Free Crochet Maple Leaf Pattern: Easy Autumn Decor

Fall is finally here, which means it is the perfect time to switch out your yarn palette for beautiful shades of mustard, rust orange, and burgundy! If you are looking for the perfect quick and cozy project, this free crochet maple leaf pattern is exactly what you need.

Crochet leaves are one of the most versatile fall crochet ideas. You can scatter them across your Thanksgiving table, sew them onto a cozy beanie, use them as rustic coasters, or string them together to create a stunning autumn crochet garland for your fireplace mantle.

This pattern is considered “advanced beginner” friendly. It works up in just three quick rounds! By using a combination of different stitch heights and a simple “picot” stitch, you will learn how to create the iconic 5-point shape of a classic maple leaf.

Materials You Will Need

This project is the ultimate “stash buster,” as each leaf only requires a tiny amount of yarn!

• Yarn: Medium (Size 4) Worsted weight yarn in your favorite autumn colors (acrylic or cotton both work perfectly).
• Crochet Hook: A 4.0 mm (G) or 4.5 mm hook (a slightly smaller hook keeps the leaf stiff and flat).
• Tools: A tapestry needle for weaving in ends, and scissors.

Abbreviations (US Terms)

• MR: Magic Ring (or Magic Circle)
• ch: chain
• sl st: slip stitch
• sc: single crochet
• hdc: half double crochet
• dc: double crochet
• tr: treble (triple) crochet
• dtr: double treble crochet (yarn over 3 times)
• picot: chain 3, slip stitch into the 1st chain made
• st(s): stitch(es)

The Free Crochet Maple Leaf Pattern

Note: This leaf is made by crocheting a circle for the first two rounds, and then building the 5 lobes (points) and the stem in the 3rd round.

Round 1: The Center

Create a Magic Ring.
Chain 1 (does not count as a stitch). Work 10 hdc into the ring.
Pull the tail tight to close the circle. Join with a sl st to the first hdc. (10 sts).

Round 2: Expanding the Base

Chain 1. Work 2 sc in the first stitch, and 2 sc in every stitch around.
Join with a sl st to the first sc. (20 sts).

Round 3: The 5 Lobes and Stem

Now we will sculpt the leaf. Follow the stitches carefully for each section!

The Stem:
From where you just joined, Chain 5.
Sl st in the 2nd ch from the hook, and sl st in the next 3 chains (4 sl sts total).
Sl st back into the first sc on the circle to anchor the stem.

Lobe 1 (Bottom Right – Small):

• Next st: work (sc, hdc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (dc, picot, dc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (hdc, sc) in the same st.
• Next st: sl st.

Lobe 2 (Middle Right – Medium):

• Next st: work (sc, hdc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (dc, tr, picot, tr, dc) all in the same st.
• Next st: work (hdc, sc) in the same st.
• Next st: sl st.

Lobe 3 (Top Center – Large):

• Next st: work (hdc, dc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (tr, dtr, picot, dtr, tr) all in the same st.
• Next st: work (dc, hdc) in the same st.
• Next st: sl st.

Lobe 4 (Middle Left – Medium):

• Next st: work (sc, hdc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (dc, tr, picot, tr, dc) all in the same st.
• Next st: work (hdc, sc) in the same st.
• Next st: sl st.

Lobe 5 (Bottom Left – Small):

• Next st: work (sc, hdc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (dc, picot, dc) in the same st.
• Next st: work (hdc, sc) in the same st.
• Sl st into the base of the stem to finish!

Fasten off your yarn and weave in the ends at the back of the leaf.

How to Block Your Crochet Leaves

When you finish crocheting your maple leaf, the points might curl up slightly. To make them look professional and flat, I highly recommend blocking them.

Simply pin your leaf to a foam blocking mat (or a folded towel), spray it lightly with water until damp, and let it dry overnight. If you used acrylic yarn, you can also use the steam setting on your iron (hover the iron an inch above the leaf, do not touch the yarn directly!) to permanently set the shape.

If you loved this free crochet pattern, make sure to Save it to your Pinterest boards so you can find it every fall! Are you going to make a garland or use them as coasters? Let me know in the comments below!

Happy Autumn Crocheting! 🍁🧶