A little later than planned, but here is my pattern for a shark tail. The shark was made when my son wanted a mermaid tail kind of thing like his sister had – but being a boy – didn’t actually want to be a mermaid (Mermaid tail pattern can be found here)!
I hate sewing things together – so the body of the shark is made in a continuous round. There’s now a video made by myself, a 5 and 7 year old showing how to make the body!
Video with increased volume can be found here
(UPDATE – 28th July 2015 – I’ve found out this video is very quiet on YouTube. It’s being uploaded at 400% volume currently – should be there is a couple of hours hopefully! – I’ll post a link when it is – or look on my Youtube channel).
Finished items may be sold, but the pattern remains my property, I just ask that you give credit to me, Vicki Roberts at offthehookforyou.co.uk – and link this blog.
Here we go – my first real attempt at a pattern (for someone else to follow rather than me and my scribbles) – so please let me know if things don’t make any sense…….. PDF link at the bottom of the page before the comments section.
All terms are USA (Yep I know I’m English buy hey) FHDC = Foundation Half Double Crochet HDC = Half Double Crochet SC – Single Crochet SS = Slip Stitch Ch = chain DC = Double Crochet DC cluster = 3 DC in same space, or for the first one in a row, Ch3, 2DC in gap. Bobble / puff Stitch – YO, Pull through, YO, go through 2 loops, YO, Pull through, YO go through 2 loops, – keep repeating until there are 4 loops on your hook (after the pull through 2 loops), then YO and pull through all 4 loops.
I made this with Aran weight wool (Grey) – and for 7 year old it took about 450g or about 1100 yards. This same yarn I used.
Tail – Using a 6mm hook – Make 2 Row 1 – FHDC 28 stitches Row 2- Chain 2, 25 HDC (leaving 2 not crocheted on the end), Ch2 Row 3- HDC back to the same place the previous row started. Ch2 Row 4 – 24HDC across, Ch2 Row 5 – HDC back to the same place the previous row started. Ch2 Continue this sequence (losing 2 stitches each 2 rows) until you are left with 12 stitches left. Make another exactly the same. Join 2 shorter edges together by either sewing or SC. Body of the Shark – 7.0mm Hook Row 1 – FHDC 35 – join together the top with a SS (producing a circle)
UPDATE – together with the little people we’ve made a video to show how to make the body bit of the shark. You can watch it here!
Row 2- Ch3, 2DC in the 1st stitch, skip 2 stitches, in the *third stitch 1 DC Cluster*. repeat the * until back to the beginning. SS over to the top of the chain 3. (12 DC Clusters)
Row 3- Ch3, 1DC, Ch1, 2DC over where you have SS. 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces. 2DC, Ch1, 2DC, 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces. SS over to top of ch3.
Row 4- Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 6 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over. (Row 3 is basically repeated – but the number of DC clusters each side varies to ensure the 2dc ch1 2dc are all in the same place)
Row 5- Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 1Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 7 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over.
Row 6 – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 2Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 8 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over.
Row 7- Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 3Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 9 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over.
Row 8 – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 4Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 10 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over. (Stop increasing here for a 3-4 year old – 31cm diameter).
Row 9 – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 5Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 11 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over. (Stop increasing here for a 4-5 year old – 34cm diameter).
Row 10 – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 6Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 12 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over. (Stop increasing here for a 5-6 year old – 37cm diameter).
Row 11 – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join). 7Dc cluster. In the next gap (which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc, 1 DC cluster in the next 13 spaces (which puts you over the 2dc ch1 2dc gap again) do a 2dc ch 1 2dc, followed by 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces, SS over. (Stop increasing here for a 7-8 year old – 39.5cm diameter).
Row 12 (or the stop increasing row) – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join).1 DC cluster in each gap, ss to join.
Row 12 is repeated until you get to the desired length (height) of the shark before the mouth. for a 7-8 year old – this was 55 rows! Finish off.
Jaws – 7.0mm hook (A video has been made to help and can be found here)
Lie the body flat so the 2dc ch 1 2dc are on either edge (This shows you where mouth should go). Find the middle cluster (vertical down the centre – mark with a stitch marker) and join your yarn. My pattern now only describes to 7-8 year old version – Just reduce by 2 stitches for each decrease in size).
Row 1 – Ch 3 2dc in same space, 1 dc cluster in the next 15 gaps. Turn – ss over the top of the last DC Cluster.
Row 2 – Ch 3 2dc in same space, 1 dc cluster in the next 14 gaps. Turn – ss over the top of the last DC Cluster.
Row 3 – Ch 3 2dc in same space, 1 dc cluster in the next 13 gaps. Turn – ss over the top of the last DC Cluster. Keep reducing this way until you have 3 DC Clusters left. Fold these in half and SC along them to join together to produce a snout. Smaller jaw – Leave 2 DC cluster gaps either side of the larger jaw – and repeat as per the larger jaw. Finish off.
