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Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern

Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern
4.7★ Rating
2-3 Hours Time Needed
3.6K Made This
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Beginner Friendly Level

Perfect for those just starting their sewing journey, with clear instructions and simple techniques

⏱️

Bite-Sized Project

Complete in under 2 hours—quick, fun, and perfect for a little creative escape.

🐾

Pocket Pal

A mini friend to carry anywhere, providing comfort and companionship in a perfectly portable size.

About This Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern

This mini penguin keychain pattern is designed to create an adorable pocket-sized companion that you can take everywhere. The pattern combines white and yellow yarn to capture the classic penguin look, complete with a charming gray beak and sweet embroidered eyes. With detailed photo instructions for every step, you'll be guided through creating the head with its unique wedge-shaped face detail, the rounded body, tiny wings, paws, and tail.

Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

What makes this pattern special is the attention to small details that bring personality to your penguin. The embroidered closed eyes give it a peaceful, sleepy expression that's simply irresistible.

Why You'll Love This Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern

I absolutely love this mini penguin pattern because it's the perfect balance of quick and satisfying. You can complete this adorable keychain in just a couple of hours, making it ideal for those moments when you want instant gratification from your crochet projects. The size is perfect for practicing your amigurumi skills without committing to a large project, and the result is so charming that you'll want to make a whole waddle of penguins in different colors. I find the embroidered details particularly rewarding—they add so much character with minimal effort. Plus, these little penguins make fantastic handmade gifts that fit any occasion.

Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern step 1 - construction progress Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love experimenting with this penguin pattern because it's such a versatile base for creativity. One of my favorite variations is making a whole family of penguins in different sizes by adjusting the hook size—try a 1.5mm hook for an even tinier version or a 2.5mm hook for a slightly larger buddy. You can also play with the color palette to create emperor penguins using black and white, or go whimsical with pastels like pink and lavender for a kawaii aesthetic.

Another fun modification I enjoy is adding tiny accessories like a miniature scarf made from embroidery thread or a little bow between the wings. You could even create seasonal versions by adding a small Santa hat for Christmas or bunny ears for Easter. If you want to give your penguin more personality, try embroidering the eyes open instead of closed, or add little blush marks with pink embroidery thread on the cheeks.

For those who want to make it extra special as a gift, consider personalizing each penguin with initials embroidered on the belly or attaching a small charm that represents the recipient's interests. The beauty of this pattern is that once you master the basic construction, the possibilities for customization are endless!

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Not counting stitches carefully in the early rounds can throw off the entire shape and symmetry of your penguin ✗ Stuffing too loosely results in a floppy penguin that won't hold its adorable round shape properly ✗ Placing the beak too high or too low on the face disrupts the sweet expression and overall appearance ✗ Forgetting to leave long tails when fastening off makes sewing parts together frustrating and results in weaker attachments

Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern

Create your own adorable mini penguin keychain with this charming amigurumi pattern. Perfect for beginners and intermediate crocheters, this delightful project results in a 9.5cm tall penguin that's ideal for keychains, bag charms, or gift-giving. Using simple stitches and featuring a sweet yellow and white color combination with embroidered details, this pattern guides you through creating a portable companion that fits right in the palm of your hand.

Beginner Friendly 2-3 Hours

Materials Needed for Mini Penguin Keychain Amigurumi Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Yarn Art Jeans in white (color #62), yellow (color #88), and light gray (color #80) - 50g/160m, 55% cotton/45% acrylic
  • 02
    Alternative: Alize Cotton Gold (55% cotton 45% acrylic, 100g/330m)
  • 03
    Alternative: Schachenmayr Catania Originals (100% cotton, 50g/125m)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 2.00 mm (US B, UK 14)
  • 02
    Stuffing material (hollowfibre recommended)
  • 03
    Thin black embroidery thread for eyes
  • 04
    Black beads or safety eyes 4-5mm
  • 05
    Yarn needle for sewing details
  • 06
    Scissors
  • 07
    Stitch marker
  • 08
    Keychain fittings

