Crochet Highland Cow Plushie – Step-by-Step Tutorial
Crochet plushies (amigurumi) that use granny squares or hexagons have become a favorite among crafters because they combine the charm of traditional motifs with the playfulness of soft toys. This Highland Cow is the perfect example: its sturdy body is formed from joined motifs, while details like the horns, ears, and fluffy fringe bring the animal to life.
Unlike complex amigurumi patterns worked entirely in rounds, this design is built from simple crochet motifs—perfect for those who enjoy making squares and then transforming them into something magical. Once the motifs are made, the fun begins: arranging, joining, and stuffing to shape the cow’s plump body.
The highlight of this project is in the details. The soft muzzle, expressive eyes, and iconic “fringe” of a Highland cow give the piece personality. Small touches like embroidered nostrils, eyelashes, and slightly curved horns make it look polished and full of character.
This project is beginner-friendly if you’ve worked granny squares before, and it’s a delightful way to use up yarn scraps. The result is a cuddly toy that works equally well as a children’s plushie, a whimsical home décor piece, or even a special handmade gift.
Materials Needed
- Worsted weight yarn in:
- Main color (brown)
- Contrast color (beige/cream)
- Accent color (optional for muzzle or fringe)
- Crochet hook size 3.5 mm – 4.0 mm
- Yarn needle
- Safety eyes (18–20 mm) or embroidered eyes
- Fiberfill stuffing
- Scissors
- Stitch markers
Step-by-Step Instructions
Step 1 – Granny Motifs (Body Pieces)
- Make African Flower motifs or solid granny hexagons in alternating colors (main and contrast).
- For a medium-sized cow like the photo, crochet 14–16 motifs.
- Block lightly for uniform shape.
Step 2 – Shaping the Body
- Arrange the motifs into an oval “barrel” for the torso.
- Seam motifs together using whip stitch or slip stitch join, leaving one side open for stuffing.
- Add two smaller motif tubes for the legs (each 2–3 motifs). Attach securely.
Step 3 – Head and Muzzle
- Head base: Crochet a large round piece in main color using increases (sc in spiral) until about 5–6” across. Continue without increases for depth, then decrease slightly to shape.
- Muzzle: In contrast color, crochet an oval: ch 8, work sc around foundation chain with increases at ends. Continue in rounds until desired size.
- Sew muzzle to head, lightly stuffing as you go. Add nostril embroidery.
Step 4 – Ears and Horns
- Ears: Make 2 ovals (ch 7, work sc + hdc rows for shape). Sew to sides of head.
- Horns: With contrast yarn, crochet tight sc tubes (ch 8, join, sc around in spiral). Shape by slightly curving and stuffing. Attach above ears.
Step 5 – Eyes and Fringe
- Place safety eyes between head and muzzle, or embroider with black yarn for a softer look.
- Cut multiple strands of yarn for fringe. Latch-hook them across the forehead, trimming into a shaggy look.
Step 6 – Assembly
- Sew head securely onto the body.
- Attach legs evenly to bottom of body.
- Stuff firmly with fiberfill.
- Close remaining openings neatly.
✨ And your Highland Cow plushie is complete! Its mix of granny motifs and amigurumi details makes it a unique crochet project that blends tradition with cuteness.
