32+ Easy & Crochet Animal Patterns for Beginners


By Francine K. Medina

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Sarcastic crochet animals are a fun and creative way to make cute handmade toys and gifts. There are many easy crochet animal patterns that you can make, whether you are new to the craft or have been crocheting for many years but want something quick and cute.

Crocheted animals are called amigurumi, a Japanese word for small, stuffed yarn creatures. You could create little keychain crochet animals, giant plushies, or anything. Single crochet projects are perfect for beginners since many cute crochet animals use just one stitch the single crochet stitch. There is no sew involved in crocheting.

You can make your crochet animals even more individualized by using custom yarn colors, or adding safety eyes on your special features. You can also add crochet applique patterns in your projects to make them more attractive. Some crochet animals take just a few hours to create, making them ideal afternoon crochet projects. 

Key Takeaways:

  • Crochet animals are easy projects for beginners.
  • You need a few supplies: Yarn, a crochet hook, and stuffing.
  • You can find quite several free and paid online patterns.
  • Little crochet animals are great gifts, keychains, and decorations.

What are Crochet Animals?

Crochet animals

Crochet animals are miniature stuffed toys made with a crochet hook and yarn. They can be cute crochet critters like bears, bunnies, unicorns, or more unusual creatures like dinosaurs and jellyfish.

We usually create crochet animals using amigurumi where you crochet in the round to form a seamless shape. These projects are good for beginners because they generally only use simple stitches.

What You Need to Crochet Animals?

First, you will need some basic supplies to start your mini crochet animals:

MaterialsDescription
YarnSoft, durable yarn like cotton or acrylic works best for crochet animals. Chunky yarn is great for larger plushies.
Crochet HookThe size will depend on your yarn choice, but most amigurumi use a 3.5mm-4mm hook.
StuffingCrochet animals are often stuffed with polyester fiberfill.
Eyes for Crochet AnimalsSafety eyes, embroidery, or tiny black beads would do the trick.
Stitch MarkerHelps to keep track of rounds in amigurumi patterns.
Scissors & Tapestry NeedleFor cutting yarns and sewing parts together

30+ Easy Crochet Animals Pattern

Crocheting small animals is a fun and rewarding hobby for those engaged in creative activity. From classic teddy bears to quirky cube-shaped pets, these adorable patterns make delightful handmade gifts. Here are our favorite 32+ free crochet animal patterns for beginners:

1

Small Hippo Pattern

Small Hippo Crochet animals Pattern

This little crochet hippo is cute and fun to crochet. Begin with a round body, then add a tiny snout and short stubby legs. Stick to simple stitches for a smooth finish. Safety eyes and embroidered nostrils round out the ensemble. This is great for the beginner who is just learning amigurumi. It is perfect for kids, animal lovers, or as a desk buddy.

  • Recommended Yarn: Used cotton or acrylic worsted weight
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Grey, pink for inner ears, black for embroidered eyes
2

Crochet Jellyfish

Crochet Jellyfish animals Pattern

The crochet animals pattern includes instructions for a round head with long flowing tentacles. This head is made using simple rounds. Tentacles are attached separately and curled naturally. It only takes a few hours to complete. Make color customization for a distinct appearance. Gift it to ocean lovers or use it as a cute keychain.

  • Recommended Yarn: Lightweight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.0 mm (D)
  • Suggested Colors: Pastel Blue, Pink, Purple, or Multicolor
3

Dumpling Kitty

Dumpling Kitty Crochet animals Pattern

Fat, willowy dumpling cat with a very simple body and little fucking ears. The body is crocheted in one piece, and the ears and tail are separate. Embroider whiskers to make it even cuter! This project is quick and easy to make. It is perfect for cat lovers and kawaii fans or as a pocket-sized plushie.

  • Recommended Yarn: Soft worsted weight yarn
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Cream, grey, white, black, or pastel shades
4

Long-Legged Cat

Long-Legged Cat Crochet animals

Long-legged and round-bodied, this funky crochet cat is a keeper. Make the body first and crochet the long legs separately. Gently stuff it to preserve its floppy appeal. Include embroidered details for some personality. This fun and beginner-friendly project is best for cat lovers and kids or as a funny decor piece.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Black, white, tabby Orange or calico patterns
5

Little Crochet Lamb

Little Lamb Crochet animals

A sweet, fluffy white lamb with a circular body and tiny legs, this sheep is made from textured yarn for a woolly effect. The face and ears are made separately and sewn in. Light stuffing keeps it cuddly. This great farm animal project is the best gift for babies, Easter gifts, or farm animals collectors.

