In case you lost your directions or missed out on a kit, we have you covered. In this series, we will be showcasing past projects, in particular those that were originally released as Surprise Craftertunity kits at the library. So get ready to grab some spare materials and start crafting!
The following pattern is for the class that will be held today at 5:30PM via Zoom. A teacher will be available to assist you and/or to create virtually alongside you and materials are available for checkout through the Drive Through or at the circulation desk. We look forward to seeing you there.
Octopus Amigurumi
These super cute octopi were designed by Nicki's Homemade Crafts for preemies. Creating octopus dolls for preemies has become something of an altruistic fad. In theory, the octopi's tentacles remind the newborn of the mother's umbilical cord, thus providing comfort. Now, personally I think they are worthwhile whether or not you have a preemie in mind. They are adorable and slightly silly, quirky and definitely a fun way to pass the time. Plus, they are a great first step into the world of crocheted dolls (Amigurumi is the Japanese art of yarn doll making, most often by using crochet, although knitting is also a valid method of creation). There are dozens of patterns to choose from, from octopi in top hats with canes to realistic replicas of real sea creatures and everything in between and beyond. Below is a nice simple design. If you wanted somewhere to start, I'd say this is it!
Quick note before we go on: Whereas with most projects a nice, even, loose stitch is preferred, amigurumi require as tight a stitch as you can. This is so that the stuffing neither comes out nor can be seen through the gaps between the stitches.
Materials:
3 colors of worsted-weight yarn (light, medium and dark of a similar color scheme)
Polyfill / Fiberfill
5.0mm crochet hook
Scissors
Tapestry needle
Abbreviations:
sl st = slip stitch
sc = single crochet stitch
inc = increase
dec = decrease
flo = front loop only
ch = chain
st / sts = stitch(es)
R# = Round # (in other patterns it can mean row)
Notes:
Gauge: 4 sc x 5 rows = 1 in. square
Final size: 14.5 (head and tentacles together) x 4 in. (diameter)
If you use a smaller hook or finer yarn, the size will be smaller. If you do both a smaller hook and a smaller yarn, it will be quite a bit smaller. The original pattern called for a 4mm hook but our Beginners Kits come with 5mm, so our dolls might be slightly bigger.
Instructions:
Body
Start with the medium color.
R1 - Make a magic circle and add 8sc’s to the center, close up the hole (8sts)
R2—2sc in each st around (16sts)
R3—*1sc, 1sc inc, repeat from * around (24sts)
R4—*1sc, 1sc, 1sc inc, repeat from * around (32sts)
R5—*[1sc] 3 times, 1sc inc, repeat from * around (40sts)
R6—*[1sc] 4 times, 1sc inc, repeat from * around (48sts)
R7-21— *1sc in each st around (48sts)
R22—*[1sc] 4 times, 1sc dec in the flo, repeat from * around (40sts)
R23—*[1sc] 3 times, 1sc dec in the flo, repeat from * around (32sts)
R24—*1sc, 1sc, 1sc dec in the flo, repeat from * around (24sts)
R25—*1sc, 1sc dec in the flo, repeat from * around (16sts)
Add polyfill. Do not overstuff or polyfill will be visible in finished product.
R26—*1sc dec in the flo around (8sts)
Use tapestry needle to sew hole closed. Fasten off and weave in ends.
Tentacles
Attach light yarn with slip stitch to sealed area.
*R1—ch60, 1sc in 2nd ch from hook, 2sc in each to end Sl st 1/4 over (where 4 corners of circle = 4 tentacles) Repeat from * 3 more times. Fasten off ends & weave in
Next use dark color, slightly further into center of circle and repeat the process on the inside ring.
Eyes
Make a magic circle. 8sc into center, close up hole, sl st into 1st stitch (8sts) - use tails to sew onto octopus