Free crochet pattern

Free Tiny Whale Keychain Pattern

Crochet a tiny lilac whale with a cream belly, rosy cheeks and a fin, finished with a keyring clip.

Free patternBeginner friendlyAbout 2 to 3 hours

Everything you need

Pattern details & materials

Skill level: Beginner friendly
Time needed: About 2 to 3 hours
Hook size: 2.5 mm (US B/1)
Yarn: Fine-weight 100% cotton

You will need

Fine-weight 100% cotton yarn in your main colour, plus small amounts for the details
2.5 mm (US B/1) crochet hook
Polyester fibre stuffing
6 mm safety eyes or black embroidery thread
Tapestry needle and sharp scissors
Keyring with a small chain or lobster clasp
Stitch marker

Good to know

Finished size: About 6 to 8 cm (2.5 to 3 in) tall, without the keyring.

Gauge: not important. Choose a hook that makes firm, tight stitches.

Level: perfect for confident beginners who know the magic ring, chain and single crochet.

Before you start

Stitches & abbreviations

All patterns use standard US crochet terms.

MR: Magic ring
ch: Chain
sl st: Slip stitch
sc: Single crochet
inc: Increase: 2 sc in the same stitch
dec: Decrease: 2 sc worked together
st(s): Stitch(es)
BLO: Back loop only

Follow along

Step by step

Step 1

Start with the magic ring

Make a magic ring and work the first rounds in continuous spirals, increasing evenly until the body reaches the width shown in the photos. Mark the start of each round.

Step 2

Shape the small details

Crochet the small parts such as ears, arms, wings or leaves. Stuff them lightly and keep your stitches even and snug.

Step 3

Assemble and finish

Stuff the body firmly, sew the pieces on with a tapestry needle, embroider the face and add the hanging loop.

Finishing touches

Finishing & care

Attach the keyring last, sewing the loop firmly into the top of the piece. To clean, spot-wash with cool water and a little mild soap, then air dry away from direct heat.

Take your time with the final assembly. Pin the pieces in place before you sew, check that everything looks balanced, and only then stitch them down.

Helpful maker advice

Tips and notes

Tip 1

Relax your tension

Keep your stitches moderately loose so the fabric stays soft and easy to shape.

Tip 2

Use a smaller hook

A hook one size smaller than your yarn label suggests keeps stitches tight so the stuffing never shows.

Tip 3

Mark every round

A small stitch marker at the start of each round keeps your count accurate.

Tip 4

Stuff as you go

Add small pieces of stuffing before the opening gets too narrow, and shape the piece with your fingers.

Tip 5

Hide your ends

Weave in every tail securely with a tapestry needle so nothing unravels with use.

Tip 6

Make it yours

Swap colours freely. Soft pastels, bold brights or festive reds all look lovely with the same shaping.

Good questions

Frequently asked questions

Can I sell what I make from this pattern?

Yes, you may sell the finished items you make in small quantities. Please credit Crochet With Mary and link back to this page. Please do not copy, share or resell the pattern itself.

Which yarn should I use?

Fine-weight 100% cotton gives the cleanest shape and stitch definition. Any similar weight works, as long as your stitches are firm enough to hold the stuffing.

Can I make it bigger?

Yes. Use a thicker yarn with a larger hook and follow the same shaping. The finished size grows with the yarn weight.

Is it safe for children?

These are decorative pieces with small parts, so they are not suitable for children under 3 years. Embroider the eyes instead of using safety eyes if the piece is for little ones.

How do I get the PDF?

Press the Download PDF button at the top or bottom of this page. It is free and opens in a new tab.

Take the pattern with you

Download the printable PDF and crochet anywhere.