Easy Cable Stitch Hoodie: Free Pattern & Step-by-Step Video

There is nothing quite like wrapping yourself in a luxurious, texture-rich sweater as the autumn chill settles in. These cozy handmade garments feature intricate, braided rope designs that feel incredibly plush and substantial against the skin. Whether you are a curious beginner aiming for your first garment or a thoughtful gift-maker planning a heartfelt surprise, this project offers a deeply satisfying rhythm that keeps your hands happily busy. You will master the art of the front post technique, creating stunning depth in every row. Grab your favorite yarn and prepare to craft a timeless piece you will cherish forever.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

This Amigurumi Crochet Bee is the ultimate project for those looking to master the basics of 3D crochet. Designed with simplicity in mind, it is a perfect “quick win” for intermediate beginners looking to practice working in continuous rounds. Its compact size makes it incredibly versatile—it can be used as a charming keychain, a bag charm, or a thoughtful handmade gift. Because it requires very little yardage, it is also a fantastic way to destash those leftover bits of yellow, black, and white yarn from your craft bin.

I am fairly new to amigurumi and this bee pattern was so easy to follow. The construction is very logical and the finished bee looks just like the photos. I made three in one afternoon for my coworkers.

— Sarah, amigurumi hobbyist

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

• Skill Level: Advanced Beginner
• Approximate Time: 1–2 hours
• Construction: Worked in continuous rounds starting from the head/body using basic amigurumi techniques (magic ring, increases, and decreases).
• Finished Dimensions: Approximately 3 inches tall by 2.5 inches wide.

Materials & Supplies Needed

• Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) acrylic or cotton blend. Approx. 20 yards Yellow, 15 yards Black, 10 yards White.
• Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E-4) crochet hook.
• Notions: 6mm safety eyes, polyester fiberfill stuffing, tapestry needle, stitch markers, and scissors.
• Yarn Substitutions: You may use DK weight yarn with a 3.0mm hook for a smaller, more delicate bee. Using chunky weight yarn will significantly increase the size; ensure you increase your stuffing amount accordingly to prevent gaps.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

• MR: Magic Ring
• ch: Chain
• sc: Single crochet
• inc: Increase (work 2 sc in the same stitch)
• dec: Decrease (work 2 sc together using the invisible decrease method for a cleaner look)
• sl st: Slip stitch
• st(s): Stitch(es)
• FO: Fasten off

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Bee Body

1. Rnd 1: With Yellow, 6 sc in MR (6)
2. Rnd 2: Inc in each st around (12)
3. Rnd 3: [Sc, inc] 6 times (18)
4. Rnd 4: [2 sc, inc] 6 times (24)
5. Rnd 5-7: Sc in each st around (24)
6. Rnd 8: Change to Black. Sc in each st around (24)
7. Rnd 9: Change to Yellow. Sc in each st around (24)
8. Rnd 10: Change to Black. Sc in each st around (24)
9. Rnd 11: Change to Yellow. [2 sc, dec] 6 times (18)
10. Insert safety eyes between Rnd 5 and 6, about 4 stitches apart. Begin stuffing firmly.
11. Rnd 12: [Sc, dec] 6 times (12)
12. Rnd 13: Dec 6 times (6)
13. FO, weave yarn tail through the remaining 6 stitches, pull tight to close, and hide the tail inside the body.

Wings (Make 2)

1. Rnd 1: With White, 6 sc in MR (6)
2. Rnd 2: Inc in each st around (12)
3. Rnd 3-4: Sc in each st around (12)
4. Rnd 5: [Sc, dec] 4 times (8)
5. FO, leaving a long tail for sewing. Do not stuff the wings. Flatten them before sewing to the sides of the body at Rnd 7.

Assembly

Using the tapestry needle and the yarn tail from the wings, whip-stitch the wings onto the back of the bee body. Ensure the flat sides of the wings face forward. Use a small piece of black yarn to embroider a tiny “V” shaped smile between the eyes if desired.

Care & Washing Instructions

• Hand wash in cool water using a gentle detergent specifically designed for delicate fibers.
• Gently squeeze out excess water with a towel; do not wring, as this may distort the stuffing.
• Lay flat to air dry away from direct sunlight to maintain the vibrancy of the yarn.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

• Maintain Tension: Use a hook size slightly smaller than what is recommended on the yarn label. This creates a tighter gauge, ensuring that no stuffing pokes through your stitches.
• Use Stitch Markers: Because this pattern is worked in continuous spirals, always place a stitch marker in the first stitch of every round so you don’t lose your place.
• Invisible Decreases: Use the “invisible decrease” method (insert hook into front loops of the next two stitches only) to create a smoother, seamless finish on the body.
• Size Adjustment: If you want a larger bee, use a thicker yarn and a hook that corresponds to the yarn weight. Note that this will increase the total yardage required.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I sell the finished bees I make from this pattern?

Yes, you are welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern, provided you credit the designer. Please do not sell or redistribute the pattern itself.

Is this pattern suitable for a complete beginner?

This is an “Advanced Beginner” pattern. While it uses simple stitches, it requires comfort with working in the round and reading a pattern. If you know how to make a magic ring, you will find this very manageable.

Why is my stuffing showing through the stitches?

This is usually caused by tension that is too loose. Try dropping down a hook size to create a denser fabric that keeps the fiberfill securely hidden inside.

How do I change colors without a jagged transition?

When switching colors, finish the last stitch of the previous color by pulling the new color through the final two loops of that stitch. This makes the color change virtually invisible.

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Wrapping yourself in your finished handmade hoodie will feel like a cozy, long-overdue hug that perfectly showcases your unique style. For a truly personalized touch, try swapping the recommended wool for a lightweight cotton blend to create a breathable piece that works beautifully for chilly summer evenings. Once you have finished your masterpiece, please share a snapshot on Pinterest or Instagram so we can admire your work, and don’t forget to browse our blog for even more creative, free patterns to spark your next project!