How to use safety eyes

Safety eyes are plastic bulbs that help give some character and life to your amigurumi, crochet stuffed toys. Safety eyes are easy to attach but difficult to remove. They come in multiple shapes, colors, and sizes. They're measured in millimeters, which represent the diameter of the eye.

Safety eyes aren't safe for children younger than 3 years old, or pets. If you don't want to use safety eyes, simply embroider them on instead.

Watch the video below for a demonstration on how to attach safety eyes securely.

How to attach safety eyes to your amigurumi (step-by-step with photos)

Step 1

1. Safety eyes come with an eye and a backing.

Step 2

2. Make sure the "right side" of the piece is facing you. Insert the eye between two stitches.

Step 3

3. On the inside of the piece, put the backing on the stem, flat side facing the yarn.

Step 4

4. Push down on both sides of the backing to snap it into place. Push it far enough that it's secure, but not so far that it distorts the piece.

Step 5

5. Repeat steps 2-4 for the other eye. Count how many stitches away the second eye should be by counting the number of gaps that represent the space between stitches.

Tip

Before putting the backings on, put both safety eyes where the pattern instructs. Then adjust their placement if you think it could look better.

Still have questions?

Safety eyes are designed to be difficult to remove once the backing is snapped on. If you need to remove one, you may need to carefully cut the backing off, but this can damage the eye.
The size depends on your project and personal preference. Smaller eyes (6-9mm) work well for small amigurumi, while larger eyes (12-15mm) are better for bigger projects. Check your pattern for recommendations.
Safety eyes are called "safety" eyes because they're more secure than buttons or beads. However, they're not recommended for children under 3 or pets, as they could still be a choking hazard if removed.

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