About This Crochet Donut Pillow Pattern
Create a plush, round donut pillow using soft Himalaya Dolphin Baby yarn with clear step-by-step rounds and photo guidance. This pattern includes shaping, a back-loop color change row for the 'frosting', and simple sprinkle decoration instructions. The finished pillow measures about 12.20 inches (29 cm) and is perfect for home decor or as a whimsical gift.
You will work mostly in single crochet rounds with increases and decreases for shaping, then finish with hand-sewn sprinkles using colorful yarn. The pattern supplies materials, stitch abbreviations, and detailed finishing steps to make assembly straightforward.
Why You'll Love This Crochet Donut Pillow Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it turns simple single crochet rounds into a charming, decorative pillow that brightens any room. I enjoy how the back-loop frosting row creates a subtle edge that separates the donut base from the 'frosting' color. I also love adding colorful yarn sprinkles by hand — it is a quick, creative step that makes each pillow unique. This design is rewarding because it is both tactile and visually delightful, and I get excited to gift them to friends and family.
Switch Things Up
I love customizing this donut pillow by changing the frosting color to match my room decor — try pastel shades for a softer look or bold colors for a playful accent.
I sometimes make mini versions by switching to a thinner yarn and smaller hook to create keychain or small cushion versions.
To make a firmer pillow, I use a little more stuffing and crochet one or two extra rounds before closing to increase thickness.
I like to vary sprinkle styles: use long sprinkled stitches for a whimsical look or tiny embroidered knots for neat, subtle sprinkles.
You can add a fabric backing circle inside before stuffing for added stability and to keep stuffing from shifting over time.
If you want a themed donut, I add tiny felt hearts, stars, or a small crocheted tag for personalization before final sewing.
I sometimes sew an invisible zipper inside the seam so the pillow can be washed — it takes more time but is worth it for easy care.
Try combining two frosting colors by doing two back-loop rounds in different colors for an ombre effect that looks charming on display.
I recommend experimenting with embroidery thread for delicate sprinkles if you prefer a low-profile decoration that doesnt puff out much.
For a playful set, I make several donuts in coordinating colors and display them together on a sofa or bed — they make a cheerful collection and great handmade gifts.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
✗ Skipping the correct chain count at the start will change the whole circumference; always make 36 CH and join carefully to form the correct ring.
✗ Crocheting too loosely can make the donut collapse and lose shape; maintain a tight, consistent tension for a firm pillow.
✗ Forgetting to stuff gradually causes lumps or uneven shaping; stuff little by little and shape as you go to keep an even form.
✗ Not sewing the opening securely can let stuffing escape over time; fold the donut as shown, sew small stitches, stuff again, then finish sewing for a secure closure.
✗ Changing color without using the back loops for the frosting row will hide the edge definition; be sure to crochet that CC row in back loops only as instructed.
