✨ Tip: You can change colors anytime by using a slip stitch. I personally love working 2–3 rounds in one color before changing to the next for a beautiful gradient effect.
Abbreviations (US Terms)
Foundation
Using an H hook, chain 103.
Join with a sl st into the first chain to create a ring.
⚠️ Make sure your chain is not twisted before joining.
Pattern Instructions
Round 1
Ch 1.
Skip first chain, hdc in each stitch around.
Sl st on top of the first hdc to join.
Round 2
Fold your work in half and place a stitch marker in the middle of the opposite side from the beginning stitch.
Ch 6, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Ch 3, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Repeat from * to * 3 times total.
Ch 6, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Repeat until you reach the middle stitch marker.
At the stitch marker:
Ch 6, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next — two times total.
Then:
Ch 3, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Repeat 3 times total.
Ch 6, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Repeat around to the beginning.
End with ch 6, skip 2 stitches, sc in the next.
Sl st in the beginning chain.
Round 3
Ch 2.
Work 10 dc in the next chain 6 space.
Sc in the next chain space, ch 3, sc in the next chain space, ch 3, sc in the next chain space, work 10 dc in the next chain space.
Repeat until you reach the middle stitch marker.
At the stitch marker:
Work 10 dc in the next two chain 6 spaces.
Continue repeating the pattern around.
Sl st on top of the beginning dc.
Round 4
Ch 2.
Dc in the same stitch, dc in the next 9 dc.
Sc in the next chain 3 space, ch 3, sc in the next chain space, dc in the next 10 dc.
Repeat until you reach the section with 20 dc (at the stitch marker).
At the stitch marker:
Work 20 dc in that section.
Continue repeating the pattern around.
Sl st on top of the first dc.
Round 5
Ch 4.
Dc in the next stitch, ch 1.
Repeat across the next 9 dc.
Sc in the next chain space.
Dc in the next dc, ch 1.
Repeat 10 times total.
Repeat to the middle stitch marker.
At the stitch marker:
Dc in the next dc, ch 1.
Repeat 20 times total.
Sc in the next chain space.
Dc in the next dc, ch 1.
Repeat 10 times total.
Repeat around to the beginning.
Sl st on top of the dc.
Round 6
Ch 6, skip 1 dc, sc in the next dc.
Ch 3, skip dc, sc in the next dc.
Repeat 3 times total.
Ch 6, skip 3 stitches, sc in the next stitch.
Ch 3, skip dc, sc in the next dc.
Repeat 3 times total.
Now:
Ch 6, skip 4 stitches from now on until you reach the stitch marker, sc in the next stitch.
Continue repeating the ch 3 sections as instructed.
At the stitch marker:
Ch 6, skip dc, sc.
Ch 6 again, skip dc, sc.
Continue the pattern around.
Sl st on top of the dc to finish the round.
Repeating the Virus Pattern
To continue growing your poncho:
🔁 Repeat Rounds 3–6 for each new section of the virus pattern.
You can change colors at any time using a slip stitch. I recommend working 2–3 rounds per color for a beautiful striped effect.
Continue repeating until your poncho reaches your desired length.
Finishing Instructions
When you are ready to finish:
Your final repeat should include Rounds 3–5 only.
❗ Do NOT complete Round 6 on your final repeat.
Round 6 begins the next expansion set, so your final round should end on Round 5 for a clean finish.
Fasten off and weave in all ends with a tapestry needle.
Customization Ideas
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Make it cropped for spring layering
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Extend it into a dramatic full-length poncho
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Use gradient yarn for a seamless color fade
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Add tassels or fringe for a boho touch
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Use lightweight yarn for a lacy summer piece
The Virus Poncho is one of those addictive crochet projects that keeps you coming back for “just one more round.” The repeating lace structure creates beautiful movement and texture, and the flexibility of color changes makes every version unique.
Whether you’re making this for yourself or as a gift, this poncho is sure to turn heads and become a wardrobe favorite.
Happy crocheting 💕
