This pattern will be released on 11th of August 2025, as part of the “Once Upon a Make along” Medieval fairy tale themed crochet event that takes place during August and September 2025.

For more information on the MAL, simply join the server via this link: Once Upon a MAL Discord Server. If you have a Discord Account you may be prompted to log-in with your usual details, and if you don’t have a Discord account, you’ll be prompted to create one that can be used for any groups you join on Discord in future, not just for this make-along.

Hugo the Numbat is a pint-sized performer with a big heart and an even bigger hat! A natural-born jester, Hugo spends his days bringing joy to other animals with his tumbling tricks, silly dances, and quick wit. No termite mound is safe from his sticky tongue, and no gloomy day can withstand his infectious giggle.

When he’s not balancing acorns on his nose or juggling gum nuts, Hugo can be found napping in the shade of a eucalyptus tree, dreaming up his next big act. His vibrant hat lets all know when he’s on the move, bells sounding with each step.

This 27 page crochet pattern in US terms is filled with colour photos (35) and instructions so your numbat turns out just right. Charts are included as an additional option for colour changes, and multiple videos provide an extra guide on the tricky bits. Also included in the download are two printer-friendly versions, one black and white, and the other black and white without photos. Instructions include a detailed colourwork numbat with jester hat. With a 2.75mm hook and DK weight yarn, he ends up roughly 14cm tall (depending on gauge, and when not wearing the hat) and is a perfect size for a desk companion or to fit in a child’s backpack (to join in all adventures!).

Key Details:

➔ Size: Approximately 14cm tall when made with DK yarn and a 2.75 mm hook.
➔ Yarn & Hook: Designed for DK weight yarn, but you can use another weight as long as it’s consistent. Gauge isn’t critical, but keep it tight. Example images use Classic 8PLY Wool, and Rustic Tweed 8ply from Bendigo Woollen Mills.
➔ Skill Level: Intermediate-Advanced. Small rounds, and plenty of colourwork! Everything is clearly labelled and photos, charts, and videos are included to guide you through any complicated bits, but this pattern requires concentration and a fair bit of trusting the process. A video with instructions on how to change colours quickly and easily is also included with the pattern.
➔ Full Colour PDF: 27 pages, written in US crochet terms
➔ Printer Friendly PDF Versions: B&W option, as well as B&W with no images
➔ Instructions Include: Numbat, hat, options for crocheted or craft bells, instructions for semi-poseable limbs, video tutorial on colour changing, charts, video tutorials for hat.

Materials:

➔ Yarn - Yarn - This pattern is written for DK weight yarn, but since it’s Amigurumi, gauge isn’t too important. What matters most is that your stitches are nice and tight. You can easily swap in a different yarn weight if you prefer, just make sure all your yarn is the same weight and you’re using a hook size that gives you firm stitches with no gaps. I’ve used Classic & Rustic Tweed 8PLY Wool from Bendigo Woollen Mills for my Numbat, which gave me a finished size of ~14 cm tall (without the hat).

◆ Colour A: Medium/light Grey (~9m/10y)
◆ Colour B: Dark grey/black/dark brown
(~17.5m/19y)
◆ Colour C: White (~4.5m/5y)
◆ Colour D: Rusty red/orange (~14.5m/16y)
◆ Colour E: Tan (~8.5m/10y)
◆ Colour F/G/H: Colours for the top, left, and right spikes of the hat. I’ve used blue, yellow, and green (~3m/3.5y)
◆ Colour I: Back spike of the hat, and hat trim
(~5.5m/6y)
◆ Colour J: Bells (only a small amount, and only if not using craft bells)
◆ A little bit of black and a little bit of orange/yellow for embroidering the nose and eyes.

➔ 2.75mm crochet hook. Depending on your yarn and tension, you may need to go up or down sizes to match.
➔ Stuffing
➔ Sewing pins to keep things in place as you stitch them together (not absolutely necessary, but can help keep things from sliding around)
➔ Stitch marker to keep track of rounds (I use an extra little piece of yarn)
➔ Yarn needle (or smaller if you prefer to attach pieces with thread)
➔ Scissors
➔ 4x 10-12mm craft bells (optional)