Falling in Love with Handmade: The Story Behind the Big-Eared Honey Dog
There’s something so heartwarming about creating a stuffed animal from scratch. The Big-Eared Honey Dog is one of those patterns that instantly brings joy. I remember the first time I finished a pair of oversized floppy ears—they immediately made the little dog feel alive, playful, and huggable. Making this amigurumi is about more than crochet; it’s about creating a tiny companion full of personality. You’ll notice every stitch adds to the character of your dog, from the plump body to the droopy ears that seem to have their own charm.
Gathering Your Tools and Materials for Success
Before diving in, make sure you have everything ready. Using the right materials ensures your amigurumi holds its shape and looks as adorable as intended.
Materials:
- 6.5 mm or 8 mm crochet hook (depending on yarn thickness)
- Super bulky chenille or velvet yarn in Honey/Golden Brown for the body
- Scrap yarn or fabric in light tan/cream for paw pads and muzzle
- Large safety eyes (25–30 mm) for the expressive “big eye” look
- Large velvet nose or black yarn to embroider
- Poly-fill stuffing
- Tapestry needle
- Stitch markers and scissors
Extras like stitch markers make keeping track of rounds easier, especially on the large pieces like the head and body. I always keep a small bowl nearby for the safety eyes so I don’t lose them—once they’re inserted, the dog really comes to life.
Creating the Head – A Round, Huggable Face
The head is the focal point of this amigurumi. Using Honey Brown yarn, crochet a large sphere in continuous rounds. Keep your stitches even, and stuff firmly as you go to maintain a round, substantial shape.
Insert the oversized safety eyes into the upper middle section, leaving wide spacing for a charming, wide-eyed look. I love how the eyes instantly give the dog a gentle, curious expression. Every time I make this, I pause at this stage to adjust the eyes—they really define the character.
Crafting the Muzzle – Soft and Expressive
Next, create a separate, slightly flattened oval in light tan yarn or fabric. Attach the safety nose to the center-top of the muzzle. Sew the muzzle to the lower face, centering it carefully between the eyes.
I like to add a small embroidered mouth line underneath. It’s a tiny detail that makes the dog look like it’s smiling—or maybe about to bark softly. You’ll notice that even small imperfections here give the amigurumi a lot of personality.
Making the Ears – Floppy and Full of Character
The oversized ears are what make this pattern so playful. Crochet two long ovals in the round without stuffing. Flatten them slightly, and they will naturally drape down the sides of the head.
Sew each ear to the top corners of the head. I often hold them in place with pins first to experiment with the perfect flop. The floppy ears are my favorite feature—they make the Honey Dog look extra cuddly.
Shaping the Body – Wide, Stable, and Sitting Proud
For the body, crochet a pear-shaped form starting with a large magic circle. This wide base allows the dog to sit upright comfortably. Stuff densely at the bottom to provide stability, and lighter at the top for a soft, squeezable torso.
The pear shape gives the amigurumi a grounded, almost sculptural look. I like the way the body’s gentle slope leads into the head—it feels balanced and natural.
Arms and Legs – Functional and Adorable
For the arms, crochet medium-sized cylinders. Stuff the bottom half firmly and leave the top half lightly stuffed so the arms can rest naturally against the body.
The legs are thick cylinders with tan oval accents at the bottom to represent paw pads. Stuff them firmly so the dog sits upright. I always check that the legs are the right distance apart; small adjustments make a huge difference in the final pose.
Assembling Your Honey Dog – Bringing It All Together
Sew the head to the body carefully, aligning it so the ears sit naturally over the sides. Attach the arms at the neck seam and the legs at the bottom-front of the body in a sitting position.
Once everything is assembled, give the dog a gentle fluff and adjust the ears and limbs. You’ll see the amigurumi instantly take on a lifelike, cuddly personality. I often hold it up at this stage and marvel at how a few simple pieces have become a charming companion.
Small Details That Make a Big Difference
- Use a small amount of dark yarn to create a subtle mouth line under the muzzle.
- Make sure the ears are positioned to flop over the sides of the face for maximum cuteness.
- Check eye spacing—slightly different positions give each dog a unique expression.
Creative Variations and Personal Touches
Once you’ve made your Honey Dog, try experimenting with yarn colors or eye sizes for different looks. A lighter golden hue gives a softer puppy appearance, while slightly darker eyes make the expression more alert. You could also add tiny accessories like a crochet scarf or a bow—personal touches make each amigurumi feel like a unique friend.
Sweet Questions Answered – Your Amigurumi FAQ Corner
Can I use regular bulky yarn instead of chenille?
Yes, but chenille gives the plush, velvety texture that makes the Honey Dog extra cuddly.
Do I have to stuff the ears?
No. Leaving them unstuffed allows them to flop naturally, which adds personality.
What size should the eyes be?
25–30 mm is ideal for the big-eyed look. Larger eyes make the dog more expressive, while smaller eyes give a subtler expression.
How do I keep the body stable when sitting?
Stuff the bottom densely and ensure the legs are firmly attached. A wide base helps prevent tipping.
Can I embroider the nose instead of using a safety nose?
Absolutely. A small embroidered nose works well and is safer for gifts intended for children.
Making the Big-Eared Honey Dog is as much about the process as the result. From shaping the head to positioning the floppy ears, each stitch brings this little companion to life. Once it’s complete, you’ll have a handmade friend full of personality, ready for cuddles or display.
