Oatmeal Taco with Charcoal Stripe Crochet Free Pattern
Oatmeal Taco with Charcoal Stripe Crochet Free Pattern
Introduction
This plush taco pillow is a playful, squishy project made for anyone who loves cozy home decor with a sense of humor. Worked in super bulky velvet chenille, it comes together quickly in simple single crochet, making it a great choice for advanced beginners who want a fast, satisfying finish. The oatmeal shell with its wide charcoal stripe looks warm and modern, and the soft, velvety texture makes it irresistible to squeeze. At about 12 inches wide, it's the perfect size for a couch cushion, a reading nook accent, or a fun gift for a taco lover.
Materials Needed
- Yarn: Super bulky (weight 6) polyester velvet chenille. Color A (Oatmeal): 120 yd. Color B (Charcoal): 40 yd.
- Hook: 6.5 mm (K-10.5) crochet hook
- Notions: Tapestry needle, stitch marker, fiberfill stuffing, scissors
- Finished size: Approx. 12 inches (30 cm) wide x 6 inches (15 cm) tall
Abbreviations
- ch — chain
- sc — single crochet
- st(s) — stitch(es)
- sl st — slip stitch
- WS — wrong side
Gauge
8 sts and 8 rows = 4 inches (10 cm) in single crochet. To check, crochet a small swatch in sc and measure a 4-inch section; adjust your hook size if needed to match.
Tips Before You Start
- Velvet chenille can shed and slip, so keep your tension relaxed and avoid frogging too often — the fibers can mat.
- Count your stitches at the end of every row; the shell stays a clean rectangle at 24 sts throughout.
- When changing colors, work the last stitch of the row in the new color to keep the stripe edge tidy.
- Stuff firmly but evenly so the pillow holds its flat taco shape without lumps.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Shell
Worked with Color A (Oatmeal) unless noted.
Ch 25.
Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (24 sts).
Rows 2-4: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (24 sts).
Change to Color B (Charcoal).
Rows 5-8: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (24 sts).
Change to Color A (Oatmeal).
Rows 9-12: Ch 1, turn, sc in each st across (24 sts). Do not fasten off.
Edging
Edging round: Ch 1, sc evenly around the entire piece, working 1 sc in each st and 1 sc in each row-end, join with sl st to first sc. Fasten off.
Assembly and Finishing
Fold the piece with wrong sides together. Using your tapestry needle, whipstitch along the two sides and the bottom, leaving the top open. Stuff firmly with fiberfill, working it into the corners for an even shape. Whipstitch the top closed. Weave in all ends, then gently shape and lightly steam or block the pillow flat to smooth the edges.
Pro Tips and Variations
- Swap the charcoal stripe for a deep red or green for a festive taco look.
- Add a second stripe in a contrasting color for a bolder, striped shell.
- Use a slightly larger hook for a looser, drapier pillow, or a smaller hook for a denser, firmer one.
