Free Crochet Animal Applique Patterns

These free crochet animal applique patterns are small, useful crochet pieces you can add to crocheted baby blankets, nursery wall hangings, pillows, banners, garlands and handmade baby gifts. Instead of making a full stuffed animal, each design works as a flat crochet accent with clear animal details. This page starts with safari animal appliqués, including a lion, elephant, giraffe and monkey, and can grow into a larger collection of animal crochet motifs over time.

By Jan Bay

These Crochet Animal Applique Patterns can be mixed and matched to decorate baby blankets, nursery wall hangings, garlands and other handmade projects.

Abbreviations for the Crochet Animal Applique Patterns

• magic ring: adjustable starting loop worked in the round
• ch: chain
• sc: single crochet
• sl st: slip stitch
• inc: 2 sc in the same stitch
• dec: single crochet 2 stitches together
• st: stitch
• sts: stitches
• FO: fasten off

All of these Crochet Animal Applique Patterns use the same basic construction method, making it easy to create a coordinated safari collection.

Crochet Lion Applique Pattern

This crochet lion appliqué is a lightly padded decorative motif made with two matching body panels, a round scalloped mane, small ears, a muzzle, tail and embroidered face. It can be sewn onto crocheted baby blankets, nursery banners, wall hangings, pillows, tote bags or used as a safari nursery accent.

Finished Lion Size

• Finished height: about 5 1/2 inches
• Finished width across mane: about 4 inches
• Construction: flat amigurumi
• Main body: two identical panels
• Stuffing: light only
• Face: embroidered features

Materials for One Lion

• Worsted weight cotton yarn in golden tan for body
• Worsted weight cotton yarn in caramel or rust for mane
• Small amount of cream yarn for muzzle
• Small amount of dark brown embroidery thread or yarn for eyes, nose and mouth
• 4.0 mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stitch marker
• Small amount of fiberfill
• Scissors

Lion Body Panels, Make 2

Use golden tan yarn. Ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each ch across. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 6 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 4: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 6: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Rows 7 through 10: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 11: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 12: Dec, sc in next 8 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 13: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 14: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 15: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 16: Inc in first st, sc in next 12 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 17: Inc in first st, sc in next 14 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (18 sts)

Rows 18 through 24: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (18 sts)

Row 25: Dec, sc in next 14 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 26: Dec, sc in next 12 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 27: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. (12 sts)

FO on both panels. Weave in the short starting tail. Leave a long yarn tail on one panel if you want to use it for joining. Rows 1 through 12 form the body. Row 13 forms the neck. Rows 14 through 27 form the head.

Before assembly, each flat body panel should measure about 4¾ inches tall. The added mane brings the finished lion close to 5½ inches.

Lion Mane, Make 2

Use caramel or rust yarn. The mane sits behind the head on the front and back of the lion so the finished motif has a full outline from both sides.

Round 1: Make a magic ring. Work 8 sc into ring. Join with sl st to first sc. (8 sts)

Round 2: Ch 1. Inc in each st around. Join. (16 sts)

Round 3: Ch 1. Sc in next st, inc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (24 sts)

Round 4: Ch 1. Sc in next 2 sts, inc in next st. Repeat around. Join. (32 sts)

Round 5: Ch 1. Sc in each st around. Join with sl st. (32 sts)

Round 6: Ch 1. *Work (sc, ch 2, sc) in next st, sl st in next st.* Repeat from * to * around, using two stitches for each scallop. Join with sl st and FO. (16 scallops)

Make the second mane the same way. Each completed mane should have 16 evenly spaced scallops and measure about 3¾ to 4 inches across before sewing.

Lion Ears, Make 4

Use golden tan yarn.

Row 1: Ch 4. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in next 2 ch. Ch 1, turn. (3 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next st, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (5 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (5 sts)

Row 4: Dec, sc in next st, dec. (3 sts)

FO, leaving a long sewing tail. Fold the two bottom corners of each ear slightly toward each other and secure them with one small stitch before sewing the ear to the head.

Lion Muzzle, Make 1

Use cream yarn.

