Little Loves Crochet Stuffed Toys

Little Loves: Crochet Stuffed Toys 6 Patterns with Step-by-Step Photo Instructions Easy to Make, Easy to Love

By Tara Cousins

Copyright © 2013 Tara Cousins All rights reserved. Patterns and photos are original and copyrighted – they may not be reproduced without express written consent from the author.

Contents Pattern Notes – Read this First! Little Hoot the Owl Spots the Ladybug Mini Heart Pillows Sam the Snake Little Miss Butterfly Sweet Baby Lamb About the Author

1. v All projects require a size I/5.50mm crochet hook, a yarn/tapestry needle, and polyester fiberfill stuffing. v Yarn colors and amounts are given for each pattern. You can use any brand or color of worsted/medium weight yarn. v You should be familiar with slip stitch (sl st), single crochet (sc), half double crochet (hdc), double crochet (dc) and treble crochet (tr). Additional stitches are described in individual patterns. v If you need help with stitches, see my free you tube videos, or download my beginner’s guide for Kindle. v Visit this page at the Annie’s Attic website if you need help reading patterns. v Instructions between * * are meant to be repeated. v Instructions in ( ) are meant to be worked into one stitch. ( ) also shows the total stitch count of the row. v When making appliqués which are later to be sewn on, leave a long tail when tying off. Use this tail and a yarn/tapestry needle to sew them on.

Abbreviations List: ch- chain sl st – slip stitch tch – turning chain sc – single crochet sc inc – single crochet increase – this means work 2 sc into 1 stitch sc dec – single crochet decrease – this means combine 2 sc into 1 stitch. Insert hook and pull up a loop. Insert hook into next stitch and pull up a loop. Pull through all three loops on hook. dc – double crochet dc inc – double crochet increase – this means work 2 dc into 1 stitch dc dec – double crochet decrease – this means combine 2 dc into 1 stitch. Yarn over and insert hook.

Pull up a loop. Pull through two loops. Yarn over and insert hook into next stitch. Pull up a loop. Pull through two loops. Pull through all three loops. hdc – half double crochet

2.

Skill Level: Easy Finished Size: 7” x 12” Materials: Owl pictured made with Deborah Norville Everyday Solids in Caramel (180 yds), Kiwi (40 yds), Snow white (25 yds), yellow (10 yds), Aubergine (3 yds) and Chocolate (6 yds). Any soft worsted weight yarn will do. For simplicity, colors in pattern are referred to as: brown, green, white, yellow, purple and dark brown Polyester fiberfill stuffing Size I/5.50mm crochet hook Yarn needle (for weaving in loose ends and attaching appliqués)

Instructions: Owl Body (make 2): Note: At the end of each row, ch 1, turn. The numbers in ( ) show total stitch count for that row. With brown, ch 19.

Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (18) Row 2: sc inc, 16 sc across, ending with sc inc in the last st (20) Row 3: sc inc, 18 sc across, ending with sc inc in the last st (22) Row 4: sc in each st across (22) Row 5: sc inc, sc across, ending with sc inc in the last st (24) Row 6: sc in each st across (24) Row 7: sc inc, sc across, ending with sc inc in the last st (26) Rows 8 -19: sc in each st across (26) Row 20: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (24) Row 21: sc in each st across (24) Row 22: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (22) Row 23: sc in each st across (22) Row 24: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (20) Row 25: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (18) Row 26: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (16) Row 27: sc inc, sc across, ending with sc inc in the last st (18) Row 28: sc in each st across (18) Row 29:sc inc, sc across, ending with sc inc in last st (20) Rows 30 -31: sc in each st across (20) Row 32: sc inc, sc across, , ending with sc inc in last st (22) Rows 33 – 38: sc in each st across (22) Row 39: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc across, ending with sc dec over the last 2 sts (20) Row 40: 6 sc, sc dec over next 2 sts (7) - (starting to form ear) Row 41: 5 sc, sc dec over last 2 sts (6) Row 42: 4 sc, sc dec over last 2 sts (5) Row 43: sc dec, 3 sc (4) Row 44: sc inc, sc, sc dec over last 2 sts (4). Tie off.