  • Recommended Yarn: Chunky boucle or faux fur yarn for the body, worsted weight yarn for the limbs
  • Best Stitch: Loop stitch for the body, single crochet for details
  • Hook Size: 4.0 mm (G)
  • Suggested Colors: White, cream, light grey or pastel beige
6

Jumbo the Bee Crochet Pattern

Jumbo the Bee Crochet Animals Pattern

A fat, round bee with tiny wings and a smiling face. Crochet the body in stripes, then add wings and antennae. Stitching some simple embroidery gives personality. It’s spongy and soft from the lightly packed stuffing. This is a cheerful and quick project. It is perfect for nature lovers or as a cheerful plushie.

  • Recommended Yarn: Velvet or worsted-weight acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 4.0 mm (G)
  • Suggested Colors: yellow, black, white wings
7

Sir Batwington the Bat

Sir Batwington the Bat Crochet animals

A tiny crochet bat with batty little wings and pointy bat ears. It is easy to shape by providing a rounded body. It was crocheted separately to the sides. Safety eyes and embroidered fangs give them a spooky touch. It is perfect for Halloween lovers, gothic fans, or as a creepy decoration.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Chain single crochet (CSC)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Black, grey, dark purple
8

Hamster Amigurumi

Hamster Amigurumi Crochet animals

The palm-sized crocheted hamster is lovely. The circular body is all crocheted in one go. (Ears and paws are sewn separately.) A small nose and eyes add the finishing touch. It is best for hamster lovers, kids, or as a pocket pet.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, White, Grey or Beige
9

Crochet Dinosaur

Crochet Dinosaur animals

A traditional amigurumi dino with little legs and a portly body crochet animals. The body is created first, then the legs and tail attach. Fun looks like spikes on its back. It is one of the easiest dinosaurs to take care of. Gift it to dinosaur fans. Use it as a playful plush.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight of acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Green, teal, purple, or blue
10

Blue Whale Crochet Pattern

Blue Whale Crochet Animals pattern

The blue whale crochet animals features a round body and a little tail, which are all crocheted. Shape the body first, then work on the tail and fins individually. Attach the fins on the sides. Embroider has a simple face. This is a quick and fun sea creature. So, it is perfect for ocean lovers, kids, or as a soft toy.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Sc (single crochet)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Blue, light blue, grey, or Pacific shades
11

Little Winter Penguin

Little Winter Penguin Crochet animals

Curvy, a cozy penguin with a cute little scarf. The body is crocheted in one piece, then wings and feet are added separately. A soft plume constitutes the face. Scarf set wrap of various colors for festive effect. This is a perfect winter project. It is best for holiday gifts, winter lovers, or Christmas decorations. 

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Black, white, yellow (for beak/feet), red or green (for scarf)
12

Itty Bitty Crochet Kitty

A tiny crochet cat that can sit on a keychain. The body is crocheted in rounds. The ears and tail are added separately. Embroider has a cute little face. Create it in different colors for variety. This is a very fast and super cute project. You can gift it to cat lovers, keychain collectors, or as a tiny desk pet.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.0 mm (D)
  • Suggested Colors: Grey, white, orange, black, or tabby patterns
13

Jazzy the Unicorn

Jazzy the Unicorn Crochet Animals

Features a pastel rainbow-maned unicorn unicorn. It begins crocheting the body and creates ears and horns separately. You attach a mane using colorful strands of yarn. The face is finished with simple embroidery. This is a dreamy project for lovers of fantasy. You can also gift it to unicorn fans or kids or as a magical plush.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: White; Mane: Pastel Pink, Blue, Yellow, or Purple)
14

Owl Amigurumi

Owl Amigurumi Crochet Animals

A plump, wide-eyed owl with short wings. They are crocheted into a body, then the wings and facial details are added. Use large safety eyes for a very expressive look. This is a fast and adorable forest critter. It is best for bird lovers, teachers, or as a cozy decoration.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylicRecommended yarn:
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, white, grey, tan, or multicolor
15

Crochet Teddy Bear

Teddy Bear Crochet Animals

A classic, cuddly teddy bear. The body and limbs are made separately and then put together. Gently stuff lightly for a soft, huggable feel. Top with a tiny bow for a cutesy touch.  It is a simple, plush project for a beginner. This pattern is best for kids, baby showers, or teddy bear collectors.

  • Recommended Yarn: Soft worsted weight yarn
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, beige, white, pink, or grey
16

Cocca the Hen Pattern

A round fertilizer crochet chicken with a minute beak. The body is crocheted as a single piece. Mount comb and wings separately. Lightly stuff for a plump appearance. This is a fun and simple farm animal activity. It is best for farm lovers, Easter baskets, or kitchen decor.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: White (body), red (comb), yellow (beak/feet)
17

Brontosaurus Dinosaur Amigurumi

Brontosaurus Dinosaur Amigurumi crochet animals

A round-bellied, long-necked dinosaur. The body is crocheted first, then separately shaping the neck and tail. Attach tiny legs for a solid base. Gently stuff for a tender finish. Your simple and charming dino is ready. It is best for dinosaur lovers, kids, or as a prehistoric plush.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Green, blue, teal, or purple
18

