Yip Yips (crochet)

Yip Yips Crochet Containers by Carissa Browning

What Is Being Made

The Yip Yips pattern creates charming crocheted containers inspired by the beloved alien characters from late 20th century children's public television. These functional vessels measure 25 inches in circumference and 14 inches in height (excluding tentacles and hanging loop), making them ideal for holiday stockings, toy storage, kids' laundry, or general household organization. The design captures the distinctive character aesthetic through creative use of super chunky yarn and simple construction techniques.

Crochet Techniques and Construction

This beginner-friendly crochet project uses fundamental techniques accessible to new crafters. The pattern incorporates basic crochet stitches worked in the round to create the cylindrical container body. The construction method allows for straightforward assembly, with additional embellishment techniques including attaching crocheted tentacles to the finished vessel. The pattern demonstrates how simple stitch combinations can produce recognizable character designs when combined with thoughtful finishing details.

Stitches Used

While specific stitch names are not detailed in the provided materials, the pattern employs standard crochet stitches suitable for beginners working with super chunky yarn. The gauge specification of 8 stitches and 8 rows equaling 4 inches in single crochet indicates that single crochet forms the foundation of the construction. Tentacle attachment utilizes the same crochet hook, suggesting consistent stitch application throughout the project.

Materials and Tools

Yarn: Bernat Blanket, Blanket Brights, or Baby Blanket yarn (100% polyester; 220 yards/201 meters per 300-gram skein). One skein is required, available in multiple colorways including Royal Blue, Pixie Pink, Pow Purple, Baby Teal, and Crimson for the crochet version.

Crochet Hook: US L/8mm crochet hook, used for both constructing the main container and attaching tentacles.

Additional Supplies: Tapestry needle for weaving in yarn ends, 2 ping pong balls for creating dimensional tentacles, 2 pipe cleaners (12 inches long) for internal tentacle structure, black paint pen or permanent marker for facial features, an awl, ice pick, or corn pick for poking holes in ping pong balls, and black flannel fabric (16 inches by 24 inches) for lining or additional detailing.

Difficulty Level

This pattern is designed as a beginner project, making it accessible to crocheters new to the craft. The straightforward construction and use of super chunky yarn—which works up quickly and is forgiving of tension inconsistencies—ensures that crafters of all skill levels can successfully complete the Yip Yips containers.

Pattern Format

The Yip Yips pattern is available as a free downloadable PDF, designed by independent designer Carissa Browning and available through CarissaKnits.com. The digital format allows for immediate access and printing for convenient reference during the crafting process.