Progress Tracker

0% Complete

— Head (White Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR (6)

Round 2 :

6 inc (12)

Round 3 :

(1 sc, inc) x 6 times (18)

Round 4 :

1 sc, inc, (2 sc, inc) x 5 times, 1 sc (24)

Round 5 :

(3 sc, inc) x 6 times (30)

Round 6 :

2 sc, inc, (4 sc, inc) x 5 times, 2 sc (36)

Round 7-12 :

36 sc (6 rounds)

Round 13 :

2 sc, dec, (4 sc, dec) x 5 times, 2 sc (30)

Round 14 :

(3 sc, dec) x 6 times (24)

Round 15 :

1 sc, dec, (2 sc, dec) x 5 times, 1 sc (18), slst

Infos :

Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. If using safety eyes, place them between rows 10 and 11 at 7-8 sc apart. Stuff head tightly with filler.

— Head Part Two (Yellow Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR (6)

Round 2 :

6 inc (12)

Round 3 :

(1 sc, inc) x 6 times (18)

Round 4 :

1 sc, inc, (2 sc, inc) x 5 times, 1 sc (24)

Round 5 :

(3 sc, inc) x 6 times (30)

Round 6 :

2 sc, inc, (4 sc, inc) x 5 times, 2 sc (36)

Round 7-13 :

36 sc (7 rounds)

Info :

Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. Note: Round 13 may not be necessary depending on your head volume after stuffing.

— Wedge-Shaped Face Detail :

Info :

From the end of Round 13, count forward 16 sc and join new yarn to the 17th sc

Row 1 :

ch 1 (this is the 1st sc of the row), 5 sc, turn the detail (6)

Row 2 :

from the second sc: 5 sc, turn the detail (5)

Row 3 :

from the second sc: 4 sc, turn the detail (4)

Row 4 :

from the second sc: 3 sc, turn the detail (3)

Row 5 :

from the second sc: 2 sc (2)

Info :

Thread secure, hide the end. Sew this wedge part to the white head portion.

— Beak (Light Gray Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR

Round 2 :

6 sc, slst

Info :

Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. Sew beak right under the wedge-shaped part of the penguin's face.

— Eye Embroidery :

Info :

Embroider eyes using thin black embroidery thread as shown in pattern photos, creating closed sleepy eyes with curved lines.

Alternative :

If sewing safety eyes, place them between rows 10 and 11 of the head at a distance of 7-8 sc.

— Body (Yellow Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR (6)

Round 2 :

6 inc (12)

Round 3 :

(1 sc, inc) x 6 times (18)

Round 4 :

1 sc, inc, (2 sc, inc) x 5 times, 1 sc (24)

Round 5 :

(3 sc, inc) x 6 times (30)

Round 6 :

2 sc, inc, (4 sc, inc) x 5 times, 2 sc (36)

Round 7-10 :

36 sc (4 rounds)

Round 11 :

(10 sc, dec) x 3 (33)

Round 12 :

33 sc

Round 13 :

(9 sc, dec) x 3 (30)

Round 14 :

30 sc

Round 15 :

(8 sc, dec) x 3 (27)

Round 16 :

(7 sc, dec) x 3 (24)

Round 17 :

(6 sc, dec) x 3 (21)

Round 18 :

(5 sc, dec) x 3 (18), slst

Info :

Thread secure, hide the end. Stuff body tightly with filler. Sew the head to the body.

— Wings (Make 2 - Yellow Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR

Round 2 :

(1 sc, inc) x 3 (9)

Round 3 :

9 sc (9)

Round 4 :

(2 sc, inc) x 3 (12)

Round 5 :

(3 sc, inc) x 3 (15)

Info :

Fold detail in half and crochet 7 sc. Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. Sew wings between rows 17 and 18 of the body.

