Must-Make! The Adorable Possum Crochet Pattern You Need

 

The Ultimate Possum Crochet Pattern: Craft Your Own Adorable Amigurumi!

 

Welcome, fellow yarn enthusiasts and amigurumi adventurers! Are you ready to dive into a project that’s not only incredibly rewarding but also a proven bestseller? Today, we’re thrilled to share with you a comprehensive guide to mastering the adorable **possum crochet pattern**. Imagine crafting your very own miniature baby possum, complete with tiny ears, a sweet pink nose, and that iconic tail. These little creatures work up astonishingly quickly and are an absolute dream for anyone looking to add unique, highly sought-after items to their craft market stall or create heartfelt handmade gifts.

Our featured **possum crochet pattern** is designed with efficiency in mind – it’s a completely no-sew project! This means less time fussing with needles and more time crocheting, making it super fast to complete. Many crafters, myself included, find that these charming possums are often the first items to fly off the shelves. So, whether you’re aiming to boost your market sales or simply want to create a delightful plushie, this guide is your go-to resource for a successful and enjoyable crochet journey.

In this in-depth article, we’ll walk you through every step of this unique amigurumi possum design. From gathering your materials and understanding essential crochet abbreviations to mastering tricky stitches like bobbles and color changes, we’ve got you covered. Get ready to unleash your creativity and bring a delightful baby possum to life with this comprehensive **possum crochet pattern** tutorial!

Finished no-sew baby possum amigurumi, a perfect example of the possum crochet pattern
A glimpse of the finished baby possum amigurumi, ready to charm. This intricate design is achievable with our detailed possum crochet pattern.

Before You Begin: Essential Skills & Copyright Considerations

Embarking on any crochet project, especially one designed for a detailed outcome like our **possum crochet pattern**, benefits greatly from a clear understanding of the required skill level and respectful adherence to pattern rights. While the end result is undeniably adorable and highly market-friendly, this particular design does incorporate techniques that are a bit more advanced than your absolute beginner single crochet scarf.

Is This Possum Crochet Pattern for Beginners?

While we strive to make our instructions as clear as possible, it’s important to note that this specific **possum crochet pattern** presumes a certain level of familiarity with intermediate crochet techniques. You’ll need to be comfortable with:

  • Bobble stitches: These create charming protrusions perfect for little legs and other textural elements. Mastering the bobble stitch is key to the possum’s characteristic look.
  • Frequent color changing: The possum’s distinct features (nose, ears, body) require several seamless color transitions. Practice makes perfect when it comes to smooth color changes in amigurumi.
  • Crocheting in the front loops only (FLO): This technique is crucial for creating the ears and other structural elements, adding a unique texture and definition.
  • Crocheting in the back loops only (BLO): Similarly, BLO is used to create specific ridges and prepare for subsequent rounds, ensuring your possum’s head shape is just right.
  • Magic Ring (or Magic Circle): The foundation for most amigurumi, ensuring a tight starting point for the nose.
  • Single Crochet (SC) and Increases/Decreases: The core stitches for shaping the body.
  • Half Double Crochet (HDC) and Double Crochet (DC): Used specifically for shaping the ears.

If you’re an absolute beginner and these terms sound daunting, fear not! The world of crochet offers countless resources. We highly recommend watching a few introductory videos or practicing these specific stitches on scrap yarn before diving into this comprehensive tutorial. Think of it as building your crochet muscle – the more you practice, the more confident you’ll become, making the creation of your **possum crochet pattern** a breeze.

Understanding Pattern Rights and Sales

As the designer of this unique **possum crochet pattern**, we want to ensure clarity regarding its use. We are thrilled for you to create and even sell the finished plushies you make from this pattern! We believe in supporting fellow crafters and their entrepreneurial spirits. However, we kindly ask that you always remember to credit the original designer (us!) when showcasing or selling your creations. A simple “Pattern by [Your Name/Website]” is greatly appreciated and helps support the creative community.

Please note that this **possum crochet pattern** itself, including its instructions, diagrams, and concepts, is for personal use and for creating finished products for sale. It may not be resold, redistributed, shared, or republished in any form, whether digitally or in print. This pattern represents a significant investment of time and creativity, and respecting these terms allows us to continue sharing more exciting projects with you. This was one of the very first patterns we ever designed, and sharing this tutorial with you all truly brings us joy!

Gathering Your Materials for Your Possum Crochet Pattern

Before your crochet adventure truly begins, assembling the right tools and materials is paramount. Having everything laid out and ready will ensure a smooth, enjoyable crafting experience, preventing frustrating pauses in the middle of your project. For this charming **possum crochet pattern**, you won’t need an overwhelming amount of supplies, but the right choices can make all the difference in the final look and feel of your amigurumi.