Round 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 2 ch, 3 sc in last ch. Working along the opposite side of the foundation chain, sc in next 2 ch, 2 sc in last ch. Join with sl st. (10 sts)

Round 2: Ch 1. Inc in first st, sc in next 3 sts, inc in each of the next 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts, inc in last st. Join with sl st to first sc. (14 sts)

Round 3: Ch 1. Sc in each st around. Join with sl st. FO, leaving a long sewing tail. (14 sts)

The muzzle should look like a small oval, not a large snout. If it covers too much of the face, the lion may start to look more like a bear.

Lion Tail, Make 1

Use golden tan yarn.

Ch 10. Sl st in the 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch across. FO, leaving a sewing tail.

For the tail tuft, use caramel or rust yarn. Attach yarn to the end of the tail, ch 3, sl st back into the same end stitch, ch 3, sl st back into the same end stitch again. FO and trim tails after sewing.

Assemble the Lion Appliqué

Fold one mane in half to locate the top center and mark it with a stitch marker. Fold the front head panel in half and mark its center the same way. Align the two center marks before sewing.

Position Row 27 about ½ inch below the top scallop of the mane so at least one full round of mane color shows around the head before the scalloped edge begins. Tack the mane to the head with four small stitches at the top, bottom and both sides first. Then sew between those points, alternating from one side to the other so the mane stays centered.

Repeat with the second mane on the back head panel.

Sew the front ears between Rows 24 and 25, positioning each ear about 2 stitches in from the outer edge of the head. Sew the remaining ears in the matching positions on the back head panel.

Place the muzzle on the front head so it spans approximately Rows 18 through 21. Center it across the middle 8 to 10 stitches of the face, leaving an even amount of head showing on both sides.

Embroider the Lion Face

With dark brown yarn or embroidery thread, stitch two small eyes on Row 19, about 5 stitches apart and centered over the muzzle. Stitch a small triangle nose near the top center of the muzzle. Add one short vertical line below the nose and a tiny curved mouth.

Keep the face simple so the lion remains easy to recognize when it is used on a blanket, banner, wall hanging or nursery decor project.

Join and Lightly Stuff the Lion

Place the front and back body panels together with wrong sides facing. The mane pieces should already be sewn to the outside of each head panel. Match the bottom, neck and head edges carefully before joining.

Before joining the panels, use golden tan yarn to stitch one short vertical leg divider on the front body panel. Place it at the center of the lowest body edge and stitch upward for about 4 rows, stopping before the body begins to widen. Repeat on the back panel if desired.

With the front panel facing up, insert the tail between the two body panels on the viewer’s left side between Rows 3 and 4, about one stitch in from the outer edge. Catch the tail securely as you crochet around the body edge.

Join golden tan yarn on the lower left side of the body, about 2 rows above the bottom edge. Working through both body panels only, sc evenly around the joined body and head. Do not work through the outer mane scallops. Place approximately one sc in the end of each row and one sc in each stitch across the top and bottom edges.

Work 2 sc in each outside corner of the body and at the top corners of the head to keep the outline rounded. Work 2 sc at each neck corner where Row 13 meets Row 14 so the join does not pinch inward.

Leave the final 2 inches open along one lower side of the body, not near the mane. Add a thin layer of stuffing, about 1 tablespoon total for the body and head. The lion should have a little lift, but it should not puff into a toy shape.

Finish closing with sc. Join with sl st and FO. Weave every yarn tail through the inside of the lion at least twice before trimming.

Lay the finished lion flat and gently shape the mane, ears and body with your fingers. If the edges curl, lightly block the appliqué until it dries flat.

Before attaching the lion appliqué to your finished project, gently tug on the ears, tail, mane and muzzle. Reinforce any loose pieces with additional stitching before sewing the appliqué permanently in place.

This crochet lion appliqué is intended for decorative use. If it is added to a baby blanket or nursery item, sew it on securely and check all edges, ears, tail, mane and muzzle before use.

The finished lion appliqué should measure close to 5½ inches tall from the top of the mane to the bottom of the body. A small variation is normal depending on yarn weight, hook size and individual crochet tension.

