Crochet flower hair clips are the kind of small project that makes crochet feel instantly rewarding. They use very little yarn, work up quickly, and turn basic stitches into something wearable, giftable, and practical.
This tutorial will show you how to make a soft layered crochet flower and attach it securely to a snap clip or alligator clip. The finished flower is small enough for hair accessories but detailed enough to look handmade and polished.
This is a good project for beginners who already know how to make a chain, single crochet, double crochet, and slip stitch. You will also practice making a small center ring, forming petals, working behind a first petal layer, adding a secure center detail, and sewing the flower onto a clip base.
The selected visual reference article from Grace and Yarn uses crochet thread and small clips for delicate flower hair accessories, and it specifically notes that crochet thread creates a dainty look suitable for hair pieces. This original version gives you a slightly more beginner-friendly structure with a sew-on finish and a no-loose-bead option.
What You’ll Learn
- How to crochet a small flower center.
- How to make rounded petals with basic stitches.
- How to create a second layer of petals.
- How to keep a tiny crochet flower flat.
- How to add a safe stitched center detail.
- How to attach the flower to a hair clip.
- How to customize the size, colors, and finish.
- How to avoid loose or unstable hair-clip attachments.
Materials You’ll Need
For one crochet flower hair clip:
- Size 10 crochet thread or sport/DK cotton yarn.
- 2.75 mm hook for crochet thread, or 3.0–3.5 mm hook for sport/DK cotton.
- Snap clip, alligator clip, or small barrette.
- Tapestry needle.
- Sewing needle.
- Matching sewing thread.
- Small scissors.
- Stitch marker, optional.
- Small felt oval, optional but recommended for backing.
- Optional pearl bead or button for adult accessories only.
The selected source uses a 2.75 mm hook, crochet thread, scissors, sewing needle, alligator clips for one version, metal clips for another version, and optional pearl beads for the layered flower style.
For beginners, DK cotton is easier to see and handle than fine crochet thread. Your flower will be larger, but the stitches will be clearer.
Safety note: Do not use loose beads, pearls, buttons, or small detachable embellishments for babies or children under 3. The selected source also warns against pearl beads for young children. For child-safe versions, use embroidered yarn centers and sew all parts firmly.
Finished Size
Approximate finished flower diameter:
- Crochet thread version: 1.5–2 inches.
- Sport cotton version: 2–2.5 inches.
- DK cotton version: 2.5–3 inches.
The exact size depends on yarn thickness, hook size, and tension.
Crochet Abbreviations Used
This tutorial uses U.S. crochet terms.
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- dc = double crochet
- sl st = slip stitch
- st/sts = stitch/stitches
- rep = repeat
- RS = right side
- WS = wrong side
The Craft Yarn Council lists these as standard crochet abbreviations and also explains U.S./U.K. terminology differences. For example, U.S. single crochet corresponds to U.K. double crochet.
Before You Start
This flower is made in layers. The first layer creates a small six-petal flower. The second layer is worked behind the first so the flower looks fuller without needing separate pieces.
Choose your yarn first
For your first attempt, use sport or DK cotton in a light color. Pale yarn makes the stitches easier to see. Fine crochet thread creates a delicate finished clip, but it can feel fiddly for beginners.
The Craft Yarn Council’s yarn-weight system shows that thinner yarns use smaller hooks and create finer stitch detail, while heavier yarns create larger stitches.
Choose your clip base
Good clip options:
- Snap clips for flat flowers.
- Alligator clips for stronger grip.
- French barrettes for adults.
- Bobby pins for tiny thread flowers.
Grace and Yarn notes that alligator clips, metal hair clips, barrettes, and nylon headbands can all work as bases for crochet hair pieces.
Decide on the center detail
For adult clips, you can add a pearl bead or small button.
For children’s clips, use yarn embroidery instead.
Step-by-Step Crochet Tutorial
Step 1: Make the Flower Center
Start with your center color.
Make a magic ring.
Ch 1.
Work 6 sc into the ring.
