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Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern

Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern
4.7★ Rating
12-15 Hours Time Needed
1.3K Made This
✂️

Intermediate Level

Ideal for those with basic crochet experience, featuring slightly more advanced stitches and techniques to expand your skills.

⏱️

Multi-Day Project

A rewarding 12+ hour journey—perfect for dedicated crafters who love detailed work.

🤗

Soft Hug

Gentle, plush, and full of warmth, creating a sense of comfort and coziness wherever they find a home.

About This Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern

This pack contains the complete Animal Kingdom Blanket patterns including full notes for colours, individual animal applique9 instructions and the join and border directions. Each square is made separately and the patterns include exact stitch sequences and finishing tips. The finished blanket shown is made from 30 squares and measures approximately 84cm x 100cm with the border.

Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern crochet pattern - detailed view of completed project

You can mix and match colours or repeat favourite squares to make the blanket larger or smaller. All patterns use US terminology and a 3.5mm hook was used to create the sample squares.

Why You'll Love This Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern

I absolutely love this pattern because it brings together playful animal faces with classic crochet techniques that are fun to stitch and assemble. I designed each applique9 so you can personalise colours and create a blanket full of character and charm. I enjoy how each small square becomes a mini project, perfect for using up scraps or trying new colour combinations. The joining method and border create a polished, professional finish that I am proud to share with other makers.

Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern step 1 - construction progress Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern step 2 - assembly progress Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern step 3 - details and accessories Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern step 4 - final assembly and finishing

Switch Things Up

I love how easy it is to customise this blanket by changing colours — try pastel shades for a softer baby blanket or jewel tones for a bold throw.

If you want a chunkier finish, use a bulkier yarn and a larger hook to scale the squares up and create a cosy, snuggly blanket.

For a miniature version suitable for keyrings or ornaments, use a finer yarn and smaller hook to create tiny applique9s.

You can mix and match square backgrounds so each row has a gradient or checkerboard effect for visual interest.

Add buttons, embroidered whiskers, or felt details to personalise animal faces further and give each square unique character.

I often change the joining colour to make the animals pop — a darker join makes outlines sharp, while a neutral join softens the overall look.

Try alternating textured squares (bobbles or cluster stitches) with smooth background squares for tactile contrast.

Make themed sets by repeating a few favourite animals rather than all thirty — this is great for gift versions focusing on a favourite animal.

Use variegated or tonal yarn for the background squares to create subtle colour shifts across the blanket without changing yarn every square.

If you want posable limbs or added features, incorporate lightweight wire into larger applique9s or accessories to give them dimension and movement.

Common Mistakes & How to Fix Them

✗ Skipping stitch markers when shaping applique9s leads to mismatched halves; use markers to mark the start of rounds and turning points. ✗ Forgetting to fasten off with a long tail makes sewing pieces together difficult; always leave a long tail for sewing and embroidering details. ✗ Not checking hook size will affect the finished square measurements; use the recommended 3.5mm hook and check your gauge before making many squares. ✗ Overstuffing or uneven stuffing of squares causes lumps and distortions; if stuffing is used, add small amounts gradually and adjust to shape evenly. ✗ Rushing assembly without pinning parts in place can result in uneven positioning; pin or baste pieces first, adjust placement, then sew securely.

Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern

Create a charming Animal Kingdom Blanket made from individually crocheted animal applique9 squares. This pack contains detailed patterns for each animal face, colour notes, and joining instructions so you can make a vibrant, personalized blanket. Perfect for making a keepsake baby blanket or a playful throw full of character.

Intermediate 12-15 Hours

Materials Needed for Animal Kingdom Blanket Pattern

— Main Fabric

  • 01
    Stylecraft Special DK - Copper (main squares)
  • 02
    Stylecraft Special DK - Cypress (main squares)
  • 03
    Stylecraft Special DK - Duck Egg (main squares)
  • 04
    Stylecraft Special DK - Gold (main squares)
  • 05
    Stylecraft Special DK - Grape (main squares)
  • 06
    Stylecraft Special DK - Meadow (main squares)
  • 07
    Stylecraft Special DK - Mushroom (main squares)
  • 08
    Stylecraft Special DK - Mustard (main squares)
  • 09
    Stylecraft Special DK - Parchment (approximately 1.5 balls) (for the join and border)
  • 10
    Stylecraft Special DK - Pistachio (main squares)
  • 11
    Stylecraft Special DK - Storm Blue (main squares)
  • 12
    Applique9 shades (use small amounts): Black, Buttermilk, Camel, Cream, Mocha, Spice, Vintage Peach, Walnut, Warm Grey, White (no more than one 100g ball per colour unless otherwise stated)