Mini Pig Crochet Pattern

Mini Pig Crochet animals Pattern

A pink piglet with a round body and curly tail. First, you crochet the body, then the ears, legs, and tail. The look is completed with small stitched details. This pattern is quick and fun to make. It is best for farm animal lovers, kids, or pig collectors.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worst-weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Light pink, white, or light brown
19

Cube Fox Amigurumi Pattern

Cube Fox Amigurumi Pattern

A boxy geometric fox that is cute. The body is crocheted into a cube shape with separate ears and tail appendages. Tiny embroidered touches give it a charm. This design is a modern take on an amigurumi. It is best for fox lovers and kids or as a quirky plushie.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Orange, white (face/tail tip), black (ears/feet)
20

Amigurumi Bear

Amigurumi Bear Crochet animals

A big, round bear with stubby arms and legs. The body is crocheted as part of one piece, with the limbs added separately. A tiny stitched nose provides personality. It is an easy and beginner-friendly bear. This is best for teddy bear collectors, kids, or as a cozy gift.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worst Weight Acrylic or Cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, beige, cream, or pastel hues
21

Amigurumi Narwhal

Amigurumi Narwhal crochet animals

Small crochet narwhal round body, fin, and the small. This body is worked in continuous rounds. The horn is separate and given separately to the head. Its small embroidered eyes make it a cute approach. Stuff lightly for a soft plush. It is a magical and easy project. This is best for ocean lovers, children, or fans of fantasy.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Blue, light blue, grey (body), white/yellow (horn)
22

Whale Plushie Crochet Pattern

Whale Plushie Crochet animals Pattern

A bigger whale with a soft, round body and a cute smile. Work in rounds using a magic ring to start. This means fins and tail are added separately. Floofy stuffing makes it cuddlable. The face is finished with safety eyes. Making a modern-day sea Creature is simple and fun. It is best for kids, ocean lovers, or a bedtime buddy.

  • Recommended Yarn: Chunky or worsted-weight plush yarn
  • Best stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 4.0 mm (G)
  • Suggested Colors: Blue, grey, white, or pastel shades
23

Cube Puppy Dog Amigurumi Pattern

Cube Puppy Dog Amigurumi crochet animal Patterns

A boxy little pup with a mischievous look. The body is crocheted in a cube shape. Ears, tails, and legs are done separately and sewn on. Consider adding an embroidered nose to give them personality. It is best for dog lovers, kids, or as an office pet.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, beige, black, white
24

Hubble the Squid

Hubble the Squid Crochet animals

Squid amigurumi pattern with long, wavy tentacles First crocheted is the rounded head. Tentacles are just basic chains and curls. A cute expression is achieved by adding little safety eyes. Stuff gently for a soft filling. This is an entertaining, ambiguous ocean venture. It is best for marine life lovers and kids or as a cute keychain.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: red, purple, blue, pink
25

Daphne the Duck

Daphne the Duck Crochet animals

A little duck with tiny wings and a round body. The body is crocheted as one piece. The beak and the feet are joined separately. Pillowy stuffing gives it cuddliness. Cute details include embroidered accents. This is an animal project that is quick and easy. It is best for springtime gifts, kids, or Easter baskets.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight cotton or acrylic
  • Type of stitch: single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Yellow (body), Orange (beak/feet)
26

Chandler, the Chicken

Chandler, the Chicken crochet animals

A comically big, fat chicken with a weirdo attitude. The body is a basic circle crochet. Wings, a beak, and a small comb are joined separately. A light stuffing leaves it soft and squidgy. For a cute touch, embroider little eyes. It is best for farm lovers, kids, or kitchen decoration.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: White (tonality), red (comb), yellow (beak/feet)
27

Memphis the Moo Cow

Memphis the Moo Cow Crochet animals

A small, lovable cow with little antlers and a round body. You work the body in rounds that do not separate. The ears, tail, and legs are separately attached. Simple embroidery provides cute touches. A gentle amount of stuffing means it’s huggable. This is a great and simple farm animal to crochet. It is best for cow lovers, children, or gifts with a farm theme.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted weight acrylic or cotton
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: The Umbrella TreeName: (pick a name!)Suggested Colors: White (body), black (spots), pink (snout)
28

Hazel Highland Cow

Hazel Highland Cow Crochet animals

Hazel cow is a fluffy, soft cow with shaggy hair and cute little horns. Use chunky yarn for added texture. First, you crochet a body, then two ears, four legs , and a tail. Sew on small eyes under the hair. Do a light stuffing for a soft plush. It is an easy project that is fun for beginners. It is best for highland cow fans, kids, or rustic decor.

