If you are looking for a small crochet project that is useful, wearable, and gives you an opportunity to practice linked crochet, this linked crochet bandana is a wonderful place to begin. The finished piece is a pretty triangular head kerchief that can be worn as a fun accessory or used practically to help keep hair away from your face.
This pattern is especially interesting because the main fabric is made with the linked double crochet stitch, or LDC. The linked construction creates a distinctive fabric while giving the project a simple rhythm that makes it suitable for a focused crochet session. The finished bandana measures approximately 12.5 x 21 inches according to the pattern specifications.
The project also includes a filet-style crochet row and finishes with straps and a decorative scalloped border. Because the bandana is relatively small, it provides a manageable introduction to several techniques without requiring the commitment of a large garment or blanket.
Why This Small Crochet Project Is Worth Trying
A bandana is a practical crochet accessory because it does not require complicated shaping or a large amount of yarn. The original pattern was created as a way to keep hair out of the way and help prevent sweat from rolling down the forehead while working outside in warm weather. At the same time, the finished triangle can simply be worn as an accessory.
For crocheters who are unfamiliar with linked crochet, this project is also a useful introduction. The original pattern specifically presents the bandana as a small and simple project for someone who wants to learn the basics of the linked double crochet stitch. A video tutorial accompanies the written pattern and demonstrates the linked crochet technique.
Another appealing feature is the shape. Rather than making a rectangular strip and shaping it afterward, the triangle grows naturally from a magic ring. The increases in the linked double crochet rows create the triangular form, while the chain-space row introduces an open filet-style section before the linked construction continues.
Project At a Glance
- Project: Linked Crochet Bandana
- Finished Size: 12.5 x 21 inches
- Gauge: 5 ldc x 2 rows = 1 square inch
- Main Stitch: Linked double crochet (LDC)
- Construction: Triangle worked from a magic ring
- Border: Scalloped border
- Straps: Two, each beginning with chain 40
- Yarn: Mary Maxim Sunrise, Desert, 1 skein
- Hook: 3.75mm
Materials for the Linked Crochet Bandana
Gather the materials before beginning so that you can work through the pattern without stopping to search for supplies. The original pattern calls for Mary Maxim Sunrise in the Desert color, with one skein required for the project.
- Mary Maxim Sunrise — Desert, 1 skein
- 3.75mm crochet hook
- Scissors
- Tapestry needle
The tapestry needle will be used for finishing by weaving in the yarn ends after the crochet work is complete. Scissors are needed for fastening off and trimming the yarn.
Gauge and Finished Measurements
The stated gauge for this pattern is 5 ldc x 2 rows = 1 square inch. The finished size is 12.5 x 21 inches.
Gauge is particularly useful when you want the finished dimensions to remain close to the stated size. If you are substituting yarn or changing your crochet tension, checking your gauge before beginning can help you understand how your fabric compares with the pattern specifications.
Because this is a wearable accessory, the dimensions are also useful as a reference while the triangle grows. However, the pattern’s row instructions and stitch construction should remain unchanged if you want to follow the original design accurately.
Abbreviations and Special Stitches
Understanding the terminology before starting makes the written instructions much easier to follow. The pattern uses standard crochet abbreviations along with the linked double crochet and alternative turning chain.
- mr = magic ring
- dc = double crochet
- ch = chain
- sl st = slip stitch
- ldc = linked double crochet
- ATC = Alternative Turning Chain
The pattern also defines the scalloped border as follows: *1 sc into first st, sk 1 st, then 5 dc in the next st, sk 1 st, repeat from *.
The original notes explain that ATC means Alternative Turning Chain, also described as stacked single crochet. The linked double crochet is the principal stitch used to create the body of the bandana.
Important Notes Before You Begin
There are a few details in the written instructions that are important enough to understand before starting the first row.
First, none of the first CH2’s count as a stitch. They are included to help start the LDC. This distinction matters because the construction depends on where the actual stitches are placed and where increases occur.
Second, after a chain space is created, the instructions have you crochet a DC and then connect the next LDC to the newly made DC. This linked connection is part of what gives the fabric its characteristic structure.
Third, the filet crochet row is different from the main linked rows. The original notes specify that there are no LDCs in the filet crochet row; instead, it uses DCs and ATC.
Finally, after the designated filet row, all CH1 spaces are counted as one stitch for the subsequent instructions. Keep this change in mind before beginning the next repeat.
Building the Triangle from the Center
The bandana begins with a magic ring. Starting from the center allows the project to expand outward as the linked double crochet rows progress. The repeated increases create the triangular shape without requiring separate shaping pieces.
Row 1
Make a magic ring.
Row 1: CH2, 4 LDC, CH2, 1 DC, 3 LDC in the ring; tighten ring and turn.