— Tools Required

  • 01
    Crochet hook size 3.5mm
  • 02
    Scissors
  • 03
    Darning/sewing needle
  • 04
    Stitch markers
  • 05
    Pins for assembly
  • 06
    Yarn scraps for applique9 details
  • 07
    Optional: blocking mats and pins for squaring pieces

Progress Tracker

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— Pattern Notes :

Info :

For the main colours on the squares and the join and border, I used the following shades of Stylecraft Special DK (I used no more than one 100g ball unless otherwise stated): Copper. Cypress. Duck Egg. Gold. Grape. Meadow. Mushroom. Mustard. Parchment (approximately 1.5 balls) (for the join and border). Pistachio. Storm Blue.

Info :

And to create the applique9s I used the following shades of Stylecraft Special DK (again, no more than one 100g ball unless otherwise stated - many just a very small amount): Black. Buttermilk. Camel. Cream. Mocha. Spice. Vintage Peach. Walnut. Warm Grey. White. Along with some excess Copper, Meadow and Mustard.

Info :

I made the entire blanket using a 3.5mm crochet hook. You will also need scissors and a darning/sewing needle.

Info :

This pattern is written using US terminology.

Info :

Any stitch abbreviations used are listed on each individual squares pattern.

— Badger Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: White. Black. Warm Grey

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using White; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, 2HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 2HDC, 2SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square. (Note: where you have fastened off is the top of your badger's face.)

Round 7 :

To make the markings: Using Black; CH2, [2SC] in 2nd CH from hook.

Round 8 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. SC.

Round 9 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. [2SC].

Round 10 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. 2SC.

Round 11 :

Repeat row 10.

Round 12 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. [2SC], SC.

Round 13 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. 3SC.

Round 14 :

Repeat row 13. Then fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 15 :

Repeat steps 7 - 14 to create a second marking piece, then position these onto your badger's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 16 :

To make the nose: Using Black; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 17 :

Position the nose onto the tip of your badger's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 18 :

Using Warm Grey; embroider a pair of eyes onto your badger's face, as you can see in the photo above.

Round 19 :

To make the ears: Using White; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off.

Round 20 :

Attach Black to any stitch; CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 21 :

Repeat steps 19 - 20 to make a second ear, then position these at the top of your badger, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 22 :

Your Badger Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Bear Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Walnut. Camel. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Walnut; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *4SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have four stitches remaining. 4SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 7 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, HDC, DC, [3DC], [2DC], 2DC, 2HDC, 4SC, 2HDC, [2HDC], 2HDC, 4SC, 2HDC, 2DC, [2DC], [3DC], DC, HDC, 4SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square. (Note: where you have fastened off is the bottom of your bear's face.)

Round 8 :

To make the ears: Using Camel; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 9 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC. Fasten off.

Round 10 :

Attach Walnut to any stitch; CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 11 :

Repeat steps 8 - 10 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your bear, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 12 :

To make the muzzle: Using Camel; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 13 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 14 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 15 :

Using Black; embroider a nose onto your bear's muzzle. Then position this onto your bear applique9, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 16 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes onto your bear applique9.

Round 17 :

Your Bear Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Bull Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Walnut. Cream. Mocha. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. SC2TOG - Single Crochet Decrease Across 2 Stitches. HDC2TOG - Half Double Crochet Decrease Across 2 Stitches. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Walnut; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. 2HDC, DC, [2DC], DC, 2HDC, [2SC], 3SC, 3HDC. [2DC] into each of the next 3 stitches. 3HDC, 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. 2HDC, [2HDC], 4HDC, [2HDC], 2HDC, [2SC], [3HDC], 6SC, HDC, [3HDC], [3HDC], HDC, 6SC, [3HDC]. SLST to first SC. Fasten off. (Note: where you have fastened off is the top of your bull's face.)

Round 7 :

To make the right horn: Using Cream; CH9, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. 2SC, SC2TOG, HDC2TOG, DC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 8 :

To make the left horn: Using Cream; CH7, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. 2SC, [2SC], [2HDC], DC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 9 :

Position the horns at each side of your bull's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 10 :

To make the ears: Using Walnut; CH4, SC in 2nd CH from hook. SC. [4HDC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 2SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 11 :

Repeat step 10 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your bull, just below the horns, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 12 :

To make the muzzle: Using Mocha; CH5, SC in 2nd CH from hook. 2SC. [4SC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 2SC. [3SC] into final, then SLST to first SC to join.