Blood – 7.0mm hook Change to red – I didn’t have any aran weight yarn – so use 2 strands of double knitting. Go around the edges of the jaws and the gaps with HDC, about 3 HDC per cluster – but this really isn’t important. Finish off.
Teeth – 7.0mm hook. These are done in bobble/ Puff stitch. Change to white (again I used 2 strands of a white double knitting). *Bobble stitch, Slip stitch on the inside on the gums so it’s not seen 3 stitches), bobble stitch* all the way round.
Eye – 6.0mm hook – make 2 (Using 2 strands of Double knitting in each colour)
With Black Magic ring, 8 SC in the ring, SS over 2SC in each stitch, SS over *2SC in 1 st stitch, the 1 SC* – repeat* to the beginning of the circle. Change to white, *2 HDC in 1 st, 1 HDC in next 2 stitches* to the beginning of the circle.
Fin – 6.0mm hook
Grey Aran weight yarn Row 1 – FHDC x 28, ch 2 Row 2 – 26 HDC, Ch 2 Row 3 – HDC all the way over, Ch 2. Row 4 – 23 HDC, HDC 2 tog at the end, Ch 2 Row 5 – 21 HDC, HDC 2 tog at the end, Ch 2 Repeat this until there are no stitches left!
Sewing together
Sew on the tail at the bottom – folding the sides in to fit the hole at the base. Position the fin and sew to the main body, and add eyes. Finished items may be sold, but the pattern remains my property I just ask that you give credit to me, Vicki Roberts at offthehookforyou.co.uk – and link this blog.
Voila – you should have a shark – now you just need a child to be ‘eaten’ by it!
I’d love to know what you think – and if you make one – see any pictures! You can email me at offthehookforyou@gmail.com
Shark Pattern Offthehookforyou – here is the link to a PDF version of the pattern – only 4 or 5 pages – hope this helps you all out (and we save some trees!).

Thank you for sharing this fabulous pattern!! Love it!
Can`t find a way to print this pattern without many pages. Would love to print off for later. Thanks.
I’ve hopefully just added a PDF link – it’s only about 4 or 5 pages now. The link is at the bottom of the page before the comments.
Thank you! Love this pattern… i tried something a little different with the tail… i ran needle with yarn and gathered…then stitched it on bottom….came out sooooo cute! Would attach pic but can’t figure out how to … lol
Wow – can you email it to me – I’d love to see it???? offthehookfroyou@gmail.com Thank you – glad you liked the pattern 🙂
This is fantastic! Thank you SO much!
My niece saw this and just loves it any suggestions on how to scale down to make a baby cocoon ?
Hi, I’m working on one now – leave it with me for a bit and I’ll what I come up with!
Hi just wondered if you came up with a baby one thanks x
Hi, Yes I have made it for a baby – but haven’t yet got around to writing the pattern up! 2017……
Try using a thinner yarn. Eg. A baby yarn and a smaller hook.
Hi, I’ve worked out the baby version using the same yarn,and hook size. Everything is just smaller. I’ll post the pattern soon, but it being the school holidays here my time in very limited!
Hi did you put the pattern up for babies. Thank you x
Hi, not yet! It’s written, but it might be published in a magazine. I should know I the next few days when I can release it!
Any suggestion on how to make to make this foe a newborn?
Hi, I’m working on a smaller one currently I’ll let you know when it’s done. Thanks, Vicki
I must have missed the beginning chain part. But how many chains do I start with?
How great is this! I am making this for my 5 year old son now. He didn’t want a mermaid one but a cool fish blanket. Thank you for sharing your pattern!
this is great!! i had this thought for the boys too but too new right now to invent it, now i dont have to, lol 😀 thanks for sharing!!! 🙂
Just found this on pintrest and have to say it is brilliant! I shared in my crochet groups and everyone is loving it. Can’t wait to try. I will post a picture when I do!
Thanks Lola (can I be nosy and ask where you shared?). Glad you like it! I’d love to see a finished one when you’ve made it!
I shared on crochet fanatic, crochet club, repeat crafter me and on my fb page. It is such a good idea lots of positive comments.
So very cool. Sharing so my friends that crochet can see this. Thanks. BTW I am in Kansas.
Love this pattern but can’t seem to be able to print it off, any suggestions. Thank you.
No idea whey not? Can you copy and paste it somewhere? I’m not on a computer for the next few days to try and add different links unfortunately. Vicki
For body R3: at the beginning it says -(which should be the 2dc ch1 2dc)- do a 2dc, ch 1 2dc,…. Does this mean that we are to ” (2 DC. CH 1. 2 DC) in Sp” ??
Hello, in the Chain 1 space between the 2 dc’s either side – do 2dc, ch1, 2dc. This is where your increase to get it wider happens. On every round in this chain one gap (each side of the circle) – is where you do 2dc’s, ch1, 2dc’s. Does this make it clearer?
