smiling face with triangular eyes and a jagged mouth adds a playful and spooky charm. The backpack is both stylish and functional, equipped with a zipper for easy access and adjustable straps for comfort. It’s a unique piece that will surely attract attention and admiration wherever you go!
As a crocheter, there are projects that instantly make your heart feel cozy, and a crochet pumpkin backpack is absolutely one of those. From the moment I pick up my hook and start working those first round stitches, I already know this piece is going to be special. It’s playful, seasonal, and full of personality—exactly the kind of project that reminds me why I fell in love with crochet in the first place.
This backpack isn’t just an accessory. It’s a statement. It captures the warm, comforting spirit of autumn, the magic of Halloween, and that handmade charm that only crochet can deliver. Every time I finish one, I can’t help but smile because it feels like I’ve crocheted a little piece of fall into something you can actually wear.
How to Make a Crochet Pumpkin Backpack
Creating your own crochet pumpkin backpack is a fun and engaging project that combines basic crochet techniques with creative design. This guide will walk you through each step to make your very own pumpkin-shaped accessory, complete with a jack-o’-lantern face and a zipper closure.
Pumpkins are such a joy to crochet. Their round, ribbed shape is naturally perfect for crochet stitches, especially when you work in the round. As a crocheter, I love how forgiving and satisfying this shape is. You can really relax into the rhythm—stitch after stitch, round after round—watching that plump pumpkin form in your hands.
A pumpkin backpack takes that classic shape and elevates it into something functional. It’s whimsical without being childish, cute without being overdone. Whether it’s for a child, a teen, or even an adult who loves unique handmade accessories, this backpack always feels like a hit.
Crochet Pattern for a Crochet Pumpkin Backpack
When I make a crochet pumpkin backpack, color choice is everything. A rich pumpkin orange is the obvious star, but the shade really matters. I usually go for a warm, slightly muted orange rather than something neon. It gives the backpack that cozy, autumn-market feel instead of looking like a costume.
For the stem and details, earthy greens and browns work beautifully. Sometimes I add a little texture by switching stitches for the stem—front post stitches or tighter single crochet really make it pop. I also love using a sturdy yarn, like cotton or a cotton blend, so the backpack keeps its shape even when it’s filled.
One of my favorite parts of this project is shaping the pumpkin. After crocheting the main body, pulling in the stitches to create those classic pumpkin ridges is pure magic. It’s one of those moments where the piece suddenly comes alive.
I always take my time here. Even tension and careful placement of the shaping stitches make all the difference. When it’s done right, the pumpkin looks full, soft, and perfectly rounded—just begging to be worn or hugged.
Materials Needed:
- Super bulky yarn in orange, green, black, and brown
- Crochet hook size 8.0 mm (L)
- Zipper (12 inches)
- Stitch marker
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Fiberfill stuffing (for 3D effect)
Stitch Abbreviations:
- ch: chain
- sc: single crochet
- hdc: half double crochet
- dc: double crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- inc: increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- dec: decrease (2 sc worked together)
Instructions:
- Body of the Pumpkin:
- Start with the orange yarn. Make a magic ring and ch 1.
- Round 1: Work 6 sc into the magic ring. Join with a sl st to the first sc. (6 sc)
- Round 2: Ch 1, inc in each st around. Join with a sl st. (12 sc)
- Round 3: Ch 1, 1 sc, inc repeat around. Join with a sl st. (18 sc)
- Continue increasing in this pattern until you have a base of about 60 stitches around.
- Work even in sc for the next 10-12 rounds to create the height of the pumpkin.
- Creating the Ribbed Texture:
- Switch to hdc and work in the back loops only (BLO) for 5-6 rounds to create the ribbed effect.
- Continue in regular sc rounds until you reach the desired height of the pumpkin backpack.
- Jack-O’-Lantern Face:
- Using black yarn, crochet small triangles for the eyes and a jagged shape for the mouth.
- Sew these onto the front of the pumpkin body using a tapestry needle.
- Top Leaves and Stem:
- Switch to green yarn. Create 6-8 leaves using a simple leaf pattern: ch 6, sc in 2nd ch from hook, hdc in next ch, dc in next 2 ch, 5 dc in last ch, working on the opposite side of the foundation chain, dc in next 2 ch, hdc in next ch, sc in last ch. Fasten off.
- For the stem, use brown yarn. Make a small cylinder by crocheting in rounds and stuffing with fiberfill as you go. Attach to the center of the leaves.
- Adding the Zipper and Finishing:
- Sew the zipper to the top opening of the backpack.
- Attach adjustable straps to the back.
To finish your crochet pumpkin backpack, check all seams and attachments for security, ensuring it is both stylish and durable. Enjoy using this fun and festive accessory to carry your essentials with a touch of Halloween spirit!
What I love most about the crochet pumpkin backpack is its personality. No two ever turn out exactly the same. Your stitch tension, yarn choice, and little design tweaks all leave a mark. You can make it playful with a curly vine, elegant with subtle shaping, or extra cute with embroidered details.
This project, Crochet Pumpkin Backpack, gives you so much creative freedom while still being approachable. It’s great for intermediate crocheters, but adventurous beginners can absolutely tackle it with a bit of patience.
For me, the crochet pumpkin backpack represents everything comforting about crochet. It’s slow, mindful, and joyful. Every stitch feels intentional, and the finished piece feels like a warm hug—soft, handmade, and full of love.
When autumn rolls around, this is always one of the first projects I reach for. It reminds me that crochet isn’t just about making things; it’s about capturing moments, seasons, and feelings in yarn. And honestly, there’s nothing better than carrying a little pumpkin on your back, knowing it was made stitch by stitch with your own two hands.