Attach a new strand of brown to the 8th stitch from the end, on row 39 (see photo below)

New row 40: sc dec over the first 2 sts, 6 sc to end (7) New row 41: sc dec over the first 2 sts, 5 sc across (6) New row 42: sc dec over the first 2 sts, 4 sc across (5) New row 43: 3 sc, sc dec over the last 2 sts (4) New row 44: sc dec over the first 2 sts, sc, sc inc in last st (4). Tie off.

Owl Wing (make 2): With green, ch 3. Note: At the end of each row, ch 1, turn. Row1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and next ch. (2sc) Row 2: sc inc, sc inc (4 sc) Rows 3- 4: sc in each st across (4 sc) Row 5: sc inc, 2 sc, sc inc (6 sc) Row 6: sc in each st across (6 sc) Row 7: sc inc, 4 sc, sc inc (8 sc) Rows 8-15: sc in each st across (8 sc) Row 16: sc dec, 4 sc, sc dec (6 sc) Row 17: sc in each st across (6 sc) Row 18: sc dec, 2 sc, sc dec (4 sc) Rows 19-20: sc in each st across (4 sc) Row 21: sc dec, sc dec (2 sc) Row 22: sc in each st across (2 sc). At the end of row 22, work a sc around the outside edge of wing. Work stitches evenly so that the wing lies flat. At the end of the round, sl st to the first sc in round and tie off, leaving a long yarn tail to use to sew the wing on to the owl body.

Beak (make 1): With yellow, ch 5. Sl st to 2nd ch from hook. Sc in next ch, hdc in next ch, dc in last ch. Tie off. Eyes (make 2 white parts and 2 brown parts): With white, ch 3, sl st to form a ring. Rnd 1: work 7 sc in center of ring, sl st to first st in round. Ch 1. Rnd 2: work 2 sc in each st around. Sl st to first st in round. Ch 1. Rnd 3: *sc, 2 sc in next st* repeated around. Sl sto to first st in round. Tie off. With brown, ch 3, sl st to form a ring. Work 7 st into center of ring. Sl st to first st in round. Tie off.

Flip both pieces so back side is up. Sew brown part onto white part. Spots (make 3): With purple, ch 4, sl st to form a ring. Tie off. Feet (make 2): With yellow, ch 9. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 2 chs. Sk next ch, sl st to next ch. Ch 4. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 2 chs. Sl st to next ch of base ch. Ch 4. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and next 2 chs.

Sk next ch of base ch and sl st to next ch of base ch. Sew all pieces on to owl, positioning according to photo above. To do this, use a yarn needle and a matching color of yarn and work a basic running stitch or back stitch around the outside edges of each piece. Tie off to the back of owl.

Next, line up the front and back owl body pieces, right sides facing out. With brown yarn, work a sc around all the outside edges, working through both layers. Work through the front and back owl body pieces carefully, making sure not to stitch through the wings or feet. (see photo below)

In each ear tip work (sc, ch 1, sc). Fill with stuffing as you near the end. At the end of this sc rnd, sl st to first sc to join, tie off. Weave in any loose ends. Project complete! Enjoy your new owl stuffie!

3.

Finished size:

8“x 10“

Yarn: Ladybug pictured made with Red Heart worsted weight Super Saver yarn in the following colors: Cherry Red (30 yds), Black (40 yds), Snow White (2 yds), and Coffee (1 yd). For simplicity, colors in pattern are referred to as: red, black, blue, dark blue, white, and brown. To begin, with red yarn and a size I/5.50mm hook, ch 11. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn.

End of row 1, beginning of row 2 Row 2: sc inc, 8 sc, sc inc. (12 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 3: sc inc, 10 sc, sc inc (14 sc). Ch 1, turn.

