How to Embroider Eyes on Amigurumi 🧵
Crochet lovers know that details make all the difference. When you finish an amigurumi plushie, the placement and style of the eyes can bring it to life—or leave it looking a little unfinished. For years, most crocheters have turned to plastic safety eyes. They’re quick, easy, and create a polished look. But what if you’re making a toy for a baby, toddler, or anyone where safety is a concern?
That’s where embroidered eyes come in. They’re soft, secure, and baby-safe, making them the perfect alternative. Even better? Once you learn the technique, you’ll love the freedom of customizing expressions, shapes, and styles.
In this tutorial, I’ll walk you through exactly how to embroider eyes on amigurumi step by step. Whether you’re new to crochet or an experienced maker looking to add a new skill, you’ll find this method simple, satisfying, and a game-changer for your plushie projects.
Why Choose Embroidered Eyes Over Safety Eyes? 👶
When I first started making plushies, I defaulted to plastic safety eyes like many crocheters. They’re affordable, accessible, and easy to attach. But after several years—and after creating gifts for babies—I realized embroidered eyes were worth mastering.
Here’s why:
✨ Baby-safe – No hard plastic pieces that could come loose.
✨ Customizable – You can make sleepy eyes, wide eyes, or even cartoon-style looks.
✨ Accessible – No need to order special supplies; just yarn and a needle.
✨ Creative freedom – Expressions can change just by altering stitch direction.
Plus, once you get the hang of it, embroidering is actually faster than attaching safety eyes—especially when working with chunky yarn plushies where plastic eyes don’t sit right.
What You’ll Need for Embroidered Amigurumi Eyes 🪡
You don’t need a huge supply list to embroider eyes. Chances are, you already have everything in your crochet toolkit.
🧶 Yarn – Choose a contrasting color (usually black or dark brown) that shows up against your plushie’s main body color. Worsted weight yarn works well, even if your plushie is made with bulky yarn.
🪡 Yarn needle – A blunt-tipped tapestry needle makes weaving through stitches easier and safer.
🐻 Your amigurumi project – Whether it’s a teddy bear, bunny, or duck, the process is the same.
Variations for Embroidered Eyes
Once you’ve mastered the basics, play with styles:
🌙 Sleepy eyes – Add small curved lines for lashes or a downward arc.
⭐ Starry eyes – Use a small white highlight stitch for sparkle.
😎 Cartoon eyes – Layer different colors (white base, black pupil, colored iris).
Embroidered eyes aren’t just safer—they’re also a canvas for creativity.
Common Mistakes (and How to Fix Them) 🚫
Like anything new, you might run into a few hiccups. Here’s what to watch out for:
🌀 Uneven placement – Always mark your spots before stitching. Counting rows and stitches helps.
🎭 Too big or too small – Remember, less is more. You can always add more stitches but removing is trickier.
🧵 Loose ends showing – Secure your yarn tightly and weave into stuffing to hide knots.
If you make a mistake, don’t stress. Just pull the yarn out with your needle and try again. Crochet is forgiving, and every stitch teaches you something new.
Why This Method Changed My Amigurumi Forever 💡
It took me years to figure this out, but once I did, I never looked back. My plushies instantly looked softer, safer, and more professional. Parents love receiving them as gifts because they know there are no choking hazards.
Personally, I also found it more enjoyable. Instead of hunting for the right size safety eye or worrying about placement before stuffing, I now finish my plushies and add eyes at the very end. The freedom is refreshing.
Watch the Full Tutorial on YouTube 🎥
If you’re a visual learner, don’t worry—I’ve got you covered.
👉 Watch the full step-by-step video tutorial here
In the video, I demonstrate embroidering eyes on a plushie made with bulky chenille yarn, showing exactly how to achieve the perfect finish.
Final Thoughts – Bring Your Plushies to Life with Embroidered Eyes 🐻
At the end of the day, embroidered eyes are more than just a safety alternative—they’re an artistic choice. They allow you to personalize your plushies, ensure they’re safe for all ages, and enjoy a creative, calming process.
So next time you make an amigurumi, try leaving the plastic safety eyes in the drawer and pick up your needle instead. You’ll be amazed at how a few stitches can bring your creation to life.
Crochet is all about joy, creativity, and making something truly your own. And with embroidered eyes, your plushies won’t just be adorable—they’ll also be safe, meaningful, and one-of-a-kind.
About the Designer
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.