Pull the yarn tail gently to close the center.
Join with a sl st to the first sc.
You should have a tiny circle with 6 stitches.
This center is the base for six petals. Do not worry if it looks small. The petals will add most of the flower size.
Beginner tip:
Keep the center snug, but do not pull so hard that the stitches become impossible to work into.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not count the beginning ch 1 as a stitch. Only count the 6 single crochet stitches.
Step 2: Crochet the First Layer of Petals
Change to your petal color.
Join the petal yarn into any sc from the center.
In the same stitch, work:
Ch 2, 2 dc, ch 2, sl st into the same stitch.
That makes one rounded petal.
Now move to the next center stitch.
Repeat the same petal sequence in each of the remaining 5 stitches.
You should have 6 petals total.
Fasten off only if you want a one-layer flower. For the fuller version, keep going to Step 3.
Beginner tip:
After each petal, pause and spread the petal gently with your fingers. This helps you see the next center stitch clearly.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not accidentally place two petals into one center stitch. Each of the 6 center stitches receives exactly one petal.
Step 3: Create Back Spaces for the Second Layer
Turn the flower over so the wrong side faces you.
You are now going to create small chain spaces behind the first petals. These spaces give the second layer somewhere to sit.
Insert your hook behind the first petal, near the base.
Sl st to anchor the yarn.
Ch 3.
Sl st behind the next petal.
Repeat this around the back of the flower until you have 6 chain spaces.
Join with a sl st to the beginning.
The front of the flower will still show the first petal layer. The back should now have little loops.
Beginner tip:
Work slowly here. This step feels awkward the first time because you are working behind the visible petals.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not make the back chain spaces too tight. The second layer needs room for multiple double crochets.
Step 4: Crochet the Second Petal Layer
Turn the flower so the right side faces you again.
You will work into each ch-3 space behind the first petals.
In the first chain space, work:
Ch 2, 3 dc, ch 2, sl st into the same chain space.
That makes one larger petal behind the first layer.
Repeat in each remaining chain space.
You should have 6 larger back petals.
Fasten off, leaving a tail long enough for sewing if you want to use this tail later to attach the flower to the clip.
Gently shape the petals with your fingers.
Your flower should now look fuller and slightly dimensional.
Beginner tip:
If the second layer hides the first layer completely, your back petals may be too large for your yarn. Try ch 2, 2 dc, ch 2 for a smaller back layer.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not pull the slip stitches too tight between petals. Tight joins can make the flower cup inward.
Step 5: Add the Flower Center Detail
For the safest beginner version, use yarn embroidery instead of a bead.
Thread a tapestry needle with warm cream, golden yellow, or matching yarn.
Bring the needle up through the back of the flower center.
Make 3–5 small straight stitches across the middle.
Secure the yarn on the wrong side.
This creates a simple stitched center that cannot fall off like a poorly attached bead.
For adult accessories, you can sew on a pearl bead or small button. Use several passes of strong thread and test it firmly before wearing.
Beginner tip:
Keep the embroidered center small. If it is too large, it can cover the petal bases and make the flower look bulky.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not glue a bead without sewing it first. Glue alone can fail when the clip bends or is pulled from hair.
Step 6: Secure the Back of the Flower
Turn the flower over.
Thread one of the yarn tails onto a tapestry needle.
Sew through the base of the petals several times, moving from one side to the other. This helps the two layers behave like one stable flower.
Do not sew through the front petal tips. You want the petals to remain soft and slightly raised.
Weave in any short ends on the wrong side.
Trim only after the flower feels secure.
Beginner tip:
Pinch the center of the flower gently while sewing through the back. This keeps the flower compact without flattening the petals.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not leave long yarn tails loose behind the flower. They can catch in the clip mechanism.
Step 7: Attach the Flower to the Hair Clip
Cut a small oval or circle of felt slightly smaller than the flower.
Place the hair clip open on your work surface.
Position the flower on top of the clip where you want it to sit.
