Whoever would have thought that creepy crawly bugs could be so cute? But with these crochet caterpillar patterns, you can make the most adorable little insects. These creations not only defy the usual perception of bugs, but also turn them into delightful companions.
Butterflies are a frequent decorative motif and are a particular favorite amongst crocheters. But butterflies did not start as a beautiful creature. They started as an average looking (sometimes scary) caterpillar that nobody wants to look at. Today, let’s give these crochet caterpillars a spotlight!
What is a Caterpillar?
A caterpillar is the larval stage in the life cycle of butterflies and moths. Caterpillars have ravenous appetites. This hunger is the inspiration for the loveable Hungry Caterpillar by Eric Carle. As caterpillars eat and grow, they go through several stages.
Eventually, the caterpillars will transform into a cocoon or chrysalis. After some time, they emerge as either adult butterflies or moths.
Summer is on the way! Lovely weather and all those beautiful colors outside. These cute caterpillars will fit right in, don’t you think?
They’re perfect to welcome Spring and to make for the kids who have all even obsessed with The Very Hungry Caterpillar book at one stage or the other. So, if you’re looking for a fun project you can finish in an afternoon, give these crochet caterpillar patterns a try!
27 Crochet Caterpillar Patterns
Below are 27 crochet caterpillar patterns. Some are free while some require a small payment.
1. Crochet Cuddly Caterpillar Pattern by Grace And Yarn
If you have a little one who is fascinated with bugs and insects they will love this cuddly caterpillar, too! The body is worked as one piece and the arms are made for fast and easy sewing, making this a perfect pattern for beginners.
This is also a great way to use up left over yarn as each segment only requires a small amount!
Get the Pattern here
2. Crochet Caterpillar Pattern by On A Whim Crochet
How cute is this little crochet caterpillar? He’d make a great accompaniment to a child’s favorite book!
He’s made of individual crocheted disks which are threaded onto a chain-stitched body and then attached to a stuffed head. He can be made with any color scheme at all, so he makes a great stash buster!
Get the Pattern by On A Whim Crochet here
3. Snuggle Sack Free Crochet Caterpillar Pattern by Yarnspirations
Make your snuggle bug even cozier in this adorable crochet snuggle sack! Worked in half double crochet in the round, simple increases and decreases bring this adorable caterpillar to life. Make this project plush and vibrant in a rainbow of delightfully playful colors!
4. Crochet Caterpillar Applique Pattern by Golden Lucy Crafts
This adorable applique is made from hearts. You just need to crochet hearts and then sew them together! It will make a cute embellishment for your kid’s clothes, blankets, hats, or bags.
Get the Pattern by Golden Lucy Crafts here
5. African Flower Crochet Caterpillar Pattern by Flower Safari
This dazzling caterpillar is made from African flowers that are joined together. The beautiful hexagonal shape of the traditional African flower is an eye-catching way to craft a design.
The complete size change according to the number of body parts you make & how tight you are going to make the flowers.
Find more African Flower crochet motif here.
Get the Pattern by Flower Safari here
6. Cecropia Moth Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by Kabelbinder
This prickly alien is the caterpillar of the cecropia moth, one of the largest moths in North America. The caterpillar can be found on maple, cherry or birch trees and measures about 4-6 inches (10-14 cm). Here’s a crochet pattern to help you make an even bigger one with a finished size of 17 inches.
Get the Pattern by Kabelbinder here
7. Crochet Caterpillar Rattle Pattern by Lets Get Crafting Magazine
This cute and colourful rattle is the perfect size for small hands to grab and shake and will encourage babies to look, listen and touch. It’s great for using up your oddments of yarn, and of course you can mix and match shades to suit.
Get the Pattern here
8. Calliope, The Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by Projectarian
Don’t be fooled by those big shining eyes, Calliope, the Caterpillar is a yarn bandit! Lock up your stash because she will track it down and haul the booty away in the blink of an eye!
Calliope is a modular amigurumi with customizable length so you can make your caterpillar longer or shorter by adding more segments with the option of including or excluding the legs, spines and scales on each segment. This model is almost entirely crocheted in one piece with no sewing except to attach the face and eyes.
Get the Pattern here
9. Crochet Caterpillar Plushie Pattern by Crochet Grove
Make a medium-sized caterpillar plushie with this user-friendly crochet caterpillar pattern. His size makes it the perfect gift for children to cuddle. If you do plan on gifting the caterpillar to a child, I recommend that you embroider the eyes instead of using safety eyes.
Perfect for beginners, this pattern does not require any sewing. You will only need to know basic crochet stitches.
Get the Pattern by Crochet Grove here
10. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by Tiffy Happy Crafts
This all-time favorite character, The Very Hungry Caterpillar from The World of Eric Carle, is now in a cuddly, huggable toy that is sure wiggle its way into your heart.