[…] what a week it’s been for me. The internet went crazy (In my small terms), for my shark pattern. Last week on Wednesday out of nowhere I started getting hits from a Facebook – and a lot […]
Hi. I love your pattern. I was just wondering is it done with one piece or two pieces of yarn held together?
Glad you like the pattern (puts a big smile on my face!)
The actual body of the shark, fins and tail are made with Aran weight yarn – 1 strand.
The teeth and the gums – I got lazy and didn’t want to go any buy any more yarn so I used 2 strands of double knitting in white and red!
[…] […]
Sorry I’m having a hard time understanding this part “Fold these in half and SC along them to join together. Smaller jaw – Leave 2 DC cluster gaps either side of the larger jaw – and repeat as per the larger jaw”…where does it fold, side ways or down way
Hi, All it means – it that when you are down to the just having 3 DC clusters – in order to make the snout the correct shape. Just fold them inwards and sew together (So it’ll give you a right angle basically).
The bottom jaw – is made the same as the top jaw -but you need to leave a gap of 2DC clusters when you start the smaller jaw from where the big jaw starts and finishes on the original round, (and then the same the other side 2 DC clusters). Hope that helps?
Hi I don’t suppose you did a video on hoe to do all the shark bit? I’m not very gd at reading patterns x
So for the jaw if I understand i just fold the last 3dc cluster and sc,Also the small jaw I leave 2cluster between before starting and do I do the same amount of cluster not sure I really understand that either, TY for your pattern and help
I am working your pattern for the shark blanket But is there an error in the rows??? I see row 2 is posted twice which then throws off all the other rows Thanks
Hi, I’ve gone in had a look and adjusted as needed (Hopefully). When I wrote the pattern out it was all nicely spaced and hopefully less taxing on the eyes – but looking at it now – it had all been condensed! I’ve tried to separate it a bit and I’ve adjusted the row numbers. Let me know if that sorts it out? Thanks Vicki
Beautiful job on fixing it Way better to understand Thank you so much!! it’s a fun pattern so far
Very cute. I’ve got someone interested on one for a very tall man. How quickly does this work up?
I think it’s pretty quick. I did it on and off over about an hour a day in just over a week. It’s Aran weight yarn with a big hook to make to it quicker!
Do you have a pattern for the mermaid tail you made??
It’s written up in my shorthand, if you can give me a couple of days I’ll try and get it written up properly. We’ve been camp[ing with no phone signal anywhere (and then I dropped my phone in a dog water bowl…. so it doesn’t work at all). I did the mermaid one first, what size did you need so I can type that one up first – or at least tell you what to do!
When I first saw the shark, I immediately thought it would be cool to make this as a mermaid, and my girls would love it! Thrilled that you’ve done this as a mermaid first. Yes, I would love to get the pattern too, for sizes 7 years and 9 years old. Thanks!!
I am getting ready to go shopping for materials, and wanted to confirm the number of skeins and hook size needed. I think Aran weight is the same as worsted weight yarn-is that right? Thanks!
I think so in regards to Aran weight vs worsted weight. I used one 200g, then probably 150g of the next. It does depend on what size you make though – this was for my 7 year old. Hook size -I started with a 6 I think for the fins. then went up to a 7 for the body so it was faster (I get bored easily!). The blog post does state what size hook etc, I’d love to see pictures when you’ve finished?
Thanks for the information!!! I looked for the hook and yarn size but I must have missed it. I ended up with some really interesting yarn for the body, so hopefully it will turn out well. I have no idea when I will get finished (hopefully soon because I need to make two mermaid lapgans also!), but I will post a photo when I am done.
I am using Loops & Thread Phat yarn for the body. It is size 6, super bulky, 150g.
Wow – sounds great – I can’t wait to see it!
Okay, my friends are bugging me like crazy. Any tips for making this adult sized? Thank you for typing it all up.
Hi, For adults – I’d start it exactly the same, but then just keep increasing for a few more rounds (maybe get another 16 clusters) – then just make it a lot longer. I think it depends on what size the adult is!!! It’s hard to judge as I’d need a smaller one than my husband!
That’s exactly what I was about to ask. I’ve been asked to make one. I normally do only crochet toys, so this blanket will be an adventure for me. When I make my toys if I want it larger I use a bigger hook and 2 strands of yarn, I’m wondering if the same principle would work with this?
Anyone have additional photos from different angles, or wearing it with the fin up toward the ceiling? Thanks!
That was supposed to say *fin not fun. 🙂
[…] pattern for the shark can be found here on my […]
Love the pattern! Have a friend requesting one. I was thinking alligator could be next?? 😀
Hi! I just did a quick calculation for yardage and am a bit shocked by the #!!! My super bulky “phat” yarn is 57 yards a skein… So I need 20 skeins!?!?! Does that sound right??
Hi, UK Aran weight is about the same as USA worsted weight- so the yarn you have I think is far too thick for the pattern.
