There’s something so satisfying about finishing a quick crochet project that instantly adds a cheerful handmade touch wherever you place it. I’ve made this Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern several times, and it has become one of my favorite little projects for autumn decorating and thoughtful handmade gifts.
One thing I especially enjoy is how versatile this design is. I’ve stitched it onto tote bags, seasonal table runners, children’s backpacks, and even turned a few into cute brooches for local craft fairs. During my own testing, I found that keeping an even tension throughout the rounds helped create a beautifully smooth apple shape, while cotton yarn gave the finished appliqué crisp edges that held their form wonderfully.
Whether you’re looking for a quick afternoon project or a charming embellishment for another crochet creation, this easy apple appliqué is both relaxing and rewarding to make.
What You’ll Need
Finished Size
Approximately 4.5 in (11.5 cm) tall × 4.25 in (11 cm) wide using the suggested materials.
Materials
- Worsted Weight Yarn (#4)
- Cream (apple flesh)
- Red (apple skin)
- Brown (stem & seeds)
- Green (leaf)
- 3.5 mm (E/4) crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
Gauge
Gauge is not critical for this project.
Abbreviations (US Terms)
- ch – chain
- sl st – slip stitch
- sc – single crochet
- hdc – half double crochet
- dc – double crochet
- tr – treble crochet
- inc – work 2 stitches in same stitch
- st – stitch
- sts – stitches
- FO – fasten off
- MR – magic ring
Pattern Notes
Before you begin, take a moment to gather all your yarn colors so they’re ready when it’s time to switch between sections. This project is worked in joined rounds, making it easy to maintain a neat, symmetrical shape.
The bottom indentation is what gives the apple its unmistakable silhouette, so don’t rush this part. Even if your stitches feel slightly different from mine, maintaining consistent tension will help produce a smooth, polished finish.
Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern
Apple Flesh
Using Cream.
Round 1
Make a MR.
Work 6 sc into the ring.
Join with sl st.
(6 sts)
Round 2
Ch 1.
Inc in each st around.
Join.
(12 sts)
Round 3
Ch 1.
(Sc, inc) around.
Join.
(18 sts)
Round 4
Ch 1.
(2 sc, inc) around.
Join.
(24 sts)
Round 5
Ch 1.
(3 sc, inc) around.
Join.
(30 sts)
Round 6
Ch 1.
(4 sc, inc) around.
Join.
(36 sts)
Round 7
Ch 1.
Sc in every stitch around.
Join.
(36 sts)
Do not fasten off.
Creating the Apple Shape
The bottom indentation creates the characteristic apple silhouette.
Flatten the circle slightly with the joining seam centered at the top.
Locate the two center stitches at the bottom.
Work:
sl st
sc
hdc
dc
tr
ch 1
sl st into the next stitch (forms the center dip)
ch 1
tr
dc
hdc
sc
sl st
Continue working evenly around the remaining stitches with sc until reaching the top center.
This creates the gentle indentation at the bottom without significantly changing the stitch count.
FO Cream.
Apple Skin Border
Join Red at the top center.
Work one round of sc evenly around the entire apple.
At the outer curves:
Work an extra sc approximately every 6–7 stitches to prevent curling.
Around the bottom indentation:
Work:
sc
hdc
sc
inside the dip to keep the curve smooth.
Join with sl st.
FO.
Stem
Using Brown.
Row 1
Ch 7.
Beginning in second ch from hook:
6 sc.
Turn.
Row 2
Ch 1.
6 sc.
Turn.
Row 3
Ch 1.
Sc2tog.
2 sc.
Sc2tog.
(4 sts)
Turn.
Row 4
Ch 1.
4 sc.
FO leaving a long tail.
Sew the stem centered at the top of the apple.
Leaf
Using Green.
Ch 8.
Beginning in second chain from hook:
sc
hdc
dc
dc
hdc
sc
3 sc in last chain
Continue along opposite side:
sc
hdc
dc
dc
hdc
sc
Join with sl st.
