Cute Amigurumi Caterpillar Keychain – Free Crochet Pattern

This mini amigurumi caterpillar is a small crochet project made with simple stitches and a few different yarn colors. Its small size makes it a fun project for using leftover cotton yarn and turning it into a cute keychain or bag charm.

I designed this caterpillar as a colorful little project that can be made one section at a time. The head and three body segments are crocheted separately and then joined together during assembly.

In this free crochet pattern, I’ll show you how to crochet the head, body segments, and antennae, then put the pieces together and add the finishing details.

Materials

• Cotton yarn in 4 colors
• 2.0–2.5 mm crochet hook
• 4–6 mm safety eyes or black embroidery thread
• Polyester fiberfill stuffing
• Keyring with chain
• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Stitch marker (optional)

You can use different color combinations for the head and body segments. Cotton yarn works well for this small project because it keeps the stitches firm and makes the finished caterpillar easy to shape.

Abbreviations

This pattern uses US crochet terms.

• MR = magic ring
• sc = single crochet
• inc = increase
• dec = decrease
• ch = chain
• sl st = slip stitch
• st(s) = stitch(es)
• FO = fasten off

The stitch count at the end of each round is shown in parentheses.

Pattern Notes

• The head and body segments are crocheted separately in continuous rounds.
• The head is made in one color, while the three body segments can be made in different colors.
• The stitch count at the end of each round is shown in parentheses.
• Stuff the head and body segments gradually as you crochet. Avoid overstuffing, as this can stretch the stitches and change their shape.
• The finished size may vary depending on the yarn, hook size, and crochet tension.
• The body segments are joined to the head during assembly after all pieces have been crocheted.

Head

Use Color A for the head.

Round 1: 6 sc in a magic ring. (6)

Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12)
Round 3: (1 sc, inc) around. (18)
Rounds 4–6: Sc around. (18)

Insert the safety eyes between Rounds 4 and 5, leaving an even space between them.

Round 7: (1 sc, dec) around. (12)

Add the fiberfill and stuff the head evenly. Use small amounts of stuffing at a time so the head keeps its round shape without becoming too firm.

Round 8: Dec around. (6)

Fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail. Use a yarn needle to close the remaining opening and weave in the yarn end.

Body Segments

Make 3 body segments using different yarn colors if desired.

For each segment:

Round 1: 6 sc in a magic ring. (6)
Round 2: Inc in each stitch around. (12)
Round 3: (1 sc, inc) around. (18)
Rounds 4–6: Sc around. (18)
Round 7: (1 sc, dec) around. (12)
Add a small amount of fiberfill and stuff evenly.

Round 8: Dec around. (6)

Fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail for assembly. Close the remaining opening with a yarn needle and weave in the yarn end.

Repeat the same pattern to make all 3 body segments.

Antennae

Make 2 antennae using the yarn color of your choice.

Chain 5.

Starting in the second chain from the hook, slip stitch into the next 4 chains.

Fasten off, leaving a long yarn tail. Use the yarn tail to sew each antenna securely to the top of the head.

Try to position the two antennae evenly so the finished caterpillar looks balanced.

Assembly

Place the three body segments behind the head in a straight line. Before sewing, check that the segments are positioned evenly and that the colors are arranged the way you like.

Using the yarn tails, sew the first body segment securely to the back of the head.

Sew the second body segment to the back of the first segment, then attach the third segment in the same way. Make sure each connection is secure so the caterpillar stays together when it is used as a keychain.

Sew the two antennae securely to the top of the head.

Finally, attach the keyring and chain securely to the top of the head. Check all sewn parts and the keyring before using the finished caterpillar.

Weave in any remaining yarn ends and gently shape the segments with your fingers.

Safety Note

This crochet keychain contains small parts, including safety eyes and a keyring, which may be a choking hazard if swallowed. It is intended as a decorative accessory, not a toy.

Keep the finished keychain away from young children and pets.

Beginner Tips

• Count your stitches at the end of each round to make sure they match the pattern.
• Keep your crochet tension consistent so the head and body segments stay similar in size.
• Add stuffing gradually. Too much stuffing can stretch the stitches and make the segments lose their round shape.
• Before sewing the body segments together, place them next to each other and check that they are evenly aligned.
• When attaching the antennae and keyring, sew them securely and check the attachment before using the keychain.
• If you are making several caterpillars, try different color combinations for the body segments to create different looks.

Using and Caring for Your Caterpillar Keychain

You can use the finished caterpillar as a keychain, backpack charm, or small handmade gift. Its small size also makes it a useful project for using leftover yarn from other crochet projects.

Check the keyring and sewn connections from time to time, especially if you use the keychain regularly. If any part becomes loose, secure it again before continuing to use it.

Avoid pulling on the antennae or body segments. Gentle handling will help the crochet stitches and sewn details stay in good condition.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use different colors for the body segments?

Yes. You can use three different colors or repeat the same color combination. Mixing leftover yarn colors is an easy way to make each caterpillar look different.

Can I make the caterpillar without safety eyes?

Yes. You can embroider the eyes with black thread instead of using safety eyes. Make sure the embroidered eyes are securely stitched.

Can I use a different yarn weight?

Yes. You can use a different yarn weight, but the finished caterpillar will be larger or smaller. Adjust the crochet hook size to suit your yarn and keep your stitches firm.

Can I make the caterpillar without a keyring?

Yes. Simply leave out the keyring and use the finished caterpillar as a small decorative amigurumi.

How do I keep the body segments together?

Sew each segment securely to the next one using the yarn tails. Before finishing the sewing, check that the segments are aligned and firmly attached.

Copyright and Terms of Use

This crochet pattern and the photos on this page are the original work of Amyliva Handmade.

You are welcome to make finished caterpillars for yourself or as handmade gifts. You may also sell finished items made from this pattern, but please give credit to Amyliva Handmade as the designer.

Please do not copy, repost, translate, or publish this pattern or the photos as your own. You may share the link to this page so others can find the original free pattern.