Crochet Elephant Appliqué Pattern

Use light gray yarn for the elephant body, ears, trunk and tail, and pale pink yarn for the inner ear patches. This crochet elephant appliqué is a lightly padded decorative motif that can be sewn onto crocheted baby blankets, nursery banners, wall hangings, pillows, tote bags and other handmade projects.

Finished Elephant Size

• Finished height: about 5¾ inches
• Finished width across ears: about 5 inches
• Construction: lightly padded flat crochet motif
• Main body: two identical panels
• Stuffing: light only
• Face: embroidered features

Materials for One Elephant

• Worsted weight cotton yarn in light gray for the body, ears, trunk and tail
• Small amount of pale pink yarn for the inner ear patches
• Small amount of dark gray embroidery thread or yarn for the eyes
• 4.0 mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stitch marker
• Small amount of fiberfill
• Scissors

Elephant Body Panels, Make 2

Use light gray yarn. Ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 6 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 4: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 6: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Rows 7 through 11: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 12: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 13: Dec, sc in next 8 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 14: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 15: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 16: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 17: Inc in first st, sc in next 12 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 18: Inc in first st, sc in next 14 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (18 sts)

Rows 19 through 25: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (18 sts)

Row 26: Dec, sc in next 14 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 27: Dec, sc in next 12 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 28: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. (12 sts)

FO on both panels. Leave a long sewing tail on one panel for joining. Rows 1 through 13 form the body. Row 14 forms the neck. Rows 15 through 28 form the head.

Before assembly, each flat body panel should measure about 5 inches tall. The ears and trunk bring the finished elephant to approximately 5¾ inches.

Elephant Ears, Make 4

Use light gray yarn. The oversized ears give the elephant its distinctive safari look while keeping the finished appliqué flat.

Row 1: Ch 6. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (5 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 3 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (7 sts)

Row 3: Inc in first st, sc in next 5 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (9 sts)

Row 4: Inc in first st, sc in next 7 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (11 sts)

Rows 5 through 8: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (11 sts)

Row 9: Dec, sc in next 7 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (9 sts)

Row 10: Dec, sc in next 5 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (7 sts)

Row 11: Dec, sc in next 3 sts, dec. (5 sts)

FO, leaving a long sewing tail. Fold the lower edge of each ear inward about ¼ inch and secure it with one small stitch to create a gentle curved shape.

Each finished ear measures about 2¼ inches tall by 2 inches wide.

Inner Ear Patches, Make 2

Use pale pink yarn.

Row 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (4 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 2 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Rows 3 through 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 6: Dec, sc in next 2 sts, dec. (4 sts)

FO, leaving a sewing tail.

Sew one inner ear patch to each front ear, leaving about ¼ inch of gray showing around every edge.

Elephant Trunk, Make 1

Use light gray yarn.

Row 1: Ch 7. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Rows 2 through 6: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 7: Dec, sc in next 2 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (4 sts)

Rows 8 through 12: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (4 sts)

Row 13: Sc in each st across. FO, leaving a long sewing tail. (4 sts)

After sewing the trunk in place, curve the lower third slightly toward one side and secure it with one small hidden stitch.

Elephant Tail, Make 1

Use light gray yarn.

Ch 10. Sl st in the 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch across. FO, leaving a sewing tail.

Attach two short strands of gray yarn to the end of the tail and trim the tuft to about ⅜ inch.

Assemble the Elephant

Lay the two body panels side by side with the right sides facing up.

Sew one completed front ear with its inner ear patch to each side of the front head. Attach the remaining two plain ears to the back body panel in the matching positions.

Place the front and back body panels together with the wrong sides facing. Insert the tail between the body panels before joining.

Working through both body panels, single crochet evenly around the outside edge, placing two single crochet stitches at each outside corner and neck corner.

Leave a 2-inch opening along one lower side of the body. Add about 1 tablespoon of fiberfill so the elephant remains lightly padded while staying relatively flat. Finish closing the opening and weave in all yarn tails securely.

Lay the elephant flat and gently shape the body and ears with your fingers. If the edges curl, lightly block the appliqué until it dries flat.

Attach the Trunk

Center the trunk on the front of the head, positioning the top edge between Rows 18 and 19.

