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Pattern: Benny the Dragon Snuggler by @justamom_crocheting
Availability: Paid pattern on Etsy
Materials Used: Loops & Threads Demi Purl yarn, Size I (5.5mm) hook, 12mm safety eyes
Okay… let’s talk about that yarn. You all know I’ve been on a Loops & Threads Demi Purl kick lately — it’s soft, squishy, and makes everything look like a cozy cloud. But let me be honest for a second: we’re in a bit of a complicated relationship.
When it’s behaving, it works up like a dream — that perfect plush texture that makes your stitches look pro-level, even on a rough day. But if it decides to knot? You might as well grab the scissors and say your goodbyes. There’s no saving it. Tug, pull, plead — it doesn’t matter. It’s like wrestling with a fuzzy, waxy tangle monster that refuses to cooperate.
I’ve noticed the strands can feel a little waxy at times, which makes them weirdly resistant to sliding smoothly on your hook. And the biggest frustration? Every single ball I’ve bought so far (and we’re talking ten-plus colors) has had multiple manufacturer knots. Every. Single. One.
It’s disappointing because I love how it feels and looks, but fighting with knots mid-project really kills the vibe. So while I still use it (because… have you felt it?), I recommend buying an extra skein just in case you run into those problem areas.
Let me just say — I loved this pattern. Benny the Dragon Snuggler didn’t eat up much yarn, and I absolutely adored the fact that there’s no stuffing in the body (only the head and limbs). That alone makes it a perfect snuggle buddy that drapes and moves naturally. The wings flutter, the arms stretch, and even the head can tilt a bit — giving it so much personality.
One of my favorite things? The pattern gives you options! You can mix and match ears and tails, and even switch up horn sizes. I personally loved the larger horns — they’re easier to see, and if you work them up in black, they pop against just about any color combo.
Speaking of colors — my personal favorite combo so far has been baby pink and teal. The one you’ll see pictured (nicknamed Flossy) was sent to an amazing home, where even the puppy fell in love with her. 🩷🐾
Now, as much as I loved Benny, there were definitely a few points where I had to remind myself that throwing the project across the room wouldn’t help. (More cat toys)
Let’s start with magic circles. They’re already a bit of a test of patience, but with chenille yarn? It’s a full-on endurance challenge. Pull too tight and it snaps. Too loose and you’ve got a gap big enough for stuffing to peek through.
The nose area was another tricky spot — it’s a tight space to work into, but when you nail it, the result is so worth it. The shaping gives Benny that perfect little snout that makes you want to boop it immediately.
I tried my hand at the pointed tail customization, and let’s just say — my perfectionist side was not satisfied until those points were sharp enough to rival a knight’s sword. It took a few tries, but once I got it right, it was totally worth it.
And because this pattern is low-sew, not no-sew, placement still managed to give me a bit of grief. Even when the pattern told me exactly where things go, I somehow managed to make my first dragon look like it was side-eyeing me. (Still cute, though.)
This pattern works up to about 12 inches from head to tail tip, which is a great snuggly size — perfect for cuddles or gifting. It uses pretty basic stitches overall, but I’d call it advanced beginner-friendly just because of the magic circles and tight shaping areas.
There’s plenty of room for customization and creativity, and honestly, it’s one of those patterns that’s just as fun to make as it is to finish. Between the personality-packed design, the clever shaping, and the wiggle-factor of that unstuffed body, I’d call Benny an absolute win.
Totally worth the pattern cost, and even with the yarn frustrations — I’d still make another in a heartbeat. 🖤