Row 4: sc in, 12 sc, sc inc (16 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 5: sc in each st across (16 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 6: sc inc, 14 sc, sc inc (18 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 7: sc in each st across (18 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 8: sc inc, 16 sc, sc inc (20 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 9: sc in each st across (20 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 10: sc inc, 18 sc, sc inc (22 sc). Ch 1, turn.

View after 10 rows Rows 11 – 20: sc in each st across (22 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 21: sc dec, 18 sc, sc dec (20 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 22: sc in each st across (20 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 23: sc dec, 16 sc, sc dec (18 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 24: sc in each st across (18 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 25: sc dec, 14 sc, sc dec (16 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 26: sc dec, 12 sc, sc dec (14 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 27: sc dec, 10 sc, sc dec (12 sc). Tie off.

View after row 27 Row 28: attach black to second stitch in row. 10 sc across. Ch 1, turn.

First black row Row 29: sc in each st across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 30: sc in each st across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 31: sc dec, 6 sc, sc dec (8 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 32: sc in each st across (8 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 33: sc dec, 4 sc, sc dec (6 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 34: sc3tog, sc3tog. Tie off.

View after row 34 Repeat rows 1 to 34 with black to make the back of ladybug.

View of ladybug back Stripe and Spots:

View of ladybug with spots and stripe sewn on To make the ladybug stripe, chain 28 and tie off, leaving a long tail. Sew the stripe down the center back of the ladybug. Use a yarn needle and a basic running stitch. Spots: with black, ch 4 and sl to first chain to form a loop. Work 6 sc into center of loop then sl to first sc. Tie off, leaving a long tail to sew spots on to ladybug. Position spots according to the photo. Sew around the outside edge of the spots. Tie off to the back. Eyes: With white, ch 3. Sl to first ch to form a ring. Tie off, leaving a long tail. With brown, ch 1. Tie off. Sew whites on first, and then sew brown on top. Tie off to the back.

Eyes completed.

Assemble ladybug and make legs: Line up front and back of ladybug. With black, join together with a chain at bottom corner as shown in photo.

Starting to assemble the ladybug Sandwich the top and bottom together and work a sc stitch through both layers. After 2 sc, you are ready to make the first leg. Ch 4. Sc in 2nd chain from hook. Hdc in next chain. Hdc in next ch. Then, continue sc around the edge of ladybug, working through both layers.

First leg At the center of the side, make another leg: Ch 4. Sc in 2nd chain from hook. Hdc in next chain. Hdc in next ch.

Making a leg, step 1

Making a leg step 2

Making a leg step 3 Continue sc around the outside of ladybug, referring to the final picture for leg placement. There will be a total of six legs.

Leg 3 Don’t forget to add stuffing when you near the end!

Top view of complete ladybug – shows leg placement After the round of sc and 6 legs is complete, sl to first sc in round and tie off. Weave in yarn end to the inside of bug.

Bottom view of completed ladybug

4.

These striped heart pillows can be made entirely with the basic single crochet stitch. For an added variation, the long double crochet stitch can be worked into the front pattern (see option #2) and the shell stitch can be used as a decorative border. Finished size: Each heart measures approx. 9” x 10” Yarn: ·

Items pictured made with Red Heart worsted weight yarn in the following colors: Burgundy, Light Raspberry, Charcoal, Baby Pink.

Pattern Notes: Inside parentheses () you will see the total number of stitches for the given round or row. A visual pattern grid is included to help guide your stitch counts as you work the heart. When switching colors, always connect new color in the turning chain. Do not cut yarn, but leave attached to heart in order to bring up to later rows.

Special Stitches: Long Double Crochet (ldc): Yarn over, insert hook in loop directly 2 rows below, pull up yarn. Now you have 3 loops on hook. Pull yarn through 2 loops, again pull through 2 loops. Shell Edge: This stitch is used as border edging. To create a pretty shell edge, sc around the work first, then: sc, skip 1 stitch, 5 dc in next stitch, skip 1 stitch, and repeat.

