In honor of this epic wind chill I’ve decided to do a roundup of 10 free balaclavas patterns! Balaclavas, aka ski masks, are knitted or crocheted hats that include a face covering portion – usually leaving just the eyes free. Closer fitting and easier to wear in the cold than a scarf, these make a great first layer when battling the elements! So here are 5 free crochet ski mask patterns and 5 free knit balaclava patterns to help you stay warm this winter!
5 Free Crochet Balaclava Patterns
- Crocheted Helmet Liner by the Feisty Hooker, on Scribd: I like the use of post stitches here over the mouth, to add the extra bulk and warmth of a nice thick scarf! This one was designed to go under military helmets, so it should have a nice close fit.
- Cthulhu Beard Hat by Nichole Verville, on Ravelry: Pretty sure it’s too cold for even the denizens of the deep, but then again…
- Don’t Turn Blue Basic Ski Mask by Allison Jai O’Dell, on Ravelry: For those who prefer to have their mouths free – just remember to breathe with your nose when outside!
- Ribbed Ski Hat by Dot Matthews, on Crochetville: A great basic pattern sure to keep you warm!
- Helmet with Visor by Hannah Sanders, on Bats In My Belfry: Going outside takes bravery! This non-traditional balaclava is a fun way to stay warm and announce your chivalrous intent. Note that you still might need a scarf with this one.
5 Free Knit Balaclava Patterns
- Antifreeze by Jenna Adorno, on Knitty, Winter 2006: This is a truly customizable hat, perfect for those who insist on playing outdoors in the snow. Spaces for ponytails, helmet straps – make it your own!
- Easy Balaclava by Nanette Blanchard, on NESeafarers.org: Easy is good, and warm is great! Judging by the photos on Ravelry, this one seems to fit just about everybody! For the pattern, click on “How to knit a Balaclava (Winter Knit Helmet)” under “Activity Projects.”
- From Russia, with Love: Cabled Balaclava by Nikol Lohr, on CRAFT Magazine: Hands down the prettiest balaclava I’ve ever seen! I love how she describes it: “To shake off the alarm factor, I’ve made this one in a totally plush sugary pink cashmere blend, with lots of cushy cables for added warmth.”
- Dr Zoidberg by Kate Quinn, on Cute Couture (link to google doc on Ravelry): Want to stay warm? Why not Zoidberg? (And there are matching mitts!)
- Bearded Toque by V. Vine, on Ravelry: Beard hats make great non-traditional balaclavas, in both knit and crochet!
Hope you’re all staying warm – and inside, covered in yarn if possible! If you do have to go out, be sure to bundle up and stay safe!
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KristinA says
Wow! I love the great compilation. I didn’t even realize there were so many fun ways to make a balaklava. I need to learn to knit so I can make a Dr. Zoidberg one, lol! Thanks for the compilation, Tamara!
Tamara Kelly says
😀 Thanks Kristin! Zoidberg was just too fun to leave out.
Betsy says
would love to make some of these….but can’t download….my antivirus will not allow it….can’t even copy and paste…it’s too bad they are nice patterns
Tamara Kelly says
Hi Betsy! You need to go to each pattern to get it – click on the name of the pattern(s) you’re interested in, in pink. They’re all hosted on different sites. 🙂
Melanie says
I wish wish wish I could find this pattern!
http://sugarcoatidli3z.deviantart.com/art/Convertible-Crochet-ski-mask-144594897
Tamara Kelly says
Hi Melanie! You’d have to ask the designer there on her site – she’ll know where it is far better than I!
Melanie says
I know, I just don’t have a membership to the site 🙁
ee fleming says
great patterns wish i could dounload them
Tamara Kelly says
Hi ee! Click on the names of the patterns you like, and then use Print Friendly to download or print! 😀 https://www.mooglyblog.com/print-pattern-use-print-friendly-button-moogly/
Alysia says
When I try the link for the crochet helmet liner it takes to a site for books. I really want the pattern for my kids. Am I doing something wrong? (On my phone)
Tamara Kelly says
I’m not sure what’s up there Alysia, when I click it I get the pattern.
elize van de vliet says
I am on the admin of a fairly large, in our standards, FB group.
Could I please, on occasion, post a pattern with full recognition to you, on the page.
Not everybody has the means or the know how to search the web.
It would be greatly appreciated.
Thank you,
Elize van de Vliet.
Name of group:
BREI EN GENIET.
Tamara Kelly says
Hello Elize! Posting the link would be great, but posting the full pattern is not allowed.
Esme Richards Richards says
How do I download the easy balaclava pattern please
Tamara Kelly says
Hello Esme! It looks like that pattern has moved. Go to http://neseafarers.org/group-projects/ and there is a link there!
Helen says
Would like a free pattern for balaclavas
With just eyes showing please
Tamara Kelly says
Hello Helen! There are a few above, and this is another: http://www.oombawkadesigncrochet.com/2014/04/child-teen-adult-whimsical-balaclava.html 🙂