Hi, This is the exact yarn I used – about 4 and a half balls (UK term). http://www.cygnetyarns.com/aran/cygnet-aran. Hope that helps. Vicki
Reblogged this on Crochet Rox and commented:
THis is awesome!!! A free pattern for the shark blanket that is taking over facebook from Off the Hook for you !! Thank you Vicki Roberts for sharing your talent with us!!
Thank you!!!!!
You are quite welcome. I’m sharing it on my blog, my business page and personal page. I am sorry you are being copied. Pattern piracy makes me ill. We are supposed to support each other, not steal from each other.
Your pattern is amazing, and you are too kind to put out a pdf pattern. Keep up the great work, I can’t wait to see your next design!!!
Any recommendations for uprising this for a size 2 daugher-in-law? She wants it for Halloween? I can’t tell if she could walk in it.
Hi, So it’s sealed at the end….. but – if was to scale up for walking in and for an adult.
I’d start with a bigger FDHC row – at least 50, if not more, then do the increasing as per my pattern, until it’d be the size of your daughters hips (is a size 2 a 6UK)? In which case – you’d probably be ok with stopping at the 7 year old size for increasing. Then make the tail fin as normal, but instead os stitching to both sides of the round, just sew on one side! Viola – Her legs should be able to fit through the hole at the bottom and she should be able to walk hopefully! I’d love to see a picture when you’ve made it!
Great pattern!! I’m just stuck on round 3 of the body. When you say 2dc, ch1, 2dc, 3dc cluster in the next 5 spaces. Can you explain it just a little more. Are they all in one space? Or the 2,1,2 in one and the cluster in the next?
2DC, CH1 2DC 2 in the 1 gap, then 3 dc in each of the next 5 spaces. Hope that helps (and hasn’t slowed you up too much!)
I was able to open the pdf pattern in my iBooks. Thanks!! And thanks for clarifying where I got stuck!!
No printer friendly version?? 18 pages, most only having a sentence or two is ridiculous as i need to make a few copies for friends. (that was using copy and paste, the ONLY way to print this pattern).
It’s really cute and you did a really great job on the one in the pics, but I’ll probably have to find another site to use for patterns. sorry
I’m doing a PDF version now — hang in there!
PDF file should be at the bottom of the page (before the comments) – please can you let me know if it works?
Just curious, has anyone adapted this pattern for adults? I am interested in adult sizes for this pattern. I am by no means a crocheter but have means to get this made I just need larger dimensions. Thanks for any help.
If you read in my comments – I’ve explained how I’d do it – basically keep increasing in the round more that round 12 – then keep getting longer until your adult size! Enjoy!
Thank you.
I’m so excited to try this pattern. I have a four year old grandson obsessed with sharks right now. You know it was just shark week on cable! So I will be trying one for him and a matching one for his father! Thank you for the pattern! It is awesome!!!!
Does the Ch 2 on the tail count as a stitch? I am getting stuck at Row 4. should we be losing stitche on both sides or just the one side.
HI, You should end up with a a completely straight side which is the initial FHDC row, then only reduce on the other side to this- giving a zigzag effect.
cn not get it to copy love the patttern
Hi, There is a PDF link at the bottom oof the pattern now – which you hopefully can print – I know other people have been able to? Vicki
do u have adult pattern of the shark
How many chains do I start with at the beginning?
For the tail fins or the body?
Tail fins are 28 FHDC(Foundation half double crochet) each.
The body is 35 FHDC then joined to a loop.
Thanks
I’m excited to make some of these shark tails for nephews for Christmas! However, I’m in the US, and there is no 7mm crochet hook! I am figuring I need to use a size K (6.5mm), rather than an L (8.0mm), would that be correct? Will I need to adjust foundation chain size? I’m using Caron one pound worsted weight yarn. Each skein is 453.6g, approx 742 m/ 812 yd. I’ve got 2 skeins per tail. Figuring I’ll have extra. Thoughts? Thanks so much for making this pattern free!
Hi, Glad you like my pattern! I used a 7mm hook to make it quicker! So I think you could use either hook depending on how holey you want it to (and how quick you want to make them as the 8mm would be quicker but would come out a bit bigger!).
I’d keep with the 35 FHDC size listed, and then just measure when you get to the size you want to see how much bigger or smaller it is from my measurements (on the pattern) – then you can stop increasing (if you use a bigger hook) or keep increasing for the 6.5mm hook to get them about the same size! As it’s not completely fitted like a garment I don’t think it’ll matter too much. Hope this helps. I’d love to see a photo when you’ve made them. Vicki
Thanks! I had found a different mermaid tail pattern (though I’d love to try yours once you have a PDF!) so I’m going to TRY to make 4 shark tails for nephews and 3 mermaid tails for nieces. 🙂
Do you have a PDF & Pic file for the mermaid? AWESOME!
