It’s easy to get hooked on amigurumi, forgive the pun! There’s something absolutely addictive about creating cute creatures with just yarn and a hook. In fact, it’s such a popular crochet form that there are designers and crafters who only work with amigurumi patterns. Want to try it out? It’s easier than you might think! While some patterns might look fiddly, with lots of small pieces, if you know the basics…it’s not difficult. I’ve gathered together a collection of 10 amigurumi patterns to suit all skill levels, from beginner to more advanced hookers.
So grab your yarn and get ready to crochet some cute critters…just be warned…it’s highly addictive!
Let’s start with something nice and simple…a crocheted octopus!

This sweet little sea creature uses just double crochet stitches, so it’s the perfect first step into amigurumi. Think of it like dipping your toe into the ami sea. Not only are they simple, they crochet up quickly and use minimal yarn. What could be better?
Staying in the ocean…the next pattern is a Crochet Sea Turtle from Whistle & Ivy.

This pattern adds a few more stitches into the mix than the crochet octopus, but still sticks to basic, beginner stitches. The shell is created using crochet hexagons and then shaped and stuffed to be as 3D as a real sea turtle. But don’t worry – this one won’t dry out on land!
Some of these patterns are in UK terms and some are in US. So, be sure to check before you begin hooking. Need some help translating?

Unsure of the differences between UK and US terms? Need a refresher on how to do your stitches? In my ‘How to crochet: A handy reference guide’ EBook I help you with all of these terms and you can always have them to hand! You will also get exclusive access to free video instructions. You can find my EBook HERE.
Bethany from Whistle & Ivy has provided amazingly clear instructions on her website, with lots of photographs to help with assembly.
Looking for another water-dwelling creature? Steve the Axolotl is a quirky and cute pattern from Joanna at Ronja’s Ami Friends.

Packed full of photographs, this is another beginner-friendly pattern that uses basic stitches to create a cute and cuddly creature.
A quick tip: Most amigurumi patterns begin with a magic circle or magic ring. Need to brush up your knowledge? I’ve got a video for that! Grab the magic circle tutorial here.
We’re stepping out of the ocean, but back in time for the next crochet critter. This adorable little dinosaur amigurumi from Stringy Ding Ding is just too cute to not feature.

While this pattern may have a lot of small pieces to create, they’re all made using basic stitches. So, if you have patience and work carefully, this is a great beginner crochet pattern. Plus, it can be customised in any way you like. Who knows if dinosaurs were green or rainbow-coloured?
The next project I’m going to share with you, is a guest post from Natasha of L’Atelier De Pouêtète.

Her sweet little crochet bear is larger than most ami projects, making a cute and cuddly bear that’s perfectly hug-sized.
We’re heading into slightly more tricky territory now, so grab a cup of tea and get ready to see some really creative and cute crochet creatures.
I’m a HUGE Disney fan, so I couldn’t resist featuring this absolutely beautiful Rescuers-inspired mice amigurumi pattern by Ollie + Holly.

Just look at how cute the tiny clothes are! This pattern has a few tricky stitches to master, but the effort is definitely worth it. Just be careful they don’t hop on the next albatross flight away when you’ve crocheted them!
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Following in the footsteps of a pair of fashionable mice, these beautiful crochet dolls from Stephanie at All About Ami are the perfect project to flex your crochet and sewing skills and create one-of-a-kind dolls with beautifully personalised hair and outfits.

Imagine the fun in making your child a crochet twin! I’d love to make Ella one and have it displayed in her bedroom as an heirloom.
Adding a fantasy twist on the classic crochet doll, Maggy at Red Ted Art has designed this beautiful mermaid amigurumi doll. Think of how fun it would be to pick out textured yarn for the hair and choose the perfect tail colour with your child (or even for yourself…no judgement here!)

I just adore how sweet and fun this pattern is! The free pattern is amazing too, with plenty of photographs and tips to create the perfect crochet mermaid.
We’re sticking with the fantasy theme for the next project, but moving to four legs instead of a tail. The GORGEOUSLY detailed Orbit the Dragon by Jessie of Hooked on Sunshine is just breathtaking.

I still can’t get over just how much expression and detail is packed into one crochet creature. It may take a little time and effort to hook up this delightful dragon but he is worth every single stitch!
I’m finishing up this round up of amigurumi patterns with something fun and a little bit whimsical. These porky little piggies by Brenna from Little Raven Fiber Arts are just perfect. Clever crocheting and shaping gives the face so much expression.

And, as Brenna herself says, “These miniature piggies are close to life-sized, which means great piggy hugs!” What could be better?
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6 Comments
Pamela Marsingill
July 29, 2020 at 2:51 pmCant find the link for the dino pattern
BellaCocoTeam
August 4, 2020 at 6:23 pmHi Pamela, here is the link:- https://stringydingding.com/dinosaur-amigurumi-free-crochet-pattern/ 🙂
Roseanne Salyer
July 29, 2020 at 7:56 pmPlease tell me where I can get the pattern for the Teddy bear. The link takes me to her FB page, but that just says the free pattern is available here. Thank you.
BellaCocoTeam
August 4, 2020 at 6:21 pmHi Roseanne this can be found on my blog at bellacocoblog.frogspark.agency – search for Amigurumi Bear and it will come up 🙂
Lexi
December 27, 2020 at 5:25 pmHi!! Thank you for these adorable patterns. I’m wanting to get into amigurumi but was unsure of where to start. Can I just use normal acrylic yarn for this or a fluffier yarn as well? I’m assuming the yarn size will still work with the patterns?
BellaCocoTeam
January 14, 2021 at 4:25 pmYou’re very welcome You can start with acrylic but fluffier yarns can make the stitches harder to see. A lot of amigurumi patterns use cotton yarn because this gives the stitches the best definition. Any yarn size will work but the thinner the yarn the smaller the piece will work up. Hope this helps!