How to Crochet EASY And FAST Balaclava For Children And Adults

Learn how to knit a balaclava or ski mask suitable for adults and adolescents, using the Santa Clara stitch perfect for beginners. It covers the materials needed, including thick, soft, hypoallergenic yarn and 8mm needles. The tutorial details the creation of an initial rectangle, picking up stitches along its sides, knitting the main section, adding stitches for the neck, and finally binding off and sewing the edges to form the balaclava. The creator also suggests adapting the technique for rounded hoods. So, follow through with us for the complete tutorial!

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EASY and FAST Balaclava Tutorial

Vicky begins the tutorial by introducing the project: a knitted balaclava ideal for cold weather. It is suitable for activities like riding a motorbike or bicycle or waiting at bus stops, as it keeps you warm and fits perfectly around the head. The material used is a thick, soft, warm, hypoallergenic, and non-itchy mohair yarn. Tools include mohair yarn (around 140 grams) and a pair of 8mm needles.

Materials and Setup

• The balaclava is made using Santa Clara stitch (garter stitch) throughout.
• Instructions for casting stitches are based on creating a 15 cm wide base (adjustable based on yarn thickness).
• Once the setup is ready, the project involves knitting a small rectangle to 12 cm in height.

Knitting Process Overview

Step 1: Creating the Foundation Rectangle

• The foundation rectangle is knitted in Santa Clara stitch, which involves straightforward knitting:
  • Insert the needle, loop the yarn, and pull the stitch through to the right needle.
  • Repeat the knitting process for every row to create the foundation fabric.

Step 2: Picking Up Stitches

• After completing the small rectangle, stitches are picked up along the side edges of the rectangle:
  • Stitches are drawn from “knots” or loops on the long side of the rectangle.

• • The strategy involves alternating between picking up one stitch from a knot and one stitch from the open spaces.

Step 3: Knitting the Side Sections

• After picking up stitches on one edge, Vicky explains how to knit these stitches in the same Santa Clara stitch for 12 cm.
• Once completed, the exact process is repeated on the opposite edge of the rectangle, creating two extended knitted sides.

Shaping the Balaclava

Adding Additional Stitches

• Following the completion of the side extensions, additional stitches are added to align with the count of stitches cast at the project’s beginning.
• The additional stitches expand the width and help shape the collar section of the balaclava.

Knitting the Collar

• With all the stitches in place, the entire project is knitted for around 15 cm in length to form the balaclava’s collar.
• Vicky emphasizes maintaining a consistent tension to create an even and flexible fabric.

Casting Off and Assembly

Casting Off

• The stitches are cast off loosely to ensure the collar remains flexible and elastic.
• The last stitch is secured with a long thread left for sewing.

Seaming

• The final step involves sewing the back seam of the balaclava:
  • Vicky demonstrates a nearly invisible seam technique, using the small “waves” or knots on either side of the fabric for alignment.
  • The seam is completed quickly and cleanly, resulting in a rounded, professional finish.

Versatility and Tips

• Vicky highlights that the method for shaping the balaclava can be adapted to create hoods for jackets, sweaters, and other knitwear.
• By extending the number of rows and skipping specific steps (like adding extra stitches), the balaclava pattern can transform into a standalone hood.

Final Remarks

• The balaclava is described as suitable for men, women, teens, and children, making it a versatile accessory.
• Vicky encourages viewers to try the pattern and subscribe to her channel for more tutorials.
• Practical uses include wearing under helmets or over outerwear for additional warmth during cold weather.

Video Guide