Update 2022: I have updated this pattern with new yarn, new photos and charts (by Masako Kawahara), and clearer instructions. A free version of this pattern is available on my website as a photo tutorial. The paid-for version includes a written-only US PDF and a photo tutorial US PDF with charts.

This is a pattern for a crochet version of the traditional Amish Puzzle ball. The resulting ball comes apart into three segments (or rings) that have to be re-assembled to form the ball.

The ball is perfect for little hands and inquisitive minds! It will make the perfect gift for any new baby (or Mom!).

Size

I have updated the pattern to reflect the fact that I now use worsted weight yarn to make these puzzle balls, instead of double knit (light worsted weight).

As such, the ball will be about 15 cm (6”) in diameter.

Gauge

Gauge doesn’t matter, but if the yarn you use is too thin for the hook you use, you will end up with holes in your lids. And if you make this ball with odds and ends of yarn, and some of the yarns are thinner than others, please make sure that the yarn you use for the lids is as thick or thicker than the yarn you use for the wedges, otherwise, the lids will be too small. The wedges are more forgiving than the lids!

Notes

This pattern is suitable for Advanced Beginners. It includes plenty of photos and additional instructions to make it as easy as possible for you to create your own Crochet Amish Puzzle Ball.

Although this pattern is easy, it is detailed, so you will need to have a good grasp of the English language.

You will need to know:

• How to make single crochet stitches
• How to increase and decrease

Although I say this pattern should only take a few hours, the assembly actually takes a bit of time - especially if it’s your first puzzle ball.

Stuffing

This ball EATS stuffing. And I have noticed that people tend to think they have overstuffed the ball because the wedges are quite fat and the segments super snug.

The ball will stretch over time. To get the best results, you want to stuff it nice and full! If you use too little stuffing the segments won’t sit together as well and the ball is more likely to become lifeless after a lot of playing.

Video Tutorials

If you are at all concerned/confused about how to put the ball together, Elizzza has a brilliant 3-part youtube video, the last of which demonstrates both assembly and how to “build the puzzle”.

Although she doesn’t do it exactly as written in the pattern, it should help you understand the process better.

If you do watch this video, please just note that she turns her wedges inside out and I keep mine the right way around (with the seam to the outside, because it helps the wedges lock and makes the counting easier).

Go forth and make lots of puzzle balls!

xxx Dedri