Sew only the top edge and upper third of each side, leaving the lower portion free so the trunk hangs naturally. Add one small hidden stitch near the lower third to create a gentle curve.

Embroider the Face

With dark gray embroidery thread, stitch two small eyes on Row 18 about five stitches apart and centered above the trunk.

If desired, add one short curved eyebrow above each eye using a single strand of dark gray yarn.

Keep the facial details simple so the elephant remains easy to recognize whether it is sewn onto a crocheted baby blanket, nursery banner, wall hanging or other handmade décor project.

Before attaching the elephant appliqué to your finished project, gently tug on the ears, trunk and tail. Reinforce any loose pieces with additional stitching before sewing the appliqué permanently in place.

This crochet elephant appliqué is intended for decorative use. If it is added to a baby blanket or nursery item, sew it on securely and check all edges, ears, trunk and tail before use.

The finished elephant appliqué measures approximately 5¾ inches tall by about 5 inches wide across the ears, although the final size may vary slightly depending on yarn weight, hook size and individual crochet tension.

Like the other Crochet Animal Applique Patterns on this page, the giraffe is lightly stuffed so it keeps its shape while remaining flat enough for blankets and nursery décor.

Crochet Giraffe Appliqué Pattern

This crochet giraffe appliqué is a lightly padded decorative motif with a long neck, rounded head, small ears, ossicones, embroidered spots, a muzzle and a tail. It can be sewn onto crocheted baby blankets, nursery banners, wall hangings, pillows, tote bags or used as a safari nursery accent.

Finished Giraffe Size

• Finished height: about 6 inches
• Finished width across head: about 3 inches
• Construction: lightly padded flat crochet motif
• Main body: two identical panels
• Stuffing: light only
• Face: embroidered features and stitched spots

Materials for One Giraffe

• Worsted weight cotton yarn in golden yellow for the body, ears and tail
• Small amount of brown yarn for the ossicones, tail tuft and embroidered spots
• Small amount of cream yarn for the muzzle
• Small amount of dark brown embroidery thread or yarn for the eyes and facial features
• 4.0 mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stitch marker
• Small amount of fiberfill
• Scissors

Giraffe Body Panels, Make 2

Use golden yellow yarn. Ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 6 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 4: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 6: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Rows 7 through 11: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 12: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 13: Dec, sc in next 8 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Rows 14 through 18: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 19: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 20: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 21: Inc in first st, sc in next 12 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Rows 22 through 26: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 27: Dec, sc in next 12 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 28: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 29: Sc in each st across. (12 sts)

FO on both panels. Leave a long sewing tail on one panel for joining. Fold each body panel in half lengthwise and place a removable stitch marker at the center of the neck. This helps align the ears, muzzle and ossicones during assembly.

Rows 1 through 11 form the body. Rows 12 and 13 create the shoulder transition into the neck. Rows 14 through 18 form the narrower neck. Rows 19 through 29 form the head.

Before assembly, each body panel should measure about 5 inches tall. After the ears and ossicones are attached, the finished giraffe appliqué should measure about 6 inches from the tops of the ossicones to the bottom of the body.

Giraffe Ears, Make 4

Use golden yellow yarn.

Row 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (4 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 2 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 3: Inc in first st, sc in next 4 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Rows 4 through 6: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 7: Dec, sc in next 4 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 8: Dec, sc in next 2 sts, dec. (4 sts)

FO, leaving a long sewing tail. Fold the center of the lower edge inward about ⅛ inch and secure it with one small stitch before attaching it to the head.

Each finished ear should measure about 1¾ inches tall and about 1½ inches wide.

Ossicones, Make 4

Use brown yarn.

Row 1: Ch 4. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (3 sts)

Rows 2 through 4: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (3 sts)

Row 5: Sc in each st across. FO, leaving a long sewing tail. (3 sts)

Fold the lower edge of each ossicone inward about ⅛ inch before sewing. Stitch through the folded base only so the ossicones stand upright while remaining flexible.

Giraffe Muzzle, Make 1

Use cream yarn.

