Also available on Etsy

NOTE: THIS PATTERN UNDERWENT MAJOR REVISIONS IN 2019. THIS IS THE REVISED VERSION

This pattern makes a large (2ft), realistic but charming Koi fish. It has a satisfying scaly texture and flowing tail. It is worked in-the-round, in Crocodile Stitch. The fins are worked directly onto the fish and the head is made separately and attached.

The difficulty for this pattern is intermediate.

Gauge is not critical for this project, but if you use any yarn larger than sport weight, or are concerned about smallish holes, you will definitely want to line it (the fish shown in the pattern are unlined). A stocking works well for this.
You could use nearly any fiber, but I would advise against fuzzy yarns. Yarns with some sheen look especially good.

Materials

Sport weight Yarn 550 yards
US F/5 Hook (3.75 mm)
One pair of 20 mm Safety Eyes
Yarn needle
Poly filling
Stitch markers
4 Bobby pins (to pin two pieces together)
1 Trouser sock or stocking to line fish (optional)

I would like to acknowledge the people who helped me write this pattern.

Technical Editor
akshata

Graphic Design & Layout
Mr. Perry-Walker

Pattern Testers
ceruleancat
pangiafallen
SarahWGrant
yarnwhisperer