Originally published on my first blog, FreshOffTheNeedles.com in 2019, this pattern brought joy to so many crocheters! Now, as we welcome it to Caledonia’s Cottage, it feels like Clucky has come home to roost. Thank you for joining me on this journey, and happy crocheting in our new cozy corner!
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Oh, Clucky. She’s the kind of project that brings a bit of cheer to every kitchen, a little bit country, a little bit whimsical, and all-around charming. Chickens have this timeless appeal in kitchen decor, don’t they? Whether you’re from a small farm town or a bustling city, there’s just something cozy about adding a touch of the barnyard to your home. This pattern was originally designed for a friend whose mother raises chickens—what better gift than a friendly little crochet hen to keep her company in the kitchen?
Clucky is not only adorable but also customizable, with a range of colors to match your decor or even mimic your favorite chicken breeds. She’s quick to make, wonderfully quirky, and bound to be a conversation starter! Let’s dive in and start crocheting our own little Clucky!
Supplies Needed:
- Size 5 Yarn for the main body and feathers. I recommend Premier Serenity Bulky, though you can also use double-stranded worsted weight yarn.
- Size 6 Yarn for the comb. Suggested: Lion Brand Hometown USA or similar.
- Size 4 Yarn for the beak. Suggested: Bernat Super Value.
- Crochet Hooks: You’ll need sizes 9mm (US M), 5mm (US H), and 3mm (US D).
- Yarn Needles and Scissors for finishing touches.
Project Overview and Tips:
In this pattern, you’ll be using the Magic Circle method for the body, along with Double Crochet (Dc) and Single Crochet (Sc) stitches to shape Clucky. The design is straightforward, but there’s plenty of room for creativity! Here’s a handy tip: use acrylic yarn if Clucky is purely decorative, but if you plan to make a functional pot holder, use cotton yarn since acrylic can melt when exposed to high heat.
For A Personal Touch: Feel free to experiment with colors inspired by real chicken breeds! A splash of color for the comb, a different shade for the beak—each choice brings her personality to life.
Crochet Terminology
- Ch – chain
- Dc – double crochet
- Sl st – slip stitch
- Shell Stitch – 1 sc in the first stitch, skip 1 stitch, 5 Dc in the next stitch, then 1 sc in the next stitch
Need help with the Magic Circle? Check out my written tutorial here; or visit our video tutorial on YouTube here: Magic Circle Video Tutorial
Step-by-Step Instructions:
- Make the Magic Circle: Begin by creating a Magic Circle with 12 Dc inside it. Slip stitch (Sl st) to close the circle.
- Row 1: Chain (Ch) 1, then make 2 Dc in each stitch all the way around. Slip stitch to close (24 stitches total).
- Row 2: Ch 1, then alternate between 1 Dc in the first stitch, then 2 Dc in the next stitch all the way around. Slip stitch to close (36 stitches).
- Row 3: Ch 1, and follow this pattern: 2 Dc stitches, then 2 Dc in one stitch—repeat all the way around for 38 stitches. Slip stitch across to finish (6 slip stitches total).
- Row 4: Ch 1, work a shell stitch border around the body: 1 Sc in first stitch, skip one, 5 Dc in the next stitch, then 1 Sc—repeat for 12 shells. Continue with a row of Dc across previously slipped stitches.
- Row 5: Ch 1, turn, and make 6 Dc across.
- Row 6: Ch 1, turn, and create one Dc in the first stitch, then a shell stitch in the next. Work one Sc in the following stitch and tie off.
Detail Work:
Feathers: Using an accent color (white or black works beautifully), insert your crochet hook at the top of the first shell, join your color, and work single crochets along the tops of each shell stitch.
Beak:
- Ch 4, Sc into the second chain from the hook, and Sc across.
- Ch 1, turn, and make 3 Sc across.
- Don’t chain one here—just turn, make 2 Sc across, turn, and make one last Sc.
- Tie off, weave in the ends, and sew onto Clucky’s face.
Comb: Attach red yarn, anchor with a single Sc, and make 3 shell stitches across the top of Clucky’s head. Weave in any loose ends.
And there you have it—Clucky the Kitchen Chicken, ready to add some charm to your space! Each stitch brings this little hen to life, making her a delightful addition to any kitchen or as a unique gift for the chicken lover in your life. Don’t forget to share your completed Clucky on Instagram by tagging @CaledoniasCottage—I’d love to see your unique twists on this sweet little pattern. Happy crocheting, and may Clucky bring warmth and joy to your home!
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