Hook, Notions, and Safety Eyes

Every successful crochet project starts with the right hook. For this particular **possum crochet pattern**, we recommend a **5mm crochet hook**. This size works wonderfully with the suggested yarn, creating tight stitches that prevent stuffing from showing through – a crucial element for neat amigurumi. Alongside your hook, you’ll need a few essential notions:

  • Scissors: For cutting yarn tails.
  • Yarn needles (or tapestry needles): Indispensable for weaving in ends and cinching openings. A set with varying sizes can be helpful.
  • Stitch markers: Absolutely vital for keeping track of your rounds, especially in amigurumi where continuous rounds are common. Having a few extra on hand for marking specific loops, as detailed in the pattern, is a game-changer.
  • Two 6mm safety eyes: These bring your possum to life! The 6mm size is perfect for creating a sweet, proportionate facial expression for your little critter.
  • Polyfill (fiberfill): The stuffing that gives your possum its squishy, huggable form. Even a small handful will be more than enough for this compact project.

Yarn Choices: Chenille vs. Other Fibers

The yarn you choose plays a significant role in the texture, size, and overall aesthetic of your finished possum. For this **possum crochet pattern**, we highly recommend Premier Parfait Chunky, which is a size 6 chenille yarn. Chenille yarns are renowned for their incredibly soft, plush texture, making them ideal for amigurumi that you want to be extra cuddly. Their inherent fluffiness also helps to hide any minor imperfections in your stitches, contributing to a more professional finish.

However, don’t feel limited! While Premier Parfait Chunky creates a beautifully soft and squishy possum, you can certainly experiment with other yarn types. If you opt for a different weight, remember to adjust your hook size accordingly to maintain a tight gauge. For instance, if you use a worsted weight (size 4) yarn, you might want to size down to a 3.5mm or 4mm hook to achieve the dense fabric necessary for amigurumi, preventing stuffing from showing. Keep in mind that using different yarn weights will alter the final size of your possum. This specific **possum crochet pattern** is optimized for chunky yarn to create that irresistibly soft, miniature plushie.

Yarn Quantities and Color Palette

One of the beauties of this mini possum project is how little yarn it requires! Since the possum is quite small, you can generally get away with using only about half a skein (roughly 50g) of your main body color, and even as little as 25g (about 1/4 of a skein) for the accent colors. This makes it a fantastic stash-busting project for those leftover bits of yarn you’ve been saving.

Here are the recommended yarn colors for achieving the classic possum look:

  • Main Body Color: Gray (we used “Seal” for a realistic possum shade).
  • Ears and Feet: Black (for contrast and definition).
  • Tail and Nose: Cotton Candy Pink (for that signature cute possum feature).
  • Main Head Portion: White (to create the distinctive facial markings).

Feel free to get creative with your color choices, too! A whimsical rainbow possum or a possum in pastel shades could be equally charming. Just ensure you have enough of each color to complete the respective sections of your **possum crochet pattern**.

Crochet Abbreviations Glossary

Throughout this tutorial for the **possum crochet pattern**, we’ll be using standard crochet abbreviations. While we won’t go into in-depth demonstrations of each individual stitch, here’s a quick reference for the terms you’ll encounter:

  • MR: Magic Ring (or Magic Circle)
  • SC: Single Crochet
  • INC: Increase (working two SC into one stitch)
  • DEC: Decrease (single crochet two stitches together)
  • HDC: Half Double Crochet
  • DC: Double Crochet
  • FLO: Front Loop Only
  • BLO: Back Loop Only
  • BOBBLE: Bobble Stitch (specific instructions provided in Round 8)
  • CH: Chain
  • ST(s): Stitch(es)

Familiarizing yourself with these terms will ensure a smoother experience as you follow along with each round of our detailed **possum crochet pattern**.

Sponsor Spotlight: Flexispot

Before we fully immerse ourselves in the delightful world of the **possum crochet pattern**, a big thank you to today’s video sponsor, Flexispot! As crafters, we spend a lot of time on our feet or sitting in our creative spaces, and comfort is key. That’s why we’re so excited about Flexispot’s amazing new washable rugs.

For pet owners, or anyone prone to the occasional spill (which, let’s be honest, happens to the best of us!), having a rug can feel like a gamble. Accidents are inevitable, making it hard to invest in a beautiful, high-quality rug. But with Flexispot’s innovative washable rugs, this concern is a thing of the past! They’re not only incredibly stylish and easy to install, but they are also completely machine washable and vacuum-friendly. Imagine being able to toss your rug into the wash after a crafting mishap or a pet accident – pure genius!