Round 13 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. SLST into each of the next 2 stitches. SC. [2SC] into each of the next 2 stitches. SC, 2HDC, SC. [2SC] into each of the next 2 stitches. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 14 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes and nostrils onto your bull, as you can see in the photo above.

Round 15 :

To make the fluffy top: Using Walnut; CH7, SC in 2nd CH from hook. 4SC. [4SC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 4SC. [3SC] into final, then SLST to first SC to join.

Round 16 :

CH1, [3HDC] into same stitch. SLST into next stitch. *[3HDC] into next stitch, SLST into next* - repeat between * 6 more times. SLST to first HDC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 17 :

Position this at the top of your bull's head, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 18 :

Your Bull Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Cheetah Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Buttermilk. White. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Buttermilk; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *4SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have four stitches remaining. 4SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 7 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. Proceed to work 1 SC into each stitch around. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square.

Round 8 :

To make the muzzle: Using White; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 9 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC. Fasten off.

Round 10 :

Attach Black to the BACK LOOP ONLY of any stitch; CH1, SLST into the BACK LOOPS ONLY of each of the next 3 stitches, then fasten off.

Round 11 :

Skip the next 2 stitches and attach Black to the BACK LOOP ONLY of the next; CH1, SLST into the BACK LOOPS ONLY of each of the next 3 stitches. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for embroidering and sewing.

Round 12 :

Using the Black tail remaining from the previous step; embroider a nose onto your cheetah's muzzle. Then position this piece onto your cheetah's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place. Continue to embroider a pair of eyes and markings onto your cheetah, as you can see in the photo above.

Round 13 :

To make the ears: Using Black; CH5, SC in 2nd CH from hook. 2SC. [4SC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 2SC. [3SC] into final, then SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off.

Round 14 :

Attach Buttermilk to the same stitch from where you just fastened off; CH1, HDC into same stitch. 2HDC, SC. [2SC] into each of the next 2 stitches. SC, 3HDC. Omit the remaining stitches and fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 15 :

Repeat steps 13 - 14 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your cheetah, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 16 :

Your Cheetah Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Deer Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Camel. Cream. Mocha. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. SLST - Slip Stitch. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Camel; CH2, [2SC] in 2nd CH from hook.

Round 2 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. SC.

Round 3-5 :

Repeat row 2.

Round 6 :

CH1, turn your work. [2SC] into same stitch. [2SC].

Round 7 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. [2SC], [2SC], SC.

Round 8 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. [2SC], 2SC, [2SC], SC.

Round 9 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. 7SC.

Round 10 :

Repeat row 9.

Round 11 :

CH1, turn your work. [3SC] into same stitch. [2SC], 4SC, [2SC], [3SC].

Round 12 :

CH1, turn your work. HDC into same stitch. 12DC, HDC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 13 :

Using Cream; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 14 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 15 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 16 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 17 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 18 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, 2HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 2HDC, 2SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square. (Note: where you have fastened off is the top of your deer's face.)

Round 19 :

Position your first piece on top of your second piece, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 20 :

To make the nose: Using Black; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 21 :

Position the nose onto the tip of your deer's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 22 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes onto your deer's face.

Round 23 :

To make the ears: Using Cream; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off.

Round 24 :

Attach Camel to any stitch; CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, CH3 and SLST into 3rd CH from hook, 2SC, [2SC]. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 25 :

Repeat steps 23 - 24 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your deer, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 26 :

To make the antlers: Using Mocha; CH15, SLST in 2nd CH from hook. SLST into each of the next 4 CH. CH7, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. SLST into each of the next 5 CH, then SLST into the next CH of your original starting CH. SLST into each of the next 2 CH. CH6, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. SLST into each of the next 4 CH, then SLST into the next CH of your original starting CH. SLST into each of the final 5 CH. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 27 :

Repeat step 26 to make a second antler, then position these at the top of your deer, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 28 :

Your Deer Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Donkey Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Warm Grey. Camel. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Warm Grey; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *4SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * once more. HDC, 3DC, [2DC], 3DC, HDC, [2SC]. Repeat between * once more. 4SC. SLST to first SC.

Round 7 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. Proceed to work 1 SC into each stitch around. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square. (Note: where you have fastened off is the top of your donkey's face.)

