If you want to avoid the issue of safety eyes altogether, then one option is to forgo the eyes entirely. They aren't necessary to make a cute crochet octopus. Lilla Bjorn Crochet used this pattern and explains why she chose a no-eyes design. The pattern is by Anastasia Popova of Crochet for Babies.
Octopus for Preemies 2.0 from Crochet for Babies
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Free Crochet Octopus Pattern for Preemies
When Cheryl learned about how crochet octopuses were helping preemies, she wanted to contribute. However, she didn't love any of the crochet octopus patterns out there. That's why she created her own. It has a slightly oval head, which is true to the real creature. She also has some great notes in the article about using safety eyes and checking for specific requirements at the hospital where you donate.
Emil, the Preemie Crochet Octopus
Meet Emil, the cute preemie octopus crochet pattern. Do you crochet for charity? Have you heard about preemie octopus before? They're cute little amigurumi octopus (or jellyfish) suffed toys. Yes, they are adorable but that's not all. Scientific research has shown they actually help preemies get better. “The purpose of the crocheted octopuses is to promote comfort and development for the pre-term babies while in the hospital. The tentacles of the soft octos mimic the feel of the umbilical cord in their tiny hands and have been found to soothe the babies and help prevent them from pulling on wires and tubes.” Octopus for a Preemie-US Project Ambassador Randi Palm of Lonsdale Emil is an easy, beginner-friendly plush crochet octopus pattern. Only single crochet stitches are used throughout the pattern. Guidelines on size and construction were followed to be sure you can donate your crochet octopus to charity.
Crochet Octopus Free Pattern
This free crochet octopus pattern was recommended in a Martha Stewart article about how these plush toys help preemies. The pattern is available in both US and UK crochet terms. This toy uses crochet eyes so you don't have to worry about safety eyes. Note that there aren't specific instructions for personalizing the octopus with accessories, but you can get some great inspiration from the photos.
Crochet Octopus Pattern - Good For All Babies
This crochet designer points out that while the crochet octopus is particularly good for NICU preemies, it's also a good toy for other babies as well. It promotes motor development and sensory stimulation, which every baby benefits from.