Place the felt backing underneath the top part of the clip, behind the flower.
Using sewing thread or strong yarn, sew through:
- The wrong side of the flower.
- The felt backing.
- The openings or upper bar of the clip.
- Back through the felt and flower.
Repeat several times until the flower is firmly attached.
The clip should still open and close freely.
For extra security, you may add a tiny amount of fabric glue between the felt and flower, but the sewn attachment should do the real holding.
Beginner tip:
Open and close the clip every few stitches while sewing. This prevents you from accidentally stitching the clip shut.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not attach the flower only through the center. Anchor it through at least two points so it does not spin around on the clip.
Step 8: Shape and Test the Finished Clip
Once the flower is attached, check the front.
Gently lift and shape each petal.
Check the back.
Make sure:
- No yarn tails are loose.
- The clip opens smoothly.
- The flower does not rotate.
- The center detail is secure.
- The felt backing is not visible from the front.
Place the clip on a scrap piece of fabric or a hair elastic and gently pull it. The flower should stay attached.
For a cleaner finish, trim any fuzzy thread ends.
Beginner tip:
Let the finished flower rest flat for a few minutes before wearing it. Cotton petals often settle nicely after gentle shaping.
Common mistake to avoid:
Do not steam-block directly over metal clips if you are unsure how the clip coating will react. Shape the flower before attaching it if heavy blocking is needed.
Pattern Notes or Stitch Notes
Turning chain rules
The beginning chains in each petal are used to build height and shape. They do not need to be counted as separate stitches for this small accessory pattern.
Stitch count
- Flower center: 6 sc.
- First petal layer: 6 petals.
- Back chain spaces: 6 spaces.
- Second petal layer: 6 larger petals.
Repeat pattern
Each petal is built from a chain, double crochet stitches, another chain, and a slip stitch.
Row and round notes
The flower center is worked in a small round.
The petals are worked around the center.
The second layer is worked into chain spaces created behind the first layer.
Right side and wrong side
The right side is the side with the visible flower petals.
The wrong side is where tails are woven and where the clip is attached.
Size adjustment notes
For a smaller clip:
- Use crochet thread.
- Use a 2.25–2.75 mm hook.
- Make only one layer of petals.
For a larger statement clip:
- Use DK cotton.
- Use a 3.5 mm hook.
- Keep two petal layers.
Common Beginner Mistakes
1. The flower center has a hole
Cause: The magic ring was not pulled tightly enough.
Fix: Pull the beginning tail before joining the center round. If the hole remains large, use the yarn tail to sew it closed from the back.
2. The petals look uneven
Cause: Some petals have more stitches than others.
Fix: Count each petal sequence carefully. Every first-layer petal should follow the same structure.
3. The flower curls into a cup
Cause: Tight tension or short back chain spaces.
Fix: Relax your tension and make the back spaces slightly longer.
4. The second layer hides the first layer
Cause: The back petals are too large.
Fix: Use fewer double crochets in each back petal or use a smaller hook for the second layer.
5. The center bead feels loose
Cause: It was not sewn through enough times.
Fix: Remove it and reattach with several secure passes. For children’s clips, use embroidery instead.
6. The flower spins on the clip
Cause: It was attached through only one point.
Fix: Sew through two or three points across the back of the flower and clip.
7. The clip will not close
Cause: Sewing thread or felt is blocking the hinge.
Fix: Remove a few stitches near the hinge area and reattach the backing farther from the moving part.
How to Customize This Crochet Project
Yarn changes
Crochet thread makes dainty flowers.
Sport cotton creates a delicate but easier-to-handle flower.
DK cotton creates a bolder clip that is easier for beginners to see.
Acrylic can work, but cotton usually gives better stitch definition for tiny accessories.
Color changes
Try:
- Cream center with dusty pink petals.
- Yellow center with white petals for a daisy look.
- Brown center with mustard petals for a mini sunflower style.
- Same-color center and petals for a minimalist clip.
- Ombre set with five different shades of pink.
