So Ugly It’s Adorable: Free Crochet Fluffy Anglerfish Amigurumi

It’s incredibly rewarding to transform a ball of yarn into a character with personality. Classic crochet animals will always be around, but on other occasions, the unusual projects are what you love best. This is what a fluffy anglerfish pattern is all about. Most people like it because it is cuddly and features a smiley face that appears inspirational. It is inspired by one of the most loved creatures of the ocean. 

 Fortunately, this fluffy anglerfish amigurumi pattern is perfect for anyone who loves amigurumi crochet projects. The soft body, fins and glowing lure will make it so meaningful for your handmade collection. You can use this little fish in so many ways. Whether you are hanging it on the bookshelf or using it as a decor or giving away as a gift, it has everything you need.

Why You’ll Love This Crochet Anglerfish

Crochet patterns do not require to be functional. They are sometimes just to bring some happiness, and this cute angler fish is no exception.

The rounded body is perfect for using a plush yarn to make a soft toy that would look decorative and cuddly. The design completely reimagines the enigmatic anglerfish, and makes it lovable, perfect for cozy and seasonal decor.

This winter crochet plush is also easy to make; it’s a great weekend project or handmade present idea.

Skill Level & Finished Size

This project requires some basic knitting ability and can be completed by anyone who likes to do Amigurumi.

The design is primarily single crochet and simple shaping, and relatively easy to assemble. Even if you’re just a beginner in crochet, you’ll find no problems with construction.

The anglerfish will be about 5-7” long, based on your hook and yarn size.

Abbreviations

• MR – Magic Ring
• ch – Chain
• sc – Single Crochet
• inc – Increase
• dec – Invisible Decrease
• sl st – Slip Stitch
• st(s) – Stitch(es)
• FO – Fasten Off

Materials You’ll Need

• Yarn that is fluffy chenille or velvet.
• Small amount of black and white yarn
• Crochet hook (4mm–5mm)
• Polyester fiberfill
• Safety eyes
• Stitch marker
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Black embroidery thread
• Yarn (optional) for the glitter of the lure

This project is made with soft chenille yarn, which lends its signature softness and makes the finished toy extra cuddly!

Start Creating Your Project 

Everything is set, so let’s begin:

Step 1. Crochet the Body

Start with a magic ring, and work in the center with your initial stitches. Tie the ring snugly to make an attractive start. When working, continue in a spiral increasing the number of stitches at each point until the base forms a smooth even circle. When desired width is reached, continue to work without increasing. The edges will naturally bend upwards creating the rounded body of your anglerfish. While working, continually monitor your shape to maintain even and symmetrical development of both sides.

Step 2. Fill and Form the Body.

Fill the body gradually with polyester stuffing, before closing it. Gently press the stuffing into the bottom and around the sides to ensure even distribution. Do not stuff it too tightly as over-stuffing can over-stretch the stitches and allow the filling to show through. The body should be soft, plump and comfortable with a nice round shape yet be firm enough to maintain shape.

Step 3. Crochet the Mouth

Your anglerfish has a friendly appearance thanks to its mouth. Make a small curve in the regular yarn so it is easier to see the stitching; pin it to the front of the body before seaming. Spending a few moments in adjustment will ensure that the desired smile is achieved, and it will match the playful nature of the completed toy.

Step 4. Make the Eyes

Sew two safety eyes close together towards the top front of the body, with enough space between them for the famous anglerfish lure. Embroidered eyes are safer for young children. Small white highlights of yarn or felt can be attached as well to provide additional sparkle to the eyes. Well-placed eyes instantly bring this cute crochet fish pattern to life.

Step 5. Make Signature Anglerfish Lure

The glowing lure above the anglerfish’s head is one of the most notable characteristics of an anglerfish. Crochet a thin stem and top with a small round bulb. Tip with white, pale yellow or glitter yarn to give the appearance of a light. Hairpin the hole of the lure to the top of the head and ensure it is fastened with a snug fit, but curved forward slightly for a natural and cute look.

Step 6. Crochet Side Fins

Make two tiny identical fins, from basic rounded forms. Although the fins are tiny they are the ones that make this fish look more appealing. Make the fins even and sew them properly in the body. If you do it correctly,  your fluffy anglerfish amigurumi pattern looks professional.

Step 7. Make the Dorsal Fin

The dorsal fin is usually located at the top of the fish and it looks marvelous. Take a little extra time here because you will want the fish to look classy. Sew it properly on to the body and it will look great. 

Step 8. Crochet the Tail Fin

When forming the tail shape, make sure that it is rounded or made into a soft fan and doesn’t dominate the body shape. Before permanently attaching the tail to the fish, stabilize it against the back to make sure it appears balanced. The tail is slightly tilted, giving your anglerfish the illusion of being in a happy swimming mood in the sea.

Step 9. Assemble the Pieces

Before sewing any pieces together, place all the finished pieces on the table. Make the mouth first and attach it properly. Then you make the eyes, lures, the fin and in the end the tail. Assemble it in a way that it remains symmetrical. 

Video Pattern Here:

Step 10. Add the Final Details 

Its time weave in all the loose ends first and complete the final look of your fish. If the texture is fluffy then your hard work has reached a good result. These easy additional components will help you create the perfect easy sea creature crochet design for the seasons!

Special Features of This Pattern 

• Beginner-friendly construction
• Plush texture with softness and cuddle ability.
• Works with a delicate quantity of yarn
• Simple to style with various colors
• Ideal for giving or selling on craft fairs.
• Add winter hats, scarves or gloves for a darling look

A wonderful crochet stash-busting idea!

Tutor Tips (From Experience) 

Fluffy yarns can cause it to be hard to see your stitches, so use your fingers more than your eyes. It’s so much easier to keep track using stitch markers at the start of each round.

Stitch all pieces down before sewing. An extra couple of minutes taking the time to verify placement can make all the difference in the final look of your amigurumi. 

Don’t rush the stuffing process. By adding small quantities at a time, the finish will be much smoother and more professional than the one you get if you fill the body in all at once.

Common Mistakes to Avoid 

The overstuffing is one of the most common errors which stretches the stitches and exposes the stuffing. Gradually fill the body, leaving it soft but still flexible.

Don’t place the eyes too low on the face. Placing them higher in the frame looks good and more expressive. Take your time when sewing the fins and tail. Placement is important, as the toy might look unbalanced, although the crochet may be perfect.

Last but not least, be sure to weave in all ends of yarn! Neatly tied ends ensure that this plush may remain durable for the long haul since it may be handled frequently.

Creative Uses for Your Crochet Anglerfish 

The little fish is very cute and has multiple applications.

• Use it as a home décor for winters
• Your child will love it in their bedroom or nursery
• Give it as a handmade gift for a birthday or holiday.
• Put it on your working desk as a companion.
• Make a sale at craft fairs or online for a one-of-a-kind handmade soft toy.
• Make a set of colors for a lovely ocean scene.

Final Thoughts

Crochet is excellent at creating something adorable from some of the strangest of concepts, and this anglerfish is proof of that. Every aspect is brought together in a fun to make, and rewarding to display project, from the fluffy body to the tiny glowing lure.

This is a super cuddle-worthy anglerfish amigurumi pattern that you’ll be bringing back to your amigurumi library again and again, whether you need it for a weekend project or you are looking to add to your collection of unique amigurumi. 

You can create a charming and adorable companion with a little bit of creativity, a little patience, and a bit of yarn and transform it to make your cold winter day even more enjoyable.