Who can resist the charm of a handmade unicorn? Meet Twinkle Toes, a delightful amigurumi unicorn designed by Alison North that’s perfect for crocheters of all skill levels. With her spiral horn, fluffy mane, and rosy cheeks, this little unicorn is sure to bring a touch of magic to any room—or make a heartfelt gift for a loved one.
This pattern is ideal for beginners looking to practice basic stitches like single crochet (sc) and increases/decreases, while more experienced crafters will enjoy customizing Twinkle Toes with colorful yarns and playful details. The finished unicorn stands approximately 13.5 inches tall (using Aran/worsted weight yarn), but you can adjust her size by switching yarn weights.
Why you’ll love this project:
- Quick and rewarding: Work on small sections like the head, legs, and horn at your own pace.
- Customizable: Choose bold or pastel colors for the mane, hooves, and scarf.
- Great for gifting: A handmade unicorn is a treasure for kids, friends, or fellow fantasy lovers!
Grab your hook and let’s bring Twinkle Toes to life—one stitch at a time.
Quick Look
Materials
- Yarn:
- Main color: 70g white/cream Aran/worsted weight yarn
- Contrast color: 20g for hooves (e.g., gold, gray, or pastel)
- Chunky yarn: Small amount for mane, tail, and scarf (bright or rainbow colors!)
- Hooks:
- 3mm (for body)
- 10mm (for scarf)
- Safety eyes: 9mm
- Extras:
- Tapestry needle
- Scissors
- Toy stuffing
- Black embroidery thread (for eyelashes)
- Pink/red crayon (for rosy cheeks)
Abbreviations (US Terms Used)
- sc: Single crochet
- sl st: Slip stitch
- ch: Chain
- 2-sc inc: Single crochet increase (2 sc in same stitch)
- 2-sc inv dec: Invisible decrease
- yo: Yarn over
Note: The pattern uses UK terms but includes US conversions (e.g., UK “dc” = US “sc”).
Finished Size
Approx. 13.5 inches tall with Aran/worsted weight yarn and 3mm hook.
Instructions
Head (Start with White/Cream Yarn)
- Magic Ring: 6 sc into ring, tighten (6 sts).
- Round 2: [2-sc inc] x6 (12 sts).
- Round 3: [1 sc, 2-sc inc] x6 (18 sts).
- Round 4: [2 sc, 2-sc inc] x6 (24 sts).
- Rounds 5–8: Sc in each stitch (24 sts).
- Round 9: [3 sc, 2-sc inc] x6 (30 sts).
- Round 10: [4 sc, 2-sc inc] x6 (36 sts).
- Round 11: [15 sc, 6 inc, 15 sc] (42 sts).
- Rounds 12–16: Sc in each stitch (42 sts).
Attach Safety Eyes: Place between Rounds 11–12, 11 stitches apart. Stuff firmly.
- Decrease Rounds:
- Round 17: [5 sc, inv dec] x6 (36 sts).
- Continue decreasing until 6 sts remain. Weave yarn tail to close.
Ears (Make 2)
- Magic Ring: 5 sc (5 sts).
- Round 2: Sc in each stitch.
- Round 3: [1 sc, inc] x3 (7 sts).
- Rounds 4–7: Sc in each stitch. Flatten ears; sew to head behind eyes.
Horn
- Magic Ring: 4 sc (4 sts).
- Round 2: Sc in each stitch.
- Round 3: [1 sc, inc] x3 (6 sts).
- Continue increasing until Round 8 (13 sts). Stuff lightly and sew to head.
- Spiral Detail: Wrap contrasting yarn around horn; secure with hidden knots.
Assembly & Finishing
- Legs & Body:
- Crochet two legs (start with contrast color for hooves), then join with a chain to form the body. Stuff as you go.
- Arms: Make two, stuff only the hooves, and sew to the body.
- Hair & Tail:
- Cut 15–20 strands of chunky yarn for the mane. Attach by looping through stitches atop the head.
- For the tail, use longer strands and knot tightly.
- Scarf: Chain 25 with chunky yarn; tie around the neck.
- Final Touches:
- Add eyelashes with black thread.
- Rub crayon lightly on cheeks for a blush.
Tips for Beginners
- Magic Ring: Practice this technique first—it’s key for seamless amigurumi!
- Safety Eyes: Position carefully; they can’t be adjusted once secured.
- Stuffing: Add small amounts gradually to avoid lumps.
- Yarn Management: Keep dropped colors attached for stripes (e.g., horn spiral).
Final Thoughts
Twinkle Toes is more than just a crochet project—she’s a whimsical companion waiting to spark joy. Whether you’re making her for yourself or as a gift, her playful details (like that fluffy mane!) make every stitch worth it.