Round 8 :

To make the muzzle: Using Camel; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 9 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 10 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 11 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. 4SC, [2HDC], 2DC, [2HDC], 4SC, [2HDC], 2DC, [2HDC], SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 12 :

Position the muzzle piece onto your donkey applique9, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 13 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes and nostrils onto your donkey, as you can see in the photo above.

Round 14 :

To make the fringe: Using Black; CH14, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. SLST into each of the next 3 CH. *CH5, SLST into 2nd CH from hook. SLST into each of the next 3 CH, then SLST into the next CH from your starting CH, SLST into next CH* - repeat between * twice more. SLST into each of the final 3 CH. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 15 :

Position this at the top of your donkey's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 16 :

To make the ears: Using Camel; CH6, SC in 2nd CH from hook. 3SC. [3SC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 4SC. Fasten off.

Round 17 :

Attach Warm Grey to very first stitch; CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, 2HDC, [3DC], 2HDC, 3SC. SLST to first stitch to pinch the ends together. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 18 :

Repeat steps 16 - 17 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your donkey, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 19 :

Your Donkey Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Elephant Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Warm Grey. Vintage Peach. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SLST - Slip Stitch. SC - Single Crochet. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. HDC2TOG - Half Double Crochet Decrease Across 2 Stitches. TR - Treble Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Warm Grey; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 3 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 4 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 6 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *4SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have four stitches remaining. 4SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 7 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. Proceed to work 1 SC into each stitch around. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square. (Note: where you have fastened off is the bottom of your elephant's face.)

Round 8 :

To make the ears: Using Vintage Peach; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 9 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC. Fasten off.

Round 10 :

CH1, [2HDC] into same stitch. HDC, [2SC], SC, [2SC], HDC, [2HDC], HDC, [2SC], SC, [2SC], HDC. SLST to first HDC.

Round 11 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. [2SC], 6SC. [2SC] into each of the next 3 stitches. 6SC, [2SC]. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off.

Round 12 :

Attach Warm Grey to the same stitch from where you just fastened off; CH2, DC into same stitch. 2DC, [2HDC], HDC, 4SC, HDC, [2HDC], DC, 4SC, HDC, [2HDC], HDC, 4SC, HDC, [2HDC], DC. SLST to first DC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 13 :

Repeat steps 8 - 12 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your elephant, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 14 :

To make the trunk: Using Warm Grey; CH15, HDC in 2nd CH from hook. HDC2TOG, HDC2TOG, HDC, 6DC, TR. [TR DC HDC SC SLST] all into final CH. Then fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 15 :

Position this onto your elephant's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 16 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes onto your elephant applique9.

Round 17 :

Your Elephant Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Fox Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Spice. White. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SC - Single Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. SLST - Slip Stitch. HDC - Half Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Spice; CH2, [3SC] in 2nd CH from hook.

Round 2 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. 2SC.

Round 3-5 :

Repeat row 2.

Round 6 :

CH1, turn your work. [2SC] into same stitch. SC, [2SC].

Round 7 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. 4SC.

Round 8 :

Repeat row 7.

Round 9 :

CH1, turn your work. Skip the first 2 stitches and work [9DC] into the next stitch (the centre stitch). Then SLST into the final stitch of the row.

Round 10 :

CH1, turn your work. Into the final DC stitch of the [9DC] you just created, work a SC *SC into the next, then [2SC] into the next* - repeat between * twice more. 2SC.

Round 11 :

CH1, turn your work. SC into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * twice more. 2SC.

Round 12 :

CH1, turn your work. [3SC] into same stitch. 4SC, [2SC], 3SC, [2SC], 4SC, [3SC].

Round 13 :

CH1, turn your work. [2SC] into same stitch. 18SC, [2SC]. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 14 :

Using White; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 15 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC.

Round 16 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 17 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *2SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have two stitches remaining. 2SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 18 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *3SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have three stitches remaining. 3SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 19 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *4SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have four stitches remaining. 4SC. SLST into first SC.

Round 20 :

CH1, SC into same stitch. 2SC, 2HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 5HDC, [3DC], 3DC, [3DC], 2HDC, 2SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square.

Round 21 :

Position your first piece on top of your second piece, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 22 :

To make the ears: Using White; CH5, SC in 2nd CH from hook. 2SC. [4SC] in final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 2SC. [3SC] into final, then SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off.

