This soft, weighted plush captures the melancholy charm of the classic donkey character using simple yarn colors and basic shaping techniques. The finished toy stands roughly six inches tall, featuring a floppy head and distinct long ears that give it a cozy, handheld feel. Beginners find this project rewarding because it relies primarily on basic single crochet stitches and clear assembly steps for the mane and tail. You will gain confidence working in the round and sewing pieces together securely. This character makes a thoughtful handmade gift for fans of classic storybook figures or anyone who needs a quiet companion on their desk.

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Why You’ll Love This Pattern

This simple crochet drawstring pouch uses a sturdy cotton blend that holds its shape, making it ideal for carrying small items like stitch markers, coins, or lip balm. Because it is worked in a continuous spiral of single crochet stitches, you do not need to worry about visible seam lines or counting turning chains. The project works up in just one or two hours, offering a satisfying sense of accomplishment for a single afternoon of work. You can easily complete the entire bag using less than 50 yards of yarn, which makes it a great way to use up those leftover balls of sport-weight cotton from previous projects.

I finished this pouch in one evening while watching a movie. The instructions were very clear and the final result feels tight and professional.

— Sarah, beginner crocheter

Pattern Overview & Skill Level

Skill Level: Beginner
Approximate Time: 1–2 hours
Construction: Worked in continuous rounds from the base up to the drawstring eyelet row, finished with a chain-stitch cord.
Finished Dimensions: 4 inches wide by 5 inches tall.

Materials & Supplies Needed

Yarn: Sport weight (#2) cotton or cotton-acrylic blend, approximately 45 yards.
Hook Size: 3.5 mm (E-4).
Notions: Tapestry needle, one stitch marker, and scissors.
Safe yarn substitutions: You may use fingering weight yarn for a smaller, tighter pouch or light worsted weight for a slightly larger version, though you will need to adjust your stitch counts if the gauge changes significantly.

Stitch Guide & Abbreviations (US Terms)

ch = chain
st = stitch
sc = single crochet
inc = increase (2 sc in the same stitch)
sl st = slip stitch
yo = yarn over
MR = magic ring
Rnd = round
RS = right side

Step-by-Step Pattern Instructions

Pouch Body

Rnd 1: Start with a MR, work 6 sc into the ring (6 sts).
Rnd 2: Work 2 sc in each st around (12 sts).
Rnd 3: 1 sc, inc 6 times (18 sts).
Rnd 4: 2 sc, inc 6 times (24 sts).
Rnd 5: 3 sc, inc 6 times (30 sts).
Rnd 6: 4 sc, inc 6 times (36 sts).
Rnds 7–20: Work 1 sc in each st around (36 sts).
Rnd 21: 1 sc, ch 1, skip 1 st 18 times (18 sc and 18 ch-spaces).
Rnd 22: 1 sc in each sc and 1 sc in each ch-space around (36 sts).
Rnd 23: Sl st in next 2 sts to even out the edge, fasten off and weave in ends (36 sts).

Drawstring Cord

Make a chain of 80 stitches. Turn and work a slip stitch into each ch across. Fasten off, leaving long tails to tie off the ends. Thread the cord through the eyelet row created in Rnd 21 by weaving it in and out of the ch-spaces.

Care & Washing Instructions

Hand wash in cool water with mild soap to preserve the shape of the cotton fibers.
Lay the pouch flat on a clean towel to air dry completely, away from direct heat sources.
If the bag becomes flattened during storage, lightly steam with a garment steamer and reshape with your hands while warm.

Pro Tips & Common Mistakes to Avoid

Maintain consistent tension by holding your yarn with a steady grip throughout the rounds; inconsistent tension will cause the sides of the pouch to bulge or pinch. Always use a stitch marker at the start of each round to avoid losing your place in the continuous spiral, as it is easy to accidentally skip a stitch. Weave your yarn ends in by running the needle through the back loops of the stitches on the inside of the pouch to keep the exterior looking clean. If you wish to make the pouch taller, simply repeat Rnds 7–20 until you reach your desired height, keeping in mind that this will require extra yarn.

Frequently Asked Questions

Can I use a larger hook for this pattern?

Using a larger hook will result in a bag with larger gaps between the stitches, which may cause small items to fall out. If you prefer a larger bag, it is better to increase your stitch counts rather than increasing the hook size.

Is this pattern suitable for complete beginners?

Yes, this is an excellent starter project because it uses only basic single crochet stitches and a simple magic ring, which are foundational skills in crochet.

Can I sell the items I make from this pattern?

You are welcome to sell finished items made from this pattern, provided you credit the designer and use your own photographs for your listings.

What is the best way to secure the drawstring ends?

Tie the ends of the cord into small, tight knots after weaving them through the eyelets. You can also add small beads to the ends before knotting to keep the cord from sliding through the eyelets.

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Finishing your soft donkey brings a sense of joy as you sew on the final yarn mane and attach those signature ears. If you prefer a smaller version for a keychain, use a sport weight yarn and a smaller hook to shrink the proportions. Sharing a photo of your handmade plush on social media helps other makers see how different textures change the personality of the character. Check out more free patterns on the blog to find your next afternoon project for your collection.