NYC taxi cab

NYC Taxi Cab Amigurumi Crochet Toy

Project Overview

This is an intermediate-level crochet pattern for creating a three-dimensional toy replica of an iconic New York City taxi cab. Designed by Stacey Trock and created in October 2009, the finished toy measures 7 inches long, 3 inches wide, and 3 inches tall, making it a compact decorative piece or plaything suitable for display or gifting.

Craft and Technique

The NYC taxi cab is constructed using crochet, a fiber craft that uses a single hook to loop yarn into interconnected stitches. This pattern employs the amigurumi technique, which is the Japanese method of crocheting small, stuffed three-dimensional toys and figures. The amigurumi approach allows crafters to build dimensional shapes by working in continuous rounds and strategically increasing and decreasing stitches to form the body, windows, and details of the taxi cab.

A key technique highlighted in this pattern is stitching into the back loop (bl), which creates a distinctive ridged texture on the fabric surface. Unless otherwise directed in the instructions, all stitches worked in the round are completed by inserting the hook into only the back loop of the previous stitch rather than under both loops. This method is particularly useful in amigurumi construction as it helps define edges and creates a more polished appearance on the finished toy.

Stitches Used

• Chain (ch): The foundation stitch used to create loops and starting points for rows and rounds
• Single Crochet (sc): The primary stitch throughout the pattern, creating a tight, dense fabric ideal for stuffed toys
• Single Crochet 2 Together (sc2tog): A decrease stitch that combines two stitches into one, used to shape and reduce stitches as needed to form the contours of the taxi cab
• Front Loop (fl): Working through only the front loop of a stitch, used selectively for texture variation or specific shaping

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern requires less than 220 yards total (approximately one skein) of worsted weight yarn in four colors. The designer used 100% wool worsted weight yarn in the Ella Rae Classic line, though any worsted weight yarn is suitable, including acrylic alternatives such as Red Heart. The specific colors called for are:

• MC (Main Color): Yellow (Ella Rae Classic #44)
• SC (Secondary Color): Grey (Ella Rae Classic #123)
• AC1 (Accent Color 1): Black (Ella Rae Classic #32)
• AC2 (Accent Color 2): White (Ella Rae Classic #01)

Tools and Notions: Crafters will need a Size H crochet hook, a tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends and assembling pieces, and a few handfuls of polyester fiberfill stuffing to fill the completed toy and give it dimension and structure.

Skill Level

This pattern is rated as intermediate difficulty, making it suitable for crocheters who have mastered basic stitches and are comfortable working in the round and managing color changes. Familiarity with amigurumi techniques and the ability to follow detailed stitch-by-stitch instructions is recommended.