25+ FREE Variegated Yarn Crochet Patterns

Have you ever had a bad experience with varigated yarn before? I know I have.

Varigated yarn always looks so beautiful on the shelf, but there have been times where I’ve tried to crochet with it and I just end up disappointed because the colors don’t play out as I anticipated.

If that’s you, but you have some of this yarn in your stash that just needs to get used up, I practically wrote this post for you!

One way to have a better experience with variegated yarn is to use crochet patterns that are specifically DESIGNED for it.

That’s why I decided to create this roundup of 20 gorgeous variegated yarn crochet patterns!

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What is variegated yarn?

Variegated yarn is also known as multi-color yarn. It is yarn that is dyed with more than one color in a specific way.

You’ve probably seen loads of this kind of yarn on the shelves at Michaels or Joanns. It is very popular among crocheters – but you want to know what you’re getting into before buying it!

Variegated yarn does NOT work up into stripes. If you buy it hoping for stripes, you will be sorely disappointed.

Instead, variegated yarn is “varied” in appearance. That is to say, the colors will mix and match throughout the project in a random way (this should become very clear when you start to see the patterns in this list!)

If you do want to learn about yarn with stripes, check out this post about gradient yarn.

If you want more tips on crocheting with variegated yarn, make sure to read to the end – but for now, we’ll get right into the list of patterns!

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20+ Variegated Yarn Crochet Patterns

Without further ado, let’s get right into all the lovely patterns! We’ll start with some variegated blankets, and then go into lots of other types of designs as well.

1. Spill the Beans Blanket

When I saw this blanket I fell in love with it. It’s like a variation of a granny square, but it uses the bean stitch! Using Loops & Threads Cozy Baby, the Spill the Beans Blanket would make a great lap blanket or baby shower gift. Doesn’t the variegated yarn look pretty?

Designer: CAAB Crochet

Yarn Used: Loops & Threads Cozy Baby

2. Super Chunky Through the Window Afghan

Another fun pattern is the Super Chunky Through the Window Afghan. This afghan has a gorgeous, mosaic-like design but don’t let that intimidate you! It’s only comprised of simple single crochets, double crochets and chain stitches. And, if you you use chunky yarn, it works up quickly!

Designer: Eye Love Knots

Yarn Used: Bernat Blanket Yarn in White and Faded Blue

3. Vanilla Blush Variegated Blanket

Here’s a cool example of using both a solid color AND a variegated yarn: the Vanilla Blush Blanket! I just love how all the colors work together and form a cohesive look. It’s great because the variegated yarn isn’t too overwhelming.

Designer: Annie’s Design Crochet

Yarn Used: Worsted Weight Yarn

4. Sand & Sea Variegated Yarn Blanket

Oops, one self-striping yarn pattern got thrown into the mix – it was just so pretty! The Sand and Sea Blanket uses Caron Cotton Cakes and the final look is beautiful.

Designer: Ambassador Crochet

Yarn Used: Caron Cotton Cakes

5. Wattle Stitch Blanket

Here’s one last variegated yarn blanket before we get into other patterns: the Wattle Stitch Blanket. This is a great blanket to make when you need a project that doesn’t require a lot of thinking, stitch counting, etc. The designer made it when she was 8 months pregnant!

Designer: Made by Gootie:

Yarn Used: Cottonsoft DK

6. Woodland Bag

Now let’s take a look at some variegated yarn patterns that aren’t blankets! First up, here is the Woodland Bag (designed by me!). This bag is super simple to make, as it uses just simple single crochet with some increases for most of the bag. It is finished off with a drawstring round and then a crab stitch round. I love using this bag when I just need a few small things to carry with me on a day out!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Lion Brand Flikka

7. The Aspen Shawl

Next up, check out the Aspen Shawl. Isn’t this one so pretty? If you’re into lace designs, than this pattern is perfect for you. I just love how elegant and airy it is! This design is one of those patterns that is deceptively intricate-looking, when it’s actually quite simple to make: only double crochets and chains! If you’ve never made a shawl before, than this one is a great place to start.

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Sapphires n Purls Sports Weight Yarn

8. Classy and Easy Rectangular Shawl

Are you looking for something quick and simple yet classy and elegant? Than this Classy and Easy Rectangular Shawl may just be perfect for you! This shawl can be easily dressed down for a casual look or dressed up for a fancy gathering. As this pattern uses a simple 1-row-repeat design, it’s the perfect project to make while binging your favorite show or listening to music!

