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Looking for a fun, sporty project that you can finish in under an hour? This Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern is the perfect choice! Whether you are a sports fan or looking for a cute handmade gift, this mini basketball is incredibly simple to make and looks great on any set of keys or a backpack.
If you are just starting your amigurumi journey, don’t worry—this pattern is beginner-friendly. Before you dive in, you might find it helpful to check out our latest guide on How to Crochet Basic Stitches or refresh your knowledge with our Amigurumi for Beginners tutorial. Having the right foundation makes creating these small rounds much smoother!
Why You’ll Love This Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern
This project is designed to be fast and satisfying. Since we are working with small rounds, it’s a great way to practice your tension. If any part of the instructions feels new, remember that we have a full list of Crochet Abbreviations right here on the blog to help you translate every stitch. Let’s grab some orange yarn and get started!
Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
Materials You Will Need:
- Yarn: I use a 100% cotton yarn from my local store. But you can use any Size 10 crochet thread or Size 8 Pearl Cotton.
- Hook: I used a 1mm hook. I highly recommend Clover Amour Hooks for the best experience.
- Tools & Supplies:
- Fiberfill, scissors, and a tapestry needle.
- Optional: Stitch markers, keychain clasp, jump ring, or earring hook.
- Find all these essentials here: Crochet Supplies & Accessories.
Crochet Abbreviations
- MR – Magic Ring (Check out our quick Magic Ring tutorial if you need a hand!)
- SC / SCC – Single Crochet (or Single Crochet Cross = Single Crochet Yarn Under for a cleaner texture)
- INC – Increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
- DEC – Decrease
Project Overview
To help you get ready, here is a quick summary of what to expect from this project:
- Difficulty Level: Beginner – perfect for those who have just mastered the basics.
- Finished Size: Approximately 1.3 inches (3.5 cm) when using the recommended hook and yarn.
- Construction: The basketball is worked in continuous spiral rounds, meaning you won’t join at the end of each round.
Basketball Pattern
Work in continuous rounds using Orange yarn. You can use the standard Single Crochet (SC) or the Single Crochet Cross (SCC) stitch for a more textured look.
Round 1: 6 sc in MR [6]
Round 2: 6 inc [12]
Round 3: (1 sc, inc) x 6 [18]
Round 4: (1 sc, inc, 1 sc) x 6 [24]
Round 5: (3 sc, inc) x 6 [30]
Round 6: (2 sc, inc, 2 sc) x 6 [36]
Round 7: (5 sc, inc) x 6 [42]
Round 8: (3 sc, inc, 3 sc) x 6 [48]
Round 9: (7 sc, inc) x 6 [54]
Round 10-18: 54 sc (9 rounds) [54]
Round 19: (7 sc, dec) x 6 [48]
Round 20: (3 sc, dec, 3 sc) x 6 [42]
Start stuffing the ball firmly.
Round 21: (5 sc, dec) x 6 [36]
Round 22: (2 sc, dec, 2 sc) x 6 [30]
Round 23: (3 sc, dec) x 6 [24]
Round 24: (1 sc, dec, 1 sc) x 6 [18]
Round 25: (1 sc, dec) x 6 [12]
Add final stuffing.
Round 26: 6 dec [6]
Finishing: Fasten off and leave a tail to close the remaining hole. Weave in the ends.
Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
Adding the Details
Now it’s time to give your basketball its iconic look. Use Black yarn or thread for the lines:
Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
- Embroidery: Embroider one line around the center (equator) and another vertically around the ball. Add two curved lines on the sides to complete the basketball design.
- Alternative: If you prefer, you can carefully glue thin black yarn onto the surface or use black fabric paint for a more graphic look.
- Final Touch: Attach your keychain, pendant chain, or earring ring.
Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
Looking for More Free Patterns?
If you enjoyed making this basketball, you’ll love our other quick projects! For more handmade accessories, check out our Lucky Clover or the cute Bunny Keychain patterns—they are perfect for gifts and market prep.
If you’re looking for something cuddly to brighten up a nursery, don’t miss our larger amigurumi favorites like the Plush Bunny and the classic Teddy Bear. They are designed with love and are sure to be a hit with little ones!
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Free Crochet Basketball Keychain Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
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