There is a specific kind of magic in pulling a skein of yarn from the stash that perfectly matches the towels hanging in your bathroom. For this project, I found myself reaching for a crisp, medium-weight cotton blend. The fiber choice was intentional; cotton provides the necessary structure and firmness to keep the holder upright, while the clean white and soft blue hues instantly transformed a utilitarian object into a charming piece of home decor. It is this blend of practicality and aesthetic warmth that makes handmade bathroom accessories so rewarding to create.
Yarn and Color Notes
Choosing the right yarn for a functional amigurumi piece like this toilet paper holder is crucial. While acrylics are soft, a cotton or cotton-blend yarn offers the density needed to support the weight of toilet paper rolls without sagging. The source pattern suggests using medium-weight yarn for the body and accents, but the color story here is where the personality shines. I opted for a neutral tone for the base and limbs to keep the focus on the whimsical details, while the “book” accessory uses a contrasting blue and white combination to mimic a miniature notebook. This color blocking not only adds visual interest but also helps define the separate components during assembly. The texture of the cotton yarn highlights the stitch definition, making the ribbing on the back support and the spiral of the arms look crisp and professional.
Project Overview
This countertop crochet toilet paper holder combines whimsical design with practical utility, offering both organization and charm to bathrooms or powder rooms. The holder features a sturdy base, a vertical support wall, hugging arms and legs, and a playful crochet book accessory, making it a charming addition to any countertop. Its multidimensional construction provides functional stability while adding a comforting, handmade touch. This project is more than a simple bathroom decoration; it helps save space, keeps everyday supplies close, and adds a personal touch to your home without needing expensive storage items. It is also a thoughtful housewarming gift for someone who loves handmade home items.
Pattern at a Glance
- Base: Circular platform made with double crochet, structured for stability.
- Back Support/Wall: Raised, vertical section worked in single crochet for retaining strength.
- Legs/Paws: Plump, shaped appendages for holder support (Make 2).
- Arms: Extended, spiraled limbs that hug the toilet paper roll (Make 2).
- Book Accessory: Twisted colorwork resembling a miniature open notebook.
- Assembly: Parts are stitched together for durability; the book accessory is optional but provides a playful, themed finish.
Important Notes
Accurate stitch counts are important for even assembly and support. The legs and arms should be firmly stuffed (if desired) for stability and durability. Adjust color choice for the book or base to suit bathroom decor. Secure all appendages firmly to the base for functional strength. Placement of the book accessory is designed to fit within the holder’s “hands.” The gauge is not critical for this project, but aim for dense fabric to provide structure. Adjust hook and yarn for desired firmness.
Difficulty Level
Intermediate. Techniques include working in the round, increases, decreases, switching between single and double crochet, working in back loops only, back-and-forth rows, and decorative joining. If you have completed projects like the easy crochet fish amigurumi, you will likely find the shaping techniques here familiar, though the structural requirements are slightly more advanced.
Supplies Needed
- Medium-weight yarn in desired colors (e.g., body, accent, blue and white for book).
- Crochet hook suited to yarn (commonly 4.0 mm or as appropriate).
- Tapestry/darning needle.
- Scissors.
- Toy stuffing or fiberfill (optional, for legs and arms).
- Sewing pins for assembly.
- Hot glue or fabric glue (for optional book attachment).
Size & Measurements
- Base diameter: Approximately 18–20 cm (7–8 inches).
- Vertical wall height: 7–10 cm (3–4 inches).
- Arms: Long enough to curve and “hug” a standard toilet paper roll (approximately 23–25 cm/9–10 inches when extended).
- Legs: Shorter and plumper (approx. 12–14 cm/5–5.5 inches).
- Book accessory: 7 x 5 cm (2.75 x 2 inches) notebook style.
Gauge & Stitch Details
Gauge is not critical for this project but aim for dense fabric to provide structure. Sample gauge: 8 dc = 5 cm/2 in; 10 sc = 5 cm/2 in. Adjust hook and yarn for desired firmness.
Crochet Abbreviations
- ch – chain
- sc – single crochet
- dc – double crochet
- inc – increase (2 sts in same st)
- dec – decrease (sc or dc two together)
- slst – slip stitch
- st(s) – stitch(es)
- BLO – back loop only
- MR – magic ring (adjustable ring)
Special Stitch Guide
- Magic Ring (MR): Wrap yarn into a loop, crochet specified stitches into ring, pull tight.
- Increase (inc): Work two stitches in the same stitch.
