About This Squid Amigurumi Pattern
This pattern creates a soft, super-bulky plush squid with curled tentacles and embroidered facial details. You will crochet the head and body in continuous rounds and add ten tentacles worked from the front loops. The instructions include precise round counts and finishing steps so you can assemble and embroider confidently.
Designed for easy construction, this project uses simple single crochet and half-double crochet increases. Ideal for quick makes and sweet handmade gifts.
Why You'll Love This Squid Amigurumi Pattern
I absolutely love this pattern because it turns plush yarn into a squishy, lovable sea friend with surprising texture and movement. I enjoy how the curled tentacles can be customized in length and curliness to create unique personalities. The project works up quickly so I get the satisfaction of a finished toy in a single afternoon. I also love the simple embroidered details that bring such a warm expression to the squid's face.
Switch Things Up
I love changing the color palette to make a whole family of squids; try mint green, lavender, or ombre yarn for a unique look.
I sometimes use thinner yarn and a smaller hook to make mini keychain versions of this squid; adjust tentacle length to keep the balance right.
I often replace safety eyes with embroidered eyes for baby-safe versions and add blush with yarn or fabric-safe paint for personality.
To make the tentacles curl tighter or looser, change the chain length and the number of increases in the curling rows.
I add little accessories like tiny crochet bows or a mini hat for a playful touch that personalizes each squid.
For a poseable version, I insert thin wire into select tentacles before stuffing so they can hold shapes and gestures.
I sometimes braid two colors together before curling tentacles to create a striped or marled effect for a dynamic texture.
If you want a sturdier toy, I recommend using a denser stuffing and sewing the tentacles' ends down inside the body to keep them anchored.
I also enjoy embroidering tiny freckles or spots with a contrasting yarn to make each squid feel characterful and unique.
Try varying the number of tentacles or the order of Type A and Type B placements to sculpt different silhouettes and fullness.
Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them
β Skipping front loop placement when attaching tentacles will leave uneven spacing; make sure to crochet the tentacles into the FRONT LOOPS of R23 to match the pattern instructions.
β Not marking the center before placing the eyes can result in uneven facial placement; flatten the body and mark the center clearly to insert the eyes between rounds 19 and 20 evenly.
β Overstuffing the head will distort the shape and make closing difficult; stuff firmly but gradually and shape as you go for a smooth finish.
β Forgetting to close the tentacle attachment holes using the back loops will leave visible gaps; after making tentacles, close the holes using the BACK LOOPS of R23 as noted in the pattern.
β Not securing safety eyes with backings can cause them to come loose; always use the secure backings provided with safety eyes and push them firmly into place.