Round 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 2 ch, 3 sc in last ch. Working along the opposite side of the foundation chain, sc in next 2 ch, 2 sc in last ch. Join with sl st. (10 sts)

Round 2: Ch 1. Inc in first st, sc in next 3 sts, inc in each of the next 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts, inc in last st. Join with sl st. (14 sts)

Round 3: Ch 1. Sc in each st around. Join with sl st and FO, leaving a long sewing tail. (14 sts)

The finished muzzle should measure about 1¼ inches wide and about ⅞ inch tall. Keep the shape slightly oval rather than round.

Giraffe Tail, Make 1

Use golden yellow yarn.

Ch 10. Sl st in the 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch across. FO, leaving a sewing tail.

Attach two short strands of brown yarn to the end of the tail. Knot securely, trim the tuft to approximately ⅜ inch, then lightly separate the strands with a yarn needle so the tuft spreads naturally.

Assemble the Giraffe Appliqué

Lay the two body panels side by side with the right sides facing up.

Sew one completed front ear to each side of the front head. Position the top edge of each ear across Rows 24 and 25, beginning about one stitch in from the outer edge.

Sew the remaining two ears to the matching positions on the back body panel. Compare both panels before continuing to be sure the ears are positioned evenly on both sides of the finished appliqué.

Sew two ossicones to the top of the front head along Row 29. Position each ossicone about 2 stitches in from the outer edge so they sit evenly on either side of the head center. Repeat with the remaining two ossicones on the back panel.

Join and Lightly Stuff the Giraffe

Place the front and back body panels together with wrong sides facing. Match the neck and head carefully so both panels align evenly.

With the front panel facing up, insert the tail between the two body panels on the viewer’s left side between Rows 3 and 4, about one stitch in from the outer edge.

Join golden yellow yarn near the lower left side of the body. Working through both body panels only, sc evenly around the entire giraffe. Work approximately one sc in the end of each row and one sc in every stitch across the top and bottom edges.

Work 2 sc at each outside corner of the body, both shoulder corners where the neck begins and both top head corners to maintain smooth curves.

Do not crochet through the ears or ossicones. Leave every attached piece free outside the joined body panels.

Leave the final 2 inches open along one lower side of the body. Add approximately 1 tablespoon of fiberfill, placing slightly more in the body than the neck and head. Spread the stuffing evenly with your fingers so the giraffe remains lightly padded while keeping the finished appliqué relatively flat.

Finish closing with single crochet. Join with a slip stitch, fasten off and weave every yarn tail securely through the inside of the body before trimming.

Lay the giraffe flat and gently shape the neck with your fingers before attaching the remaining pieces. The neck should remain straight without twisting toward either side.

Attach the Muzzle and Embroider the Face

Center the muzzle on the lower head using the neck center marker. Position the top of the muzzle between Rows 21 and 22.

Sew the muzzle completely around its outer edge using small whip stitches.

With dark brown embroidery thread, stitch two small eyes on Row 20 approximately 5 stitches apart and centered above the muzzle.

Embroider a small nose near the upper center of the muzzle and add one short vertical stitch below it with a slight curved smile.

Embroider the Giraffe Spots

Use brown yarn and a yarn needle to embroider the giraffe’s spots after the body has been joined and lightly stuffed.

Stitch 8 to 10 irregular spots on the front and another 8 to 10 on the back. Place smaller spots on the neck and larger spots on the body. Keep every spot at least ¼ inch away from the outside edge so the joining stitches remain clear.

Avoid placing spots directly beneath the ears or ossicones so the facial features remain the focal point.

Before attaching the giraffe appliqué to your finished project, gently tug on the ears, ossicones, muzzle and tail. Reinforce any loose pieces with additional stitching before sewing the appliqué permanently in place.

This crochet giraffe appliqué is intended for decorative use. If it is added to a baby blanket or nursery item, sew it on securely and check all edges, ears, ossicones, muzzle, spots and tail before use.

The finished giraffe appliqué measures approximately 6 inches from the tops of the ossicones to the bottom of the body. Finished size may vary slightly depending on yarn weight, hook size and individual crochet tension.