We were a little skeptical at first about the setup, but it was surprisingly a breeze:

  1. First, you put the pad pieces together.
  2. Then, you secure the corners with handy Velcro stickers, which are fantastic for preventing curling.
  3. Finally, you simply lay the rug on top, and you’re all set!

The Velcro stickers are a personal favorite detail; they keep the corners perfectly flat, eliminating that annoying curling problem. And vacuuming is incredibly easy – even their largest 9×12 rug (the one we tried) fits right into a standard washing machine! These rugs are built to last, resistant to fading, deformation, and shrinkage even after multiple washes. Plus, they’re certified safe, non-toxic, and free from harmful chemicals, giving you peace of mind.

For a comfortable and practical addition to your crafting nook or any room in your home, we highly recommend checking out Flexispot’s washable rugs. You can find more information by searching for Flexispot washable rugs online. Thank you again, Flexispot, for supporting today’s creative endeavors!

The Crochet Journey: Step-by-Step Possum Creation

Now, let’s get to the heart of it – the step-by-step instructions for our beloved **possum crochet pattern**! This section will guide you through each round, meticulously detailing the stitches and techniques required to bring your possum to life. Remember, taking your time and paying attention to detail will yield the best results for your adorable amigurumi possum.

Follow along with the video tutorial for a visual guide to this **possum crochet pattern**!

Starting with the Nose (Rounds 1-2)

Every great amigurumi starts with a solid foundation, and for our possum, that begins with its distinctive little pink nose. This initial stage of the **possum crochet pattern** sets the tone for the entire project, so focus on getting those stitches tight and even.

Round 1: Beginning the Nose (Pink Yarn)

  1. Grab your **pink yarn**. This will be the vibrant start of your possum’s face.
  2. Create a **magic ring (MR)**. The magic ring is crucial for amigurumi as it allows for a tight, closed center, preventing a hole from forming in your finished piece. If you’re new to the magic ring, there are many excellent video tutorials available online that can help you master this fundamental technique.
  3. Work **4 single crochets (SC)** into the magic ring. Ensure your stitches are snug, but not so tight that they’re difficult to work into in the next round.
  4. Place a **stitch marker** into the last stitch. This is incredibly important for keeping track of your rounds in continuous spiral crochet, which is how most amigurumi, including this **possum crochet pattern**, are worked.
  5. Gently pull your magic ring tight to close the center. You should now have a small, pink circle of 4 stitches.

Round 2: Switching to White

This round introduces your first color change, a technique you’ll use frequently throughout this **possum crochet pattern**. Precision here will result in clean, almost invisible transitions.

  1. For this round, we’ll color change to **white yarn**. It can be tricky to seamlessly color change *into* the magic ring stitch itself. To ensure a smooth transition, **undo the last single crochet of Round 1**.
  2. Grab your **white yarn**. Now, with the last loop of your undone pink single crochet still on your hook, introduce the white yarn and pull it through to complete that last single crochet of your magic ring. This finishes the color change smoothly.
  3. Carefully cut off the tails of your magic ring and the pink yarn you just used.
  4. Secure your new white yarn with the pink tail using a firm knot. This prevents your stitches from unraveling.
  5. Now, for Round 2, work **one single crochet (SC) followed by an increase (INC)**. Repeat this sequence two times total. An increase means working two single crochets into the same stitch. So, your sequence will be (SC, 2 SC in next st) repeated twice.
  6. You should have **6 stitches** at the end of Round 2. Double-check your stitch count to stay on track with this **possum crochet pattern**.
  7. Tip: As you work, gently push your possum’s nose outward so it doesn’t accidentally get stuck inside the head. This small detail ensures the correct shaping from the very beginning.

Shaping the Head (Rounds 3-5)

The next few rounds are dedicated to rapidly increasing the stitch count to form the distinctive, rounded head of your possum. This is where your amigurumi starts to take on its characteristic form.

Round 3: Increasing the Head

  1. Work an **increase (INC)** into each stitch for a total of six increases. This means you will crochet two single crochets into every stitch from the previous round.
  2. At the end of Round 3, you should have **12 stitches** around. You’ll notice your work is beginning to flatten out and expand, taking on the initial shape of your possum’s head.

