Today, I’m sharing the crochet zebra, stuffed animal I made as a baby gift.
After a 40 plus year hiatus, I retaught myself how to crochet. I was motivated by all the mini crocheted animals seen online, called amigurumi. Many bloggers offer free patterns too.
Crocheting has been a good way to keep myself occupied during the darn pandemic. As a practice project, I found a cute little bee pattern on Pinterest.
When I discovered my college roomie and BFF was to become a grandma again, I quickly got to work on the crochet zebra.
It might be too late to make a crochet zebra in time for Christmas or Hanukkah this year. But it’s a good project to take on during the winter months, as either a baby or child’s birthday gift.
This month’s Craft Hop includes a sweet sixteen of ideas and inspiration. To those visiting from my friend Rebecca of Zucchini Sisters, and her sweet pom pom pillow, welcome!
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Where the Wild Things Are
Regular readers might recognize the setting where I took pictures of Zoe the crochet zebra? She’s sitting on the bench in what was my youngest son’s bedroom.
It’s been transformed with Sophisticated Safari Decor from Kid to Guest Bedroom. 
I was initially inspired by this giraffe and tiger my mom made. Only later did I find out they were knit not crochet.
So I went on a search for a crochet zebra pattern that was easy to moderate difficulty.
I found a free pattern online by Sarah of Repeat Crafter Me. She received permission from Yarnspriations to adapt their knit version into a crochet zebra pattern.
Sarah’s zebra was made in soft gray and cream yarns. Others have frequently made the crochet zebra in gray with pink or blue stripes.
But, I wanted mine in more classic, natural colors of black and white.
However, it took a little effort to locate baby-soft yarn that came in black.
Making a Crochet Zebra
Using Sarah’s free pattern makes the crochet zebra project relatively inexpensive. Especially if you are able to purchase the yarn and filling on sale, or with a coupon.
Supplies
- Yarn (1 skein each of two colors, approximately 5 oz. weight)
- Size G crochet hook
- Yarn markers
- Tapestry needle
- Safety eyes
- Poly-fil Stuffing
Finished size is about 18-inches tall, or teddy bear size. Although Zoe does have an exaggerated-sized head lol!
Crochet Tutorials
Having completed the crochet zebra, I would describe the pattern as easy to moderate — depending on if you ever crocheted or knit before.
As someone who had not crocheted in decades, brief online tutorials helped refresh my memory for creating the different stitches, adding/decreasing, changing colors, etc. There are so many good tutorials online to choose from .
Even if you are just starting out, the crochet zebra is a relatively easy, yet rewarding project. Just be sure to practice the various stiches first. And like knitting, you’ll want to get a feel for holding the yarn and hook in your fingers, as well as for the tension of stitches.
Stitches/skills for the crochet zebra: slip knot, chain stitch, changing colors, Magic Ring, single crochet (SC), adding/decreasing SC, SC pieces together, loop stitch, 12-strand braid.
Step 1: Crochet & Stuff Body & Head
Sarah’s pattern calls for using a Magic Ring when starting the body, head, legs and arms.
Bottom, outside of crochet zebra body using a magic ring to start.
“A Magic Ring is the ideal way to start crocheting in the round. You start crocheting over an adjustable loop and finally pull the loop tight when you have finished the required number of stitches. The advantage of this method is that there’s no hole left in the middle of your starting round.” Amigurumi Patterns
If you’ve never crocheted a Magic Ring it’s best to practice and get the hang of it first. It’s a little awkward to hold until you get the second row done. But, it isn’t hard to do if you’re already comfortable holding a crochet hook.
Crochet zebra body in progress, prior to stuffing and finishing off.
I was able to get the hang of starting a Magic Ring pretty quickly. But, I did struggle with identifying and counting what was a stitch or not, particularly when moving from one ring to the next row.
Completed main body of crochet zebra, and white nose started using a magic ring.
Some patterns always say to chain one before starting the next row, but others do not. The crochet zebra pattern did not stipulate one way or the other. So, counting stitches was key!
Changing Colors
Although changing colors between black and white stripes was easy, I wasn’t able to create the straightest seams.
That was directly related to confusion on counting appropriate stitches. Just five minutes with someone experienced would have clarified things in a snap. So, it took a little trial and error to figure out. In the end, I just tried to be consistent in what I thought was the first stitch of a new row.