I’m typing it up today – hopefully live either this evening or tomorrow! Watch this space…… Vicki
I still can’t find the PDF 🙁
There is a printable off link for you to click on at the bottom of the blog post – just before the comments section. Thanks
Can you tell me how many total rows each tail should be when you reach the final 12 stitches? I seem to not be losing 2 stitches every 2 rows. I.E row 3, you 2 ch and 25 hdc? Row 5, ch 2 and 24 hdc? Etc.. Are you able to post a photo of the side that is being reduced? Thanks!
[…] Eaten by a Shark Sleeping Bag […]
Hello! I am loving this pattern but on Row 12 (or the stop increasing row) – Ch3, 2DC in same gap (over the SS join).1 DC cluster in each gap, ss to join.
Row 12 is repeated until you get to the desired length (height) of the shark before the mouth. for a 7-8 year old – this was 55 rows! Finish off. So in the 2dc chain 1 2dc stitch . But row 122 there is no more 2dc chain 1 e mire dc
Hi,
Row 12 in just 3 DC’s in each gap all the way round (including the 2DC Ch1 2Dc gap).
Thanks
Vicki
Do you have any plans on making a full video tutorial? Thank you so much.
HI,
Yes I do – but it’s a case of time permitting with it being school holidays in the UK. Thanks Vicki
Hi. I stink at crochet. Is there any way to turn this into a knitting pattern? My niece just graduated high school, and my sister says she’d love this.
Row 3- Ch3, 1DC, Ch1, 2DC over where you have SS. 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces. 2DC, Ch1, 2DC, 1 DC cluster in the next 5 spaces. SS over to top of ch3.
i am confused with this am i suppose to ch3 1dc ch1 2dc in the ss space?? and also after i do the clusters in the next 5 spaces am i suppose to do the 2dc ch1 2dc all in the same space or do i do them in seperate spaces?? i hope you understand my question . Thank you so much for these patterns i’m hoping to have one of the shark and of the mermaid for Christmas presents this year.
Hi for row three – in each gap do
gap 1 : Ch3, 1 DC, cH1, 2DC.
Gaps 2-6 : 3DC
Gap 7 : 2DC, Ch1 2 DC.
any further gaps in the round : 3DC
Hope this helps,
Vicki
Hi! Thank you so much for taking the time to do this for us! I am really struggling with making the body. No links or links to videos show up on this page for me and the video would really really help me. Can you post that info in a comment? I have searched youtube and still can’t find it.
Hi, Here is the video link. The volume is at 400% and very loud on my iMAc. But some people have said it’s still too quiet. We are going to refilm when we get a chance though! Vicki
Thank you for the pattern. My grandsons are going to love it.
Hello & thank for the pattern. I was wondering if you planmake an adult version of this pattern?
Hi, Yes an adult pattern will be in the making… and is currently on the hook so to speak…..Thanks Vicki
Hi first thank you for this pattern. I’m not over good at reading patterns I tried to read the other comments but I can’t get the jaw just the first of it do you do 12 DC thank you for your help
Hi,
The 7-8 year old one has 16 DC Clusters for the top jaw. Just fold your shark body in half (with the increase sides in the middle of the body), and mark half way round. The for the bottom jaw -make sure you leave a gap of 1 DC Cluster between it and the op jaw.
Hope this helps,
Thanks
Vicki
Hi! Love the pattern! Made the whole shark, but I’m stuck on the tail… I made the two, but they look too big… I have a long straight edge, and the foundation chain and the other side is at an angle (looks like a right angle triangle). Is this supposed to be the shape? It really just looks too big! I didn’t know if I misread the pattern… Thanks!
I started “eaten by a shark” for my niece’s stepson. Started using Caron brand One Pound. After working for about a dozen rows, the blanket seems rough to me, shouldn’t it be soft? Any thoughts or ideas? Should I just scrap this and get another kind of yarn?
Hi, the yarn I used is pretty soft. Having spoken to another USA crocheter she seems to think Hobby Lobby – I love this yarn (Solids) is equivalent….. you’ll need 3 skeins.
Thanks. Now to find a Hobby Lobby! lol
I have used this yarn. I would say it has more of a “wool-feel” so I wouldn’t say it is soft.
Oddly enough, I was able to go to Hobby Lobby today, and purchased the brand you recommended (“I Love This Yarn”)… the difference is like night and day! Thank you! I am much happier with the result… Also thank you for your patience!
i’m making the shark afghan and i am at the part to do the red and i;m not understanding the directions do you just 3hdc in each gap?? could you please explain thanks
Hi i am making your shark blanket and i having trouble with the lower jaw, when you repeat as per top does that mean decreasing until 3 Hdc are left and folding it in.