Size changes
For baby or toddler styling, keep the flower small and avoid beads.
For adult clips, make a larger flower and attach it to a barrette.
For craft fairs, offer two sizes: mini thread flowers and larger cotton flowers.
Border options
Add a tiny contrast edge by slip stitching around the final petal layer in another color.
Keep the border subtle so the clip does not become too bulky.
Texture options
Add:
- Embroidered center lines.
- French-knot center.
- Tiny stitched dots.
- A contrasting second petal layer.
- One small crochet leaf behind the flower.
Gift ideas or use cases
Crochet flower hair clips are useful for:
- Birthday gifts.
- Party favors.
- Spring outfits.
- Easter baskets.
- Photo props.
- Craft fair tables.
- Matching sibling accessories.
- Handmade teacher gifts.
- Stocking stuffers.
Finishing Instructions
Fasten off after the final petal layer, leaving a long tail if you plan to use that tail for sewing.
Weave in all short tails on the wrong side of the flower.
Secure the center detail with several passes of yarn or thread.
Attach the flower to the clip using sewing, not glue alone.
Add a felt backing if the clip needs extra stability.
Shape the petals gently with your fingers.
For cotton flowers, you can lightly mist the flower and let it dry flat before attaching it to the clip. Do not soak the metal clip.
Store finished clips in a small box so the petals do not get crushed.
Quick Printable-Style Summary
Skill level: Beginner to Easy
Finished size: 1.5–3 inches depending on yarn
Materials: Crochet thread or cotton yarn, hook, hair clip, tapestry needle, scissors, thread, optional felt backing
Stitches: ch, sc, dc, sl st
Starting method: Magic ring with 6 sc
First petal layer: Work one petal into each of the 6 center stitches
Back spaces: Create 6 chain spaces behind the first layer
Second petal layer: Work one larger petal into each back chain space
Center: Embroider a secure center or sew on a bead for adult accessories only
Finishing: Weave in ends, secure back, sew flower onto clip, shape petals
FAQ
Is this crochet flower hair clip pattern good for beginners?
Yes. It uses basic stitches and a small amount of yarn. The only slightly tricky part is working behind the first petal layer, but the tutorial explains that step slowly.
Can I make this without a magic ring?
Yes. Ch 3 or 4, join with a slip stitch to form a ring, then work the 6 single crochet stitches into that ring. The center may be slightly more open.
What yarn is best for crochet flower hair clips?
Crochet thread creates the most delicate flower. Cotton sport or DK yarn is easier for beginners because the stitches are larger and easier to see.
Can I use hot glue instead of sewing?
You can use a small amount of glue for extra hold, but sewing is more secure. Glue alone can loosen over time, especially when a clip is flexed or pulled.
Are crochet flower clips safe for children?
They can be, but avoid loose beads, pearls, buttons, and detachable pieces for children under 3. Use a stitched center and sew the flower securely to the clip.
How do I stop the flower from curling?
Use relaxed tension, avoid tight slip stitches, and make the back chain spaces long enough. Light blocking can also help flatten the petals.
Can I sell finished crochet flower hair clips?
Many free pattern designers allow finished-item sales with credit, but each source has its own terms. Grace and Yarn states that finished items from its pattern may be sold, while the pattern itself should not be sold, shared, or reproduced. For this original tutorial, you can sell your finished clips, but do not republish this article as your own.
Conclusion
This crochet flower hair clips pattern is small, practical, and beginner-friendly. It teaches useful skills without requiring a large time commitment: making a center ring, shaping petals, working a second layer, securing details, and attaching crochet neatly to a hair clip base.
Start with one flower in DK cotton so you can see the stitches clearly. Once the construction feels comfortable, try crochet thread for daintier clips or make a full pastel set for gifts, craft fairs, or matching outfits.
The most important finishing step is attachment. A beautiful flower still needs to be sewn securely to the clip so it can handle real use. Use a felt backing, sew through multiple points, test the clip before trimming your final thread, and choose embroidered centers for child-safe versions.