Shell edge Pattern for Front, Option #1

With Burgundy (color A), ch 3. Row 1: sc in 2nd and 3rd ch from hook. (2 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 2: sc in each stitch across. (2 sc). Attach Light Raspberry yarn (color B) in turning chain, leaving Burgundy yarn attached to project. (photo)

Row 3: sc inc, sc inc. (4sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 4: sc in each st across (4 sc). Connect color A by bringing up yarn in turning chain. Drop color B, keeping it connected to work. Row 5: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (6 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 6: sc in each st across (6sc). Connect color B.

Row 7: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (8 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 8: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (10 sc). Connect color A. Row 9: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (12 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 10: sc in each st across (12 sc). Connect color B. Row 11: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (14 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 12: sc in each st across (14 sc). Connect color A. Row 13: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (16 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 14: sc in each st across (16 sc). Connect color B. Row 15: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (18 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 16: sc in each st across (18 sc). Connect color A. Row 17: sc inc, sc across, sc inc in last st. (20 sc), ch 1, turn. Row 18: sc in each st across (20 sc). Connect color B. Row 19: sc in each st across (20 sc). Row 20: sc in each st across (20 sc). Connect color A. Row 21: 8 sc across then sc dec (photo) (9 st). ch 1, turn.

Row 22: sc in each st across (9 sc). Connect color B. (photo) Row 23: 7 sc across then sc dec. (8 st). ch 1, turn. Row 24: sc in each st across (8 sc). Connect color A. Color B can be trimmed off here, leaving a long tail to weave in later. Row 25: sc dec, 4 sc, sc dec (6 st). ch 1, turn. Row 26: sc dec , 2 sc, sc dec (4 st). tie off.

To create left top side of heart: connect color A to top of row 20, stitch #10, as shown in photo:

New row 1: sc dec (photo), 8 sc. (9 total st) ch 1, turn. Row 2: sc across (9 sc). Connect new strand of color B. Row 3: sc dec (photo), 7 sc (8 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 4: sc across (8 sc). Connect A. Row 5: sc dec, 4sc, sc dec. (6 total st), ch 1 turn. Row 6: sc dec, 2 sc, sc dec. (4 total st). tie off.

Pattern Grid This pattern grid provides a visual of the sc stitch counts. Every time a row adds a stitch, add by working 2 sc in the end stitch where necessary. Every time a row drops a stitch, work a sc decrease.

Pattern for Front, Option #2

This front is worked similar to option #1. However, every other stitch on every odd row (starting on row 5) is a Long Double Crochet (ldc) instead of a Single Crochet (sc). For step by step instructions, see below. With Light Raspberry (color A), ch 3. Row 1: sc in 2nd and 3rd loop from hook. Ch 1, turn. (2sc) Row 2: sc in each stitch across. (2sc) Row 3: connect Baby Pink (color B) in turning chain (photo). Sc inc, sc inc. (4 sc). Ch 1, turn.

Row 4: sc in each stitch across (4sc). Connect color A Row 5: in first stitch: sc, ldc. Sc in next stitch, ldc in next st, 2 sc in last st. ch 1, turn. (6 total st) Row 6: sc in each st across. (6sc) Connect color B. Row 7: in first st: sc, ldc. Sc, ldc, sc, ldc. 2 sc in last st. (8 total st), ch 1, turn. Row 8: 2 sc in first st, sc across, 2 sc in last st. (10 sc total) connect A Row 9: in first st: sc, ldc. Repeat *Sc, ldc* across. 2 sc in last st. (12 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 10: sc in each st across. (12 sc). Connect B.

