Free Crochet Mini Octopus Amigurumi Pattern with Easy Steps

Small crochet projects are hard to put down once you start. They come together fast, and you can change things up however you like along the way. Just grab some yarn and go. A Crochet Mini Octopus Amigurumi has its own little personality, which is half the fun. Make one for a gift, or a whole bunch in colors you love. This beginner amigurumi never asks for much.

So what about a fresh project this weekend? A Crochet Mini Octopus Amigurumi fills an afternoon nicely, nothing stressful about it. It stays simple enough for newer hands, and finishing one feels good. Maybe you want a free crochet octopus pattern that skips the fiddly stitches. This is a solid one to start with.

Skill Level: Beginner

This is a project for beginner crocheters! When you have practiced making a magic ring, single crochet, increase, and decrease, you should be able to make this super cute little sea creature.

Materials You’ll Need

Prepare supplies before you begin. You’ll need:

• Cotton/Acrylic yarn in your color of choice
• 2.5 mm crochet hook
• Polyester fiberfill
• The safety eyes used are 6 mm or 8 mm safety eyes.
• Stitch marker
• Yarn needle
• Sharp scissors
• Small key ring (optional)
• Pink blush or fabric marker for cheeks (optional)

This project is very small and a perfect way to make use of the yarns that are left over from prior crochet projects.

Step-by-Step Guide

1. Making the Head

All octopuses start off round-headed. The first step is to make a magic ring with 6 single crochets. Add the same amount per round until desired size is reached. If you’re making a mini version, you won’t get far before you’ve got to work, even stitches up to the height.

You will see as you crochet that the head will begin to take on a smooth dome shape. It’s best to maintain even stitches as it makes a huge difference in small amigurumi.

Start stuffing the head progressively before closing the opening later. When stuffing, do it gradually to prevent big chunks and to provide a smooth finish.

2. Crocheting the Body

When the head is at the desired height, then it’s time to shape the body.

Do a few rounds without adding. Then start to make the gradual decrease down to the bottom, spacing enough to fit in the tentacles.

Take your time with this step. Gradual decreases help to keep mini amigurumi looking polished and nice and round.

3. Making the Tentacles

The most fun part of the project is yet to come.

Each tentacle is formed by stitching a number of stitches together and then making two or three single crochets for every chain on the reverse. The stitches always curl back into the familiar spiral as you work back.

Repeat the process until you’ve made eight tentacles around the bottom.

It’s like magic to watch the curls. When your little octopus suddenly springs to life.

Many people enjoy the challenge of making a mini Octopus crochet project because the tentacles finish up quite quickly and are very personable.

Adding the Face

Your octopus will take its shape on the face. Place in safety eyes, leaving a proper spacing between them. Underneath, embroider a little smile with black embroidery thread or fine yarn. You can apply some pink shade on the face that will make the octopus look a bit lively. 

Final Assembly

But fortunately, this design calls for minimal sewing. After the head is stuffed, complete remaining decreases & secure fasten-off.

Now is the time to attach a split ring and you can easily use it as a keychain. However, if you are creating a toy or a desk decoration then change the plan a little.

After stuffing, shape the head with the hands, for a few extra moments. The gentle adjustments can help to achieve a soft, rounded look.

Creative Color Ideas

This is a very cute small octopus in nearly every color.

You can choose:

• Ocean blue for a classic look
• Clay for a pastel finish
• Bright coral for a tropical look.
• Light green for a plaything
• Rainbow yarn in a variety of colors for tentacles. Colored yarn used in rainbow colors for tentacles.
• Pink furriness on white for a cute minimalist design.

It’s addictive to make several in different colors, and only takes a little bit of time.

Fun Ways to Use Your Mini Octopus 

Here are some fun ideas for using your mini octopus!

This is such an awesome little crochet project that is much more useful than it seems!

You can use it as:

• A keychain
• Backpack charm
• Purse accessory
• Desk decoration
• Handmade gift
• Party favor
• Nursery decoration
• Craft fair item
• Small stocking stuffer

They’re easy to make so many crocheters like to make a full line of various colors and sizes.

Keep These Common Mistakes Away

All simple projects have some potential issues.

• Do not overfill the head. Excessive stuffing will make the stitches too stretched, and reveal the filling.
• Keep track of your rounds with a stitch marker. The project is long and will be worked on constantly, so it is very easy to get lost.
• Pull your decrease not tight. Even drops make a much smoother curve.
• Last but not least, always put on the safety eyes before the head is fully closed. So much easier than having to fit them in later.

Helpful Tips for Better Results 

For best results, let’s look at some helpful tips.

There are a couple of simple things you can do to make your octopus look even more professional when done.

• If you would like a crisp stitch definition, use cotton yarn.
• Giving extra time to place the eyes will make a huge difference in the expression, even a minute change.
• Fill in the stuff gradually, rather than all at once.
• Yarn ends should be woven through several stitches before they are cut as this will make the finished toy durable.

Frequently Asked Questions

Is this project suitable for beginners? 

Yes. This is an easy pattern to follow, if you know basic crochet stitches.

Is it possible to make it larger?

Absolutely. Just use a larger hook and a thicker yarn. The construction remains unchanged.

Can I sell finished octopuses? 

In most cases, yes. Mini octopuses are a popular handmade craft sale item at local craft fairs, gift shops and online marketplaces. If you are using a different original pattern, however, be sure to follow the licensing requirements.

May I use it as a key chain?

Definitely. Refer to the top and tie a strong split ring, and your little octopus will be able to go anywhere you go! 

Why Everyone Loves Mini Octopus Amigurumi

Little crochet pieces can bring smiles to everyone’s face. They are simple enough for the novice and relaxing for the experienced crochet enthusiast and can be customized to the billionth. 

Each little octopus is special, whether you create one in classic blue, or soft pastel pink or a rainbow of bright colors. This crochet mini octopus pattern is popular with many because it is easy to personalize, quick to make, and an ideal gift.

They also create meaningful handmade gifts due to their size, as they fit in a box yet they’re detailed enough to really show how much time and care you need to put into making them. Everyone likes a handmade gift.

Conclusion

This Flawless Crochet Mini Octopus Amigurumi Pattern is one that proves that you don’t need a big and complicated project to make something special. In just a few minutes, a few materials and a little bit of patience, one can create a cute and cuddly sea creature. 

This little octopus will surely make you smile, and can be used as a personal item, a keychain or a gift for someone special. After making your first one, it’s not unusual if you grab another color yarn and begin making the next one.