Completed crochet zebra head after safety eyes, stuffing and finishing off.
Crocheting the body and head are very similar, using a simple SC stitch. Both are egg-shaped.
Prior to stuffing the head, safety eyes are put in place. I had to buy a larger size than the pattern called for (12mm vs 6mm). Directions said to place the eyes 12 stitches apart. Looking at Zoe now, I think I should have placed them in the next white strip back. What do you think?
I also should have left the yarn ends much longer on the zebra’s head and body. Suggest you leave about 24 inches of yarn for later sewing the animal pieces together.
Step 2: Crochet Arms & Legs
Just like the body and head, the legs and arms begin with a Magic Ring. They were also the most difficult to get a nice straight seam between color changes.
Because of how narrow the legs and arms are, it’s also tighter working the SC stitches, hook and alternating colors of yarn. Honestly, they were a bit monotonous to crochet and count. I’d just take a break from the crochet zebra, and pick it up a few days later.
Step 3: Crochet Ears
The crochet zebra ears use the easy SC stitch, but with edging.
It takes four pieces to make a pair of zebra ears — two white and two black.
After finishing off the ends, you simply SC one white and black piece together.
I used black yarn to SC the ear pieces together. White is the inside of each zebra ear.
Step 4: Create Mane & Tail
Making the loop stitch mane was fun, fast and easy. Sarah provides instructions with the pattern.
Loop stitch zebra mane after being attached to the head and body.
Surprisingly, the braided tail took some trial and error. The free pattern didn’t provide any instructions on braiding. And, I found it challenging to find online and then replicate the technique for a 12-strand braid.
Most tutorials were for making bracelets. Instead, I doubled up the yarn, and made a 6-strand braided tail.
Step 5: Sew Crochet Zebra Pieces Together
The free pattern didn’t provide any instruction or helpful tips for sewing the animal parts together either. Just a link to a 30-second, time-lapse video that was pretty useless. So, I found a tutorial for a much, much smaller zebra that I used as a basis to follow.
Again, I wish I had known ahead of time to leave much longer strands of yarn for sewing the zebra’s parts together.
That was especially true of the head. It wobbled and required much more yarn and sewing until I felt confident it was secured in place.
Also, I had a plastic tapestry needle, when a metal, tipped edge one would have worked better.
Overall, I’d give the crochet zebra pattern an B+. But heh, it was free! Perhaps if I was more experienced it would have warranted an A? However, it definitely needed instructions on the placement of parts (indicating a row or stripe would have been super helpful).
It’s a Wrap!
As soon as E told me her granddaughter was born, I ran out to Dollar Tree for a purple boa and tutu to embellish the crochet zebra. You see, purple is baby’s mom’s favorite color. I know this because I helped create centerpieces for the rehearsal dinner several years ago.
For $1 it wasn’t worth running around finding fabric and elastic, setting up the sewing machine, etc. to make a tutu. So, I just cut down the skirt — significantly.
After all, the boa and tutu are just a form of gift wrap. They aren’t infant proof and will be removed once the baby is old enough to snuggle Zoe, or drag it around by one leg lol!
Gift Giving Tradition
Giving a stuffed animal became a tradition after E’s children — and now grandchildren — were born. Years later, Winston the teddy bear went to college at our alma matter with E’s daughter. After L’s Love is Sweet Bridal Shower, I was touched to see Winston in her carry bag; enroute to the couples new home.
When E’s son’s little boy was born, I sent Peanuts, a squishable elephant. Now for his daughter, I made Zoe the zebra as a playmate.
It really brightened my day to see Zoe with the baby. Although, the crochet zebra looks a little monster-sized compared to the newborn, lol!
By the time BFF was able to fly out West, her granddaughter seemed to be aware and enjoying Zoe’s company.
Her big brother seems to have taken a shine to her too.
Have you ever crocheted or knit stuffed animals before? Anyone have patterns they’d recommend? I’d like to try an elephant next.
Monthly Craft Hop
Next up, is a stencil wooden sled from Sara of Birdz of a Feather.