Row 11: : in first st: sc, ldc. *sc, ldc* repeat across. 2 sc in last st. (14 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 12 sc in each st across (14sc). Connect A. Row 13: : in first st: sc, ldc. *sc, ldc* repeat across. 2 sc in last st. (16 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 14: sc in each st across. (16 sc). Connect B. Row 15: in first st: sc, ldc. *sc, ldc* repeat across. 2 sc in last st. (18 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 16: sc in each st across (18sc). Connect A. Row 17: in first st: sc, ldc. *sc, ldc* repeat across. 2 sc in last st. (20 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 18: sc in each st across. (20 sc). Connect B. Row 19: *ldc, sc* across. (20 st total) ch 1, turn Row 20: sc in each st across (20sc). Connect A. Row 21: sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, dec sc over next two st. (photo) (9 total st), ch 1, turn.

Row 22: sc in each ch across (9 sc) connect B. Row 23: ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, dec sc over next two st (8 total st), ch 1, turn. Row 24: sc in each st across (8 sc), connect A. cut off color B, leaving a long enough tail to weave in later. Row 25: sc dec, sc, ldc, sc, ldc. Sc dec. (6 total st), ch 1, turn. Row 26: sc dec, sc, sc, sc dec. (4 total st). Tie off.

To create left top side of heart: connect color A to top of row 20 in 10th st, as shown in photo:

New row 1: sc dec (photo), sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc, ldc. (9 total st) ch 1, turn.

Row 2: sc across (9 sc). Connect new strand of color B. Row 3: sc dec, sc, ldc, sc, ldc,sc, ldc, sc (8 total st). ch 1, turn. Row 4: sc across (8 sc). Connect A. Trim off color B. Row 5: sc dec, sc, ldc, sc, ldc, sc dec (6 total st). ch 1 turn. Row 6: sc dec, sc, sc, sc dec (4 total st). Tie off.

For Back of hearts: work as described for option 1, but work all in one color. Hearts pictured use Red Heart Charcoal color yarn.

To Assemble Heart: Weave in loose ends, disguising on the back/inside of heart. Sandwich front and back sides of heart together. Work a sc stitch through front and back (photo), spacing evenly around the heart, stuffing with fiberfill as you near the end. At end, slip stitch to first

sc, ch 1, turn.

Border round 2, straight edge: sc in each sc around. Sl to first sc, tie off. Border round 2, shell edge: *sc in first st. skip 1 st, 5 dc in next st. skip next st.* Repeat pattern around. Slip stitch to first sc, tie off.

5.

Finished size:

3“ x 20“

Yarn: Snake pictured is made with Red Heart worsted weight Super Saver yarn in the following colors: Charcoal (30 yds), Turqua (25 yds), Spring Green (15 yds), Cherry Red (2 yds), Snow White (2 yds), and Coffee (1 yd) For simplicity, colors in pattern are referred to as: grey, blue, green, red, white and brown.

To begin, with grey, ch 55. Row 1: work the following stitches along the chain: sc, 2 hdc, 7 dc, 3 hdc, 24 dc, 8 hdc, 6 sc, 3 sl. Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 1

End of row 1 Row 2: work the exact same stitches but in reverse order: 3 sl, 6 sc, 8 hdc, 24 dc, 3 hdc, 7 dc, 2 hdc, 1 sc. At the end of row 2, connect blue yarn with a chain. This serves as the tc. Do not cut off grey yarn. You will use it again later.

Connecting blue Row 3: work the following stitches in blue: sc, 2 hdc, 7 dc, 3 hdc, 24 dc, 8 hdc, 6 sc, 3 sl. Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 3 Row 4: 3 sl, 6 sc, 8 hdc, 24 dc, 3 hdc, 7 dc, 2 hdc, 1 sc. At the end of row 4, connect green with a chain. Turn.

Connecting green Row 5: sc, 2 hdc, 7 dc, 3 hdc, 24 dc, 8 hdc, 6 sc, 3 sl. Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 5 Row 6: still with green, work: 3 sl, 6 sc, 8 hdc, 24 dc, 3 hdc, 7 dc, 2 hdc, 1 sc. At the end of row 6, bring up blue yarn and connect with a chain. Cut off green yarn. Turn.