Round 4: Shaping the Head

  1. For this round, you will work three single crochets (SC) followed by an increase (INC).
  2. Repeat this sequence a total of three times around the circle. So, the pattern is: **(SC, SC, SC, INC)** – repeat 3 times.
  3. Place your stitch marker on the last stitch of the round.
  4. Reminder: Always keep the right side of the crochet (the neat, consistent side with the “V” shapes of the stitches facing you) facing outward. The inside portion will show your color changes and less neat stitches, which will be hidden when the possum is stuffed. This attention to detail is essential for a polished **possum crochet pattern** outcome.

Round 5: Continuing Head Shaping

  1. Continue shaping by working four single crochets (SC) followed by an increase (INC).
  2. Repeat this sequence a total of three times. So, the pattern is: **(SC, SC, SC, SC, INC)** – repeat 3 times.
  3. At the end of Round 5, you should have **18 stitches** around. Your possum’s head should now have a noticeably rounded and expanding shape, providing the perfect canvas for the next exciting details.

Crafting the Distinctive Ears (Round 6)

Round 6 is arguably one of the most intricate and exciting parts of this **possum crochet pattern**, as it involves creating the ears, managing multiple color changes, and working into specific loops. Take your time with these steps, and don’t hesitate to pause and re-read as needed.

Round 6: Creating the Ears (Color Changes & Front Loops)

  1. Grab your **black yarn** and extra **stitch markers**. You’ll need these handy.
  2. Work **6 single crochets (SC) in white**. On the **sixth single crochet, do not complete it**. This is your setup for a color change.
  3. Introduce your **black yarn** to finish that sixth single crochet, smoothly completing the color change.
  4. Tie a knot to secure the black yarn to the white tail. **Do not cut off your white yarn yet.** You’ll need it again shortly. (You can trim the black tail a bit to keep it out of the way, but leave it long enough to tie a knot later if needed).
  5. For the first ear: In the *next stitch*, identify the **front loop (FLO)** (closest to you) and the **back loop (BLO)** (furthest away).
  6. Take an extra stitch marker and mark the **back loop of that next stitch** – this is crucial, as you’ll come back to this specific loop in the very next round to maintain your stitch count and continuity.
  7. Now, working *only* into the **front loop (FLO)** of that same marked stitch, perform the following sequence to form the ear:
    • One **half double crochet (HDC)**
    • Two **double crochets (DC)**
    • Another **half double crochet (HDC)**
  8. On the **last half double crochet (HDC) of the ear, do not complete it**. This is where you’ll color change back to white.
  9. Grab your **white yarn** and finish out that last HDC. This completes your first adorable possum ear!
  10. Now, working into **both loops** again, perform **5 single crochets (SC) in white**. These stitches bridge the gap between the ears.
  11. On the **fifth single crochet (SC), do not complete it**. You’ll be color changing to black again for the second ear.
  12. Introduce your **black yarn** to complete that fifth single crochet.
  13. You can now **cut off your white yarn** (you’re done with it for good for this **possum crochet pattern**). You can also cut off the black yarn after tying a knot, but keep it nearby as you’ll use it again in a few rounds for the legs.
  14. For the second ear: Just like before, grab an extra stitch marker and mark the **back loop (BLO) of the next stitch**. This will be worked into in Round 7.
  15. Working into the **front loop only (FLO)** of that same marked stitch, perform the following sequence:
    • One **half double crochet (HDC)**
    • Two **double crochets (DC)**
    • Another **half double crochet (HDC)**
  16. On the **last half double crochet (HDC), do not complete it**. This is your final color change for the head – back to gray.
  17. Introduce your **gray yarn** to finish out that last HDC. This completes your second possum ear!
  18. To finish Round 6, work **5 single crochets (SC) in gray** into **both loops**. This should bring you perfectly back to your original stitch marker, completing the round.
  19. Tie all your new yarn ends tightly to secure them on the inside of your piece.
  20. Move your main stitch marker to the last stitch of this round.
  21. At the end of Round 6, you should still have **18 stitches** around. You should now clearly see two little ears forming on the sides of the head, and two marked back loops inside the head – these are crucial for the next round and ensure your stitch count remains consistent for this **possum crochet pattern**.

Seamless Head Completion (Round 7)

Round 7 brings together the foundation of your possum’s head, integrating the back loops you marked in the previous round to maintain a seamless, continuous circle. This round is important for the structural integrity of your amigurumi.

