Make an adorable little octopus with long curly tentacles using this easy to follow pattern. You can easily add a small bow or flower to the head or even a little bowtie. The octopus is made in 2 pieces, the head is crocheted and then the tentacles are made in one piece that is then sewed onto the bottom of the head. Materials: 1 skein of Patons Grace yarn (Azure) Size 3.125 crochet hook Two 8mm safety eyes Embroidery needle Embroidery floss for the mouth Stuffing for the head

However, if the varied colors aren't your thing, why not try this free crochet pattern? Overall, they're just as cute, but the calmer and more deliberate color selection makes them great as a decorative arrangement.

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.

This adorable crochet octopus pattern has a head that's a little bit reminiscent of the cute ghosts in Pac-Man. Even without the tentacles, it's a great toy. Of course, you want to add the tentacles if you're donating them to heal preemies in the NICU, because that's the part that calms them most.

This is a two-in-one crochet pattern. It includes the crochet octopus pattern. Plus a simple crochet beanie hat pattern. There are instructions for a preemie size and a newborn size hat. This pattern is for sale on Ravelry.

Crochet octopus toys were first used in hospitals in the UK. In fact, many of the groups that accept donations are there as well. If you're used to working with UK crochet terms, then this pattern will suit you well.

This free crochet octopus pattern is unique from the others because the designer provides you with three different ways to finish off the toy. This allows you to create several different styles, which is fun for you as the creator and also makes the gift a little more special for the family.

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.

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.