This first row establishes the central construction of the triangle. Remember that the CH2 at the beginning does not count as a stitch. Once the stitches are worked into the magic ring, tighten the ring and turn as directed.
Row 2
Row 2: CH2, 2 LDC in the first st, 1 LDC in each LDC until ch2 sp; [2LDC, CH2, 1 DC, 1 LDC] (the ldc is connected to the dc) in ch2 sp; LDC in each dc until last LDC; 2 LDC in last LDC, turn.
This row introduces the increase pattern that will be repeated throughout much of the body. The first stitch receives 2 LDC, the center chain-2 space receives the specified group, and the final LDC receives another 2 LDC. These increases are what allow the triangle to expand.
Rows 3–5
Rows 3–5: as row 2.
At this point, the construction becomes repetitive. Continue following Row 2 exactly for Rows 3 through 5. Maintaining the same stitch placement is important because these repeated increases establish the overall shape of the bandana.
The Filet Crochet Row
Row 6
Row 6: [1 ATC, CH 1, 1 DC] in the first st, *CH 1, SK 1, 1 DC, repeat from * until the ch2 sp; [1 DC, CH 1, 1 DC, CH 1] in ch2 sp; **1 DC, CH 1, SK 1, repeat from ** until last LDC, [1 DC, CH 1, 1 DC] in the last LDC, turn.
This row creates the open filet-style section. Unlike the surrounding linked crochet rows, the instructions specifically state that there are no LDCs in this row. Instead, work with DC, CH1 spaces, skips, and the ATC as written.
After completing Row 6, the pattern gives an important counting instruction: Now count all CH 1’s as 1 st. This becomes relevant when returning to the Row 2 construction.
The 23-Row Repeat Structure
The body continues through a specific sequence of linked rows and filet rows. The pattern instructs you to repeat Row 2 five times, then repeat Row 6. This sequence is repeated three times, with the entire piece finishing with five repetitions of Row 2.
The result is 23 rows, finishing with five times Row 2.
The sequence can be viewed as a practical checkpoint:
- Begin with Rows 1 through 5.
- Work Row 6.
- Repeat Row 2 five times.
- Work Row 6.
- Repeat Row 2 five times.
- Work Row 6.
- Repeat Row 2 five times.
- Finish with five repetitions of Row 2.
When working a repeated section like this, it can be helpful to mark each completed row or keep a written checklist nearby. This is not a change to the pattern; it is simply a practical way to keep track of where you are in a 23-row sequence.
Stitch Checkpoints While Crocheting
One of the easiest ways to avoid mistakes in a growing triangle is to pay attention to the construction rather than trying to rush through the repeated rows. The first CH2 should not be treated as a stitch. The center CH2 space remains an important point in the design, and the increases at the outer ends continue to build the triangle.
When you reach Row 6, deliberately switch your mindset from LDC construction to the filet-style instructions. The pattern explicitly uses DCs and ATC in this row, so do not substitute LDC simply because it was the main stitch in the previous rows.
After Row 6, remember the instruction to count every CH1 as one stitch. This makes the transition back into the repeated Row 2 instructions easier to understand.
Keeping the Triangle Even
The shape of the finished bandana depends on consistent placement of the increases and the center chain-space construction. If your triangle begins to look uneven, pause and compare the current section with the written row instructions instead of automatically adding or removing stitches.
In particular, check the beginning and ending increases in the Row 2 construction. The pattern calls for 2 LDC in the first stitch and 2 LDC in the last LDC. The central ch2 space also has its own specific sequence. These are structural parts of the pattern and should be followed exactly.
Adding the Straps
Once the 23-row triangle is complete, the pattern moves to the finishing stage. The first part of the finishing instructions creates one strap, works along the long edge, and then creates the second strap.
Start with the first strap by chaining 40. Starting from the second chain from the hook, work 1 sc per chain. Then crochet evenly along the long edge, working 2 sc’s per ldc. After reaching the appropriate point, crochet the second strap in the same way as the first.
Keeping both straps worked in the same manner helps maintain a balanced finish. Since the strap instructions are specific, retain the chain-40 measurement and the 2-sc-per-LDC instruction rather than estimating the length.
Creating the Scalloped Border
The short sides of the triangle receive the decorative scalloped border. This gives the otherwise geometric bandana a more decorative finish.
For the scalloped border, repeat the following sequence:
*1 sc into first st, sk 1 st, then 5 dc in the next st, sk 1 st, repeat from *
The combination of skipped stitches and five double crochet stitches creates each scallop. Work the border along the short sides of the triangle as directed by the pattern.
Finishing the Bandana
After the border and straps are complete, fasten off and weave in the ends using the tapestry needle. This final step cleans up the project and leaves the bandana ready to wear.