— Paws (Make 2 - Light Gray Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR

Round 2 :

(1 sc, inc) x 3 times (9)

Round 3-4 :

9 sc (2 rounds)

Info :

Fold detail in half and crochet 4 sc. Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. Sew to the body at a distance of 1-2 sc apart.

— Tail (Make 1 - Yellow Yarn) :

Round 1 :

6 sc in MR

Round 2 :

(1 sc, inc) x 3 times (9)

Info :

Fold detail in half and crochet 4 sc. Fasten the thread, leave a long end for sewing. Sew tail on the body as shown in pattern photos.

— Finishing :

Final Step :

Place keychain ring and your mini penguin is done!

Assembly Instructions

  • Sew the yellow head portion to the white head portion, aligning them carefully to create the distinctive penguin face.
  • Attach the wedge-shaped face detail to the head, positioning it centrally on the white portion.
  • Sew the gray beak directly under the wedge-shaped detail on the face.
  • Embroider closed eyes using black thread between rows 10-11, or attach safety eyes if preferred before stuffing.
  • Attach the completed head to the body, ensuring it sits securely and centered on the body opening.
  • Sew wings to the sides of the body between rows 17 and 18, positioning them symmetrically.
  • Attach the two gray paws to the bottom of the body, spacing them 1-2 sc apart for balance, then sew the tail to the back as shown in photos, and finally attach your keychain ring to complete your mini penguin.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use a stitch marker or piece of yarn to mark the beginning of each round to avoid losing your place
  • 💡Work in continuous spiral rounds without joining unless the pattern specifically states to slip stitch
  • 💡Stuff your penguin firmly but not too tightly to maintain the cute rounded shape
  • 💡If using safety eyes, insert them before stuffing the head as they cannot be added after
  • 💡Leave long tails when fastening off each piece to make assembly easier and more secure
  • 💡The 13th round of the yellow head part may be skipped depending on how your stuffing affects the head size
  • 💡Fasten off with needle join technique for neat, invisible finishes on all pieces

This adorable mini penguin keychain pattern brings a sweet pocket-sized companion to life in just a few hours of crocheting. With its charming yellow and white color combination, sleepy embroidered eyes, and perfectly portable size, this pattern is ideal for beginners looking to practice amigurumi techniques or experienced crocheters wanting a quick, satisfying project. The detailed photo instructions guide you through every step, from creating the unique wedge-shaped face to assembling all the tiny details. These little penguins make wonderful handmade gifts, bag charms, or personal keepsakes. 🐧 Happy crocheting! 🧶✨

You ask,

we answer.

FAQs

What size will my finished penguin be?

Using the recommended Yarn Art Jeans yarn and a 2.00mm hook, your penguin will be approximately 9.5cm tall (3.7 inches). The size may vary slightly depending on your tension and how firmly you stuff it.

Can I use different yarn colors for my penguin?

Absolutely! While the pattern uses yellow and white for a classic look, you can create penguins in any color combination you like. Try black and white for a traditional penguin, or get creative with rainbow colors for a unique twist.

What's the best way to embroider the eyes?

The pattern shows embroidering closed, sleepy eyes with curved lines using thin black embroidery thread. Take your time and refer to the detailed photos in the pattern. If you prefer, you can use 4-5mm safety eyes instead, which should be inserted between rows 10 and 11 before stuffing.

Do I need the 13th round on the yellow head part?

Not necessarily! The pattern notes that depending on how your stuffing affects the volume and height of your penguin's head, round 13 may not be needed. Check after round 12 to see if your yellow portion matches the white portion before deciding.

How do I attach the keychain ring?

Once all parts are assembled and sewn together, simply attach your keychain ring through the top of the head. You can add it through a stitch or create a small loop of yarn specifically for this purpose before finishing.

Can I make this penguin without the keychain attachment?

Yes! This pattern works wonderfully as a standalone mini amigurumi. You can skip the keychain ring and use your penguin as a desk decoration, ornament, or small toy instead.