Round 7: Completing the Head (Back Loops)

  1. For Round 7, you’ll be doing **18 single crochets (SC)** around. The key here is *where* you place those stitches.
  2. Crucial Note: When you reach the stitches where you made the ears (specifically, the 7th and 13th stitches of this round), you will crochet into the **back loop only (BLO)** of those marked stitches. All other stitches are worked into both loops as normal to create a continuous fabric.
  3. Let’s walk through it step-by-step for clarity:
    • Work **6 single crochets (SC)** into both loops, using your gray yarn.
    • For the **7th stitch**, find the marked back loop (BLO) from the previous round (where you placed the extra stitch marker for the first ear). Work **one single crochet (SC)** into this back loop only. Immediately **remove that extra stitch marker**.
    • Continue by working **5 single crochets (SC)** into both loops.
    • For the **13th stitch**, find the marked back loop (BLO) from the previous round (where you placed the extra stitch marker for the second ear). Work **one single crochet (SC)** into this back loop only. Immediately **remove that extra stitch marker**.
    • Work the final **5 single crochets (SC)** into both loops to finish the round. This should bring you neatly back to your main stitch marker.
  4. Move your main stitch marker to the last stitch of this round.
  5. At the end of Round 7, you should successfully have **18 stitches** around, forming a nice, continuous circle. The ears should stand out clearly, and your head shaping is now complete. If you have any loose tails from previous color changes, now is a good time to use your yarn needle to weave them securely into the inside of your plushie, keeping them hidden and preventing unraveling. Your **possum crochet pattern** is really coming along!

Adding the Front Legs with Bobble Stitches (Round 8)

Now comes one of the most exciting parts of this **possum crochet pattern** – adding the little legs using bobble stitches! This technique creates a wonderful 3D effect, making the limbs pop out without the need for separate pieces to sew on, reinforcing the “no-sew” appeal of this possum amigurumi.

Round 8: Adding the Front Legs (Bobble Stitches)

  1. Make sure you have your **black yarn** nearby, ready for another color change.
  2. Work **2 single crochets (SC) in gray**. On the **second single crochet, do not finish it**. This sets up your color change.
  3. Introduce your **black yarn** to complete that second single crochet, smoothly finishing the color change.
  4. Tie a knot to secure the black yarn to the gray tail. **Do not cut off your gray yarn** – you’ll be switching back and forth frequently in this round.
  5. For the first front leg: In the *next stitch*, you will create a **bobble stitch**. This essentially forms a cluster of stitches that pops out, forming the leg. Here’s how to make a 5-half-finished-DC bobble:
    • **Yarn over (YO)**, insert hook into the stitch, **pull up a loop** (you’ll have 3 loops on your hook). **YO**, pull through the first two loops (2 loops on hook). *(This is the first “half-finished” double crochet)*
    • **YO**, insert hook into the *same stitch*, **pull up a loop** (3 loops on hook). **YO**, pull through the first two loops (3 loops on hook). *(Second half-finished DC)*
    • **YO**, insert hook into the *same stitch*, **pull up a loop** (4 loops on hook). **YO**, pull through the first two loops (4 loops on hook). *(Third half-finished DC)*
    • **YO**, insert hook into the *same stitch*, **pull up a loop** (5 loops on hook). **YO**, pull through the first two loops (5 loops on hook). *(Fourth half-finished DC)*
    • **YO**, insert hook into the *same stitch*, **pull up a loop** (6 loops on hook). **YO**, pull through the first two loops (6 loops on hook). *(Fifth half-finished DC)*
    • Now you should have **6 loops on your hook**.
  6. **Do not complete the bobble with black yarn.** Instead, grab your **gray yarn**, yarn over with gray, and pull through **all 6 loops** on your hook. This finishes the bobble and simultaneously color changes back to gray, creating a seamless transition for your possum’s leg.
  7. Tip: Gently push the bobble outwards with your finger from the inside of your work so it protrudes nicely, forming a clear leg.
  8. Now, work **13 single crochets (SC) in gray**. On the **13th single crochet, do not finish it**. This prepares for the next color change for the second leg.
  9. Introduce your **black yarn** to complete that 13th single crochet, color changing smoothly to black.
  10. For the second front leg: In the *next stitch*, create another bobble stitch, following the exact same steps as you did for the first leg (5 half-finished double crochets in the same stitch).
  11. **Do not complete the bobble with black yarn.** Instead, grab your **gray yarn**, yarn over with gray, and pull through **all 6 loops** on your hook to finish the bobble and color change back to gray.
  12. At this point, you can **cut off your black yarn** if you prefer, as it won’t be needed for a few rounds. If you keep it attached, it might get tangled and difficult to manage. Secure it with a knot to your gray tail if you cut it.
  13. To finish Round 8, you should have one more stitch remaining. Work **1 single crochet (SC) in gray**.
  14. Move your main stitch marker.
  15. At the end of Round 8, you should still have **18 stitches** around. Your possum now has its two front feet, beautifully integrated into the body thanks to this clever **possum crochet pattern**!