Connecting blue Row 7: with blue: sc, 2 hdc, 7 dc, 3 hdc, 24 dc, 8 hdc, 6 sc, 3 sl. Ch 1, turn. Row 8: still with blue: 3 sl, 6 sc, 8 hdc, 24 dc, 3 hdc, 7 dc, 2 hdc, 1 sc. At the end of row 8, bring up grey with a chain. Cut off blue yarn. Turn.

Connecting grey – end of row 8 Row 9: with grey: sc, 2 hdc, 7 dc, 3 hdc, 24 dc, 8 hdc, 6 sc, 3 sl. Ch 1, turn. Row 10: still with grey: 3 sl, 6 sc, 8 hdc, 24 dc, 3 hdc, 7 dc, 2 hdc, 1 sc.

End of row 10 – project will curl inward To tell right side of snake from wrong side, look at the slip stitches on tail.

Wrong side

Right side Before assembling the snake, you will need to make the tongue and eyes and attach them. Do not cut off grey yarn while you do this. Keep it attached for later use.

Tongue: Chain 7 and tie off.

Tongue step 1 Make a new chain 3. Sl to 4th loop of previous chain.

Tongue step 2 4 sl across. Tie off. Trim ends at tongue fork. Keep long ends to tie tongue to snake.

Tongue step 3 Eyes (make 2): With white, ch 3, sl to form a ring. Tie off. With brown, ch 1 and tie off. Sew white part of eye on first. Next, sew brown part on top of white. Repeat for second eye.

Eyes step 3 Assembling snake: With the grey still attached, 8 sc across the top of snake.

Next, sc8tog. This just means to work a stitch so that all 8 of the sc are made into one. To do this, insert hook into st, pull up a loop. Insert hook into next stitch, pull up a loop. Repeat across all 8 stitches.

Sc8tog step 1 To finish sc8tog, pull yarn through all loops on hook. This makes the front end of the snake close up into a circle.

Sc8tog step 2 Snake head should close up in the front. Fold head together and work a sl through both sides of the snake. After a few stitches, stop and attach tongue. Insert tongue through the middle of the sc8tog stitch.

Securing tongue Make sure you secure the tongue tightly. Kids love to yank on it and they will pull it all the way out if it’s not tied down tight enough! Next, continue to work a sl through both sides of snake. Add stuffing to snake as you go.

Working a sl st and stuffing the snake When you reach the tail, you will want to work a sc3tog to close the hold at the end. To do this, insert hook and pull up a loop. Insert hook again, through another part of the tail hole and pull up another loop. Repeat, then pull yarn through all loops on hook. This will close the hole at the end of the tail.

Sc3tog at the end of tail step 1

Sc3tog step 2 Tie off and use a yarn needle to weave in any loose ends.

6.

Finished size:

8“ x 8“

Yarn: Butterfly pictured is made with Red Heart worsted weight Super Saver yarn in the following colors: Orchid (30 yds), Aruba Sea (32 yds), Real Teal (10 yds), Charcoal (3 yds) and Coffee (2 yds). ·

For simplicity, colors in pattern are referred to as: purple, blue, teal, grey, and brown. Instructions:

Butterfly wings (make 1 set of blue and 1 set of purple): With blue and a size I hook, ch 5. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (4 sc). Ch 2. (photo). Turn.

Row 2: 2 sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc across. (6 sc). Ch 1. (photo). Turn.

Row 3: 4 sc, 2 sc in next st, 2 sc in last st. (8 sc). Ch 1. (photo). Turn.

Row 4: 2 sc in first st, sc across (9 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 5: 8 sc across, 2 sc in last st. (10 sc). Ch 3. (photo). Turn.

Row 6: sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in 3rd ch from hook, sc across (12 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 7: sc dec, sc across (11 sc). Ch 1. (photo). Turn.

Row 8: sc across (11 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 9: sc dec, sc across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn.

Row 10: 8 sc across, sc dec (9 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 11: sc dec, sc across (8 sc). Ch 1. (photo). Turn.

