This free crochet anchor appliqué is built from five small flat pieces: a shank, a crossbar, a ring, a curved base, and two flukes. You crochet each in single crochet, then sew them together. The finished anchor is about 3 inches (7.5 cm) tall with worsted cotton and a 3.5 mm hook.
Table of Contents
Why I Build Anchors in Pieces
I tried one-piece anchors for months. They came out wobbly, and the thin shank always twisted. When I switched to plain strips sewn together, my anchors suddenly looked sharp and symmetrical. Crochet is soft by nature, so I let straight strips make the straight lines.
What You Need
- Worsted cotton in navy or white (about 8 yards)
- 3.5 mm (US E-4) hook, yarn needle, pins, thread
Abbreviations (US): ch chain, sl st slip stitch, sc single crochet, sc2tog two sc together.
The Pattern
Shank: Ch 17. Row 1: sc in the 2nd ch and across (16 sc). Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc across (16 sc). Fasten off with a long tail.
Crossbar: Ch 9. Row 1: sc in the 2nd ch and across (8 sc). Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc across (8 sc). Fasten off.
Ring: Ch 12. Join with a sl st to the first ch, keeping the chain untwisted. Sl st in each ch around (12). Fasten off.
Curved base: Ch 26. Row 1: sc in the 2nd ch and across (25 sc). Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc across (25 sc). Fasten off with a long tail.
Flukes (make 2): Ch 4. Row 1: sc in the 2nd ch and next 2 ch (3 sc). Row 2: ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc (2 sc). Row 3: ch 1, turn, sc2tog (1). Fasten off.
Assembly
Block every piece flat first. Curve the base into a U and pin its middle to the bottom of the shank. Sew a fluke on each end, points facing up and slightly outward. Pin the crossbar about one third down from the top. I fold the shank in half and mark the spot with a pin so the bar sits dead straight. Tuck 1/4 inch of the shank into the ring. Whip stitch with the yarn tails, then add a few thread stitches for strength. Press lightly with a damp cloth.
Colors and Uses
Navy on cream is the classic look. A red ring adds a sailor touch. I have used this anchor on baby blankets, canvas totes, denim jackets, and beach towels.
Tips From My Own Projects
- Keep tension tight. Loose strips sag when sewn.
- Back the anchor with thin felt if it goes on soft fabric.
- Overlap pieces by 1/4 inch so no gaps show.
- Sew in good light. Straight lines show every error.
- For a bigger anchor, use bulky yarn and a 5 mm hook. Expect about 5 inches.
Common Mistakes
- Crooked crossbar: Mark the line before you pin.
- Lopsided base: Fold the strip in half to find its true center.
- Twisted ring: Lay the chain flat before joining.
FAQ
Can I crochet the anchor in one piece?
You can, but the edges usually come out soft and uneven. Assembly gives cleaner lines.
Is this good for beginners?
Yes. It uses only chains, slip stitches, and single crochet in rows. The main skill is neat sewing.
Can I wash it?
Yes. Use a gentle cycle and air dry. Cotton holds up best.