Follow this simple and free crochet pattern to design an adorable octopus amigurumi with soft tentacles and fun colors, great for kids or as a cute decoration.
Crochet enthusiasts of all levels often appreciate projects that combine simplicity and charm, and an octopus amigurumi is an ideal example. This free crochet octopus amigurumi pattern offers a delightful way to create a playful, soft, and lifelike ocean-inspired figure. With its rounded body and curling tentacles, the octopus is both cute and captivating, making it a favorite among children and adults alike. Its expressive features, such as bright eyes and textured design, add to its appeal, while its small size makes it practical for various uses.
Step-by-step Crochet Pattern For Octopus Amigurumi Lovers
This adorable crochet creation can be customized in endless color combinations, allowing each octopus to have its own personality. Whether it’s kept as a comforting desk buddy, a fun shelf decoration, or a thoughtful handmade gift, its versatility stands out.
The design also makes it lightweight and portable, perfect for brightening up small spaces or accompanying someone on travels. Offering both playfulness and usefulness, a crochet octopus amigurumi easily wins hearts with its cheerful appearance and huggable textures that make holding it irresistible.
Crochet Mini Octopus Keychain Pattern
A delightful mini octopus, perfect as a toy, key ring, or charm. This amigurumi pattern is written in US crochet terminology and is well-suited for intermediate crocheters, with clear rounds and a textured popcorn stitch for the legs.
Skill Level
Intermediate
You should be comfortable with magic circles, increasing, invisible decreases, popcorn stitch, and basic assembly.
Materials
- Yarn: 100% cotton yarn, DK or light worsted weight
- Hook: 2.5 mm crochet hook (or size to match yarn and achieve a tight fabric)
- Notions:
- Polyester fiberfill for stuffing
- 5 mm safety eyes (or embroidery thread for eyes)
- Black cotton thread (or yarn) for mouth
- Stitch marker
- Yarn needle
- Scissors
- Key ring (optional)
- Small amount of black yarn for mouth (optional)
- Optional: chain or yarn for hanging loop
Key Abbreviations (US Terms)
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
|---|---|
| MR | Magic ring |
| ch | Chain |
| sc | Single crochet |
| inc | Increase (2 sc in 1) |
| dec | Decrease (inv dec) |
| dc | Double crochet |
| st(s) | Stitch(es) |
| rep | Repeat |
| POP | Popcorn stitch (here: 8 dc in same st, drop loop from hook, insert hook in first dc, pick up dropped loop and pull through) |
Special Notes
- The pattern is worked in rounds without joining (spiral).
- Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch of each round—move up as you go.
- Stuff the body firmly—but not too tight or loose—before closing.
- The legs are made with popcorn stitches for extra texture.
- Safety eyes and stitched mouth add character. Embroider if you prefer.
Pattern Instructions
HEAD & BODY
Start:
Round 1:
- Begin with a magic ring (MR).
- Ch 1 (does not count as a stitch).
- 6 sc in ring. (6 sts)
Round 2:
- Inc in each st: Work 2 sc in each sc around. (12 sts)
Round 3:
- (sc in next st, inc in next st) rep around. (18 sts)
Round 4:
- (sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st) rep around. (24 sts)
Round 5:
- (sc in next 3 sts, inc in next st) rep around. (30 sts)
Round 6:
- (sc in next 4 sts, inc in next st) rep around. (36 sts)
Rounds 7–12:
- Sc in each st around. (36 sts per round)
- Repeat for 6 rounds. Remember to use a stitch marker for first st of each round.
SHAPE & CLOSE
Round 13:
- (sc in next st, inv dec over next 2 sts) rep around. (24 sts)
- Invisible decrease: Insert hook into front loop of next st, then front loop of following st; yarn over and pull through both loops, complete sc.
Insert Safety Eyes:
- Between rounds 3 and 4, spaced 4 sts apart.
STUFFING
- Stuff the octopus body firmly, but not too tightly.
LEGS (Popcorn Round)
Round 14:
- Leg pattern: (sc in next 2 sts, POP in next st) rep around, 8 times total.
- POP: In st, work 8 dc, drop loop, insert hook in first dc, grab dropped loop, pull through to close popcorn.
- There will be 8 popcorn stitches (legs), separated by single crochets.
Round 15:
- Sc in each sc only (not in popcorns).
- You will have 16 sc (2 sc between each popcorn, 8 gaps).
- Do NOT work into popcorn stitches, just the sc between popcorns.
FINAL SHAPE
Round 16:
- Work invisible decreases (front loops only) around: (inv dec over next 2 sts) until 8 sts remain.
- Fasten off, leave a long tail for closing.
ASSEMBLY
- Closing: Use yarn tail and needle to close the opening. Weave in securely.
- Leg definition:
- With needle and same yarn, pull through each leg's 8 dc (popcorn), pulling tight to firm and shape legs (repeat for all 8 legs).
- Secure all ends.
DETAILS
Mouth:
- Use black cotton thread or yarn.
- Embroider a small mouth between the eyes using a backstitch.
Hanging Loop:
- With yarn, ch 30 (or desired length).
- Fasten off, attach loop securely to top of head.
- Attach a key ring if desired.
Conclusion & Tips
- You now have a cute mini octopus, perfect for a keychain or small toy.
- Tips:
- Keep your increases and decreases neat for a round shape.
- For legs, use all 8 dc in the popcorn for a "chunky" look.
- Overstuffing body may distort the shape; aim for firm but soft.
- Move the stitch marker up every round to avoid confusion.
- Use invisible decreases for a neater close.
- If attaching eyes/loop, ensure they’re firmly secured for durability.
- Corrections:
- Popcorn stitches use 8 dc instead of the typical 5 for more volume.
- All legs must be securely stitched into shape.