Without fastening off, work:
sl st evenly around the leaf edge.
At the tip:
(sl st, ch 2, sl st)
to form a pointed leaf.
FO leaving a sewing tail.
Sew beside the stem.
Apple Seeds (Embroidered)
Using Brown yarn.
Embroider two vertical satin stitches near the center.
Each seed should measure approximately:
3/8 inch (1 cm)
slightly tapered at both ends
Leave about 1/2 inch (1.2 cm) between the seeds.
Assembly
Once all the individual pieces are complete, sew the stem securely at the top center of the apple before attaching the leaf slightly to one side. Finish by embroidering the seeds in the middle, checking that both are evenly spaced for a balanced appearance.
Taking a few extra minutes during assembly makes a noticeable difference in the final look of the appliqué.
Finishing Touches
Weave in all ends securely.
Lightly steam block if desired.
Shape the bottom indentation and leaf while damp.
Allow to dry completely before use.
My Experience & Practical Tips
After making several versions of this Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern, I picked up a few small tricks that really improved the finished result.
First, don’t pull the border stitches too tightly. A relaxed tension around the red edging helps the apple lie flat instead of curling at the sides.
When shaping the bottom indentation, gently pinch the fabric with your fingers before weaving in the ends. This helps you visualize the final shape and makes the characteristic apple curve much easier to achieve.
If you’re using cotton yarn, avoid over-steaming during blocking. A light touch is enough to smooth the stitches without softening the crisp outline.
One mistake I often see beginners make is sewing the leaf perfectly upright. Placing it at a slight angle gives the appliqué a much more natural, playful appearance.
Finally, weave in your yarn tails as you finish each section whenever possible. It keeps the back neat and saves time at the end of the project.
Tips & Variations
This versatile Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern can be adapted in many creative ways.
- Use cotton yarn for durable coasters and kitchen décor.
- Acrylic yarn creates a softer decorative appliqué.
- Attach a brooch pin or safety pin for a wearable accessory.
- Stitch several apples together to create a festive autumn garland.
- Decorate tote bags, table runners, backpacks, tea towels, children’s clothing, or handmade teacher appreciation gifts.
If you enjoy adding handmade floral touches to your crochet projects, you might also love the Crochet Flower Doily Pattern, which is perfect for creating elegant table décor with beautiful stitch texture. For a more dimensional floral design, the Layered Bloom Doily Crochet Pattern offers a lovely combination of layered petals and intricate details. And if you’re looking for a decorative piece to brighten your home year-round, the Layered Bloom Mandala Ornament Crochet Pattern is a relaxing project that creates a stunning hanging ornament full of floral charm.
Frequently Asked Questions
Is this Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern beginner-friendly?
Yes. The pattern uses basic crochet stitches and simple shaping, making it suitable for confident beginners who are comfortable working in joined rounds.
Can I use different yarn weights?
Yes, but changing the yarn weight or hook size will affect the finished dimensions of the appliqué.
Does gauge matter?
No. Gauge is not critical for this project, although maintaining even tension will help create a smooth shape.
Can I turn this into something other than an appliqué?
Absolutely. It works beautifully as a coaster, brooch, bag decoration, garland piece, ornament, or seasonal gift.
Is cotton or acrylic yarn better?
Cotton provides crisp stitch definition and durability, while acrylic gives the appliqué a softer texture. Both produce lovely results depending on your intended use.
Conclusion
Every time I make this Crochet Apple Slice Appliqué Pattern, I’m reminded that small projects can be some of the most enjoyable to crochet. It’s quick enough to finish in an afternoon, yet detailed enough to feel truly special once it’s complete.
I’ve tested this design using both cotton and acrylic yarn, and each version has held up beautifully for its intended purpose. Whether you’re making thoughtful teacher gifts, decorating your home for fall, preparing inventory for a craft fair, or simply adding a cheerful touch to another handmade project, this little apple is a delightful choice that you’ll likely find yourself making again and again.
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