Building the Possum Body (Rounds 9-10)

After the excitement of the ears and front legs, Rounds 9 and 10 offer a straightforward opportunity to build the main body of your possum. These rounds are worked entirely in gray, allowing you to focus on maintaining even tension and a consistent stitch count, which is vital for the plushie’s final shape and appeal. Consistency in these rounds ensures a sturdy base for the rest of your **possum crochet pattern**.

Rounds 9 & 10: Building the Body

  1. For both Round 9 and Round 10, simply work **18 single crochets (SC)** around. There are no color changes or special stitches in these rounds, making them perfect for getting into a comfortable rhythm.
  2. Take your time to ensure your stitches are even and uniform. This consistency contributes to the overall neatness and professional look of your finished possum.
  3. After completing Round 10, your possum’s body will really be taking shape. You’ll see a clear distinction between the head and the beginning of the body section. Move your stitch marker at the end of each round to keep track.

Incorporating the Back Legs (Rounds 11-12)

Just like the front legs, the back legs of your possum are incorporated using the no-sew bobble stitch technique. These rounds, part of the clever **possum crochet pattern**, will complete all four limbs of your charming creation.

Round 11: Adding a Back Leg

  1. Make sure your **black yarn** is nearby again, as you’ll need it for the leg bobble.
  2. Work **17 single crochets (SC) in gray**. On the **17th single crochet, do not complete it**. This prepares for the color change.
  3. Introduce your **black yarn** to complete that 17th single crochet, smoothly color changing to black.
  4. Tie a knot to secure it to the gray tail. **Keep the black yarn attached** for the next round, as you’ll be using it again very soon.
  5. **For a back leg:** For the *last stitch of Round 11*, create a **bobble stitch** using the black yarn, just as you did for the front legs (5 half-finished double crochets in the same stitch).
  6. **Do not complete the bobble with black yarn.** Instead, grab your **gray yarn**, yarn over with gray, and pull through all 6 loops on your hook to finish the bobble and color change back to gray.
  7. At the end of Round 11, you should have **18 stitches** around. Move your main stitch marker.

Round 12: Adding the Final Back Leg

  1. Work **3 single crochets (SC) in gray**. On the **third single crochet, do not complete it**. This sets up the color change for the final leg.
  2. Introduce your **black yarn** to complete that third single crochet, color changing to black.
  3. **For the final back leg:** In the *next stitch*, create another **bobble stitch** using the black yarn, following the same method as before.
  4. **Do not complete the bobble with black yarn.** Instead, grab your **gray yarn**, yarn over with gray, and pull through all 6 loops on your hook to finish the bobble and color change back to gray.
  5. At this point, you can **cut off your black yarn** as you are completely done with it for this **possum crochet pattern**. Secure it with a knot if desired to prevent unraveling.
  6. To finish out Round 12, work **14 single crochets (SC) in gray**. This will bring you back to your main stitch marker.
  7. At this point, your possum should have all four legs made, neatly popping out from the body! Move your stitch marker.

Bringing Your Possum to Life: Assembly & Finishing Touches

You’re in the home stretch of completing your adorable amigurumi possum! This final phase of the **possum crochet pattern** involves placing the safety eyes, strategically stuffing your plushie, and expertly closing the body to prepare for the tail. These steps are crucial for giving your possum its personality and a polished, professional look.

Precision Eye Placement and Initial Stuffing

Placing the safety eyes correctly can truly make or break the facial expression of your possum. Take your time with this step to ensure they are evenly spaced and centered.

  1. Grab your two **6mm safety eyes**.
  2. We recommend aligning the eyes between **Round 4 and Round 5** of the head, which you created earlier. Count up from the very first pink nose round (Round 1) to locate the ideal spot. Gently push the first eye post through the fabric between these two rounds.
  3. Place the second eye roughly **six stitches apart** from the first eye, ensuring it’s also aligned similarly between Round 4 and 5.
  4. Before attaching the washers, **experiment with the placement**. Hold the possum up, look at it from different angles. Are the eyes straight? Do they look centered on the face? Move them around until you are completely happy with their position. This is the moment to decide on your possum’s unique gaze!
  5. Once satisfied with the placement, securely attach the **washers** on the inside of the head. Push them on firmly until you hear a click, ensuring the eyes won’t come off (especially important for items that might be handled by children, though safety eyes are generally recommended for ages 3+).
  6. Now, grab your **polyfill (fiberfill)** and begin stuffing your possum. I recommend stuffing it quite firmly, especially since it’s a small creature. Pack the polyfill into the head first, making sure it fills out evenly and gives a nice shape around the eyes and nose. Don’t fill it completely just yet, as you’ll continue working on the body. It’s good to start now to ensure the head and initial rounds are nicely stuffed before the opening gets too small. (You can also place eyes earlier if you prefer, but waiting until this stage can help ensure they align well with the developing body and legs, giving you a better sense of overall proportion for this **possum crochet pattern**).

