How to Crochet a Lady Bug

Children can create their own stuffed toys with crochet.

Amigurumi is a Japanese style of crocheting in the round to make small animals and toys. An amigurumi lady bug is suitable for an advanced beginner crocheter because it is made using only basic crochet stitches, such as single crochet and crochet two together. If you are new to crochet, practice working these fundamental stitches before beginning the pattern.

Things You'll Need

• 1 skein medium-weight red wool
• 1 skein medium-weight black wool
• Size G-6 crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stuffing

Instructions

1. Chain two stitches using your red yarn. Stitch six single crochets in the first chain. Crochet two single crochet stitches in each stitch around.

2. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet the next stitch and repeat around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet in the next two stitches and repeat around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet in the next three stitches and repeat around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet in the next four stitches and repeat around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet in the next five stitches and repeat around.

3. Single crochet each stitch around for the next eight rounds and fasten off. This completes the shell section of the lady bug.

4. Chain two with your black wool. Repeat Steps 1 and 2. Single crochet each stitch around and fasten off. This is the bottom of the lady bug body.

5. Chain two using your black wool. Stitch six single crochets in the first chain. Crochet two single crochet stitches in each stitch around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet the next stitch and repeat around. Single crochet two stitches in the next stitch, single crochet in the next two stitches and repeat around. Single crochet each stitch for the next three rounds. Single crochet two together, single crochet the next two stitches and repeat around. Fasten off. This completes the lady bug's head.

6. Chain two using your black wool. Make four single crochets in the first chain. Single crochet twice in each stitch around. Single crochet for the next two rounds. Fasten off. This makes one leg. Repeat this step five more times for a total of six legs.

7. Chain two using your black wool. Stitch six single crochets in the first chain. Crochet two single crochet stitches in each stitch around. Fasten off. This makes one of the lady bug's spots. Make three more, for a total of four spots.

8. Stuff the shell section of the lady bug; then sew the bottom to the shell. Stuff the head and attach it to the body. Stuff and sew three legs on each side of the lady bug. Sew the lady bug's spots on the the shell. Use your red wool to embroider a mouth and eyes on your lady bug's face. Add two strands on yarn, about 1 inch long each, on top of the head for antennae. Weave in any loose ends.

References

• Soxie: Crochet Lady Bug Coasters