"This is a dream I've had since lunch, and I'm not giving up on it now." — Michael Scott
If you've ever wanted to crochet an adorable and hilarious dumpling, you gotta check out this crochet bao with buns! It's a soft, squishy steamed bun with a surprise pair of butt cheeks in the back. It's cute, it's cheeky (literally), and it's probably one of the silliest things I've crocheted in a while. Whether you're here for laughs, the free pattern, or both, this crochet bao pattern is sure to put a smile on your face.
Unlike most amigurumi patterns that feature little butts, this crochet bao skips the sewing and cinching altogether. Instead of stitching the butt crack in afterward, I used a clever combination of crochet increases and decreases to sculpt those tiny butt cheeks right into the fabric as you go. No sewing required to form the butt.
The only stitching you'll need to do is when closing up the top of the bao. This makes it a super beginner-friendly crochet pattern, and a great project for anyone looking to try something cute, quick, and a little cheeky.
What You Need / Materials
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- Bulky (weight #6) chenille yarn in the following colors:
- White (I used Hobbii's Honey Bunny in White)
- Aran (weight #4) acrylic yarn in the following colors:
- Pink (I used Scheepjes Chunky Monkey in Wild Orchid) (optional for blush)
- 5.0 mm Crochet Hook
- Safety Eyes (I used 12 mm)
- Polyester Stuffing of your choice
- Yarn Needle
- Stitch Markers
- Scissors
Yarns Substitutions
Finished Size
- Finished amigurumi measures approximately 8 x 8 cm (3 x 3 inches) in size.
- Consider using a different yarn weight or category and an appropriate hook size for this project to make it larger or smaller.
Level of Difficulty
- ★☆☆☆☆ Beginner / Easy
- Requires familiarity with stitches used (below), attaching plastic safety eyes, and basic embroidery (for blush).
Stitches & Abbreviations
- st/sts - stitch/stitches
- ch - chain
- slst - slip stitch
- sc - single crochet
- sc inc - single crochet increase, 2 single crochets in one stitch
- sc dec - single crochet decrease, single crochet 2 stitches together
PatternNotes
- This pattern is written using US crochet terms.
- I made this amigurumi doll using the "Yarn Under Single Crochet" technique. This technique makes the stitches tighter and more aligned.
- I also used a half-color changing technique to achieve cleaner lines when changing colors from one row to another.
- Crochet in continuous spiral rounds. Do not join at the end of each round unless otherwise stated. Use a running stitch marker to keep your place when crocheting in rounds.
- Use the ultimate finish to close up the bottom of the amigurumi.
- Optional: Use the invisible increase and invisible decrease for a nicer finish.
Free Crochet Pattern
Using a 5 mm crochet hook and white yarn...
Round 1: Magic ring with a base of 7 sc (7 sts)
Round 2: Sc inc in each st around (14 sts)
Round 3: [Sc, sc inc] x 7 times (21 sts)
Round 4: [Sc, sc-inc, sc] x 7 times (28 sts)
Round 5: [3 sc, sc-inc] x 7 times (35 sts)
Round 6: 28 sc, 7 sc-inc (42 sts)
Round 7-8: Sc in each st around (42 sts x 2 rounds)
Round 9: 28 sc, 7 sc-dec (35 sts)
Round 10-11: Sc in each st around (35 sts x 2 rounds)
At this point, you should start seeing a butt crack form because of the decreases, but if not, then just simply form it with your fingers where you push the increases inside the amigurumi bao.
 |
| Push the excess stitches that are sticking out into the bao. |
 |
| The inside of the amigurumi. |
 |
| The butt is forming outside of the amigurumi! |
Round 12: [3 sc, sc-dec] x 7 times (28 sts)
Round 13: [Sc, sc-dec, sc] x 7 times (21 sts)
Insert safety eyes between rounds 8 and 9, about 6 sts apart (making sure they're on the opposite side of the butt cheeks.
Round 14: Ch 1, [sk 1, sc in the next st, ch 1] x 9 times (18 sts)
Round 15: Sc into ch space, [Ch 2, sc into the ch space] x 9 times (27 sts)
Cut and fasten off with the tail. Stuff your amigurumi bao with polyester stuffing. Then, use the yarn tail to weave through the ch spaces from Round 14 (not Round 15) and close it up like a drawstring bag. Weave in your ends.
Optional: You can add a couple of stitches to the butt crack to make sure it doesn't pop out as you're stuffing it.
Watch the Crochet Tutorial on YouTube
Why I Crocheted a Bao with a Butt Cheeks
In Cantonese culture, bao (or 包) are a staple, soft, steamed buns usually filled with something delicious. But in English, “buns” also has a second meaning… and I couldn’t resist the pun.
One day, a silly thought came to my mind: "What if I made a bao... with actual buns?" Like, a cute little dumpling with a pair of plump butt cheeks peeking out the back. It was too good (and ridiculous) not to make. After five rounds of frogging, some trial-and-error shaping, and way too much giggling, the Bao with Buns was born.
As for who would enjoy the finished plushie? Honestly, anyone with a sense of humor. Little kids will crack up over anything butt-related (seriously, they think it's comedy gold). And let's be honest, plenty of adults will get a good laugh out of it, too.
This pattern is perfect for crochet beginners looking for a fun and easy project. Whether you're new to crochet or just need a silly squishy gift to bring a smile, this cheeky little bao delivers.
Creative Uses and Ideas
- Keychain or Bag Charm: Add a keyring or lobster clasp to turn your crochet bao into a cute accessory for your keys or bag.
- Desk Buddy: Keep it on your desk as a cheerful little companion to brighten your workday.
- Toy or Play Food: Perfect for pretend play, especially for kids who love dim sum and imaginative kitchen games.
- Party Favor: A unique handmade gift for dumpling-themed parties, birthdays, or baby showers.
- Ornament: String a loop on top and hang it as a holiday ornament or room decor.
- Gift Topper: Use it as a playful, reusable embellishment for wrapped presents.
- Pincushion: Its size and shape make it handy for storing pins and needles while you craft.
- Collectible Display: Pair it with other food-themed amigurumi for a fun and quirky crochet collection.
- Craft Market Favorite: A great small item to sell at craft fairs or markets. Adorable, quick to make, and perfect for impulse buys.
You Might Also Like...
- Giant Fortune Cookie Crochet Pattern: A fun, oversized twist on a classic treat. Perfect for gifting or party decor.
- Chinese Lucky Candy Pillow: Add a pop of color and good fortune to your space with this sweet, squishy pillow.
- Egg Tart Amigurumi: A bite-sized crochet project inspired by the beloved dim sum dessert.
- Curry Fishball Amigurumi: Bring a Hong Kong street food favourite to life with this fun and flavorful pattern.
Share Your Creation with Me!
Did you make this project? I'd love to see it! Please share it with me on Instagram and/or use the #onceuponacheerio hashtag.
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This is an original crochet pattern written by Juli Anne of Once Upon a Cheerio. Please do not claim this crochet pattern as your own. If you wish to share this crochet pattern, you may link to this blog post, but please do not reprint it on your site. You may keep a copy for personal use, but please DO NOT sell or distribute the crochet pattern.
You may sell products made from this crochet pattern, but please clearly credit the design to me, Juli Anne of Once Upon a Cheerio, and provide a link to my blog www.OnceUponaCheerio.com. Permission is NOT granted for mass production or factory manufacturing of any kind. Thank you for understanding!
