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Ready to get a little moody? This free mini reversible octopus crochet pattern is the perfect way to express your feelings without saying a word! If you’re looking for a fun and engaging project, this little guy is a total crowd-pleaser and an incredible way to surprise your friends with a handmade keychain that actually changes its mood on command. Whether you’re feeling cheerful and sunny or a bit grumpy and dramatic, just flip it inside out and let the octopus do the talking for you. It’s an adorable conversation starter that instantly brings a smile to anyone’s face.
The best part about this project? It’s lightning-fast and wonderfully satisfying. You can easily whip one up in less than an hour, making it the ideal “last-minute” handmade gift for birthdays, stocking stuffers, or a productive way to clear out your scrap yarn basket. Because it requires very little yarn and time, it’s small, squishy, and honestly, quite addictive to make—fair warning, once you hook your first one, you truly won’t be able to stop at just a single octopus! You’ll find yourself playing with different color combinations to match every possible emotion.
I’ve made sure this project is accessible and welcoming for makers of all skill levels. However, if you are brand new to the craft and want to build a rock-solid foundation before diving in, I’ve put together some fantastic guides to help you out. Be sure to check out my detailed post on crochet abbreviations to easily read through patterns like a pro, and explore how to crochet basic stitches to master your stitches. You might also find my guide on the top 5 crochet tools for beginners super helpful for choosing the right hooks and accessories, and don’t forget to browse through my perfect amigurumi guide series of posts for expert tips on shaping, stuffing, and achieving those neat, professional-looking stitches every single time!
🌸 Choose how you want to craft:
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- 📄 Prefer a printable PDF? Get the clean, ad-free PDF version on my Ko-fi shop for symbolic price 💖
Materials List:
- Yarn: I use a 100% cotton yarn from my local store. The best match and my top recommendation for this pattern is Paintbox Yarns Cotton DK.
- Hook: I used a 2mm hook. I highly recommend Clover Amour Hooks for the best experience.
- Tools & Supplies:
- Scissors, and a tapestry needle.
- Optional: Stitch markers and a keychain ring, a pendant chain, or even earring hooks.
- Find all essentials here: Crochet Supplies & Accessories.
Project Specs:
- Difficulty Level: Beginner – perfect for your first amigurumi project!
- Finished Size: Approximately 2.5 x 2.5 inches (6 x 6 cm).
Crochet Abbreviations:
| Abbreviation | Meaning |
| MR | magic ring |
| CH | chain |
| SC | single crochet |
| DC | double crochet |
| INC | increase |
| DEC | decrease |
| SL ST | slip stitch |
| SK ST | skip stitch |
Free Mini Reversible Octopus Crochet Pattern
Make two separate parts using different colors to get that reversible “moody” effect.
Body (Make 2)
Round 1: mr, 6 sc [6]
Round 2: 6 x inc [12]
Round 3: (sc, inc) x 6 [18]
Round 4: (sc, inc, sc) x 6 [24]
Round 5: (3 sc, inc) x 6 [30]
Round 6–9: 30 sc [30] (4 rounds)
Round 10: (sk st, 4 dc in next stitch, ch 1, sl st) x 10
Fasten off and weave in the ends on both parts.
Assembly & Details
- Embrace the Character: Before joining the pieces, embroider the facial features on both parts. Use your yellow, red, and black yarn to create a happy face on one side and a “moody” or winking face on the other.
- Joining: Place the two parts on top of each other (wrong sides together) so that the wavy edges of Round 10 align and the faces are visible on the outside.
- Final Touch: Connect the two parts by making a SC through both layers all the way around.
- Finish: Sew on your keychain ring or pendant chain if you’re using one.
Love this mini project?
If you enjoyed making this moody octopus, you’ll definitely want to explore my other quick designs! For more keychain inspiration, check out the Bunny Keychain or bring some extra luck into your life with the Lucky Clover pattern. My website is packed with free amigurumi ideas just waiting for your next crochet session.
Prefer to work offline?
I know that sometimes it’s much easier and cozier to crochet away from the screen, sitting comfortably in your favorite spot without any digital distractions. If you prefer to work offline, enjoy an ad-free experience, and want a beautifully formatted, printer-friendly PDF guide to keep in your permanent collection, you can easily grab the downloadable version of this pattern. My detailed, easy-to-follow PDF guides are readily available across my shops on Etsy, Ravelry, and Ko-fi, giving you plenty of options to support my work and choose the format that suits you best!
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Don’t miss out on what’s coming next! I have many more exciting free patterns, step-by-step tutorials, and cozy projects in the works, and I’d love for you to be the first to know when they drop. Sign up for my newsletter to get the latest updates delivered straight to your inbox and keep your crochet hook busy with fresh, fun designs every week.
Want to see more behind-the-scenes magic, quick video tips, and daily crochet inspiration? Come hang out with me across social media! Join our creative community and follow along at @emmasdollsstudio on:
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Can’t wait to see your little reversible octopuses come to life—make sure to tag me so I can cheer on your creations!
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Free Mini Reversible Octopus Crochet Pattern by EmmaS Dolls
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