Round 23 :

Attach Spice to the same stitch from where you just fastened off; CH1, HDC into same stitch. 2HDC, 2SC, CH3 and SLST into 3rd CH from hook. SC into next stitch. SC, 3HDC. Omit the remaining stitches and fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 24 :

Repeat steps 22 - 23 to make a second ear, then position these at each side of your fox, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place on the reverse.

Round 25 :

To make the nose: Using Black; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 26 :

Position the nose onto the tip of your fox's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 27 :

Using Black; embroider a pair of eyes onto your fox's face.

Round 28 :

Your Fox Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

— Frog Face Applique9 :

Info :

Hook size: 3.5mm

Info :

Stylecraft Special DK colours used: Meadow. White. Black

Info :

Stitch abbreviations (US Terminology): CH - Chain. SC - Single Crochet. SLST - Slip Stitch. HDC - Half Double Crochet. DC - Double Crochet. [ ] indicates stitches to be done in the same space/stitch

Round 1 :

Using Meadow; CH7, SC into 2nd CH from hook. 4SC. [5SC] into final CH to turn the corner. Working into the other side of your starting CH; 4SC. [4SC] into final CH, then SLST to first SC to join.

Round 2 :

CH1, [2HDC] into same stitch. 4HDC. [2HDC] into each of the next 5 stitches. 4HDC. [2HDC] into each of the next 4 stitches. SLST to first HDC.

Round 3 :

CH1, HDC into same stitch. 10HDC, [2HDC], [2DC], [2HDC], 11HDC, [2HDC], [2DC], [2HDC]. SLST to first HDC to join. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing your completed applique9 onto it's square.

Round 4 :

To make the eyes: Using White; CH3 and SLST into first CH to make a loop. CH1, then work 6SC into centre of loop. SLST to first SC to join.

Round 5 :

CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. Proceed to work [2SC] into each of the next 5 stitches. SLST to first SC. Fasten off.

Round 6 :

Attach Meadow to any stitch; CH1, [2SC] into same stitch. *SC, [2SC]* - repeat between * until you have one stitch remaining. SC. SLST to first SC. Fasten off, leaving a long enough tail for sewing.

Round 7 :

Repeat steps 4 - 6 to make a second eye.

Round 8 :

Using Black; embroider a pupil onto each of your frog's eyes. Then position these onto your frog's face, as you can see in the photo above, and sew into place.

Round 9 :

Using Black; embroider a mouth onto your frog applique9, as you can see in the photo above.

Round 10 :

Your Frog Face Applique9 is now finished ✓

Assembly Instructions

  • Each square is made individually; join together using a continuous flat braid join before adding the border to create a neat, flat seam between squares.
  • Use Parchment (approx 1.5 balls) for the join and final border, working around the entire blanket after all squares are joined.
  • Pin and position applique9 pieces onto each square, then sew into place on the reverse to hide seams and tails.
  • When sewing squares together, maintain consistent tension and check alignment frequently so the pattern remains even across rows.
  • Weave in ends as you go and block squares if you prefer them to be more uniform before joining.

Important Notes

  • 💡Use stitch markers to keep track of rounds, especially when working textured stitches or turning rows.
  • 💡Stuff and shape applique9 pieces lightly where required and always leave a long tail for sewing pieces securely.
  • 💡Follow US terminology as used throughout this pattern to avoid confusion with UK stitch names.
  • 💡Check your gauge by making a sample square; different stitches may change finished square size and affect final blanket measurements.

This Animal Kingdom Blanket pattern pack provides detailed, step-by-step applique9 instructions and full colour notes so you can recreate every adorable face. Make it in classic neutrals or bright playful shades to suit the recipient and home. Whether you make one square or thirty, this blanket will be loved for years to come. 🧶✨

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FAQs

What size will the finished piece be?

The original Animal Kingdom Blanket shown is made of 30 squares each approximately 14.5cm x 14.5cm, making the entire blanket with border approximately 84cm x 100cm (33 inches x 39 inches), depending on your tension.

Can I use different yarn weights for this pattern?

Yes, but changing yarn weight will affect the size of each square. If you use a different weight, choose an appropriate hook and make a gauge square to calculate final measurements.

Do I need prior crochet experience for this pattern?

This pattern is rated intermediate; you should be comfortable with basic stitches (SC, HDC, DC) and with reading short rounds. Familiarity with increasing, decreasing and simple embroidery is helpful.

How should I join the squares and finish the border?

Join each completed square with a continuous flat braid join as instructed, then work the border in Parchment (approx 1.5 balls) around the joined blanket for a neat finish.