Row 12: 7 sc across, sc inc (9 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 13: sc inc, sc across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 14: 9 sc across, sc inc (11 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 15: sc across (11 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 16: 10 sc across, sc inc. (12 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 17: sc across (12 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 18: sc3tog, sc across (10 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 19: 8 sc across, sc dec (9 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 20: sc dec, sc across (8 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 21: 5 sc across, sc3tog (6 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 22: sc3tog, sc across (4 sc). Tie off. One side of wings complete (photo).

Repeat above instructions to create other half of wings. With a yarn needle and new strand of blue yarn, sew wing halves together using a basic running stitch (photo).

With the new strand, connect to top of butterfly with a chain (photo).

Work a sc stitch around the entire outside of wings. At the peak of each wing, work the following: sc, ch 1, sc. (photo).

At the end of round, sl to first sc in round, tie off. Weave in loose ends, disguising to the back of butterfly. (photo).

Back Wings complete! Make 1 more set of wings in purple.

Wing decoration #1 (make 2 of teal): Ch 9. Work the following stitches along chain, in order: sl, sc, hdc, dc, dc, hdc, sc, sl. Tie off, leaving a long tail to sew decoration onto butterfly.

Wing decoration #2 (make 2 of blue): Ch 4, sl to first ch to form a ring. Ch 4. (photo).

Sl to ring center. *Ch 4, sl to ring center*. Repeat from * to * until you have 5 “petals”. Tie off, leaving a long tail to

sew decoration onto butterfly.

Butterfly body: With grey, ch 3 and sl to first ch to form a ring. Ch 3.

Work 7 dc into center of ring. Sl to first ch 3.

Chain 15.

Work the following stitches in order along the chain: Sl, sc, hdc, 10 dcs, hdc. Next, sl to head, tie off.

Eyes: with brown, ch 1, tie off.

Repeat to make a second eye. Leave long yarn tails to sew on. With a yarn needle, sew eyes onto head.

Tie eyes in a knot at the back of head. Weave yarn tails to the inside of the body so they will be hidden when butterfly is assembled.

Position all appliques on butterfly front according to the photo below.

With a yarn needle, sew on appliques. Work a basic running stitch or back stitch around the outside edges of each applique.

Line up front and back of butterfly. With teal, connect both sides with a sl at the back of the head.

Now, work a sc stitch through both layers. You will work all around the butterfly, sandwiching it together.

To work around each wing tip, ch 2 over each tip.

Fill butterfly with stuffing as you work.

At the end of the round, sl to first st in round and tie off. Weave ends to the inside of the butterfly.

Project Complete! Enjoy your new Butterfly!

7.

Finished size:

Lamb measures approx. 7“x 11“

Skill level: Easy Intermediate Materials: Lamb pictured made with Red Heart worsted weight Super Saver yarn in the following colors: Snow White, Charcoal, Black, Coffee and Light Raspberry. For simplicity, colors in pattern are referred to as: white, grey, black, brown, and pink. Amount needed: 150 yds white,25 yds grey, 2 yds black 1 yd brown, 1 yd pink. Size I/5.50mm crochet hook Polyester fiberfill stuffing Yarn needle (for weaving in loose ends and attaching appliques).

Special Stitch: Cluster: 4 dc together in one stitch. Yarn over and insert hook. Pull up a loop. Pull through two loops. Repeat a total of 4 times. There will be 5 loops on hook. Pull through all 5 loops.

To begin, with white yarn and a size I hook, ch 18. Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (17 sc). Ch 2, turn. Note: The ch2 at the end of the row is used as a turning chain, and is not to be counted as a dc stitch.

Row 1 Row 2: dc inc, *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a dc inc. (19 st). Ch 1, turn. Note: clusters will form to the back of the work.