Personalized Scrabble Tile Christmas Place Cards
Beautiful and Easy Wine Glass Candle Holder
How to Make a Cozy Neutral Pom Pom Pillow Cover
Adorable Crochet Zebra Makes A Sweet Homemade Gift
Fluffy Chenille Edged Poinsettia Stem
Simple Chandelier DIY Decoration
How to Make Christmas Tiles with Stencils
Easy and Festive Gift Card Ornaments
Fury Friends
Looking forward to the arrival of fury friends here in Pittsburgh soon. As I mention recently in, Santa Claus Collection is Coming to Town, my youngest will be here soon with four-month old Bentley.
And, Santa delivered a litter of Scottie puppies last week in Ohio — on the anniversary of the passing of my Sweet Scottie Dog. In early February, we’ll be bringing our little boy home. I’m so excited!
My physical therapy is going very well, and this afternoon I replace the walker with a cane. Over the weekend, I plan to get back in the kitchen to bake Christmas cookies. More exciting, is that on Monday I begin transitioning from the boot to a shoe!
Three-day old brindle color Scottie puppy courtesy of Jacqueline Wise, breeder.
Likely, I will be taking a break from blogging to enjoy the holidays, continue time-consuming PT, ease back and assume normal activities, and Prepare & Care for a Puppy.
Wishing you all a most happy and healthy holiday!
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This is just adorable Debbee! I don’t crochet or knit but can appreciate the time, effort and artistry of your cute zebra. I would never have been brave enough to tackle that even if I could crochet. I especially love the mane and cute tail. Congrats your transitioning to a cane and shoe next week. LOVE seeing your sweet Scottie pup, I know you’re beyond excited and Bentley looks handsome in his buffalo check! Merry December and Christmas to you ♥
Thanks so much Mary! My favorite part is the mane too. Crocheting isn’t hard, just basically creating loops and knots in a pattern. YouTube videos helps a lot when learning. I actually think making a teddy bear size animal is a lot easier than those tiny creatures I see Millennials are so into these days. But, I have always been intimidated by knitting, having only ever made scarves in simple patterns. I am thrilled about the puppy! He became more real when the breeder sent me photos at one week of age. Hubby thinks he looks more like a guinea pig lol! By Christmas his eyes will open.
You are so talented, Debbee to teach yourself how to crochet again. That’s something I’ve tried to do but just can’t get the hang of it! Your zebra turned out so cute and adorable and I’m sure your grandbabies adore and cherish him forever! And of course I love the purple boa and tutu embellishments, too!
Gail, you are so sweet to say so, but online tutorials and videos are really helpful — and practicing the basis stiches before starting an easy pattern. Arthritis can cramp up the ‘ol fingers at times though. Crochet hooks with ergonometric handles help. They are actually my BFF’s grandbabies, but she and they are like family. Should have realized you’d like the purple boa and tutu, lol! You could crochet the zebra in grey and purple stripes!
This is sooo cute it makes me want to learn to crochet. The mane, I love it. I hope you will post more pictures of your new puppy when you get him. What a fun way to start the year. Glad to hear you are back in a shoe. Thanks for being in the hop and Merry Christmas!
The long winter ahead makes learning to crochet a good pastime. I’m trying to decide what to try next. Oh Andrea, you are probably going to tire of my sharing of puppy photos, lol! I can’t wait to bring him home, when I’ll also be finished with all the PT. Thanks again for hosting, especially during this busy time of year.
Debbee, your zebra is so darn cute. I don’t crochet, but I can see all the love that went into making this sweet animal. Keep up the good work. Merry Christmas and stay safe.
Thanks Carol! Although I was worried I might be in over my head, it was a fun, rewarding project. Hoping Santa brings me some more crochet supplies and pattern books. I want to crochet and felt a Scottie dog!
How cute, Debbee! And the photo of the baby with Zoe is darling! Merry Christmas!
Thank you Cecilia. I like that the crochet animals have a bit of a retro look.
So adorable Debbee!! I love to crochet, I need to venture into the animal kingdom! Thank you for the great tutorial, and your babies are all precious! Merry holidays to you and yours!
Not surprised to hear crocheting is among your talents Jenna. Wish you could have coached me through the Magic Ring issue! Now I know who to turn too for future guidance. Most happy holidays to you too!
