Learn to Crochet a Cute Plush Snake with Free Pattern!

Table of Contents

1. Introduction
2. Materials Needed
3. Making a Magic Loop
4. Creating the Head of the Snake
5. Adding Safety Eyes
6. Continuing to Make the Body
7. Making Decreases for the Body
8. Changing Yarn Colors
9. Finishing the Snake
10. Tips and Tricks for Crocheting Amigurumi
11. Conclusion

Introduction

Crocheting small toys, such as snakes, is a fun and rewarding project that many people enjoy. In this article, we will guide you through the process of crocheting a small snake using a magic loop technique. We will provide a list of materials needed, step-by-step instructions on creating the snake's head and body, and tips and tricks for achieving the best results. So grab your yarn and crochet hook, and let's get started on this adorable amigurumi snake!

Materials Needed

Before we begin, let's gather all the materials needed to crochet our snake. Here's what you will need:

• Baby yarn, size six bulky, 100 grams, 95 meters
• Crochet hook, 5.5 millimeters
• Black thread (optional)
• 12 millimeter safety eyes
• Stitch marker
• Scissors

Making a Magic Loop

To start crocheting the snake, we will first create a magic loop. This technique allows us to begin working in the round without leaving any holes. Here's how you can make a magic loop:

1. Wrap the yarn around two fingers.
2. Insert your crochet hook inside the loop.
3. Pull up a loop of yarn and secure it.
4. Yarn over and pull it through to create the first single crochet.
5. Repeat the process to make nine single crochets inside the magic circle.

If you find the magic loop technique challenging, you can also make a chain of two stitches and then make nine single crochets into the first chain stitch. This will achieve a similar result.

Creating the Head of the Snake

Once you have completed the magic loop or the chain method, it's time to create the head of the snake. Follow these steps:

1. Make one single crochet in the next stitch.
2. Place a stitch marker in the first single crochet of the second round.
3. Make one single crochet in each stitch until you reach the stitch marker.
4. Remove the stitch marker and make one single crochet in the first stitch of the next round.
5. Replace the stitch marker in the first stitch and continue making one single crochet in each stitch.

Repeat this process for five rounds, gradually forming the head of the snake. At this point, you can insert the safety eyes in a position that you find visually appealing. Be sure to place the safety backs securely to prevent any choking hazards.

Adding Safety Eyes

When adding safety eyes to your snake, consider the desired position and appearance. You can experiment with different heights, widths, and angles to achieve the look you want. It's essential to insert the safety eyes correctly to ensure they are secure. Simply push the eyes through the stitches and listen for a clicking sound, indicating they are in place. Note that if you're making the snake for young children, it may be safer to use embroidered eyes instead of safety eyes to avoid any potential hazards.

Continuing to Make the Body

After completing the head and adding the eyes, we will continue crocheting the body of the snake. Here's how to do it:

1. Make one single crochet in each stitch, just as you did for the head.
2. Keep working in a continuous spiral, without finishing each round separately.
3. Aim to maintain a consistent number of stitches. In this case, we should have nine stitches for each round.

Continue making one single crochet in each stitch, following the spiral pattern, until you have reached the desired length for the body.

Making Decreases for the Body

To give the snake's body a tapered look, we will incorporate decreases into the pattern. Here's how to make a decrease:

1. Make one single crochet in the next stitch.
2. Make another single crochet in the following stitch.
3. To create the decrease, insert your hook into the first stitch, then into the next stitch.
4. Yarn over and pull it through both loops.
5. Complete the decrease by pulling the yarn through the remaining loop.

By making decreases at regular intervals, the body of the snake will gradually become narrower.

Changing Yarn Colors

If you want to add some visual interest to your snake, you can change yarn colors to create stripes. Here's how to do it:

1. Before finishing a single crochet, drop the current yarn and pick up the new color.
2. Complete the single crochet with the new color.
3. Continue making one single crochet in each stitch with the new color.

To keep the unused yarn from unraveling, hold it inside the snake as you crochet. This will save you from cutting the yarn every time you change colors.

Finishing the Snake

Once you have achieved the desired length and added any desired stripes, it's time to finish the snake. Here's how:

1. Make one single crochet in the next stitch.
2. Make another single crochet in the following stitch.
3. Decrease as before to narrow the body further.
4. Continue alternating between single crochets and decreases until you have the desired final shape.
5. When you reach the last stitches, cut the yarn, leaving a tail.
6. Thread the tail through the remaining stitches, pulling tight to close the opening.
7. Insert the hook into the middle of the body, pick up the yarn, and pull it through to hide the tail neatly.

Congratulations! You have finished crocheting your adorable amigurumi snake. Feel free to embellish it with additional details such as embroidery or decorative touches. You can also explore different variations and sizes of snakes by adjusting the yarn weight and hook size.

Tips and Tricks for Crocheting Amigurumi

• Practice the magic loop technique if you're new to it. It may feel challenging at first, but with practice, it will become easier.
• Take your time and work at a comfortable pace. Crocheting amigurumi can be a bit fiddly, but it's also a great way to improve your crochet skills.
• Experiment with different yarn colors, textures, and sizes to create unique snakes and other amigurumi creatures.
• If you make a mistake or aren't happy with a particular stitch, don't be afraid to unravel and start again. It's all part of the learning process.
• Don't limit yourself to snakes. Once you have mastered the basic techniques, you can explore various other amigurumi projects, including animals, plants, and objects.

Conclusion

Crocheting amigurumi toys, such as snakes, can be a delightful and rewarding hobby. With the guidance provided in this article, you can create your own adorable snake using the magic loop technique. Remember to gather the necessary materials, follow each step carefully, and don't be afraid to experiment and have fun with different yarn colors and sizes. Happy crocheting!

Highlights

• Learn how to crochet a small snake using the magic loop technique
• Gather all the necessary materials before starting the project
• Create the snake's head and add safety eyes in the desired position
• Continue crocheting the body in a continuous spiral pattern
• Use decreases to shape the body and create a tapered look
• Add stripes by changing yarn colors
• Finish the snake by closing the opening and hiding the tail
• Explore tips and tricks for crocheting amigurumi
• Expand your skills by trying different amigurumi projects
• Enjoy the process and have fun with your creations

FAQ

Q: Can I use different yarn weights for the snake? A: Yes, you can experiment with different yarn weights to create snakes of various sizes. Just remember to adjust your crochet hook size accordingly.

Q: Can I embroider the eyes instead of using safety eyes? A: Absolutely! If you're making the snake for young children or prefer a different look, embroidering the eyes is a great alternative.

Q: Are there other animals I can crochet using similar techniques? A: Yes, once you've mastered the basic amigurumi techniques, you can create a wide range of animals, plants, and objects. Let your creativity soar!

Q: Can I add more details to the snake, such as a tongue or scales? A: Definitely! Feel free to add any additional details you like to customize your snake and make it truly unique.

Q: How long does it typically take to crochet a snake? A: The time it takes to crochet a snake can vary depending on your skill level and the complexity of the pattern. Generally, smaller snakes like the one in this tutorial can be completed in a few hours.

Q: Can I use different types of yarn for the snake? A: While baby yarn is recommended for this specific snake pattern, you can certainly experiment with different types of yarn to achieve different textures and appearances. Just keep in mind that the size and proportions may vary.