Looking for a quick, whimsical crochet project that’s perfect for beginners? Say hello to Blinkie the Monster—a tiny, lovable creature that’s sure to bring a smile to your face! Designed by Ana Maria of MarieCatmade, this free crochet pattern is simple, fun, and great for using up scrap yarn.
Blinkie stands at just 14 cm (5.5 inches) tall, making him an ideal project for an afternoon of cozy crafting. Whether you’re making him for yourself, as a charming gift, or as a playful addition to a nursery, this little monster is full of personality.
Why You’ll Love This Pattern:
✅ Beginner-friendly – Uses basic stitches like single crochet (sc) and magic rings.
✅ Quick to make – Small size means you can finish in just a few hours.
✅ Customizable – Pick any color combo for a unique monster friend!
✅ Great for gifting – Perfect for kids, friends, or fellow crochet lovers.
Grab your hook, some yarn, and let’s bring Blinkie to life
Materials You’ll Need
Before we begin, gather these supplies:
- Yarn:
- Main color (Color B – for body, arms, and feet)
- White yarn (for the eye and optional teeth)
(Pattern uses Matti Yarns “Have Fun” in ochre & white, but any DK or light worsted yarn works!)
- 2.5 mm crochet hook
- 7 mm black safety eyes (for that cute monster gaze!)
- Polyfill stuffing (to give Blinkie a soft, squishy shape)
- Yarn needle (for weaving in ends and assembly)
Crochet Abbreviations
Here’s a quick guide to the stitches used in this pattern:
- MR – Magic ring
- st(s) – Stitch(es)
- sc – Single crochet
- hdc – Half double crochet
- slst – Slip stitch
- ch – Chain
- inc – Increase (2 sc in same stitch)
- dec – Decrease (sc two stitches together)
- BLO – Back loop only
- FLO – Front loop only
- picot – Ch 3, slst into the back bump of the 3rd chain
Finished Size
Blinkie measures approximately 14 cm (5.5 inches) tall when completed
Step-by-Step Crochet Instructions
1. Feet (Make 6)
(Using Color B – Do not stuff)
- Rnd 1: 5 sc in MR (5)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st around (10)
- Rnds 3–6: sc in each st around (10)
- Closing: Flatten the top and sc through both layers to close (5 sts). Fasten off.
(Tip: Make all 6 feet first so they’re ready for assembly later)
2. Eye
(Start with white yarn)
- Rnd 1: 6 sc in MR (6)
- Rnd 2: inc in each st (12)
- Rnd 3: [sc, inc] x6 (18)
- Rnd 4: sc, inc, [2 sc, inc] x5, sc (24)
- Rnd 5: sc around (24)
- Switch to Color B.
- Rnd 6: sc around (24)
- Rnd 7: 17 sc in BLO, ch 5, skip 5 sts, 2 sc in BLO (24) (This creates the eye’s “open” look!)
- Rnd 8: sc around (24)
- Add safety eye in the center of Rnd 1.
- Rnds 9–11: Decrease rounds to close the eye (18 → 12 → 6 sts). Fasten off, leaving a tail to sew shut.
3. Body
(Stuff as you go)
- Attach Color B near the eye and work in continuous rounds:
- Rnds 1–17: Follow increase rounds to shape the body (12 → 64 sts).
- Rnd 18: Create armholes by chaining 4 and skipping stitches.
- Rnds 19–23: Work even (60 sts).
- Rnds 24–32: Decrease while attaching feet (54 → 6 sts). Close the bottom securely.
4. Arms (Make 2)
- Work in the round, attaching to the armholes. No stuffing needed!
- Rnds 1–9: Shape the arm, decreasing to 6 sts. Fasten off and sew closed.
5. Finishing Touches
- Eyelid: 19 hdc in FLO of Rnd 6 (eye).
- Teeth (Optional): Make 3 tiny white picot teeth and sew below the mouth.
- Mouth: 8 slst in FLO of Rnd 12 (body)
Assembly & Final Steps
- Sew the teeth below the mouth (if using).
- Weave in all loose ends for a clean finish.
- Fluff and shape Blinkie—he’s ready to charm everyone
Tips for Beginners
- Magic Ring Trick: If you’re new to MR, check out tutorials for a secure start.
- Even Stuffing: Add small amounts at a time to avoid lumps.
- Safety Eyes: Insert before closing the eye—they’re easier to position early
