A cuddly squid with big curious eyes and floppy tentacles that you can actually hug? Meet Hubble. The Hubble The Squid Free Crochet Pattern delivers an adorable, beginner-friendly amigurumi that’s equal parts silly and sweet — perfect for ocean lovers, kids, or anyone who needs a quirky desk buddy.
Why Hubble Is the Ultimate Squid Friend
Most sea creature patterns go for realistic or overly cartoonish. Hubble strikes the perfect balance: big personality in a soft, huggable body with long, poseable tentacles that beg to be played with.
He’s mostly one-piece with minimal sewing, which makes him fast and forgiving. The pattern includes tons of photos, so even newer crocheters can succeed without frustration.
Once you make one, you’ll want a whole ocean of them in different colors.
Materials You’ll Need
Simple and accessible:
- Yarn: DK or light worsted weight in your main squid color (teal, purple, blue). Small amounts for eyes and accents. About 120–170 yards total.
- Hook: 3mm–5mm depending on desired size (pattern suggests options for different hooks).
- Other tools: Safety eyes or embroidery floss, stuffing, stitch marker, tapestry needle, and a pompom maker for optional accents.
FYI, softer yarns like merino or acrylic blends give Hubble that extra floppy, cuddly feel.
Starting with the Body and Mantle
Hubble works up in one continuous piece for the main body and mantle. Begin with a magic ring and build the rounded head/mantle area with steady increases.
Work even rounds to create length, then shape the mantle with strategic decreases or increases. Stuff as you go so the body stays nice and plump but still floppy.
The construction keeps things simple while giving that classic squid silhouette.
Crafting Those Long, Floppy Tentacles
The tentacles are the star of the show. You crochet them individually or in sections as long chains or tubes, then attach them securely to the base of the body.
Some versions use chains for quick length with optional surface details. Make them different lengths for natural movement.
Bend them gently after stuffing or attaching for playful poses.
Adding the Big Expressive Eyes
Safety eyes (or embroidered) go on the front of the mantle for instant character. White highlights or embroidered details make them pop.
A simple mouth or blush adds even more personality. Hubble’s face is what turns him from a sea creature into a friend.
Finishing and Shaping Your Squid
Weave in ends carefully, especially around the tentacles and eyes. Add optional pompoms or fins if the pattern includes them for extra flair.
Gently shape the mantle and tentacles so Hubble sits nicely or flops adorably. A light blocking can help if needed.
Displaying and Playing with Hubble
These squids look fantastic on shelves, in nurseries, or as travel companions. Their floppy nature makes them great for imaginative play or cozy cuddles.
Make a whole family in different sizes and colors for an underwater scene. They also make fantastic gifts for ocean-themed birthdays or just-because surprises.
The best part? They’re durable enough for real kid play while staying cute enough for adult collectors.
FAQ’s
How long does Hubble take to make?
Most people finish one in 4–8 hours. The body is quick and the tentacles go faster than they look.
Is this pattern beginner friendly?
Yes! It’s designed with beginners in mind — lots of photos, minimal sewing, and clear instructions.
Can I customize the size?
Absolutely. Change hook size or yarn weight for bigger or smaller versions. The pattern often includes notes for different hooks.
What if I want heart eyes for Valentine’s?
Many versions include a heart-eye add-on. It’s a quick swap that makes Hubble extra lovable.
Can I sell squids made from this pattern?
Yes for small commercial use. Just don’t sell or share the pattern itself. Share your colorful creations!
Do the tentacles stay attached?
Yes, when sewn securely. Many makers reinforce the joins for extra durability with active play.
Go Make Your Own Squiddy Pal
Hubble proves that squids can be cuddly, charming, and ridiculously fun to create. This pattern strikes the perfect balance between simple construction and adorable results.
Hook one up this weekend. The stitches are approachable, the tentacles are playful, and you’ll end up with a soft friend that brings smiles every time you see it.
Grab your yarn. Hubble is waiting to meet you.