Exactly. Just make sure you leave the gap between where the two jaws start. Vicki
I was wondering about the yarn. You say aran weight, do you have the gauge. I have heard some people are using bulky. thanks
Hello! I am about ready to do the jaws, but I am a bit lost on how you do it.. I am not very good at reading patterns. I do better at following along with a video, I was wondering are you planning on making a video on the jaws? If not would you at least think about it? I see that there is a few other people that are a little confused about it also.. Thank you
Hi, I’m hoping to make videos for the jaws and tail. It’s school holidays here so my time is very limited, unless I can persuade my kids to do the videoing for me! Which bit are you stuck on so I can focus on that? Vicki
Hello
I am also having troubles with the jaws.. Could you make a video from the beginning where we join the yarn?
Thanks!!
Hi, We filmed a video this morning, BUT I’m having problems with iMovie. I need to wait for the technical whizz to come home to fix it – hopefully in the next day or so – check my youtube channel!
The video is up in my YouTube channel! Hope it helps,
LOVE THIS SHARK PATTERN~ HAVING PROBLEMS PRINTING IT OUT ALSO…SOMEHOW I WILL GET IT….BEAUTIFUL WORK….VICKIE.
Hi Vicki….
im working on an adult size. Can you clarify for me? You said to add 16 clusters for adult size. Did you maybe mean to increase until row 16?
I’d make it big enough to be a about 60cm wide (24 inches) when laid flat. It depends on how big your ‘adult’ is! So I’d increase beyond row 16 to get to this size.
Vicki
can you please put the you tube link here i can’t find it thanks
Sorry – was out all day yesterday… here is the link https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HccgiJxIf58
is the you tube video of the jaw or just the body? i found the body one
Love the pattern but I too had problems understanding the jaws section. Just a suggestion maybe Pictures would help to on that step. It’s not clear to me where I need to fold in half thanks again fir the pattern! It’s great!
HI – A video has just been uploaded – here https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=HccgiJxIf58 This should make more sense. Vicki
Hi, great pattern! I would like to make this for my 10 year old, any tips on sizing this up to fit? Thank you x
Hi. If increase for another 2 or 3 more rows (giving 4 or 6 more double clusters) then do a few more rows height! Enjoy, Vicki
I just finished making this! The directions and videos were great! Thank you for sharing the pattern.
Thank you for the pattern! Can you tell me the finished body length for the larger size?
You are such a talented and generous young lady, thank you
Can i use different yarn. They do not sell aran yarn on texas
Hi, yes / Aran is the UK term / you can use any worsted weight / probably a heavier rather than light!
Love the pattern and incredibly helpful videos! Is there a way to get the fin to stand up? Is there any pattern for side fins?
No side fins, but I’d just make the top one smaller. If you want the top one to stand up – make 2 – sew together an add a bit if stuffing? That’s what I’d do 🙂
I just returned from Scotland and I spoke with the proprietor of a yarn shop in Dumbarton as I thought I might be able to pick some up before I left. Sadly she didn’t have any and wasn’t able to tell me what the Aran weight really is. You said worsted weight which to my understanding is 4-ply. Then you said probably a heavier weight of rather than light. What did you mean? I need to make two of these for Christmas for my grandchildren. Would doubling the 4-ply worsted weight work of would this make it too heavy? This was suggested by the proprietor of the yarn shop. Thank you.
In the UK we have 4ply which is thin, then double knitting, then we go up to Aran, chunky and super chunky. Where are you based? Having spoken to USA friends – I love this yarn from hobby lobby is thought to be the same- if a different country to this – let me know and I’ll see what other people have used. Does this help at all?
There is a great conversion chart on the wool warehouse.co.uk – but internet is patchy where I am so I can’t post the link…… Try searching this site!
Thank you so much for getting back to me and so promptly. I live in Florida and we do have a Hobby Lobby as well as Michael’s and Joann’s. What is the name of the yarn from Hobby Lobby? I’m just afraid that if I double the 4-ply it will be too heavy.
Hi, Toni! The yarn called for is Wt 4. Think Red Heart Super Saver, or my fave, Caron Simply Soft. Hope this helps.
I love this yarn by Hobby lobby I’m told gives the same effect too! I can’t wait a visit to the USA to stock up on yarn now…..
Picture shows 3 fins; one on each side and one on top of head. The top one looks different than the other two, but there’s only one fin listed in the directions. Can you clarify please?
Hi, there is the dorsal fin on the top listed as fin – and then my shark only has his tail which is made from 2 pieces sewn together. Thanks
To Toni from Florida. I went to Michael’s and got their yarn”Craft Smart Value” Yarn. It works great and is inexpensive. I bought 3 skeins @ 364 yds each. The Shark is done all I need to work on now is the Fins and tail. I made mine for a 6-7 year old.
hi can you please clarify round 6 of the body? Thank you!
hopefully just replied above? let me know
Yes you did 😊 it said my comments couldn’t go through so I tried again and looks like they both went through! Thank for replying I will try it tonight!
Hello! Love the pattern…thank you! Question…when I’m joining to the top of the chain in a new round, I’m getting a diagonal line…any suggestions??
You will do – I just hid it underneath!
