Avocado Applique

Avocado Applique: Mr. Cado & Mrs. Caddy by Noorain Nizami

What is Being Made

This crochet pattern creates a charming avocado applique set featuring two character pieces: Mr. Cado and Mrs. Caddy. The finished applique measures 4.5 x 2.5 inches when laid flat, making it an ideal embellishment for garments, accessories, or decorative projects. The design combines dimensional crochet elements with safety eyes to bring personality to the avocado characters.

Craft and Techniques

This project is executed using Tunisian crochet, a hybrid technique that combines elements of traditional crochet and knitting. Tunisian crochet creates a denser, more fabric-like texture compared to standard crochet, making it ideal for structured appliques that hold their shape well. The pattern is classified as Advanced Beginner level, indicating it is suitable for crafters who have mastered basic crochet fundamentals and are ready to explore specialized techniques.

The Tunisian crochet method used in this pattern creates a cohesive, professional-looking applique that can be easily attached to other projects. The technique allows for precise stitch definition, which is particularly important when creating small character details like facial features and dimensional body parts.

Stitches Used

The primary stitch technique employed throughout this pattern is Tunisian simple stitch, which forms the foundation of the applique construction. This stitch creates a tight, uniform fabric with excellent stitch definition. The gauge reference provided is 5 stitches over 4 rows in Tunisian simple stitch for a 1 x 1 inch square, offering crafters a benchmark for consistency, though gauge adjustment is not critical for this particular project.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: The pattern calls for Hobbii Yarn Friends Cotton 8/6, a fine weight cotton yarn (Size 2) that offers durability and a smooth finish ideal for applique work. Three colors are used:

• Color A (Lime): 60 yards, Hobbii Yarn Friends Cotton 8/6 #108, used for the primary avocado body
• Color B (Brown): 40 yards, Hobbii Yarn Friends Cotton 8/6 #12, used for accent details
• Color C (Green): 20 yards, Hobbii Yarn Friends Cotton 8/6 #105, used for secondary elements

The cotton composition (100% cotton per skein specifications of 1.75 oz / 50 g, 115 yards / 105 meters) ensures a breathable, washable finished piece suitable for wearable applications.

Hooks and Notions: A J 10 6 mm Tunisian crochet hook measuring at least 8 inches long or featuring an 8-inch cord is required for this project. Tunisian crochet hooks are specialized tools with extended lengths to accommodate the multiple stitches held on the hook during the forward and return passes characteristic of the technique. Additional notions include a yarn needle for weaving in ends, scissors, and safety eyes to complete the character faces of Mr. Cado and Mrs. Caddy.

Pattern Details

Designed by independent designer Noorain Nizami and released June 12th, 2023, this downloadable PDF pattern provides complete instructions for creating the avocado applique set. The pattern format allows crafters to work at their own pace and reference instructions as needed throughout the project.