End of row 2 – back view

Beginning of row 3 – front view Row 3: sc inc, 17 sc, sc inc (21 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 4: dc inc, *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a dc inc. (23 st). Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 5 Row 5: sc in each st across (23 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 6: *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a cluster. (23 st). Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 7 Row 7: sc in each st across (23 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 8: *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a cluster. (23 st). Ch 1, turn. Row 9: sc in each st across (23 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 10: *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a cluster. (23 st). Ch 1, turn. Row 11: sc in each st across (23 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 12: dc dec, *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a dc dec. (21 st). Ch 1, turn.

Beginning of row 13 Row 13: sc dec, 17 sc, sc dec (19 sc). Ch 2, turn. Row 14: dc dec, *cluster, dc* repeat from * to * across, ending with a dc dec. (17 st). Ch 1, turn. Row 15: sc dec, 13 sc, sc dec (15 sc). Tie off. The work will naturally curve inwards.

Front view of lamb body

Back view of lamb body Repeat directions for rows 1 – 15 to create a second identical white body piece.

Head: With grey, ch 4. Row 1: sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch across (3 sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 2: sc inc, sc, sc inc (5 sc). Ch 1, turn.

Row 3: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 4: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 5: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 6: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 7: sc dec, sc, sc dec (3sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 8: sc across (3sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 9: sc inc, sc, sc inc (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 10: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 11: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 12: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 13: sc across (5sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 14: sc dec, sc, sc dec (3sc). Ch 1, turn. Row 15: sc across (3sc).

Fold head piece in half and work a sc around the outside edge. At the end of round, sl to first st in round and tie off.

Finished head. Nose: ch 1, tie off.

Ears (make 2): With black, ch 4. Sc in 2nd ch from hook. Sc in next ch. Sl in last ch. Tie off.

Sew on ears and nose, positioning on head according to photo below. Tie a knot in back and weave in ends to the inside of the head to disguise.

Sewing on ears – back of head

Front of head

Eyes: With white, ch 3. Sl to first ch to form a ring. Tie off, leaving a long tail.

With brown, ch 1. Tie off.

Sew whites on first, and then sew brown on top. Tie off to the back. Leave yarn tails long to tie head on to body.

Eyes completed – front

Eyes completed – back

Top of head: ch 4. Sl to first ch to form a ring. *Ch 3. Sl to center of ring.* Repeat from * to * a total of four times. Tie off and sew on to top of head.

Completed head

Legs: With grey, ch 4. Sl to first ch to form a loop. Ch 1. Do not turn.

Sc in each ch around. Do not sl or turn.

Keep working sc around and around and a thick cord will form. Continue until the cord measures approx.. 2” and tie off.

Tail: with grey, ch 5. Work the following stitches along the chain: sc, dc, dc, sc. Tie off. Sew onto lamb.

Assemble lamb: Use the yarn tails from the eyes to attach the head to the body. Position head according to photo or however you would like. Tie on with white tails from eyes. You will be able to move head slightly and position it how you like. If the lamb is intended for a small child and you would like to attach the head more firmly, use grey yarn to sew around the outside edge of head. Sew directly onto the body.

Sewing on head – back

Sewing on head - front

Match up front and back of lamb. Attach white to anywhere around edge. Work a sl through both sides of lamb, sandwiching it together.

Work sl evenly all around, stuffing as you get near the end.

Position cord legs on lamb according to photo and sew on.

Top view of completed lamb – shows leg placement

Bottom view of completed lamb

Project Complete! Enjoy your new Little Lamb!

About the Author Tara Cousins crocheted her first afghan at 10 years old, and was immediately "hooked". Her two young children constantly inspire her to develop fun, modern, kids' designs that are fun to make. Although she has been crocheting and designing for years, Tara has just recently begun marketing and selling her original patterns worldwide through online sites such as Etsy and Amazon Kindle, as well as publishing through larger craft companies and crochet magazines.

Tara lives in Breckenridge, Colorado with her husband and two children. When not inside crafting, she's out enjoying the Rocky Mountains, skiing, hiking and trail running.

You can find more information, how-to-crochet videos, and all of Tara's current patterns at www.cutekidscrochet.com.