Wow! What a quick response! Thank you! I was thinking of doing it as a continuous round (no joining)??
I’ve no idea how to do that? I know if you try and slip stitch over the next cluster it looks awful – hence I went this way to get up to the next level of a granny stripe. Let me know how you get on?
Hi can you please clarify round 6 of the body? I am having trouble understanding parts of it.
Row 6 is pretty much the same as row 5. You just need to DC cluster until you get to the Ch 1 gap of the (2dc ch1 2dc) of the previous round and do the INC here (the 2 DC Ch 1 2 Dc) in this Ch 1 gap. Does this help?
I’m currently waiting for my tripod to come from Amazon – so a video will come in the next couple of days for the whole shark.
I’m catching up with bits today – we were on holiday last week hence the late replies…… no Wifi and minimal phone signal!
do you have a pattern for knitting. I cannot crochet
i really need to make a eaten by a shark project for my grandson, because i just completed knitting the mermaid for my granddaughter and I cannot find a kntiting pattern at all.
Need help as soon as possible.
Thank you
Hi, Sorry – I’m not a knitter at all, if you’ve managed to do a mermaid knitting – the shark is pretty much the same apart from the jaws.
Hi, I can’t believe I am saying this, but I can’t seems to get the tail right. Can you give me a stitch count? For example on row #3 where you say HDC back to the same place the previous row started….is that 26HDC? Thank you!
Hi, Not a silly question – a few people have asked! I recorded a video for you tube last week – it’ll be posted his afternoon/ evening hopefully. There is a link to my you tube channel top right next to facebook, twitter and instagram.
Thank you for the video!! It really helped understand the tail. Also, I had never done the FHDC, and I was not understanding how to count it the stitches. So your video helped me twice!! God Bless!
can someone please call me regarding knitting a shark cacoon like for my grandson. my phone number is 650-773-4550.
Thank you,
robyn Lee
I’ve been asked to do this for an adult who is 6ft how many more rows should I add to it (sorry if daft question) xx
Not daft, I’d increase at least another 3 rows (maybe more), and the then just keep going pretty much until about waist height . The 55 rows were for my son who is 1m30cm. I’m sure I’ll get round to making an adult one soon!
I’m a newbie so please excuse if this is a silly question 😉
To make an adult Size would I only increase rows in the body of the shark? Or would I need to increase the size in the tail and fun also?
I’d increase the body more to get it wider and increase the number of rows. I would make the tail bigger too and probably the fun after seeing how big the body but needs to be! It’s on my list to make -and write up – I just haven’t had time yet!
Just checking…is there a video for the fin? I am struggling to figure it out! 🙂
just a close up picture of the fin would be great too! Thanks!
Hi – No video as yet, but it will come when I get to that point on the current shark I’m making! Basically it’s pretty much the same as one side of the tail….. just keep reducing until you no stitches left!
Thanks that’s fine… I think I got it now! It should look cute so that is what matters, right?! This is a really cute design! 🙂
Hi, thank you for sharing your pattern. I’m a beginner and a bit confused after row 5 . After the ss join it says 2dc cluster then row 7 3 dc cluster, row 8 4dc cluster and so on. Can you help please x
You need to line up the increase so it happens in the ch1 space. The 2dc clusters of row 6 will get you to that gap, and then so on with 3dc clusters for row 7 etc. jut make sure you are ss and doing the first cluster over the gap you’ve just made with the ss.
Sorry for sounding stupid so does that mean fir example 4dc is 1dc cluster in the next 4 spaces – when I googled 4dc it looked like the dc were joined into one – as I said, just getting to grips with following a pattern x
3 dc’s is one cluster, so 1 do cluster in each of the next 4 gaps.
[…] Shark Pattern […]
Hi can you tell me do you start from the tail end when starting body and also instead of FHDC 35 can i chain 37 and then DC into them to make 35 , am new at reading patterns and have try doing it the way you say and don`t get on with it . thank you
Hi, You can CH37, and do HDC (not DC) – and get the same effect. Your tail side won’t be as straight (the benefit of FHDC) – but it shouldn’t matter.
Thank you so much for the patern my grandchildren loved them well done and thanks again tina
Thank you, that’s made me smile lots!
I was excited to see something for the boys in response to the mermaid. I am a knitter and would like to crochet the alligator. Have you created a tutorial/video for the alligator?
Sorry / I haven’t done videos for the croc only the shark. Thanks
can I have the pattern for the mermaid PLEASE my lil 4 yr old niece is been begging for one but i don’t have the pattern for one. PLEASE and THANK YOU
It’s in the patterns link on the left hand side! Downloadable pdf for free! Merry Christmas!
The pattern says for a size 7 to 8 year old at the start is row 12 it would be 39.5 cm. I am not metric but mine measures about 38 inches. Is this going to be way too big for a 7 year old?
Wow – that’s huge! The diameter when measured flat is 39.5cm / so about 15 inches wide. Are you using Aran weight yarn and a size 7mm hook?