- Decrease (dec): Combine two stitches to one (for shaping).
- Back Loop Only (BLO): Insert hook into only back loop for ribbing or vertical shaping.
- Spiral crocheting: Continue rounds without joining for tube shapes.
Complete Crochet Pattern
Base
R1: Make MR, 12 dc in ring. Tighten, join with slst to first dc.
R2: Inc in each stitch around (24 dc). Join with slst.
R3: (dc in next st, inc in next st) repeat around (36 dc: alternating 2 inc, 1 alone). Join with slst.
R4: (2 dc, inc) repeat around (48 dc: alternating 2 alone, inc). Join with slst.
R5: (3 dc, inc) repeat around (60 dc: alternating 3 alone, inc). Join with slst.
Back Support/Wall
Row 1: Attach yarn to any stitch. Working BLO, sc in 40 sts along base edge. Ch 1, turn.
Rows 2–10: Sc across all 40 sts. Ch 1, turn at each row. Continue to total 10 rows for the supporting wall. Fasten off. Weave in ends.
Legs/Paws (Make 2)
R1: MR, 6 sc.
R2: Inc in each st (12 sc).
R3: (sc in next st, inc in next st) repeat (18 sc).
R4: (2 sc, inc) repeat (24 sc).
R5–R8: 24 sc in each round (4 rounds).
Decreasing/Shaping: (2 sc, dec) repeat as needed to reduce (e.g., 18 sc).
Continue: Work in spiral, 12 sc for 12 rounds, shaping length for each leg. Stuff moderately if desired.
Arms (Make 2)
R1: MR, 6 sc.
R2: Inc in each st (12 sc).
R3: (sc, inc) repeat (18 sc).
R4–R7: 18 sc per round (4 rounds).
Decrease and Spiral: Dec as necessary (e.g., to 12 sc), then continue in spiral for approx. 44 rounds until arm measures to hug around roll.
Hand Shaping: Inc as needed (e.g., (sc, inc), several rounds) for palm, then gradual decrease for tip (e.g., dec each round) to round out hand. Fasten, stuff palm lightly, shape as desired.
Book Accessory
Blue Pages: Ch 16, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch back (15 sc). Ch 1, turn. Work total 8 rows of 15 sc. Fasten off.
White Pages: Ch 14, sc in 2nd ch from hook and each ch back (13 sc). Ch 1, turn. Work total 7 rows of 13 sc. Fasten off.
Assembly: Layer white on blue; use contrasting yarn to sew/twist zigzag up spine (mimicking notebook wire).
Assembly & Finished Size
Position legs at bottom of base, sew or glue securely. Attach arms to base, ensuring they meet and curve to encircle the roll. Sew or glue book accessory between hands for whimsical detail. Ensure all limbs are securely attached and flush with base for optimal support. Final height and circumference accommodate standard toilet paper rolls. Book rests in hands as playful accessory.
Tips
One nice thing about this holder is its practical shape. It can hold toilet paper rolls in one place, making them easy to reach whenever needed. The soft yarn texture gives it a different look from plastic or metal holders. You can use colors that match your bathroom walls, towels, or other accessories for a neat appearance. Cotton yarn can be a good choice for this project because it gives the holder a firm finish. The main section can be worked with basic crochet stitches, while the edges can be finished neatly to help it keep its shape. A hanging loop can also be added for a holder that is meant to hang on a wall or hook. You can use this holder in your family bathroom, guest washroom, or a small bathroom with limited storage space. It also helps keep spare rolls together instead of leaving them scattered around.
FAQs
What type of yarn is best for this project?
Medium-weight cotton or cotton-blend yarn is recommended. Cotton provides the firmness and structure needed for the holder to support the weight of toilet paper rolls without sagging.
Do I need to stuff the arms and legs?
Stuffing is optional but recommended. Firmly stuffing the legs and arms adds stability and durability, ensuring the holder remains upright and functional.
Can I make this pattern without the book accessory?
Yes, the book accessory is optional. It adds a whimsical, themed finish, but the holder functions perfectly well without it.
How do I attach the arms to the base?
Attach the arms to the base using a tapestry needle and yarn, or fabric glue for a secure hold. Ensure they meet and curve to encircle the roll for optimal support.
Is this pattern suitable for beginners?
This is an intermediate pattern. It involves working in the round, increases, decreases, and switching between single and double crochet. If you are a beginner, you might enjoy starting with a simpler project like the adorable crochet amigurumi duck before tackling this multi-component piece.