Decreasing for Body Shaping (Round 13)

With the eyes placed and initial stuffing done, it’s time to start shaping and closing the body of your possum. Decreases are essential for creating the tapered form of the body and getting ready for the tail.

Round 13: Decreasing the Body

  1. For Round 13, you’ll be doing a sequence of **one single crochet (SC) followed by a decrease (DEC)**.
  2. Repeat this sequence **six times** around the round. So the pattern is: **(SC, Decrease)** – repeat 6 times.
  3. As you work these decreases, you’ll notice the opening of your possum’s body getting smaller. This is exactly what you want! Move your stitch marker to keep track.
  4. At the end of Round 13, you should have **12 stitches** remaining. Your adorable **possum crochet pattern** is almost complete!

The Final Decreases and Tail Preparation (Round 14)

This is the penultimate round for the body, where you’ll close up the remaining opening and prepare for the possum’s signature tail.

Round 14: Final Decrease & Tail Prep

  1. The hole will be getting very small now. This is your **last chance for stuffing**, so add any remaining polyfill to your liking. Ensure the possum is firmly stuffed and holds its shape well. Use the end of your crochet hook or a chopstick to push stuffing into any nooks and crannies, especially around the legs.
  2. For Round 14, you’ll be doing **six decreases (DEC)**. This means you will decrease every two stitches around the opening.
  3. On the **very last decrease (your sixth decrease), do not finish it out**. This is the final color change for your possum – back to pink for the tail!
  4. Grab your **pink yarn**. Cut off the gray yarn, leaving a good tail (about 6-8 inches) for tying a knot with the pink yarn securely.
  5. Introduce the **pink yarn** to complete that last decrease, performing a clean color change.
  6. Tie the gray and pink tails together securely with a tight knot. This ensures the new yarn is fastened and your stitches won’t unravel.
  7. Remove your main stitch marker, as you won’t need it for the tail.
  8. Stuff the remaining tails into your possum, pushing them deeply inside with your hook or a blunt tool.
  9. At the end of Round 14, you should have **6 remaining stitches** around. This small opening is perfect for the cinch closure.

Crocheting the Iconic Possum Tail

No possum is complete without its characteristic curled tail! This final piece of the **possum crochet pattern** adds so much charm and personality.

Creating the Tail:

  1. From where you finished Round 14 with your pink yarn, **chain 7 stitches (CH 7)**. This chain will form the base length of your possum’s tail.
  2. Now, working into the **second chain from the hook**, work **6 single crochets (SC)** down the chain. You will work one SC into each chain stitch until you reach the beginning of the chain. This forms your little, curled tail!
  3. Leave a **long tail of pink yarn** (about 8-10 inches) and cut it off. This tail will be used for the cinch closure.
  4. Pull your hook through the last loop and pull the yarn tail all the way through to fasten securely. This creates a knot that prevents the tail from unraveling.

The Cinch Closure: A Neat Finish

The cinch closure is a fantastic, almost invisible way to close off amigurumi pieces. It’s the perfect final touch for your **possum crochet pattern**.

Cinch Closure:

  1. Thread your **yarn needle** with the long pink tail you left from the tail.
  2. Thread your needle through the **front loops only (FLO)** of the remaining six stitches around the body opening. Work your needle from the outside to the inside, going through each of the six front loops sequentially.
  3. Once you have threaded the needle through all six front loops, simply **pull on the tail firmly**. The hole will magically cinch closed, creating a neat and almost invisible finish to your possum’s body.
  4. Weave the remaining tail into the body of your possum using your yarn needle. Push it deep inside to hide it completely. Work it back and forth a few times to secure it.
  5. Cut off any excess yarn when you’re done, and give your possum a final pat and squeeze to ensure even stuffing.

