How to Crochet the Bobble Stitch for Amigurumi
Oh, the bobble stitch! A year ago, I hadn’t even heard of it—and now I see it everywhere in the crochet world. Once I learned how to do it, I was absolutely blown away. The bobble stitch is one of those simple techniques that instantly makes your crochet projects pop with texture and dimension.
Essentially, the bobble stitch is created by working multiple double crochet stitches together into a single stitch. Instead of standing tall like regular double crochets, they collapse into a rounded “bump,” creating a soft, raised effect. It’s the perfect stitch for adding personality to amigurumi—whether you want cute little nostrils, playful buttons, or even textured spots on animals and plushies.
In this post, I’ll show you how to crochet the bobble stitch step by step, why it’s so popular for amigurumi, and creative ways you can use it in your crochet projects.
Why Crocheters Love the Bobble Stitch
The bobble stitch has taken the crochet community by storm because it combines simplicity with versatility. Here’s why it’s a favorite among amigurumi makers:
● Beginner-friendly texture – Once you’ve mastered single crochet and double crochet, you can make a bobble stitch. No complicated techniques required.
● Adds instant personality – Bobble stitches work beautifully as animal noses, cheeks, eyes, or even paw pads for plushies. They bring amigurumi to life.
● Great for blankets and wearables too – Beyond amigurumi, you can use bobbles to create stunning patterns in baby blankets, scarves, hats, and sweaters.
● Eliminates extra sewing – Instead of making tiny pieces (like separate nostrils) and sewing them on, you can build them right into the project with a bobble.
For years, I used to crochet separate pieces for noses and sew them onto my plushies. It worked—but it took extra time. Once I learned the bobble stitch, I realized I could create the same effect seamlessly and more securely.
Step-by-Step: How to Crochet a Bobble Stitch
To get started, you’ll need:
● Yarn – In this tutorial, I’m using Bernat Blanket Yarn, a super bulky chenille that creates squishy, oversized bobbles.
● Crochet Hook – I recommend a 6.5mm hook (K-10.5) for this yarn.
● Scissors & Tapestry Needle – For finishing your work.
Bobble Stitch Instructions:
- Yarn over and insert your hook into the next stitch.
- Yarn over again and pull up a loop (3 loops on hook).
- Yarn over and pull through two loops (2 loops remain).
- Repeat steps 1–3 until you have made 5 unfinished double crochets in the same stitch.
- Yarn over and pull through all loops on your hook.
- Single crochet in the next stitch to “lock in” your bobble.
That’s it! You’ve just made your first bobble stitch. It should puff outward on the wrong side of your work. If you’re working in amigurumi, keep in mind that the inside of your work is often the right side, so you may need to push your bobbles outward with your finger.
Simply Hooked Crochet Patterns Using Bobble Stitch:
Cow Lovey Blanket
Horse Plushie
Hippo Lovey Blanket
Using Bobble Stitches in Amigurumi
The example in the video tutorial below shows bobble stitches used as nostrils on a plushie. But that’s just the beginning. Here are some creative ways to use bobble stitches in your crochet projects:
● Animal features – Nostrils, cheeks, tails, toes, or even textured spots on dinosaurs or giraffes.
● Playful details – Buttons, berries, sprinkles on cupcakes, or polka dots on stuffed animals.
● Sensory texture – Babies love the raised feel of bobbles on blankets or loveys, making them both functional and soothing.
● Patterns and accents – Create rows of bobbles for ridges on a dragon, or sprinkle them throughout to add whimsy.
The possibilities are endless. Once you understand how to crochet a bobble stitch, you’ll start seeing opportunities to use it everywhere.
Video Tutorial: Crochet the Bobble Stitch
This video shows you exactly how to make a bobble stitch on amigurumi. While I demonstrate it as nostrils, you can use the same technique in dozens of ways.
Tips for Success with the Bobble Stitch
● Tension matters – Keep your stitches slightly loose so you don’t struggle pulling through multiple loops.
● Push it out – If your bobble isn’t popping, use your finger or hook to push it to the front.
● Use bulky yarn – Thicker yarn like Bernat Blanket makes big, squishy bobbles that stand out.
● Don’t overuse – Bobbles are best as accents. Too many can make your project feel heavy.
Final Thoughts
The bobble stitch is one of the easiest ways to add texture and character to your amigurumi. Whether you’re making plush animals, baby loveys, or textured blankets, this simple stitch creates instant dimension and charm.
I hope this guide helps you fall in love with the bobble stitch as much as I have! Try it in your next project, and let me know how it goes—I’d love to see your creations.
Happy crocheting! 🧶✨
About the Author
Marcy Gardner is the crochet designer behind Simply Hooked, where she creates beginner-friendly amigurumi patterns that help makers of all skill levels create adorable, giftable plushies.
With over 13 years of crochet experience, Marcy has taught hundreds of crocheters through her patterns, kits, and online courses.
Shop her fun and easy patterns today!
