In the tale “Thumbelina,” a witch gives a magic barleycorn to a woman who then plants it. The barleycorn turns into a tulip-like flower, which is weird enough, but when it opens … there’s a little girl inside. Let’s not dwell on the science behind this natural wonder. We’ll just call it magic ’cause that’s what makes it a fairy tale, right? I designed this crocheted-flower-that-turns-into-a-little-girl because what kind of fairy-tale book would this be without a little magic?

Hook
Sizes B/1 (2.25 mm), F/5 (3.75 mm), and I/9 (5.50 mm). Adjust hook size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.

GAUGE
With medium hook, first 7 rnds of Head = 27⁄8” (7.3 cm) in diameter. It is very important that you crochet tightly when working the head and body. You need to create a very stiff fabric in order for Thumbelina to hold up her head by herself. With larger hook, 15 sts and 16 rounds = 4” (10 cm) in sc worked in rounds.

NOTIONS

• Stitch markers.
• Pair of 16 mm (0.62”) safety eyes in green.
• Polyester fiberfill.
• Yarn needle.
• Sewing thread in color that contrasts with MC (this is used only to create guidelines and will be removed).
• One skein of embroidery floss in each of the following colors: MC #840 (tan or color suitable for eyelids) (F), DMC #310 (black for eyeliner) (G), DMC #223 (mauve or color suitable for mouth) (H).
• Embroidery needle.