How to Crochet Squishy Amigurumi Penguin for Gifting and Decorating
Crochet this adorable amigurumi penguin that fits snugly in the palm of your hand! Perfect for beginners and experts alike, it’s compact, squishy, and full of charm.
Whether you need a desk buddy, a heartfelt handmade gift, or a touch of cozy winter magic, this crochet project brings joy and warmth!
The crochet penguin is not just cute—it’s versatile! Use it as decor, a thoughtful gift, or even a keychain.
Its sturdy build ensures durability, while the combination of soft curves and vibrant colors makes it irresistibly appealing. This project is an ideal option for both display and functionality.
Credit Ngochan Crochet
In this post, you will find a step-by-step Crochet Amigurumi Penguin pattern along with detailed instructions. However, if you encounter any difficulties or mistakes while creating your desired design, feel free to watch the video tutorial provided at the end of the blog post.
Materials and Preparation
Here’s what you’ll need to get started on your adorable penguin:
- Yarn:
- Main color for the body (e.g., blue or black).
- White for the belly.
- A small amount of orange for the beak and feet.
- Yarn Weight: 3 (DK or light worsted weight yarn recommended).
- Hook Size: 3.0mm or 3.5mm crochet hook.
- Safety Eyes: 6mm or 8mm size, or embroidery thread for the eyes.
- Stuffing: Polyester fiberfill for stuffing the body.
- Additional Tools:
- Stitch marker (to track the beginning of each round).
- Tapestry needle (for sewing pieces together).
Optional: Have a hot drink by your side for a cuddle-worthy crochet experience!
Abbreviations and Notes
Here are the crochet abbreviations used in this tutorial:
| Abbreviation | Stitch |
|---|---|
| SC | Single Crochet |
| Inc | Increase (2 SC in one stitch) |
| Dec | Decrease |
| St | Stitch |
| Magic Ring | Adjustable loop to start rounds |
Pattern Tips and Notes:
- This project is worked in continuous rounds unless otherwise specified. Use a stitch marker to mark the first stitch in each round.
- Always change yarn colors during the final pull-through of the previous stitch (this ensures clean color transitions).
- Light stuffing as you go allows for easier shaping. Use the back of your crochet hook to adjust the stuffing if needed.
Gauge, Approximate Size, and Pattern Notes
- Gauge: Not critical for this project. However, ensure your stitches are tight enough that the stuffing does not show through.
- Approximate Size: When completed, the penguin should be about 4–5 inches tall.
Special Techniques: You’ll need to know how to crochet a magic ring for this project. If this technique is new to you, take your time practicing—it’s worth it!
Step-by-Step Pattern
1. Penguin Arms (Make 2)
- Round 1: Make a magic ring. Work 4 SC into the ring. (4 St)
Tip: The magic ring can be tricky at first—don’t rush this step!
- Round 2: 4 Inc (two SC in each stitch). (8 St)
- Round 3: SC in each stitch around. (8 St)
- Fasten off and leave a tail for sewing.
2. Body of the Penguin
- Round 1: Start with a magic ring. SC 6 into the ring. (6 St)
- Round 2: Inc in every stitch (2 SC per stitch). (12 St)
- Round 3: Alternate 1 SC, 1 Inc (repeat 6 times). (18 St)
- Round 4: Alternate 1 SC, 1 Inc, 1 SC (repeat 6 times). (24 St)
- Round 5: SC 3, Inc, repeat 6 times. (30 St)
- Round 6: SC 2, Inc, SC 2 (repeat 6 times). (36 St)
Adding the Belly Color:
- Round 7: SC 23 in blue. Switch to white, SC 2, then switch back to blue for 3 SC. Return to white for 2 SC, and finish with 6 SC in blue.
Tip: Keep yarn changes clean and neat by carrying the non-working yarn along the inside of your project.
- Rounds 8–9:
- In these rounds: Work 22 SC in blue, switch to white for 4 SC, return to blue for the next SC, back to white for 4 SC, and finish with 5 SC in blue.
- Repeat this color pattern for an additional round.
- Rounds 10–14: Continue SC in the pattern established, creating a belly section of the penguin with 21 SC of blue, 11 SC of white, and 4 SC of blue. Repeat this for five rounds.
3. Shaping and Decreasing the Body
- Round 15: Work SC 4, Dec (repeat 3 times). Switch to white, Dec, SC 4, Dec, SC 1. Switch back to blue for 3 SC, Dec. (32 St)
- Round 16: SC 3, Dec (repeat 4 times). Switch to white, SC 3, Dec, switch back to blue for 3 SC, Dec. (28 St)
- Round 17: SC, Dec, SC (repeat 6 times). (18 St)
At this stage:
- Attach safety eyes or embroider them.
- Lightly stuff the penguin to maintain its shape.
- Final Round: 6 Dec to close the base. Fasten off and leave a long tail.
4. Beak and Feet
Beak:
- Work a magic ring and SC 5 into it. (5 St)
- Fasten off, leaving a tail for sewing.
Feet (Make 2):
- Create a magic ring and SC 6 into it. (6 St)
- Fasten off and leave a tail for sewing.
5. Assembly
- Sew the arms to the sides of the body. Adjust the positioning until balanced.
- Attach the beak between the eyes.
- Sew the feet to the bottom of the body.
Key to Success
- Use a stitch marker to keep track of rounds.
- Maintain even tension for smooth color changes.
- Stuff lightly yet firmly for a balanced, plush look.
- Take your time with the magic ring and details like the beak and feet.
- Keep yarn transitions neat to avoid tangling.
Conclusion
Creating this crochet penguin is an enjoyable and relaxing way to practice your crochet skills or start a new hobby. Its charm and practicality make it a rewarding project that you’ll be proud to display or gift. Grab your tools, and you’ll have a delightful handmade treasure in no time!
