Crochet fun for the whole family: free instructions for ladybugs for windows and memory game

Today, we have a very special free project for you: a free guide for crocheting ladybugs! These small, cheerful bugs are perfect as window decorations and can also be quickly and easily transformed into an entertaining memory game. Ideal for the whole family!

Why did we choose ladybugs?

Ladybugs are not only adorable, but they also bring good luck! I think they are a great motif for both children and adults alike. For me, these cute bugs are the embodiment of spring and better weather, brighter colors in nature, and with their vibrant red and characteristic black spots, they are simply eye-catching and bring color into every—soon hopefully also your—home.

What you need

Before we start, here’s a quick list of the materials you’ll need:

- Yarn: red, black, and lots of colorful cotton scraps if you want to make the memory game
- Crochet hook: size appropriate for your yarn (usually 3-4 mm)
- Scissors
- Needle: for weaving in ends
- Tape (optional): for attaching the window decorations

First, we will show you how to crochet a simple ladybug as a window decoration. Afterwards, we will explain how to easily turn it into a memory game. You can experiment with different colors, color changes, and creative ideas to your heart’s content. This project is also perfect for reducing your yarn scraps—great for implementing creative ideas without needing to buy new yarn!

And here’s how to make the cute ladybugs:

The ladybugs are crocheted in closed rounds. The heart shape is formed by the different sizes of stitches.

1. Round: Create a magic ring with four chain stitches.

2. Round: Into this ring, crochet:
   - three chain stitches
   - four double crochets
   - three half double crochets
   - two double crochets
   - three half double crochets
   - four double crochets
   - three chain stitches
   - close the round with a slip stitch into the ring

You should already be able to see the heart shape forming in this round.

3. Round: Start again with three chain stitches, then insert into the first double crochet and crochet two double crochets.

Repeat this process for the next three double crochets.

You will then reach the half double crochets (from the previous round). Crochet one double crochet into each of these three half double crochets.

The next two double crochets (from the previous round) will each be worked with one double crochet and one treble crochet.

On the following three half double crochets (from the previous round), crochet three double crochets each.

Finally, for the last part of this round, crochet the remaining four double crochets (from the previous round), each with two double crochets, then three chain stitches, and close the round with a slip stitch into the first slip stitch of the previous round.

4. Round: This is the last round of the main shape. Again, start with three chain stitches and two double crochets into the first double crochet of the previous round.

Then, crochet one double crochet into the second double crochet of the previous round.

Repeat this three more times, until you reach the 12th double crochet.

Next, crochet three double crochets onto the following three double crochets of the previous round.

The heart's tip is shaped by working two double crochets into the next double crochet, then two treble crochets into each of the two treble crochets of the previous round, and again two double crochets into the next double crochet.

Then, crochet three double crochets onto the next three double crochets.

To finish the round, crochet the remaining eight double crochets (from the previous round), alternating between one and two double crochets each, then three chain stitches and close with a slip stitch into the first slip stitch of the previous round.

It will look like this when finished:

Now, of course, the ladybug needs its characteristic black spots.

You can either sew these on now, like I do, or crochet six firm stitches into a magic ring. For the second method, you’ll then need to sew the spots onto the body in a heart shape. I prefer the embroidered dots because they don’t have to be perfectly even, and I find that nice. Also, I’d rather sew on points than weave in many ends.

To make the cute ladybugs look good from both sides as window decorations, it’s easiest to sew two pieces together—this also makes embroidery easier. If you want to crochet and sew the dots, you can also sew them onto both sides of a heart-shaped body.

Next, you need a line in the middle to make it look like two wings. Crochet this simply by attaching the black yarn with a slip stitch between the two arcs on one side, then crochet 15 chain stitches (you may need to adjust the number depending on how tight or loose you crochet), and secure with a slip stitch at the top. Repeat on the other side, also with 15 chain stitches, to the top middle.

Finally, the head of the ladybug needs to be added. You can attach it best with the remaining yarn by continuing to crochet after the last worked line, without starting anew. To do this, chain three stitches, then connect with a slip stitch to the same side at the height of the last stitch on the right. Crochet six double crochets into the last chain stitch, and create a connection to the body by working a slip stitch into the last stitch on the left side.

Now, let’s add the tiny antennae. Crochet a turning chain, then crochet a slip stitch into the first two double crochets. Then, make a picot (three chain stitches and a slip stitch into the first of these three chains), followed by three more slip stitches (one into each double crochet), another picot, and finally three chain stitches (the last of which is crocheted into the first black slip stitch).

Making the memory game

Once you’ve finished your ladybugs, crochet a second side with different colors or patterns. This way, you’ll create unique pairs for your memory game! Here are a few ideas for creative memory sides: For example, a ladybug with a colorful middle area and a red border. Even this simple variation can be turned into a fantastic memory game with just one color change.

If you need help with color changes, you can also read our blog post about it:

The Perfect Color change

You could also add two color changes, creating each visible round in a different color. This opens up many more possibilities. And you don’t need any special techniques to get great results.

Once you’re confident with color changes, you can even create ladybugs with two different-colored sides. We only recommend this if you have experience or want to practice frequent color changes.

For those of you who love experimenting with techniques or have lots of crochet experience, here’s an idea: you can experiment with three-dimensional techniques on these adorable little ladybugs. In this example, I crocheted the last round so that the stitches of the previous round are worked alternately normally and with deep treble crochets instead of the regular treble. It’s challenging but creates a fiery, vibrant effect that looks fantastic.

You see—this creative challenge is not only fun but also encourages experimenting with colors and techniques. We wish you happy experimenting and hope everything comes together with love in the end. 

If you want to crochet more wonderful ladybugs, we recommend Marie the ladybug