  • Recommended Yarn: Chunky or faux fur yarn
  • Best Stitch: Slip stitch (sl st)
  • Hook Size: 4.5 mm (7)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown, tan, beige, white (horns)
29

Sherman the Sheep

Sherman the Sheep Crochet animals

A sheep that is small and has a wooly, soft, textured body. First, crochet the body,  legs, ears, and face. Light stuffing keeps it smooth. An easy embroidery brings a soft expression. It is a perfect first amigurumi project. It is best for sheep lovers, easter gifts, or nursery decor.

  • Recommended Yarn: Faux fur or boucle yarn for body, worsted weight for legs/head
  • Best stitch: Loop stitch for the body and the single crochet for the detail.
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Black (face/legs); white, cream
30

Hailey the Horse

Hailey the Horse Crochet animals

A small crochet horse with an adorable flowing mane. The body is crocheted in one piece, and the legs, ears, and tail are attached separately. The realistic mane, which is nice and big made from yarn strands. Light stuffing makes it soft. It is a fun farm animal project. It is best for horse lovers, children, or equestrian fans.

  • Recommended Yarn: Worsted-weight cotton or acrylic
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (sc)
  • Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E)
  • Suggested Colors: Brown (with markings), Black (with markings), White (markings)
31

Lyla the Llama

Lyla the Llama Crochet animals

A puffy and fluffy llama with wee little ears and a fluffy, bouncy coat. Try a textured yarn for an even woolier look. Its crocheted body is made first, and then its legs and little tail are added. Embroider has a cute face. A fluffy stuffing gives it a cuddly feel. It is a pretty and lovely amigurumi. It is best for llama lovers, children, or cozy home decor.

  • Recommended Yarn: Faux fur, boucle for body, worsted for detail
  • Best Stitch: Loop stitch for fur, single crochet for face/legs
  • Hook Size: 4.0 mm (G)
  • Suggested Colors: White, cream, tan, soft brown
32

Crocheted Safari Animals

Safari Crochet Animals

Make a collection of cute safari animals such as lions, elephants, giraffes, and zebras. Each animal features adorable details such as fluffy manes, tiny tusks or striped patterns. These mini plush toys are great for children or safari enthusiasts. Begin with the body making continuous rounds. Split ears, tails, and limbs into their own elements. Assemble pieces and fill with fiberfill. Add facial features for even more cuteness! Add details such as spots or stripes. Soft and huggable, they can serve as both decoration and playtime companions. 

  • Recommended Yarn: Soft cotton or acrylic yarn
  • Best Stitch: SC (Single crochet)
  • Hook Size: 2.5mm – 4mm
  • Suggested Colors: Yellow, gray, brown, white, black
33

Crochet Bear with Flower

Crochet Bear with Flower

This small bear has an adorable face, round ears and a flower in his hand. A delicate flower keeps it in charming. It can be customized in various colors for a unique feel. The bear’s head, body and limbs are crocheted separately. Attach arms and legs firmly. Fill with fiberfill for softness. Add safety eyes and embroider on a little nose. A boy can gift it to his girl on Valentine’s day.

  • Recommended Yarn: Plush cotton or soft yarn
  • Best Stitch: Single crochet (SC)
  • Hook Size: 2.5mm – 3.5mm
  • Suggested Colors: Light brown, cream, pastel pink, white, gray

Final Thoughts

Easy crochet animals are great fun and allow you to be creative with yarn and crochet. There are many crochet animals Free patterns, so you can move from easy to more elaborate projects. It is lovely to make these mini crochet animals to give out as gifts, decorations, or to have fun.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ’s)

What is the best crochet animal for beginners?

A jellyfish or a teddy bear is an easy crocheted animal for beginners to make, as you only need to know a few stitches and do very little shaping.

How do I pick a crochet hook size for amigurumi?

You should use a 3.5mm or 4mm crochet hook for amigurumi to ensure tight stitches so that the stuffing does not show through your crocheted animals.

How do you add eyes to crochet animals?

For crochet animals, you use safety eyes, embroider them with yarn, or sew on small beads for eyes — all secure and expressive.

Is it possible to crochet animals out of chunky yarn?

Yes! Puffy Yarn makes bigger, stuffed animals that are soft and huggable crochet animals, perfect for gift-giving or home decor.

How long does it take to crochet an animal?

Small crochet animals can be completed in a few hours, whereas bigger or more detailed amigurumi can take a few days.

What should I stuff crochet animals with?

Polyester fiberfill is the best stuffing for crochet animals because it has a soft and fluffy texture while maintaining its shape for a long time.

Where can I find free crochet animal patterns?

Websites like Ravelry, Pinterest, and crochet blogs offer free crochet animal patterns with beginner crochet animals tutorials.

Are crochet animals able to be made without safety eyes?

Yes! For safety — and especially for kids’ toys — you could embroider the eyes instead of using plastic ones.

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