Baby’s First Best Friend
This crochet baby lovey is one of our most popular free patterns, perfect for crafters of all skill levels.
A lovey (also called a security blanket or comfort object) is a small blanket with a stuffed animal head attached. Babies become deeply attached to their lovey — it provides comfort at bedtime, during travel, and in new situations. This bunny lovey combines a soft granny square blanket with an adorable bunny head.
Materials
- Main yarn: DK weight baby yarn in white or cream — about 150 yards
- Accent yarn: Pink for inner ears and nose — small amount
- Hook: 4mm (G/6)
- Safety eyes: 10mm (or embroider for newborns)
- Polyester stuffing
- Stitch marker
Blanket Part (Granny Square)
Work a large granny square until it measures about 14″ x 14″.
Round 1: Magic ring. Ch 3, 2 DC, ch 2, *3 DC, ch 2* three times. Join.
Rounds 2-12: Continue granny square pattern, adding clusters each round.
Border: 1 round SC, then 1 round of scallop edge (*skip 1, 5 DC in next, skip 1, SL ST*).
Bunny Head
Rounds 1-5: Magic ring, increase to 30 stitches (standard amigurumi sphere start).
Rounds 6-11: SC around without increasing. (30 sts)
Rounds 12-15: Decrease back down. Insert safety eyes between rounds 8-9. Stuff firmly before closing.
Bunny Ears (Make 2)
Ch 10. SC in each ch, ch 1, turn. Work 12 rows. Decrease at top to shape the ear point. Make 2 white and 2 pink (slightly smaller). Stack pink on white, fold at base, sew to head.
Assembly
- Sew bunny head securely to one corner of the granny square
- Double-stitch the head attachment — baby will pull on this!
- Embroider a small pink nose and mouth
- Add a small ribbon bow at the neck (sew on securely)
Safety Checklist
- All parts must be sewn on with multiple passes of yarn
- Pull-test every component — ears, eyes, nose
- For babies under 12 months: embroider features, no buttons
- Use machine-washable materials only
- The blanket part should be thin — no thick stuffing
Why Babies Love Loveys
- The blanket part is perfect for rubbing between fingers
- The animal head gives them something to focus on
- Small enough to bring everywhere
- Familiar scent (from home) provides comfort in new places
- Helps with self-soothing and sleep independence
FAQ
When can I introduce a lovey?
Pediatricians generally recommend introducing a lovey around 6-12 months. Before that, use it during supervised play only.
Should I buy two identical ones?
YES — make two! If one gets lost, you’ll be grateful. Alternate them so they wear and smell the same.
Related Patterns You’ll Love
- Essential Crochet Stitches for Baby Items
- Baby Owl Stuffed Toy Pattern
- Baby Unicorn Amigurumi Tutorial
For more stitch tutorials, visit Yarnspirations for additional free patterns.
Conclusion
This bunny lovey will become one of baby’s most treasured possessions. It’s the kind of handmade gift that parents keep forever — even long after baby has outgrown it.
