Free Crochet Patterns for Toys

From LoveToKnow Crafts

Are you in search of free crochet patterns for toys? You're in luck! The Internet offers a wellspring of ideas to get anyone started. From balls and rattles to dolls and creatures, inspiration is but a click away.

Crochet animals, dolls, and other toys.

The Early Days of Crochet

Popularized in Europe during the 19th century, the art of crocheting was primarily used then to create clothes, blankets and lace. At the time, it was a trade for most and a hobby for a few (like Queen Victoria). In the hundred years to follow however, the balance would shift, with crocheting taking off as a true hobby by the 1960s. The change in purpose would also lead to a change in projects, including the creation of crocheted toys.

Crochet Timeline

1800s: Evidence of the craft in Europe.
1840s: The first step-by-step instructions are published.
1850s: Irish lace is popularized.
1890: The Victorian era ends.
1910s: Crocheted laces grow more elaborate.
1941-1944: During World War II, crocheting is curbed; reserved for only special items.
1945-1960s: Crochet booms as a hobby.
1960s: Experimentation with the craft begins in earnest; the granny square leads to non-traditional designs.
21st century: The craft moves in even more directions, such as amigurumi.

Amigurumi

Gaining popularity in recent years, amigurumi refers to stuffed and crocheted toys. The word, as you might have guessed, is of Japanese origin. To be precise, it combines two Japanese words: ami, which means crocheted or knitted, and nuigurumi, which translates to "rag doll."

Amigurumi are typically animals, but they can also be anthropomorphic creatures like those seen in the video game Little Big Planet. Indeed, the aesthetic for most all such toys is cute, with the aim of adorable.

You will likely come across many amigurumi projects in your search of free crochet patterns for toys. The following galleries and tutorials should also provide inspiration. They are mainly at the "easy" to "intermediate" skill levels.

Keolaokalani: Yarn art to inspire you
Pepika: More complex creations, complete with hand-stitching
Crafty Crafty: A parade of whimsical creations
Crochet Me: A detailed tutorial on how to make amigurumi
Curls of Sunshine: Ideas include an owl, mouse, and cupcakes

More Free Crochet Patterns for Toys

To create a crochet toy requires that you be comfortable with the basics of the craft. Practice basic stitches and techniques and you should be set to take on an “easy” project. Remember that there are four levels to crocheting:

Beginner: Basic stitches; minimal shaping and finishing
Easy: Basic stitches, simple color changes
Intermediate: Variety of techniques with mid-level shaping and finishing
Experienced: Intricate stitch patterns and techniques

Most toy projects are at the "easy" to "intermediate" levels. With the whimsy of toys, small mistakes are less noticeable than say, if you were crafting a precision doily. They're the perfect starter project.

Lion Brand Yarn: This pattern finder returns over 200 patterns sure to delight. New visitors must create an account first, but only a name and password are required. Patterns are free and materials can be purchased directly from the site.
Crochet Me: A terrific offering of free patterns and ideas for toys and games, including a baby snow dragon and little octopus.
Crochet Pattern Central: More than 140 links to toy projects, including dolls, hackey sacks, and checkerboards.
A Crochet Toy Chest: A collection of links to crochet projects to fill a toy chest, including animals, doll clothes, dragons, and gnomes.
CraftYarnCouncil: Only one project, but a fun one – pig and lion finger puppets.

Final Word: Worsted Yarn

Many instructions will suggest "worsted" yarn. Note that this doesn't necessarily mean worsted wool yarn. The term "worsted" also refers to yarn weight and the production process. Thus, when “worsted” yarn is recommended, it likely means yarn that's been processed "like" worsted yarn is, resulting in a medium-width, smooth yarn. This can be wool, acrylic or any other yarn type. The "worsted" process makes the yarn easier to work with – that is all.

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