Crochet Funky Cactus

If you're looking to add a touch of whimsy and charm to your space, a Crochet Funky Cactus is the perfect choice! These adorable creations bring a fun and playful vibe to any room, adding a pop of color and personality. With their quirky designs and vibrant hues, Crochet Funky Cacti make fantastic decor pieces or even thoughtful gifts for plant lovers who might not have the greenest thumbs. Whether you're a seasoned crocheter or just starting out, crafting your own Crochet Funky Cactus is a delightful way to express your creativity and spread some joy!

Materials and Preparation

To create this adorable crochet cactus, you will need the following materials:

Yarn:

Cactus: Double-knit (DK) yarn in the color Olive (e.g., Charity yarn or any DK yarn).

Flower: Variegated DK yarn (optional; specific yarn used was not identified, but any colorful DK yarn works).

Hook:

Recommended hook size: 4 mm (used in the tutorial: 5 mm hook for a slightly softer texture).

Additional Tools:

• Yarn needle
• Scissors
• Toy stuffing

Other Notes:

Leave long yarn tails (approx. 25–30 cm) at several points in the pattern for sewing and closing sections.

Abbreviations and Notes

Abbreviations:

• CH: Chain
• SC: Single Crochet
• HDC: Half Double Crochet
• DC: Double Crochet
• BLO: Back Loops Only

Important Notes:

• This project uses a simple rhythmic pattern, working half-double crochets in back loops only for the main cactus body.
• No gauge swatch is required for this project.
• Ensure long tails are left in critical steps for sewing and shaping.
• The flower consists of one quick and easy row, rolled into shape at the end.
• You can decide the «front side» to be displayed during assembly (personal preference).

Gauge, Approximate Size, and Pattern Notes

Gauge: Not critical for this project.

Finished Dimensions: Approximately 20 cm (8 in) tall.

Special Techniques:

Using the drawstring method to gather and close the ends of the cactus body.

Rolling the flower and sewing it securely to the cactus.

Step-by-Step Pattern

Step 1: Creating the Cactus Body

Foundation Chain:

Create a slip knot on your hook, leaving a long tail (25–30 cm). CH 31.

Row 1:

Start from the second chain from the hook. Work HDC in each chain across. You should have a total of 29 HDCs at the end of this row.

Row 2–20:

At the end of the row, CH 1 and turn your work.

Work HDC in BLO across each stitch.

Repeat this process until you have completed 20 rows.

Finishing the Body:

At the end of Row 20, CH 1, snip your yarn, pull through, and leave another long tail.

Use a yarn needle to thread your tail through the gaps on one side of the cactus body, creating a drawstring closure. Pull tight to gather the stitches into a rounded shape.

Sew the ends together to form a cylinder, closing it securely.

Stuffing the Body:

Turn the cactus body inside out to display your preferred side.

Fill with toy stuffing until firm but not overstuffed.

Closing the Bottom:

Using the drawstring method (as above), thread your yarn needle through the gaps on the other open side. Pull tight to close.

Secure the closure by sewing back and forth as needed.

Step 2: Creating the Flower

Foundation Chain:

Use a DK yarn of your choice for the flower. CH an even number (e.g., CH 30).

Flower Row:

Into the second chain from the hook, work SC.

Into the next chain, work 3 DCs.

Alternate between 1 SC and 3 DCs in the following stitches.

Continue this repeat until the end of the row.

Rolling the Flower:

Snip your yarn, secure it with a CH 1, and roll the flower strip from one end to the other.

The petals will naturally fall into place as you roll.

Sewing the Flower:

Using a yarn needle and the tail of the flower, sew the rolled flower together from underneath to secure its shape.

Make sure to stitch through each layer for sturdiness.

Step 3: Attaching the Flower

Using a yarn needle and a piece of yarn matching the cactus body, sew the flower to the side you prefer for the «top.»

Stitch securely, grabbing parts of the flower and the cactus body to ensure it stays in place.

Hide all loose ends inside the stuffed cactus.