PLEASE NOTE: This pattern is only for the base doll. It DOES NOT include the dress, which is listed separately as the “Big Worries Dress. “

A traditional Guatemalan worry doll is only about 1-2” tall, but I have some pretty big worries about the state of immigration and due process in the United States, so this is my “Big Worries Doll.”

This project was originally designed as fundraiser for the Asylum Seeker Advocacy Project (ASAP) and Kids in Need of Defense (KIND,) as a response to the United States Justice Department’s 2018 policy which began systematically separating immigrant children from their parents.

UPDATE 3/21/2020: In light of the COVID-19 global pandemic, I’ve decided to make this pattern free for anyone who wishes to make them. There are a lot of worries going around right now. If this can bring a little light into someone’s life, then I’m happy to share it at no cost.

If you’re able, though, I hope you will consider a donation of any amount you can afford to Kids in Need of Defense. https://supportkind.org/

This pattern is intended for personal or donation use. Please do not produce these dolls for sale. (Legally, you can do whatever you want with it, but I hope you will respect my wishes as the pattern designer.)

Pattern Details:

This pattern is written for any gauge; the size of the finished doll will obviously depend on the yarn and hook you use. I have made them with with worsted weight yarn to get a doll about 6-8” or with embroidery floss to get a doll about 3-4” tall.

The pattern is done entirely in single crochet, and is written for a relative beginner; however you will need to have some previous understanding of reading a pattern and working in spiral. This doll is done in one piece- there is no sewing except to close the doll up at the end. I have included several photos at the end of the pdf to show the more unusual parts of the pattern.

Stitch Guide (US Terminology):
ch – chain
sl st – slip stitch
st – stitch
sc – single crochet
inc – increase (2 sc in same st)
dec – decrease (invisible decrease recommended)