Accessories
Crochet Mesh Bandana Pattern
By Looplader · Tested row by row · Updated
- Skill
- Easy
- Hook
- 4.0 mm (G/6)
- Yarn
- DK-weight cotton (CYC 3)
- Time
- One relaxed day
This crochet mesh bandana is a lightweight triangle worked from its point upward in an open double-crochet mesh. Stop after any complete row for your preferred coverage, then add a stabilizing edge and flat ties.
The open fabric stays airy because every mesh space is made with one chain between double crochets. The solid edging keeps the triangle from stretching out of shape while you wear it.
Why you’ll love this pattern
- One repeating mesh row builds the entire triangle.
- You choose the depth before ties and edging are added.
- Smooth cotton keeps the openwork light and defined.
- Flat returned-single-crochet ties are more comfortable than bare chains.
Instructions
- 1
Make and wash a small swatch first. Aim for an open fabric that drapes without pulling apart; this bandana is sized by its finished top-edge measurement, not a fixed row count.
- 2
Foundation: ch 4. Row 1: work 2 dc in the 4th ch from hook. (3 dc, counting the skipped ch as the first dc) Ch 3, turn.
- 3
Row 2: 2 dc in the first st, ch 1, skip the next st, dc in the final st, 2 dc in the top of the turning ch. (5 dc, 1 ch-sp) Ch 3, turn.
- 4
Mesh increase row: 2 dc in the first st, *ch 1, skip the next st, dc in the next st; repeat from * across, then work 2 dc in the top of the turning ch. Ch 3, turn. Each row adds two edge dc and one new mesh space.
- 5
Rows 3–16: repeat the mesh increase row. Lay the work flat after Row 16; both slopes should match. If one side is longer, the final two dc were missed on an earlier row.
- 6
Rows 17–30: repeat the mesh increase row. Hold the straight top edge across the back of your head at Row 30. Continue the same row for more coverage or stop now for a smaller scarf; finish only after choosing the depth.
- 7
Stabilize the top edge: with RS facing, sc evenly across the top edge, placing one sc in every dc and one sc in every ch-sp. Do not pull the mesh closed; the edge should lie straight, not gather.
- 8
First tie: at the left corner, ch 85. Sc in the second ch from hook and in every remaining ch back to the corner. Sl st to the corner. Repeat at the right corner for the second tie.
- 9
Edge both sloping sides: work one sc in each row end down the first slope, [sc, ch 3, sl st in first ch, sc] around the point, then one sc in each row end up the second slope. Fasten off and weave ends into the top-edge stitches.
- 10
Wet-block the finished bandana. Pin the two top corners and point into a symmetrical triangle, smooth the mesh spaces open, and dry flat. The final measurement is the right time to decide whether to add more body rows on a future version.
Tips for success
- Use smooth cotton so the chain spaces stay visible.
- Count the two end increases before turning every row.
- Block the triangle before judging its final depth.
- If the top edge ripples, use fewer stabilizing sc; if it pulls in, add a few more evenly.
Pattern at a glance
- Time to make
- One relaxed day
- Skill level
- Easy
- Hook
- 4.0 mm (G/6)
- Yarn weight
- DK-weight cotton (CYC 3)CYC standard
- Yardage
- ~150 yd / 137 m DK-weight cotton
- Gauge
- Open mesh swatch should drape flat after washing; exact stitch gauge is not critical
- Finished size
- Adjustable; stop when the top edge reaches your preferred coverage, then add ties
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Frequently Asked Questions
How do I make the mesh bandana larger?
Repeat the mesh increase row until the straight top edge fits your preferred coverage. Add ties and the edging only after you stop increasing.
Why is my mesh triangle uneven?
One edge increase was likely missed. Each row needs two dc at the beginning and two dc in the top of the turning chain at the end.
Can I use acrylic yarn?
Yes, but cotton blocks more predictably for a lightweight summer scarf. Use a smooth yarn and check its drape in a washed swatch.