Crochet Monkey Appliqué Pattern

This crochet monkey appliqué is a lightly padded decorative motif with a rounded head, curled tail, small ears and embroidered facial features. It can be sewn onto crocheted baby blankets, nursery banners, wall hangings, pillows, tote bags or used as a safari nursery accent.

Finished Monkey Size

• Finished height: about 5½ inches
• Finished width: about 3½ inches
• Construction: lightly padded flat crochet motif
• Main body: two identical panels
• Stuffing: light only
• Face: embroidered features

Materials for One Monkey

Use medium brown yarn for the body, ears and tail, tan yarn for the muzzle, inner ear patches and face outline, and dark brown embroidery thread for the facial features.

• Worsted weight cotton yarn in medium brown for the body, ears and tail
• Small amount of tan yarn for the muzzle, inner ear patches and face outline
• Small amount of dark brown embroidery thread or yarn for the eyes, nose and mouth
• 4.0 mm crochet hook
• Yarn needle
• Stitch marker
• Small amount of fiberfill
• Scissors

Monkey Body Panels, Make 2

Use medium brown yarn. Ch 9.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 6 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (10 sts)

Row 4: Inc in first st, sc in next 8 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 6: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Rows 7 through 11: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 12: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 13: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 14: Inc in first st, sc in next 10 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 15: Inc in first st, sc in next 12 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Rows 16 through 22: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (16 sts)

Row 23: Dec, sc in next 12 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (14 sts)

Row 24: Dec, sc in next 10 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (12 sts)

Row 25: Sc in each st across. (12 sts)

FO on both panels. Leave a long sewing tail on one panel for joining.

Rows 1 through 12 form the body. Row 13 creates the shoulder transition. Rows 14 through 25 form the head. The finished head should appear slightly rounded without becoming oversized.

Before assembly, each body panel should measure about 5¼ inches tall. The ears bring the finished monkey appliqué to approximately 5½ inches tall.

Fold each body panel in half lengthwise and place a removable stitch marker at the center of the neck before assembly. The two body panels remain identical. The ears, muzzle and curled tail are added afterward so both body panels remain symmetrical and the finished monkey appliqué keeps a balanced shape.

Monkey Ears, Make 4

Use medium brown yarn for the outer ear and tan yarn for the inner ear patch.

Outer Ear (Make 4)

Row 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (4 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next 2 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 3: Inc in first st, sc in next 4 sts, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Rows 4 and 5: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (8 sts)

Row 6: Dec, sc in next 4 sts, dec. Ch 1, turn. (6 sts)

Row 7: Dec, sc in next 2 sts, dec. (4 sts)

FO, leaving a long sewing tail.

Inner Ear Patch (Make 2)

Using tan yarn, Ch 4.

Row 1: Sc in 2nd ch from hook and in each remaining ch. Ch 1, turn. (3 sts)

Row 2: Inc in first st, sc in next st, inc in last st. Ch 1, turn. (5 sts)

Row 3: Sc in each st across. Ch 1, turn. (5 sts)

Row 4: Sc in each st across. (5 sts)

FO, leaving a sewing tail.

Sew one tan ear patch to each of the two front ears, centering it evenly and leaving a narrow brown border visible around every edge.

Fold the center of the lower edge of each ear inward about ⅛ inch and secure it with one small stitch to create a shallow cup before assembly.

Each completed ear measures approximately 1½ inches tall and 1¼ inches wide.

Monkey Muzzle, Make 1

Use tan yarn.

Round 1: Ch 5. Sc in 2nd ch from hook, sc in next 2 ch, 3 sc in last ch. Working along the opposite side of the foundation chain, sc in next 2 ch, 2 sc in last ch. Join with sl st. (10 sts)

Round 2: Ch 1. Inc in first st, sc in next 3 sts, inc in each of the next 2 sts, sc in next 3 sts, inc in last st. Join with sl st. (14 sts)

Round 3: Ch 1. Sc in each st around. Join with sl st and FO, leaving a long sewing tail. (14 sts)

The finished muzzle should measure approximately 1¼ inches wide by ⅞ inch tall and remain slightly oval.

Monkey Tail, Make 1

Use medium brown yarn.

Ch 21.