Designer: Simply Hooked by Janet

Yarn Used: Lion Brand Summer Nights

9. Serryn Beanie

Another one of my favorite variegated yarn patterns is the Serryn Beanie. This beanie is both cute and cozy and would make the perfect Christmas gift for friends or family (or a gift for yourself!).

Designer: Through the Loop Crochet

Yarn Used: ALC Monochrome Yarn

10. Everglade Cowl

Next up, meet the Everglade Cowl. Not only is this cowl stylish AND simple to make once you’ve gotten the hang of the Puff stitch, but it’s the perfect accessory to get that added warmth on a cold winter day!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Malabrigo Rios

11. Everglade Ear Warmer

Speaking of the Everglade Cowl, check out the Everglade Ear Warmer! Not only is this design stylish and unique, but it makes a great winter project! The unique texture of this design gives it an added warmth and coziness. This accessory would be a perfect gift for friends and family!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Malabrigo Rios

12. Solomon Islands Wrap

I don’t know about you, but I just love flowy shawls. This Solomon Islands Wrap is absolutely gorgeous! This design has a fun, boho-feel to it and is the perfect shawl for hanging out on the beach, going shopping, etc. This project uses only one skein of yarn and is built up of single crochets and Solomon Knot stitches alone, so once you get the hang of those, it’s simple and quick to make!

Designer: Salty Pearl Crochet

Yarn Used: KnitCrate Merino Silk Blend Fingering Weight Yarn

13. Rainbow Sprinkles Handbag

Are you looking for a quick and easy crochet project? Then you should definitely give this Rainbow Sprinkles Handbag a try! This bag is comprised of Wattle and Crab stitches that create this beautiful and fun texture. This purse is also the perfect size to hold any of your essentials without being too bulky!

Designer: Pine Tree Crochet

Yarn Used: Red Heart Super Saver Artist Print

14. Simple V-Stitch Crochet Scarf

The next pattern I’d like to show you is this Simple V-Stitch Crochet Scarf. This scarf is the absolute perfect project to make with variegated yarn, as the V-stitch compliments each of the colors nicely. And the best part is, it’s super easy to work up!

Designer: Sigoni Macaroni

Yarn Used: Red Heart Soft in Jeweltone

15. Crochet Pencil Case

If you’re wanting to make a more practical crochet project, then I’ve got the perfect one for you: the Sturdy Crochet Pencil Case! This little case is super sturdy and will not only last a long time, but will make a great gift for a guy or girl depending on what colors you use!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Loops and Threads Charisma

16. Striped Cup Cozy

Next, take a look at the Striped Cup Cozy. Isn’t this one so cute? These little cozies would make great last minute gifts for any of your coffee, tea, or hot cocoa-loving friends and family members!

Designer: Pine Tree Crochet

Yarn Used: Red Heart Super Saver in Icelandic

17. Wintergreen Cowl

Are you looking for a simple, beginners cowl pattern? If so, I bet you’ll love this gorgeous Wintergreen Cowl! This cowl is absolutely beautiful and it’s simple and quick to work up, which makes it a great last-minute gift or accessory!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Yarn Bee Colorplay

18. Vertical Garden Bobble Washcloths

Next up, check out these unique Vertical Garden Bobble Washcloths. This pattern uses a combination of trendy bubble stitches and single crochets to create this super fun texture. Using variegated yarn gives it such a cute touch of color! This pattern also comes in several sizes so that you can make the perfect washcloth to suit any of your needs!

Designer: Eye Love Knots

Yarn Used: Lily Sugar n Cream Yarn

19. Turquoise Fiesta Shawl

I don’t know about you, but I just love crocheted shawls. That’s why the next pattern I’d like to introduce to you is this gorgeous Turquoise Fiesta Shawl! This shawl is super quick and easy to make as it only uses the Tunisian Full Stitch. You can use any combination of solid and variegated yarns to give your shawl a fun, speckled affect!