Debbee, I haven’t crochet since high school! Well over 45 + years. You have a knack for crocheting and your Zebra is adorable-no wonder the little boy is loving up on him. So happy to hear about your physical progress, plus the new puppy coming your way. Have a merry Christmas. hugs
Back in our youth, crocheting those granny square vests, purses etc. was all the thing. I remember making a stuffed pig for a good friend (also named Debbie) we nicknamed, Squeaks. I’ve asked Santa for a book of dog or wild animal patterns to try this winter and continued home confinement. Every week the breeder sends new photos of my puppy with videos promised as he opens his eyes and moves around. It’s like a new present in every email!
While I have crocheted many blankets, I have never crocheted an animal! Wow! Your zebra is huge, and perfect!
Zoe looks “huge”, thanks to her exaggerated, big ‘ol nose! But, she’s only 18 inches tall. I’m sure if you’ve made blankets, crocheting a stuffed animal would be no problem if you were so inclined. I’m going to try an elephant and dog patterns next.
This is adorable Debbee and I love the scale! It’s ironic how we both were away from crochet for so many years and then retaught ourselves again. I’m really enjoying creating my own amigurumi projects! Enjoy your break from blogging and happy holidays!
You retaught yourself too Sara? That’s great! Although, I find tiny amigurumi more difficult than teddy bear sized projects. Maybe it’s a combination of age — needing reading glasses and arthritis? Looking forward to hopping with you in a better, New Year!
Debbee, you just gave me a great craft to work on for our little granddaughter. I love this. Thanks for sharing.
Oh Terrie, I’d be thrilled if my post inspired you to make a cousin of Zoe’s for your own granddaughter! Will look forward to seeing it and curious what colors you’ll use.
Oh that is so very cute! Love homemade gifts and I think they hold the best memories too. Happy Holidays friend, and so lovely crafting with you.
Thanks Chas, it was nice to have a little one to make Zoe for. I’ve been itching to try crocheting again. Once the pandemic is over, I’d love to take knitting classes to make baby clothes.
Debbee, Zoe is adorable! The photos of your bestie’s granddaughter with her zebra friend are precious. I’m impressed with your crochet skills, especially after taking a 40 year hiatus! Learning to knit or crochet is on my bucket list. You had the perfect opportunity while recovering from foot surgery. When I broke my ankle as a teenager one summer, I taught myself how to juggle.
I’m so happy to hear that you found a scottie puppy! I know that you’ve been waiting a long time to find a new companion. How sweet that the breeder sends you photos every week. The timing is perfect, too…you’ll be back on your feet and ready to play with your new family member! Merry Christmas, my friend 🙂
Rebecca, I always enjoy your visits and our “chats.” I guess crocheting is a bit like riding a bike lol? Perhaps you and your daughter could learn together? I actually started on Zoe over the summer. But, it has been a good activity while being couch bound. Your broke your ankle and took up juggling?!! Can you still? My sons find that a lot cooler than being able to crochet lol!
I’m so happy that I did the surgery when I did! Super motivated to do my PT with a puppy on the way. Honestly, I had all but given up hope of locating a Scottie. Sitting here right now in a Scottie sweater with matching socks lol! Wishing you a blessed holiday and much better year ahead.
Zoe the zebra is adorable, Debbee! I crocheted in the 70s but haven’t since. 🙂 Congratulations on working through your regimen and graduating from walker to cane! That’s really fabulous, and a great way to have spent the year of COVID captivity. Bentley promises to be a handful, be careful around him, and your sweet brindle’s arrival couldn’t have been more perfect. I know you’re anxious to have him join your family. Merry Christmas to you!
Ahh thanks Rita! I last crocheted in the 70’s too. Anticipating Whiskey’s arrival in February has really given my mood and PT motivation a major boost. Hubby is busy setting up puppy gates and fortifying the family room for Bentley’s arrival tomorrow. D has been working very hard at training with him since day one. He’s not big enough to knock me over, but I will have to be careful of not getting entangled and fall. Have a most blessed Christmas Rita. I hope you’ll get to spend time with your girls.
Debbee, being on the receiving end of this precious gift (for my granddaughter), it’s great to read about Zoeinthecreating! As always, I am in awe of your creativity and thoughtfulness. I hope baby J cherishes Zoe even half as much as L does Winston-hard to believe they both just turned 31.
