How to Crochet an Animal Tail

Use yarn to crochet the perfect tail for your stuffed animal.

When crocheting stuffed animals, it is crucial to complete the project by adding a tail. The new tail will give the animal a finished look and will show that you have added detail. However, different animals have different kinds of tails. Some are long, some are short and some are furry. With a little creativity and crocheting knowledge, you can customize and crochet the perfect animal tail to complete your project.

Things You'll Need

• Crochet hook, any size
• Yarn
• Scissors
• Sewing needle

Instructions

Crocheting a Curly Corkscrew Tail

1. Chain 15. This will create about a 3-inch curly tail. Add or subtract chains for a longer or shorter tail.

2. Turn your crochet hook after you have chained the desired length. Insert the hook into the second chain from the hook. Create three single crochets in the second chain.

3. Continue working up the chain, creating three single crochets in each chain. As you work, the chain will automatically begin to curl up, resulting in a corkscrew tail.

4. Attach the tail to the backside of the animal with a sewing needle and length of yarn.

Crocheting a Long Tail

1. Chain 20. This will create about a 4-inch straight tail. Adjust the length of the chains to create a longer or shorter tail.

2. Insert the crochet hook into the second chain from the hook. Create a single crochet in the chain. This will create a second row on the chain.

3. Create a single crochet in each remaining chain. Join the second row with a slipknot to the first chain in the first row. This will result in a long, thin tail that would be ideal for a mouse or rat.

4. Add fringe to the end of the tail, if desired. Cut four pieces of yarn, each measuring about 6 inches. Match up the ends of the yarn and fold them in half, locating the middle point and creating a loop.

5. Insert the crochet hook through the last chain on the end of the tail. Put the loop of yarn over the crochet hook. Use the hook to draw the loop of yarn through the chain. Do not pull the yarn entirely through the chain.

6. Remove the crochet hook. Push the ends of yarn through the loop and pull tight, creating a slip knot. Cut the fringe to the desired length. This creates a tail that would be ideal for a cow or lion.

7. Attach the tail to the backside of the animal with a sewing needle and length of yarn.

References

• Crochet Spot: How to Crochet Curly Fringe
• Crochet Spot: How to Add Fringe or Tassels Using a Crochet Hook
• Creative Partners, LLC: How to Make Fringe