Designer: Knitter Knotter

Yarn Used: Craft Smart in Ombre/Fiesta and Turquoise

20. Easy Tunisian Mittens

The next pattern I’d like you to meet is the Easy Tunisian Mittens. If you’ve ever been intimidated by Tunisian crochet, or maybe you just don’t want to invest in special crochet hooks, then these mittens are the perfect place to start! Not only are these mittens simple and quick to make (and they can easily be made with normal crochet hooks!), but they’re cute and unique as well. I just love the mosaic-like design!

Designer: Knitter Knotter

Yarn Used: Lily Sugar n Cream Yarn in White and Moondance

21. Cactus Tote

If you’re anything like me, then big purses just aren’t your style. They’re so easy to lose things in and they can be a pain to carry around on long trips. That’s why I love this adorable Cactus Tote! Not only is it super cute and functional, but it’s the perfect size to house your belongings on a day out!

Designer: Crochet With Mary Beth

Yarn Used: Lion Brand Flikka in Dill Pickle

22. Farmhouse Dish Towel

Got some variegated cotton yarn you need to use up? Make the Farmhouse Dish Towel! Pictured below you can see the towel uses one more subtle striping variegated yarn, and one that is a mix of the main color + white. The result is wonderful, don’t you think?

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: Big Twist Worsted Cotton Blend

23. Connecting Tassels Triangle Scarf

Another one of my favorite patterns is this pretty Connecting Tassels Triangle Scarf. This scarf is specifically designed to have the two tassels interconnect so as to keep it from slipping off your shoulders. With this scarf, you can be warm and stylish without having to worry about it falling off!

Designer: Caab Crochet

Yarn Used: Deborah Norville Everyday Yarn in Lilac Ridge

24. Autumn Fade Infinity Scarf

Are you looking for an elegant and unique crochet scarf pattern? If so, then this Autumn Fade Infinity Scarf may just be perfect for you! This design looks deceptively intricate, when it’s really quite simple to make (just a four-row repeat of basic stitches with single and double crochets!). This scarf is sure to spice up any of your fall outfits!

Designer: Mason Jar Yarn Designs

Yarn Used: Lion Brand Moroccan Nights

25. Aurora Scarf

If you need a thick, chunky scarf to keep you warm in the winter, try out the Aurora Scarf! This one uses a one-ply variegated yarn from We Crochet – and the result is gorgeous!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: We Crochet Alla Prima

26. Violet Cowl

I’m not 100% sure if this yarn would be considered variegated or self striping, because it’s almost a mix of both! But either way, the Violet Cowl is a very pretty project. You just need 2 hanks of chunky yarn to complete it!

Designer: Desert Blossom Crafts

Yarn Used: We Crochet Chroma Twist Bulky

27. Rainbows and Rain Clouds Infinity Scarf

Last but certainly not least is this beautiful Rainbows and Rain Clouds Infinity Scarf. This design has the perfect combination of bright and neutral colors! This scarf has a fun and unique texture and works up quickly. It’s the perfect scarf to add some color to your fall and winter outfits!

Designer: Winding Road Crochet

Yarn Used: Big Twist Light Grey and Rainbow Classic Citrus Aqua

Common Questions

Before ending, let’s answer some common questions about working with this type of yarn!

How do you crochet with variegated yarn?

You can crochet with variegated yarn just like any other yarn. There isn’t any special technique that you HAVE to know to use this yarn. However, there are some things you can do to make your project look as beautiful as possible…

What is a good stitch for variegated yarn?

The biggest thing I can recommend is to work with simple stitches. Variegated yarns are often designed for knitting, which tends to have smaller, more uniform stitches than crochet. For this reason, a variegated crochet project will often look better in single crochet than double crochet or a complex lace stitch.

I would say the best stitches for variegated yarns are as follows:

• Single Crochet
• Moss Stitch
• Planned Color Pooling

If you want to get more fancy, you can try planned color pooling as I mentioned above. But this is will be best for more advanced crocheters!

How do you match a variegated yarn?

Anotehr thing you can do to reduce busyness in your variegated project is add a solid strand of yarn and hold it together with the variegated yarn while working. This is called “matching.” You just want to make sure the second strand is either neutral, or matching to one of the colors in the other yarn!

Conclusion

Variegated yarn can produce wonderful projects if it is used correctly. These patterns are just a taste of the gorgeous things you can make with it. I hope you liked this post and found a great pattern to get started on right away!