One of these days I really want to learn to crochet-once COVID is kicked, you are teaching me so get ready dear friend! Stay focused on the PT but don’t overdo it. Your Bestie, E
Reading your note, made my day and had me teary-eyed. Thanks for sharing all the pictures and videos of your grandkids E. They are a dose of instant happiness. Geez, Winston and L 31! Wherever has the time gone? You’ll pick up crocheting in a snap, and I am delighted to get you started. God, it breaks my heart to think how long its been since we’ve been together. Thank goodness for FaceTime this year, right? Hope Whiskey and Joey become buddies too.
What a cute, cute, CUTE idea!!!! I have less than zero sewing/quilting/crocheting/knitting skills, but I certainly can admire the hard work, skill, and craftsmanship that others invest. You apparently got it honest since your Mom made those other knitted animals. I’ll bet they’re all soft and cushy!
I do credit my mom for her artistic, crafting skills, although I sure didn’t get her green thumb lol! Alycia, crocheting is just knots and loops, not hard once you get comfortable holding the hook and yarn tension. During the pandemic, I’ve returned to a couple of endeavors I haven’t done since high school — including painting on canvas. Both have kept me productively occupied and distracted at times.
I’ve tried crocheting. ? I just can’t sit still long enough to enjoy it! Same with sewing! ? I’ve got ants in my pants!?
Do love the zebra in its traditional colour scheme and it appears the new baby and her older brother adore it as well. So fun to have a handmade gift to cherish in the coming years and it is very thoughtful of you to create such a present. What an adorable Scottie puppy! You will be over the moon excited to welcome him into your heart…how appropriate that it will be in the month of love and Valentine’s Day! Pets add such a warmth and love to a home…may you be blessed with both! Wishing you and yours a very peaceful, healthy and contented Christmas!
Such a sweet note; thank you Alayne. I was absolutely delighted seeing pictures of E’s grandkids with Zoe! Keep pinching myself that I’m really going to have a Scottie puppy. Everyone was trying to convince me to consider a different breed; when I kept having my hopes raised to only be dashed again. As it was the anniversary of losing my dear Fibber MacGee, I was already feeling emotional. When the email from the breeder arrived that same day, I burst into happy tears. Hubby teases Whiskey looks more like our son’s guinea pig than a Scottie right now lol! But, by Xmas his eyes will open, and within a couple weeks, he’ll be bouncing around with his 4 siblings. All the best to you Alayne, appreciate you “visiting” with me.
What an adorable zebra! I had to laugh since it’s bigger than the baby! She’ll learn to crawl all over it and love it! Your grand-puppy is a cutie and so is your new Scottie! Glad to know you are doing well with your healing up.
God bless you and your family and have a very Merry Christmas!
She did turn out much bigger than I pictured with that big ‘ol nose/head lol! Seems to be more toddler sized. E says the baby loves to stare and smile at her though. After a year without a dog, my cup runneth over in puppy joy this holiday! And, I’m now far along in my recovery to manage well for Christmas. Wishing you a blessed Christmas and a wonderful year ahead Liz. Thanks for stopping by for a “visit.”
That is so cute Debbee. You are a multi-talented lady. We are now on “puppy watch” with you. Since you will be leaving us for awhile, I wish you and those you love a Merry Christmas
Thanks for always being so supportive and kind Myrna. I likely will at least post an update on the puppy, with cute pix to share. Here’s to a better year ahead!
This is the cutest ever and the photos with the baby are priceless!!!
Oh my goodness Debbee, this is SO cute! You really did name this correctly when you called this ADORABLE!! I am not a needleworker, but if I was, this would be something I would want to make! You never cease to amaze me with your creative talents!! Merry, merry Christmas!!
Thanks Chloe, crocheting Zoe was a fun and rewarding project. I guess crocheting was a bit like riding a bike lol! Honestly, it’s not difficult to learn and just requires some practice — like most things. Have a happy and healthy holiday season.
Your zebra is adorable and already looks totally loved!
Thanks so much Lisa! When I saw that adorable free pattern I was determined to make one. It was a great way to get back into crocheting after all these decades.
That turned out so cute!! I’ve also discovered amigurumi, and want to crochet all the things. 🙂
Danielle, I love those adorable little creatures! But my aging eyesight and arthritis makes it difficult to work with such tiny stitches and hook lol.
Absolutely adorable!
Thanks so much Linda — I appreciate you stopping by!