Because this is a small accessory, finishing neatly around the edges is particularly noticeable. Take your time when weaving in the yarn ends so that the finished piece remains tidy without disturbing the shape of the triangle or the scalloped edge.
Helpful Tips for a Smoother Crochet Session
- Read the notes first. The instructions about the non-counting CH2s and the CH1 spaces are important to the construction.
- Keep the center visible. The ch2 space is a major reference point throughout the increase rows.
- Watch the transition to Row 6. This row uses DCs and ATC rather than LDCs.
- Track repeated rows. The pattern ultimately contains 23 rows, so a simple row checklist can help prevent losing your place.
- Keep the two straps consistent. Both begin with chain 40 and are worked in the same way.
- Follow the border sequence carefully. The scallops depend on the specified skips and five-dc groups.
- Finish patiently. Fasten off and weave in the ends rather than leaving loose yarn tails.
Troubleshooting Common Construction Issues
My triangle does not look symmetrical.
Check the increase locations in the repeated Row 2 instructions. The first stitch and last LDC each receive 2 LDC, while the central ch2 space has its own increase sequence. Also confirm that the beginning CH2 has not accidentally been counted as a stitch.
I am unsure what to do after Row 6.
Remember the specific instruction following Row 6: count all CH1s as 1 stitch. Then return to the prescribed Row 2 repeats. The pattern’s repeat structure is what produces the final 23-row construction.
The filet section looks different from the other rows.
That is expected. The pattern notes specifically state that the filet crochet row has no LDCs. It uses DCs and ATC instead, creating a different visual texture within the bandana.
My scalloped border looks uneven.
Review the border sequence rather than changing the number of stitches. The specified repeat is 1 sc, skip 1 stitch, 5 dc in the next stitch, skip 1 stitch, and repeat. Keeping that sequence consistent helps the scallops develop evenly.
Quick Pattern Reference
For convenient reference while working, keep these key details nearby:
- Yarn: Mary Maxim Sunrise, Desert, 1 skein
- Hook: 3.75mm
- Gauge: 5 ldc x 2 rows = 1 square inch
- Finished Size: 12.5 x 21 inches
- Starting point: Magic ring
- Main stitch: Linked double crochet
- Strap length: Chain 40 for each strap
- Long-edge finishing: 2 sc’s per ldc
- Border: 1 sc, skip 1, 5 dc, skip 1, repeat
- Body length: 23 rows
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this a good project for someone learning linked crochet?
Yes. The original pattern describes the bandana as a small and simple project and specifically recommends it as a starting project for people who are new to linked crochet. The repeated construction gives you multiple opportunities to become familiar with the LDC technique.
What size is the finished bandana?
The stated finished size is 12.5 x 21 inches.
How much yarn is required?
The pattern specifies 1 skein of Mary Maxim Sunrise in Desert.
What crochet hook is used?
The specified hook size is 3.75mm.
Does the beginning CH2 count as a stitch?
No. The pattern notes explicitly state that none of the first CH2s count as a stitch. They are there to help start the LDC.
Does Row 6 use linked double crochet?
No. The pattern notes specifically state that the filet crochet row contains no LDCs. Row 6 uses DCs and ATC with chain spaces and skipped stitches.
How many rows does the completed triangle have?
The stated repeat structure produces 23 rows, finishing with five repetitions of Row 2.
A Wearable Finish for Warm Days
Once the last ends are woven in, the linked crochet bandana is ready to wear. The finished triangle can serve as a practical hair accessory or simply become part of a casual handmade outfit. The straps allow the bandana to be tied, while the scalloped border adds a decorative detail around the short sides.
What makes this project especially useful for crochet practice is the combination of techniques in a relatively compact finished item. You begin with a magic ring, build the triangle using linked double crochet, work a contrasting filet-style row, return to the linked construction, and then finish with straps and a scalloped edge.
The pattern also provides a natural opportunity to practice reading repeated instructions. Once Rows 2 through 6 become familiar, the construction follows a clear rhythm, while the written notes help explain the special details that make the linked fabric work correctly.
Final Checklist Before You Wear It
- Confirm that the triangle follows the 23-row construction.
- Check that the two straps were started with chain 40.
- Make sure the long edge was worked at 2 sc’s per ldc.
- Complete the scalloped border on the short sides.
- Fasten off securely.
- Weave in all remaining yarn ends.
- Check the finished piece against the stated 12.5 x 21 inch size.
This linked crochet bandana is a compact project with a distinctive handmade look and a useful purpose. With one skein of Mary Maxim Sunrise, a 3.75mm hook, and the written construction above, you can work through the triangular design and finish it with matching straps and a scalloped border. It is a practical way to explore linked crochet while creating an accessory that can be worn and enjoyed.