Butterfly Chain Wristies: Free Crochet Pattern
Introduction
These Butterfly Chain Wristies are a sweet, beginner-friendly crochet project made for anyone who loves a little Y2K nostalgia on their sleeves. Each wristie is a simple baby blue tube worked in double crochet, topped with a rainbow butterfly appliqué and a tiny chain loop for that playful early-2000s feel. The smooth DK acrylic fabric feels soft and stretchy against the skin, while the flat rainbow spiral butterfly adds a bright pop of color. They work up quickly, use very little yarn, and make a lovely gift or a fun first accessory project.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: DK weight (3) acrylic yarn in baby blue, approx. 100 yds for the pair
- Yarn: Small amounts of DK acrylic in rainbow colors — red, orange, yellow, green, blue, purple — for the butterflies
- Hook: 3.5 mm (E/4) crochet hook
- Notions: Tapestry needle, scissors, stitch marker (optional)
- Finished size: Circumference 18 cm (7 in), length 18 cm (7 in) to fit an average adult wrist
Abbreviations
- ch — chain
- sl st — slip stitch
- dc — double crochet
- sc — single crochet
- inc — increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
- MR — magic ring
- sts — stitches
- [ ] x6 — repeat the instructions in brackets 6 times
Gauge
20 dc x 22 rows = 10 x 10 cm (4 x 4 in) in double crochet worked in rounds. To check it, crochet a small swatch in the round and measure a 10 cm (4 in) section; adjust your hook size if your stitches are too tight or too loose.
Tips Before You Start
- Try the tube on as you go — DK acrylic stretches, so stop adding rounds when it reaches 18 cm (7 in) for a snug fit.
- Keep your starting chain relaxed so the wristie edge doesn't pull tight; a slightly loose chain gives a comfortable opening.
- When changing butterfly colors, carry the old color loosely behind your work and change on the last yarn-over of the previous stitch for clean bands.
- Pin the butterfly in place before sewing so you can center it exactly where you like it.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Wristie (make 2)
With baby blue, ch 36, join with sl st to first ch to form a ring, being careful not to twist the chain.
R1: ch 2 (counts as first dc), dc in each ch around, join with sl st to top of ch-2 (36 dc).
R2–20: ch 2, dc in each st around, join with sl st to top of ch-2 (36 dc).
Fasten off.
Thumb Hole
Skip 6 dc on one side of R20, then work sc in each skipped st to reinforce the opening (6 sc). Fasten off and weave in ends.
Butterfly (make 2)
Worked in joined rounds with a 3.5 mm hook, changing color each round as listed.
R1: With color A (red), MR 6 sc, join with sl st (6 sts).
R2: inc x6 (12 sts).
R3: [sc, inc] x6 (18 sts).
R4: Change to color B (orange). [2 sc, inc] x6 (24 sts).
R5: Change to color C (yellow). [3 sc, inc] x6 (30 sts).
R6: Change to color D (green). [4 sc, inc] x6 (36 sts).
R7: Change to color E (blue). [5 sc, inc] x6 (42 sts).
R8: Change to color F (purple). [6 sc, inc] x6 (48 sts).
Fasten off.
Shape the Wings
Fold the circle in half and sew along the center line to pinch it into two wings. Repeat for the second butterfly.
Chain Loop (make 2)
With baby blue, ch 10, sl st to form a loop, and attach it to the top of the wristie.
Assembly and Finishing
Sew one butterfly onto each wristie at your desired position, using the tapestry needle and a matching thread of yarn. Attach the chain loop at the top of each wristie. Weave in all ends neatly on the wrong side. Block lightly by misting with water and shaping flat, then let dry completely so the tubes and butterflies hold their shape.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Swap the baby blue for black or lilac yarn for a different Y2K colorway.
- Add a second butterfly or a few tiny crochet stars for extra embellishment.
- Make a matching headband or bag charm using the same butterfly motif and chain loop.
