If you love amigurumi but also enjoy the meditative rhythm of granny squares, you are going to adore the “Fat Granny Square Chicken!” This whimsical project turns simple flat squares into a charming, plump little friend. It is the perfect way to use up yarn scraps and create a unique piece of decor that is sure to bring a smile to anyone’s face.
This project is surprisingly beginner-friendly because it breaks a complex 3D shape down into manageable, modular pieces. Once you have mastered the basic granny square, you are more than halfway to finishing your new feathered companion. Let’s grab our hooks and get stitching!
Materials & Tools Needed
- Yarn: Medium-weight (worsted/aran) yarn in your choice of body color, plus small amounts for the beak (orange/yellow) and comb (red).
- Crochet Hook: 4.5mm or 5.0mm (or a size that creates a tight fabric so stuffing doesn’t peek through).
- Stuffing: Poly-fil or scrap yarn for that signature “fat” look.
- Notions: Yarn needle for sewing, stitch markers, and two safety eyes (or black yarn for embroidery).
Abbreviations & Pattern Notes
- ch: chain
- dc: double crochet
- sl st: slip stitch
- sc: single crochet
- Note: Work with a slightly tighter tension than usual to prevent stuffing gaps.
- Note: We will be creating a cube-like structure using 6 identical granny squares that rounds out once stuffed.
Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions
- Make the Squares: Crochet 6 identical granny squares. A standard 3-round or 4-round granny square is perfect. Fasten off, leaving a long tail for sewing.
- The Layout: Lay your squares out in a cross shape (four squares in a line, with one square attached to the middle square on either side).
- Join the Body: Using a whip stitch or your preferred joining method, sew the edges together to form a cube shape. Leave one edge open briefly to insert your stuffing.
- Stuffing: Fill the cube firmly with Poly-fil. Use your hands to gently mold the corners and sides, pushing the stuffing toward the edges to create a soft, rounded, “fat” chicken silhouette.
- Closing: Sew the final edge closed securely.
- Details: Use red yarn to crochet a small 3-chain picot or a tiny shell stitch for the comb on top. Use orange yarn to stitch a small triangle for the beak. If you haven’t added safety eyes yet, use your yarn needle to embroider small “v” shapes for sleepy eyes.
Finishing & Helpful Tips
- Consistent Sizing: Ensure all six squares are identical in size. If one is slightly larger, place it on the bottom of the chicken to act as a stable base.
- Tension Check: If you notice holes between your double crochet stitches, consider going down half a hook size. You want the chicken to hold its stuffing without it popping through the fabric.
- Creative Personalization: Don’t be afraid to mix colors! You can make each side of your chicken a different color for a scrappy, patchwork look.
- Safety Note: If you are making this as a gift for a small child, be sure to embroider the eyes rather than using plastic safety eyes to ensure it is completely baby-safe.
Watch the Step-by-Step Video Tutorial
Prefer visual guidance? Follow along with the complete video tutorial below: