Creating an amigurumi Dobby the house elf is like weaving a bit of magic into a ball of yarn! 🌟 As a fan of both Harry Potter and crafting, I find that bringing such an iconic character to life through crochet is an absolute joy. The appeal lies in transforming simple threads into a beloved figure, complete with his expressive eyes and floppy ears. It’s not just crafting; it’s storytelling with yarn, where each stitch adds a piece of personality, making Dobby’s mischievous yet lovable character come to life. Whether it’s his endearing grin or his quirky mismatched socks, each detail is a delightful challenge that keeps me hooked from start to finish.
The process begins with gathering materials like soft yarn in various shades of beige, gray, and a hint of color for those little sock details. With crochet hook in hand, I start with the head, working in rounds to achieve the perfect shape. It’s almost like sculpting, but instead of clay, I’m using yarn! Each round builds upon the last, gradually forming Dobby’s distinctive features. Adding the ears is where things start to get exciting—once they’re attached, the character really starts to take shape! I love adding the final touches, like his eyes and a tiny ragged cloth, which give him that unmistakable Dobby charm. It’s truly rewarding to see a pile of yarn transform into something so full of character and life! 🧶✨
🧝 Amigurumi Dobby the House Elf – FREE Crochet Pattern
Honor the beloved free elf with this expressive amigurumi version of Dobby! With oversized ears, wide eyes, lanky limbs, and a gentle expression, this crochet companion captures the charm and loyalty of one of the wizarding world’s most iconic characters.
✨ Skill Level
Advanced – Involves shaping, joining limbs, ear structure, facial embroidery, and optional hair detail.
📏 Finished Size
Approx. 12–14 inches (30–36 cm) tall using DK or worsted weight yarn and a 2.5–3.5 mm hook.
🧶 Materials
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DK or worsted weight yarn in:
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Pale tan or light peach (body & head)
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Black, white, and grey (eyes)
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Crochet hook: 2.5–3.5 mm
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Polyfill stuffing
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12 mm safety eyes (or crocheted/embroidered eyes)
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Black embroidery thread (mouth, lashes, brows)
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Tapestry needle
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Optional: Scraps of fine mohair, faux fur, or thin cream yarn for hair
🧵 Abbreviations (US Terms)
MR – Magic Ring
sc – Single Crochet
inc – Increase
dec – Decrease
sl st – Slip Stitch
ch – Chain
BLO/FLO – Back/Front Loop Only
FO – Fasten Off
🧠 Head
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MR, 6 sc
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inc x6 (12)
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(1 sc, inc) x6 (18)
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(2 sc, inc) x6 (24)
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(3 sc, inc) x6 (30)
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(4 sc, inc) x6 (36)
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(5 sc, inc) x6 (42)
8–16. sc around (42) -
(5 sc, dec) x6 (36)
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(4 sc, dec) x6 (30)
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(3 sc, dec) x6 (24)
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(2 sc, dec) x6 (18)
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(1 sc, dec) x6 (12)
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dec x6 (6)
Stuff and FO.
👂 Ears (Make 2 – Shaped)
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Ch 7
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Row 1: sc in 2nd ch and across (6)
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Row 2: ch 1, turn, inc, 4 sc, inc (8)
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Row 3: ch 1, turn, inc, 6 sc, inc (10)
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Row 4–6: ch 1, turn, sc across (10)
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Row 7: ch 1, turn, dec, 6 sc, dec (8)
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Row 8: dec across
FO, leave tail. Slightly roll the inner edge and sew flat to side of head. Repeat for other ear.
👀 Eyes (Make 2 – or use safety eyes)
White Round:
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MR, 6 sc
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(1 sc, inc) x3 (9)
Switch to light grey: -
sc around (9)
Switch to black: -
(1 sc, dec) x3 (6)
FO, flatten and sew just above midline of head.
🧍 Body (Worked Top Down)
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MR, 6 sc
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inc x6 (12)
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(1 sc, inc) x6 (18)
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(2 sc, inc) x6 (24)
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(3 sc, inc) x6 (30)
6–22. sc around (30) -
(4 sc, dec) x5 (25)
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(3 sc, dec) x5 (20)
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(2 sc, dec) x5 (15)
FO, stuff, and leave long tail for sewing to head.
🦵 Legs (Make 2)
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MR, 6 sc
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inc x6 (12)
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(1 sc, inc) x6 (18)
4–6. sc around -
(2 sc, dec) x4 (14)
8–15. sc around (14)
Stuff firmly, FO and sew to base of body.
💪 Arms (Make 2 – Long & Lanky)
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MR, 6 sc
2–16. sc around (6) -
inc x2, 4 sc (8) – to slightly widen the hand
18–20. sc around (8)
FO, lightly stuff, bend arms if desired and sew to shoulders.
💇 Hair (Optional)
Use scrap strands of thin yarn or mohair:
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Insert strands through top of head using a hook or needle
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Tie or secure with glue
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Trim for a patchy, wispy look
😌 Face Details
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Embroider a small curved smile
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Add eyebrows above the eyes
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Optionally stitch faint vertical nose ridges
✂️ Finishing Touches
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Pin all parts in place before final sewing
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Angle ears outward and slightly upward
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Use soft stuffing and squeeze limbs after stuffing for flexibility
🧦 Optional Clothing
Crochet or stitch a simple “pillowcase” dress using a beige or light fabric rectangle with holes cut for arms and a tied strap.
Dobby is not just a crochet project—he’s a symbol of loyalty, courage, and freedom. This handmade version of the beloved elf is sure to win hearts and make any shelf more magical! 🧶🧝♂️✨