I am using a size K hook, 6.5 mm, and a worsted weight yarn. At row 12 I have, I think, 32 DC clusters. Too many? Maybe I did the increases wrong?
That sounds about right. Are you sure the diameter is 38inches??? That’s nearly 3ft wide?
Yes. I have measured a few times. I am thinking maybe I am not measuring right? I did 35 FHDC to start, that measures about 30 CM, 12 inches diameter. That is the bottom where I attach the fin, correct? Then I did 11 rows of increases. The rest of the body needs to be kind of wide to get his body inside right? At 39 cm would a 7 year old body fit in? When I measure I lay my piece flat, measure between the sides where I did increases, then double this number to get the diameter. Am I measuring incorrectly?
Best Christmas gifts ever! Thank you for the pattern and videos. The boys absolutely loved them! I think my older nephews were jealous.
Glad I could help! Happy Christmas!
I do not crochet or knit, but was looking for a sewing pattern for these sleeping bags. Do you know where I might find it? Thanks for any help you can give me.
Hi, I’ve had a quick google / Pinterest. Try this one – it’s for a mermaid but you could easily adapt for a shark – they even show an example a bit further down the page. http://www.madeformermaids.com/mermaidtail/
Hello, really fun pattern – thanks for sharing! I’m a little confused on the tail. I’ve watched the video and still can’t seem to get mine right. I start with 28 fhdc and decrease by two stitches every two rows, but by the time I get down to 12 stitches I have way too many rows!
In your video, one half of the tail has 11 rows, including the fdhc row. One half of my tail has 17 rows… any thoughts on what I’m doing wrong???
Hi, I’ve no idea what you might be doing – but it’s a simple as FHDC 28 (I think), then keep one side of the tail the same (no decreases), and the other side decrease by 2 stitches every other row when you get back to it. As long as you end up with 2 the same size it shouldn’t matter if they are bigger! I’d love to see the finished shark when he’s made? Thanks Vicki
Thanks for the help, and so quickly!
I made this in an adult size for my daughter-in-law, it turned out excellent! I adapted it a little – it is about 40 clusters around and 71 rows long. At row 63 instead of keeping it in the round I opened it up and continued the rows back and forth so it had an opening (easier to get in and out). I put a couple of buttons so it can be closed. I also changed the teeth so they would be more pointed (sc,triple crochet, sc). I can’t wait to give it to her. Thank you so much!
Sounds great! I still haven’t had time take an adult one!
I love this pattern. As I’m making in in the round, which side is the right side and which side is the wrong side? Does the shark ever have to be inverted? Thanks so much!
I’ve never turned mine inside out – as it’s DC its the same on both sides! The Ch2 2 I count as the 1st HDC – but it really doesn’t matter – as long as you do both the same! Thanks Vicki
Aww
This is such a cute pattern! Love to see something for Boys as well as girls too! My adult daughter wants one!! lol Good job and thank you!
amaizing
[…] Find the pattern here at: Off The Hook […]
[…] Vicki Roberts (Click here for Mermaid Tail pattern & here for the Shark […]
I love you, thank you for your beautiful lady to share with us, may god bless you!
I read through all of the comments to make sure someone else hadn’t said it already. 1st, great work on the pattern.
2nd, I can get lazy at times and hate sewing pieces together. I didn’t feel like making 2 parts for the tail. I ended up just reversing the instructions when I finished the 1st half of the tail.
For the parts that stop short of the last 2 stitches, I put a FHDC in the last stitch, then did another FHDC, then ch2. It worked pretty well for me 🙂
Wow – what a cool idea! I know what you mean about hating to see pieces together….. me too!
sorry, correction**
**FHDC in last, then 2 FHDC, then chain 2
This may be the cutest thing I’ve ever crocheted. Thanks for the pattern and the videos (they helped a LOT). I think I made the tail fin wrong because I couldn’t get it to fit the way you showed in your picture, but when I read the comment about running a gathering stitch, I knew that would work. I gathered the bottom of the fin, and then tucked it into the opening and sewed it straight across. Perfect – easy – and adorable. I took a photo, but I’m not sure how to upload it. I’d be happy to share if you have an address or Facebook or perhaps “how to post photos in the comments for dummies” tutorial. 🙂
Hi Jean, Thank you so much for the comments! I glad you like the shark and the videos were helpful!
I’d love to see a photo – you can email it to offthehookforyou@gmail.com and if I can share on my FB page even better!
Thank you for this pattern.
I have just finished making one for my sons Secret Santa. This is the biggest project I’ve done to date. I found the instr rooms very easy to follow andntjinkbibhqve a success on my hands. I’ll find out of Saturday
Did you sew the bottom together or did you leave it open for little feet to poke out off?
I used a super soft twisted yarn so it is super cosy.
Thank you so much.
Sounds lovely! I sewed the bottom of mine together when I added the tail, but you could do either! Happy Christmas