Little ones can play with their very own 16-inch colorful companion featuring the instantly-recognizable color palette of the hungriest caterpillar that ever was, including his red head, purple ears, and oversized eyes.
This is a beginner-friendly crochet caterpillar pattern. The PDF includes easy-to-follow instructions and numerous photos. The finished amigurumi caterpillar will measure approximately 16 inches (41 cm) long.
Get the Pattern by Tiffy Happy Crafts here
11. Crochet Amigurumi Caterpillar Pattern by Crafty Intentions
In this Crochet Amigurumi Caterpillar Pattern, there is one body that you can customize with two different face plate options. The caterpillar is made in all one piece except for the face plate. There is a very small amount of sewing to secure the faceplate and soft sculpt the body!
Get the Pattern by Crafty Intentions here
12. Crochet Caterpillar Baby Rattle Pattern by Dudefs World
Give those little hands and mouths something to explore with a delightful Crochet Caterpillar Baby Rattle. Wonderfully soft and colorful, this rattle makes the teething process easier while also helping a child learn to grip things and develop coordination.
This crochet rattle would make a wonderful baby shower gift. You can also use the crochet caterpillar pattern to make an adorable addition to a baby mobile.
The 9 page pattern is available in both English and Spanish. There are detailed instructions and step-by-step photos. To make the crochet caterpillar rattle you only need knowledge of basic crochet stitches.
Get the Pattern by Dudefs World here
13. Crochet Monarch Butterfly Caterpillar Pattern by Jenna Wingate Designs
This is a crochet pattern to make a large Monarch Butterfly Caterpillar. It doesn’t have to wait to transform into a butterfly—it’s already beautiful with its realistic features.
Get the Pattern by Jenna Wingate Designs here
14. Hungry Caterpillar Storytime Toy Crochet Pattern by JMC Creations 91 VT
Make this beloved children’s book come to life with this creative storytelling aid! Each piece of food fits perfectly inside a very very hungry caterpillar bag that you can feed in real time to the story!
Get the Pattern by JMC Creations 91 VT here
15. Crochet Caterpillar Toy Pattern by Cute Crochet By Steph
With this reversible toy, a caterpillar goes through metamorphosis and becomes a beautiful butterfly with one flip! It would make a great educational toy to teach metamorphosis or just a fun toy in general.
Get the Pattern by Cute Crochet By Steph here
16. Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by CrochetGrove
Create a delightful mommy and baby caterpillar with this crochet pattern. Momma is crafted to be big, soft, and squishy. She is perfect for snuggles or as a decorative accent. The baby is a miniature version of momma.
These beginner-friendly crochet caterpillar patterns do not require any sewing. The patterns are written in English using US terminology. Basic crochet knowledge is recommended.
Find the Pattern by CrochetGrove Here
17. Free Crochet Caterpillar Pattern by Cuddly Stitches Craft
Perfect for beginners, this free crochet caterpillar is ideal for playtime and decorations. Crafted using multiple coloured balls, the plushie is fun and whimsical.
You have the option to sew the body segments together or use the simpler method recommended by the designer. The head and legs are sewn on. Completed, the caterpillar will measure close to 9.5 inches (24 cm) long x 5 inches (12.5 cm) tall.
Find the Pattern by Cuddly Stitches Craft Here
18. Caterpillar Crochet Baby Blanket Pattern by TheWIPWindow
Here is a delightful crochet caterpillar project that can be finished in no time. The blanket has a playful design that can be made using your colour preferences. You can even experiment with various facial features, antennae, and feet shapes to create a truly unique blanket.
The finished blanket will measure approximately 57 1/2” [146cm] (head to tail) X 19 1/2” [49 1/2cm] (height of body section not including feet).
Find the Pattern by TheWIPWindow Here
19. Crochet Caterpillar Lovey Pattern by Bowtykes
Make a Very Hungry Caterpillar lovey for your little one to snuggle. The lovey will serve as both a security blanket and a blankey. It is perfect for baby showers and birthdays.
The finished lovey measures about 18 inches (45.72 cm). It is the perfect size for babies and toddlers to hold and cherish. The pattern requires 300 yards of worsted weight yarn in green, light/bright green, red, yellow, and purple. You will also need crochet hooks in sizes I (5.5 mm) and G (4.0-4.5 mm).
Find the Pattern by Bowtykes Here
20. Cuddles the Camping Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by CrochetByChelseaUK
Cuddles the Camping Caterpillar has its own leafy sleeping bag. This delightful crochet caterpillar pattern is perfect for cuddling and playtime. The included leaf-shaped sleeping bag makes this project extra special.
This pattern was designed for advanced beginners looking for a bit of a challenge. There are instructions for both sew and no-sew options. The pattern is great for using up leftover yarn.
