Make your own Opabinia! These ancient marine arthropods lived in the Middle Cambrian period, around 505 million years ago. Opabinia was a member of the diverse Cambrian ecosystem preserved in the Burgess Shale fossil deposit in British Columbia.

The 37 page pattern includes detailed step-by-step photos and clear written instructions to make an amigurumi-style Opabinia. PLUS there is a 10 page PRINTER-FRIENDLY TEXT ONLY VERSION at the end of the pattern. This pattern has been fully tested by multiple testers.

Recommended for INTERMEDIATE SKILL LEVEL. This pattern uses basic crochet stitches and more complex stitches (detailed in the pattern glossary).

A finished Opabinia made using worsted weight yarn is approximately 17” long from proboscis to tail fan, 2” tall from back to belly and 6.5” wide across the fins.

To make an Opabinia you will need:
140yds main color worsted weight yarn
5yds accent color worsted weight yarn
3.75mm (F) crochet hook
Poly-fil or other stuffing
9- or 12-gauge armature wire
20- or 22-gauge cloth-wrapped floral wire
Duct tape
Darning needle

PATTERN IN ENGLISH, using US Crochet terminology.

Questions? Contact the designer through Ravelry or on Facebook at https://www.facebook.com/starbirdcreationsstl/

© 2026 Jennifer Starbird. All rights reserved.
This pattern is for PERSONAL USE ONLY. The pattern (or parts of it) may not be reproduced, distributed, or resold, translated, published, altered, shared, or posted (for sale or free) over the internet or offline.
You can sell items made from this pattern, provided they are handmade by yourself in a limited number and you give credit to the designer.