The sunflower has long been a symbol of hope, resilience, and unity, but in recent years, it has taken on even greater meaning as a representation of solidarity with Ukraine. The blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag symbolize the vast blue sky over the golden wheat fields, a reminder of the country’s strength, beauty, and agricultural heritage.
As I crocheted these sunflowers, I found the process meditative, allowing me to reflect on the importance of Ukraine’s fight for democracy. Each stitch felt like a small act of support, a way to send positive yarny energy into the world.
A Free PDF of this pattern is available on Ravelry here.
Crocheted Sunflower Brooch Pattern
Materials:
- DK or fingering weight yarn held double in yellow, brown, and blue (as used: Sassy Black Yarns in French Onion DK, Blue Blueberry DK, and Chocoberry Fingering doubled)
- 3.5mm crochet hook
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Brooch pin backing or safety pin
Sunflower
Using brown yarn for the center:
- Make a magic ring, ch 1.
- 10 sc into the ring, sl st to first sc to join. (10 sts)
- Ch 1, 2 sc in each st around, sl st to join. (20 sts)
- Fasten off and weave in ends.
- Switch to yellow yarn for petals: Attach yarn to any stitch, ch 3 (counts as dc), dc in same st.6. Ch 2, sl st in next st. Ch 2, 2 dc in next st, ch 2, sl st in next st—repeat around. (10 petals)7. Sl st to first st, fasten off, weave in ends.
- Add the Ukrainian Flag Ribbon: With blue yarn, ch 13.
- Single chain into the second stitch from the hook to end (12 scs made). Fasten off.
- Sew or twist the ribbons slightly for a flag effect and stitch them to the back of the sunflower.
Finishing Touches
- Sew or glue the brooch pin to the back.
- Fluff out the petals and enjoy your handmade sunflower of solidarity!
Support Ukraine with a Crocheted Sunflower
In an effort to turn my crafting into action, I am offering two ways to support Ukraine through this project:
Crocheted Sunflower Kit – $10
Includes pre-measured yarn, brooch pin back, and a printed pattern. $5 from each kit will be donated to United24, Ukraine’s official fundraising platform. Shop the Kit Here.
Finished Crocheted Sunflower Brooch – $20
For those who don’t crochet but still want to show their support, I am also offering completed sunflower brooches. $10 from each purchase will be donated to United24. Shop the Finished Brooch Here.
The Symbolism of Sunflowers & Ukraine’s Colors
Sunflowers have been grown in Ukraine for centuries, but they became a symbol of resistance and hope when images surfaced of Ukrainian civilians planting sunflowers in defiance of Russian aggression. These flowers now stand as a testament to Ukraine’s enduring spirit.
The blue and yellow of the Ukrainian flag reflect the natural beauty of the land—fields of golden wheat beneath a vast blue sky. These colors also represent freedom and peace, values that Ukraine is bravely fighting to protect.
By wearing a crocheted sunflower or gifting one to a friend, you are sharing this message of solidarity and hope.
Crocheting with Intention
As I worked on these sunflowers, I found myself deeply connected to the act of creating something that holds meaning. Every loop and stitch became a way to process my thoughts on Ukraine’s struggle for democracy, and with each completed flower, I imagined sending out small waves of support and resilience.
Crafting can be powerful—it’s not just about making something beautiful, but about creating with purpose. Whether you make your own sunflower, wear one, or share this project with others, you are part of something bigger. Thank you for standing with Ukraine.