Hank the Hippo Crochet Pattern: From Storybook Character to Crochet Plushie
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Time to read 4 min
The Hank the Hippo crochet pattern lets you turn the lovable character from Do You Know Hank the Hippo? into your very own handmade plushie.
Choose the Hank the Hippo crochet pattern by itself, pair the pattern with Hank’s autographed storybook, or get the complete crochet kit with the supplies you need to make him.
The Hank the Hippo crochet pattern was created for crocheters who know the basic stitches and want an easy-to-follow project with an extra-special story behind it.
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There is something extra special about making a crochet project when you already know the story behind the character.
For years, Hank the Hippo has lived inside the pages of my children’s book, Do You Know Hank the Hippo? Now, for the first time, you can bring him out of the book and into your own hands with the Hank the Hippo crochet pattern.
This project brings together two things I have loved creating: children’s stories and crochet. You can read Hank’s story, crochet your own Hank, and create a handmade “book buddy” that makes the story feel even more real.
And because every crocheter is different, I didn’t want there to be only one way to get Hank. You can choose from three options depending on whether you simply want the digital pattern, want to pair your handmade Hank with his book, or would rather have the supplies gathered for you so you can get straight to crocheting.
Meet Hank the Hippo
Hank actually came along long before the Hank the Hippo crochet pattern did.
He is the character from my children’s book, Do You Know Hank the Hippo? When I originally created Hank, I never imagined that years later I would be designing a crochet version of him too.
But it just made sense.
There is already something meaningful about making a stuffed animal by hand. When that stuffed animal is also a character from a children's story, it becomes even more special. Instead of simply handing a child a new book, you can give them the book along with the character they are reading about.
- It becomes a book buddy.
- A reading companion.
- And a handmade keepsake all at the same time.
The finished crocheted Hank was designed to capture the sweet personality of the character while still being approachable for crocheters who already know their basic stitches. Like my other plushie patterns, the goal isn't to overwhelm you with complicated techniques. You know the stitches. I show you where and when to use them so that you can make the plushie you see in the photo.
Option 1: The Hank the Hippo Crochet Pattern — $6.97
If you already have a yarn stash and plenty of crochet supplies at home, the simplest option is the digital Hank the Hippo crochet pattern.
For $6.97, you'll receive the PDF crochet pattern with instant digital delivery after your purchase. The instructions are written to be beginner-friendly and easy to follow, so you can gather your own supplies and start making Hank on your schedule.
This is the best choice for the crocheter who looks at Hank and immediately thinks, “I probably already have everything I need to make him.”
Option 2: Hank the Hippo Crochet Pattern + Book — $24
This may be my favorite way to experience Hank because it connects the crochet project with the story that inspired it.
The second option includes a printed Hank the Hippo crochet pattern tucked inside its own folder, along with an autographed paperback copy of Do You Know Hank the Hippo? and bonus coloring pages. Shipping is included.
Think of this one as the make-your-own book buddy option.
Option 3: Complete Crochet Kit + Book — $58
If you're thinking, “Just tell me what I need and put it all in one bag,” this one's for you.
The Complete Hank the Hippo crochet pattern Kit + Book is $58 and includes the supplies you need to crochet your own Hank, along with his printed pattern and an autographed copy of the storybook.
You'll receive the yarn colors needed to make Hank, black and white yarn for facial details, a crochet hook, yarn needle, stitch marker, Poly-fil stuffing and safety eyes. The kit also includes extra yarn so that you can embroider the eyes instead of using safety eyes if you prefer that option.
Which Hank the Hippo Option Should You Choose?
It really comes down to how you like to crochet.
If you love shopping your existing yarn stash and already have all of your favorite tools, go with the Hank the Hippo crochet pattern for $6.97.
If the idea of creating a handmade character to go along with his children's book is what makes this project feel special to you, choose the Pattern + Book option for $24.
And if you want the full experience—pattern, book, yarn, tools, stuffing, optional weighted-plushie supplies and even a project bag—the Complete Crochet Kit + Book for $58 is the easiest way to get started.
There isn't a “right” Hank. There's simply the version that makes the most sense for you.
Marcy Gardner
Hi! I'm Marcy, a crochet designer in North Carolina. I help crafters turn yarn into adorable keepsakes through beginner-friendly crochet patterns and plushie kits. I’ve been crocheting since 2012 and fell in love instantly! My work has been featured in Simply Crochet and Crochet World Magazines. I am the author of Crochet Snuggle Buddies, Hooked on Growth, and Do You Know Hank the Hippo? I also enjoying hosting Simply Hooked: A Crochet Podcast.