Quick Takeaways for Your Amigurumi Possum Project

Before we wrap up, here’s a concise recap of the key insights and benefits of mastering this delightful **possum crochet pattern**:

  • No-Sew Design for Efficiency: This pattern is a game-changer for speed and convenience, eliminating the need for tedious sewing of separate parts, making it ideal for bulk production.
  • High Market Appeal: Amigurumi possums are consistent bestsellers at craft markets, often being the first items to sell out due to their unique charm and compact size.
  • Intermediate Skill Builder: Perfect for crocheters looking to advance their skills, incorporating bobble stitches, frequent color changes, and precise loop work (FLO/BLO).
  • Yarn-Efficient Project: Requires minimal yarn, making it an excellent stash-buster and cost-effective for multiple creations.
  • Detailed & Clear Instructions: Our round-by-round guide ensures a smooth crafting experience, even with complex sections like ear and leg creation.
  • Customizable Potential: While designed with classic possum colors, the pattern offers flexibility for creative color variations to personalize your plushie.
  • Rewarding & Adorable Outcome: The finished baby possum is irresistibly cute, making it a wonderful handmade gift or a beloved addition to any collection.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs) about the Possum Crochet Pattern

We’ve gathered some common questions about this unique **possum crochet pattern** to provide further clarity and help you on your crafting journey.

Q1: Can I make this possum crochet pattern if I’m a complete beginner?

While the step-by-step instructions are very detailed, this particular **possum crochet pattern** does incorporate intermediate techniques such as bobble stitches, frequent color changes, and working into specific loops (front loop only/back loop only). If you’re a complete beginner, we recommend practicing these individual stitches first before tackling the full pattern. Online video tutorials for “bobble stitch crochet” or “how to change colors in amigurumi” can be very helpful preparation.

Q2: What’s the best yarn for this no-sew crochet possum?

We highly recommend using a size 6 chenille yarn, like Premier Parfait Chunky, for this **possum crochet pattern**. It creates an incredibly soft, plush finish that’s perfect for cuddly amigurumi. While other yarn weights can be used, be aware that the final size and texture of your possum will change, and you may need to adjust your hook size to maintain tight stitches.

Q3: How long does it typically take to complete one possum from this pattern?

Thanks to its no-sew design and relatively small size, this **possum crochet pattern** works up quite quickly! Experienced crocheters might be able to complete one in a few hours. For those newer to the techniques involved, it might take a bit longer, perhaps an evening or a weekend afternoon. Its speed makes it perfect for market preparation.

Q4: Why is a no-sew possum crochet pattern beneficial for market sellers?

The “no-sew” aspect of this **possum crochet pattern** is a huge advantage for market sellers because it significantly reduces the overall crafting time per item. Sewing takes a considerable amount of time and can be tedious. By eliminating this step, you can produce more plushies in less time, maximizing your inventory and potential sales for market-ready crochet items.

Q5: Can I modify the colors or size of this possum amigurumi?

Absolutely! While the pattern provides classic possum colors, feel free to experiment with different yarn colors to create a unique plushie. If you wish to alter the size, you can use a different yarn weight along with a corresponding hook size (e.g., a smaller hook for thinner yarn to maintain tight stitches). Just remember that changing yarn weight will proportionally change the final dimensions of your crochet possum.

Conclusion: Your Possum Crochet Masterpiece Awaits!

Congratulations! You’ve reached the end of our comprehensive guide to creating your very own adorable amigurumi possum. We hope you’ve found this **possum crochet pattern** not only easy to follow but also incredibly enjoyable to bring to life. From the magic ring start to the final cinch of the tail, every step has been designed to help you create a charming, high-quality plushie that’s sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.

The beauty of this particular **possum crochet pattern** lies in its clever no-sew design, which significantly cuts down on production time, making it an absolute winner for anyone looking to create items for craft markets. Many crafters find these miniature possums fly off the shelves, proving their immense popularity. Whether you’re crafting for profit, for gifting, or simply for the sheer joy of creating, this pattern offers a rewarding experience with an irresistibly cute outcome.

Remember that mastering techniques like color changes, bobble stitches, and working in specific loops enhances your overall crochet skill set, opening doors to even more intricate amigurumi projects in the future. Embrace the process, don’t be afraid to try new things, and most importantly, have fun watching your little possum take shape. We’re confident that your finished possum will be a testament to your growing crochet prowess and a delightful addition to your collection. We encourage you to start your own **possum crochet pattern** project today!

References

  • Crochet terminology and standard abbreviations are generally consistent across the craft community. For detailed definitions of stitches, resources like The Craft Yarn Council provide comprehensive guides. (e.g., Craft Yarn Council – Crochet Abbreviations)
  • Information on the benefits of different yarn types for amigurumi can be found on various crafting blogs and forums, emphasizing the importance of stitch definition and plushness. (e.g., The Spruce Crafts – Choosing Yarn for Amigurumi)
  • Insights into popular market items and no-sew amigurumi trends are often discussed within the Etsy seller community and craft fair organizer resources, highlighting efficiency and demand.

 

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