American Crochet ~ Mistie Bush Designs

Search

  • Holiday Patterns
  • About Us
    • Contact American Crochet
    • FAQS
    • Privacy Policy And Disclosures
  • CAROH
  • Crochet Links
  • Free Crochet Patterns
    • ACCESSORIES
      • Shawls and Wraps
    • Baby
      • Baby Blankets
    • Child
    • Clothing
    • CROCHET A-LONGS
  • The Shop
    • ETSY Shop
    • Ravelry Shop
  • Cart
  • My Account

Loops of Love Crochet Bonding Square: A Heartfelt Project for Preemies and Moms

Baby· Baby Clothing & Accessories

22 Mar

Be Inspired!

4 shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter

I’m so excited to share a special project I’ve been working on—bonding squares! Not only are they a meaningful way to help moms and preemies bond, but they are also an excellent stash buster project that requires only a small amount of yarn.

What Are Bonding Squares?

Bonding squares are small, hand-knit or crocheted squares traditionally made in pairs. One square is given to the mother to wear, and the other is placed with her baby in the NICU. The idea is that by swapping the squares regularly, the baby and mother can become familiar with each other’s scent, helping to strengthen their connection even when they are apart.

Sign up for my newsletter to receive updates on new patterns, exclusive discounts, and crochet tips! Click here to join!

A partially completed bonding square with a crochet hook inserted into the stitches, showing the front and back loop texture of the pattern.

I would love to see your projects in my Facebook Group and/or on Instagram!

Why Make Bonding Squares?

Many hospitals use bonding squares as a way to support premature babies and their mothers during those first crucial days and weeks. Preemies often spend extended periods in incubators, and scent is one of the strongest ways they recognize and connect with their parents. These small but powerful squares can provide comfort and reassurance to both mom and baby.

A Perfect Stash-Busting Project

If you have leftover yarn from previous projects, bonding squares are a fantastic way to use it up! They don’t require much yarn, and you can experiment with different colors and textures while creating something truly meaningful. Loops of Love Crochet Bonding Square, is simple, quick to make, and perfect for all skill levels.

For more baby items check out Levi’s Gentle Stitches-Burp Cloth

How This Pattern Fits My Passion

I started crocheting 28 years ago. In the beginning, I made baby blankets as gifts for friends who were having a baby and donated several to those who either lost a baby or had one in the NICU. Donating to charity and making baby blankets has always been a passion of mine. This bonding square pattern fits perfectly into that passion—offering comfort to both babies and their mothers during a challenging time. Creating something so small yet meaningful reminds me why I fell in love with crochet in the first place: the ability to bring warmth, love, and connection through handmade items.

This project is especially close to my heart because my own daughter was a preemie. She was born six weeks early and had to stay in the NICU for a few weeks. It was such a difficult time being separated from her, and I wish I had something like bonding squares back then to help us feel connected. Knowing that these squares can provide comfort to other moms and their babies makes this project even more meaningful to me.

Things to Keep in Mind

Before you start making bonding squares to donate, be sure to check with your local NICU unit. Different hospitals have specific requirements regarding materials, sizing, and hygiene standards. Some may require cotton yarn for easy washing, while others may have size restrictions.

Subscribe to my YouTube Channel!

Join Me in Making a Difference

I’d love for you to try out my Loops of Love Crochet Bonding Square pattern and join me in creating these special little pieces. Whether you’re looking for a quick, meaningful project or a way to give back to your community, bonding squares are a beautiful way to make a difference.

2025 International Crochet Month Blog Hop

I am excited to be part of the 2025 International Crochet Month Blog Hop! Each day, a new pattern is featured-representing something the designer loves about crochet.

Disclaimer: This post contains affiliate links. When you purchase something through these links I earn a small commission. You do not pay any extra for the item you purchase.

Loops of Love Bonding Square

Requirements

Terminology

  • US Terms

Level of Difficulty

  • Beginner/Intermediate

Yarn

  • #3 worsted weight

Hooks and Notions

  • Size Hook: G (4 mm)
  • Scissors
  • Yarn needle
  • Stitch markers (optional)

Measurement

  • 5×5 inches

Special Stitch

  • hbsc: Insert hook through the vertical bar of the previous single crochet stitch, insert hook into the next stitch and pull up a loop, YO (yarn over) and pull through all three loops on the hook.

Get the Loops of Love Bonding Square Pattern

This crochet pattern is available in my online shop. Grab your copy today and start crocheting!

  • 🛒 Grab from the American Crochet Shop

Happy Hookin!
XO, Mistie

Save and Share my Post
Loops of Love Crochet Bonding Squares – A meaningful and easy crochet project for preemies and NICU moms. This free pattern is perfect for stash-busting and donating to hospitals. Learn how to crochet bonding squares to help moms and babies stay connected!

Be Inspired!

4 shares
  • Facebook
  • Twitter
« Stansberry Square Crochet Pattern – Riverwood Square CAL Block #12

Follow Me!

  • Amazon
  • Facebook
  • Instagram
  • Pinterest
  • YouTube

Find More To Hook!

About Mistie | American Crochet @americancrochet.com

Hi! I'm Mistie!

I'm on a mission to share my love of crochet, knitting, and spinning with others, teaching and inspiring makers of all skill levels. Fueled by faith and an undeniable coffee addiction, I’m here to guide you through every stitch—whether you're picking up a hook, needle, or spindle for the first time or looking to expand your skills. This journey is about more than creating beautiful pieces—it’s about building a community, supporting my family, and sharing the joy and purpose I find in every thread.

Crochet With Mistie Vlog WIP Wednesday Epidsode 6 Season 1

Crochet With Mistie Vlog WIP Wednesday Epidsode 6 Season 1 | American Crochet @americancrochet.com

Adventure Blanket CAL

Adventure Blanket CAL

Thermal Crochet Made Easy

Thermal Crochet Made Easy
  • About Us
  • Crafting a Rainbow of Hope (CAROH) Community
  • CROCHET A-LONGS
  • Privacy Policy
  • The Shop
  • Opt-out preferences

© 2025 - Mistie Bush Designs - American Crochet