Row 1: Work 2 sc in the 2nd ch from hook and 2 sc in each remaining chain across. (40 sts)

FO, leaving a long sewing tail.

The tail naturally curls into a spiral. If necessary, wrap it gently around a crochet hook or your finger before sewing it in place to encourage an even, relaxed curl.

Monkey Inner Face Patch

Using tan yarn, lightly outline a wide oval around the muzzle before stitching the facial features. Keep the outline centered on the face for a balanced appearance.

Assemble the Monkey Appliqué

Lay the two body panels side by side with the right sides facing up.

Sew one completed front ear, including its tan inner ear patch, to each side of the front head. Position the top edge of each ear across Rows 18 and 19, beginning about one stitch in from the outer edge.

Sew the remaining two plain ears to the matching positions on the back body panel. Compare both panels before continuing so the ears are positioned evenly on both sides of the finished appliqué.

Lay the front and back panels together before joining to confirm that both ears extend the same distance beyond the head and that the tail opening aligns correctly.

Join and Lightly Stuff the Monkey

Place the front and back body panels together with wrong sides facing. Match the body and head carefully so both panels align evenly.

Insert the tail between the two body panels on one side between Rows 3 and 4, about one stitch in from the outer edge.

Join medium brown yarn near the lower left side of the body. Working through both body panels only, sc evenly around the entire monkey.

Work 2 sc at each outside corner of the body and both top head corners to maintain smooth curves.

Do not crochet through the ears or tail. Leave both free outside the joined body panels.

Leave the final 2 inches open along one lower side of the body. Add approximately 1 tablespoon of fiberfill, placing slightly more in the body than the head while keeping the finished appliqué relatively flat.

Finish closing with single crochet. Join with a slip stitch, fasten off and weave every yarn tail securely through the inside before trimming.

Lay the monkey flat and gently shape the head and body with your fingers. The body should remain symmetrical with no puckering along the joined edge.

Attach the Muzzle and Embroider the Face

Center the muzzle on the lower head using the neck center marker. Position the top of the muzzle between Rows 20 and 21.

Sew the muzzle completely around its outer edge using small whip stitches.

With dark brown embroidery thread, stitch two small eyes on Row 19 approximately 5 stitches apart and centered above the muzzle.

Embroider a small oval nose near the upper center of the muzzle. Add one short vertical stitch below the nose and a gentle curved smile.

Finish the Face Patch

Check that the tan face outline remains smooth and centered around the muzzle. Add one or two hidden stitches if needed to keep the outline flat.

Finishing the Monkey Appliqué

Before attaching the monkey appliqué to your finished project, gently tug on the ears, muzzle and tail. Reinforce any loose pieces with additional stitching before sewing the appliqué permanently in place.

This crochet monkey appliqué is intended for decorative use. If it is added to a baby blanket or nursery item, sew it on securely and check all edges, ears, muzzle and tail before use.

The finished monkey appliqué measures approximately 5½ inches tall. Finished size may vary slightly depending on yarn weight, hook size and individual crochet tension.

Finishing Free Crochet Animal Applique Patterns

Once your Crochet Animal Applique Patterns are assembled, a few finishing steps will help them stay secure and lie flat on your completed project.

After each crochet animal appliqué is assembled, check every sewn-on piece before adding it to a blanket, banner, wall hanging or nursery decor project. Tug gently on ears, tails, muzzles, trunks, manes and spots. Reinforce anything that shifts before the appliqué is sewn permanently in place.

For a larger safari nursery project using these same animal designs, see the full crochet safari animal mobile pattern.

These four safari crochet animal appliqué patterns are designed to work together, making them easy to mix and match on baby blankets, nursery banners, wall hangings and other handmade gifts. Additional animal appliqué patterns can be added to this collection over time while keeping the same construction style and finished scale.

More Free Crochet Animal Patterns

If you enjoyed these Crochet Animal Applique Patterns, you may also like these free crochet baby patterns and coordinating nursery projects.

• Crochet Animal Lovey Patterns
• Crochet Cat Lovey Pattern
• Easy Baby Lovey Crochet Patterns
• Crochet Baby Mobile Patterns
• Free Baby Crochet Patterns