Find the Pattern by CrochetByChelseaUK Here
21. The Very Hungry Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by Coco on the Rainbow
Check out this free The Very Hungry Caterpillar crochet pattern. This whimsical caterpillar is always a hit with kids.
The crochet caterpillar pattern provides the freedom to choose your preferred colors and yarn. You can also assemble the project any way you want. Add extra body balls to make it longer, or remove balls to make it shorter.
Find the Pattern by Coco on the Rainbow Here
22. Ava the Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by TheFoxDenMomLife
Ava the Caterpillar is cute and girly. She can be a charming addition to a child’s room, a sweet handmade gift, or a whimsical playtime companion.
The pattern is suitable for beginners with basic sewing knowledge. The step-by-step instructions include helpful pictures to make the project even easier to complete. The main body is crafted in one piece. Only the legs, head, and antennas are sewn on.
Find the Pattern by TheFoxDenMomLife Here
23. Long Legs Caterpillar Amigurumi Crochet Toy Pattern by FunToysWorkshop
This delightful amigurumi toy brings a touch of whimsy to your creations. This stuffed caterpillar plushie, has a quirky appearance and long legs. It is just waiting for summer to munch on some yummy green leaves.
The finished crochet caterpillar will measure approximately 11.8 inches (30 cm) long. The pattern is designed for those with basic crochet skills.
Find the Pattern by FunToysWorkshop Here
24. Newborn Hungry Caterpillar Hat and Cocoon Photo Prop Set by DandelionWishesCC
Add a bit of literary charm to your newborn photo shoots using this The Hungry Caterpillar hat and cocoon set. The set is gender neutral making it the ideal choice for both little boys and girls.
This set is designed exclusively for newborns. The pattern requires worsted weight yarn and size H and J crochet hooks.
Find the Pattern by DandelionWishesCC Here
25. Chip the Caterpillar Amigurumi Crochet Pattern by Hookabee
Chip the Caterpillar is a delightful amigurumi pattern that works up quickly. The versatile pattern uses many different colour changes, making it great for using up scrap yarn.
To make Chip you can choose to use joined rounds for cleaner transitions or continuous rounds for simplicity. When finished, he will measure about 5.5 inches (13.97 cm) long. The free crochet caterpillar pattern is classified as intermediate level.
Find the Pattern by Hookabee Here
26. Crochet Caterpillar Pattern by CastleCrochetStudio
Using soft and luxurious yarn, this caterpillar is not only cute but also soft and flexible. It would make a charming addition to any nursery or child’s room.
The crochet caterpillar pattern is recommended for those with basic crochet and thread work skills. It includes easy-to-follow instructions and step-by-step images. The finished plushie will measure close to 19 inches (48.26 cm) long.
Find the Pattern by CastleCrochetStudio Here
27. Very Hungry Caterpillar Crochet Pattern by CastleOfCozy
Bring The Very Hungry Caterpillar to life with this delightful pattern. It includes several additional accessories such as apples, pears, plums, strawberries, oranges, swiss cheese, a cupcake, and more. This is not just a crochet project; it is an interactive toy that can help get kids reading.
The Very Hungry Caterpillar pattern and its accessories are classified as intermediate level. You will need knowledge of magic circles, colour changes, and some intermediate stitches.
Find the Pattern by CastleOfCozy Here
Frequently Asked Questions About Crochet Caterpillars
Are crochet caterpillars hard to make?
The difficulty of a crochet caterpillar will depend on the pattern you choose. There are easy-to-follow patterns designed for beginners as well as advanced patterns.
Can beginners crochet a caterpillar?
Yes, beginners can crochet a caterpillar. There are many patterns available for those who are just learning how to crochet. These patterns use simple stitches and provide clear, easy-to-read instructions.
Do I need safety eyes for my crocheted caterpillar?
You do not have to use safety eyes for your crochet caterpillar. Many patterns suggest using safety eyes. However, you can embroider eyes instead.
Can I make my crocheted caterpillar poseable?
Some patterns do have options for adding a wire to make the caterpillar poseable.
What type of yarn is best for a crocheted caterpillar?
The best yarn for a crocheted caterpillar will depend on the pattern you are working on. The pattern will usually specify the recommended yarn type and weight.
I HOPE YOU’LL TRY MAKING SOME OF THESE CUTE CROCHET CATERPILLAR PATTERNS!
I would love to see everyone’s creations, so please do share your crocheted pieces on our Facebook Page. We can’t wait to see your very own colorful little buddies.
For more delightful menagerie of crocheted insects, check out our patterns for: Dragonfly Crochet Patterns, Crochet Butterfly Patterns, Crochet Bee Patterns, and Amigurumi Ladybug Patterns.
These crochet caterpillar patterns are fun, adorable, and easy patterns that will work up fast and will allow you to use up yarn ends. Happy crocheting!
