purlJam

# 6 & 7 Meme Crochet Pattern
### "Why was 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 9!"

**Bring the classic math joke to life with this adorable duo!**

This beginner-friendly pattern creates the internet-famous number duo that perfectly captures the "Why is 6 afraid of 7" meme. The worried little 6 and mischievous 7 make perfect desk buddies, gifts for math teachers, or a fun way to teach kids about numbers and jokes!

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## PATTERN INFORMATION

**Skill Level:** Beginner  
**Finished Size:** Approximately 4.5-5 inches (11-13 cm) tall  
**Gauge:** 5-6 sc and 6 rows = 1 inch (2.5 cm) with worsted yarn and 3.5mm hook  
*Exact gauge is not critical for this project*

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## MATERIALS

### Yarn
- **Worsted Weight Yarn (4)** - approximately 50 yards each color
  - **For Number 6:** Bright blue, yellow, or pink (your choice)
  - **For Number 7:** Contrasting color - purple, green, or red works great
  - **Small amount of black** for embroidered faces (or use embroidery floss)

*Suggested yarns: Red Heart Super Saver, Lion Brand Vanna's Choice, Caron Simply Soft*

### Hook & Notions
- **US E-4 (3.5mm) crochet hook** (or size needed for gauge)
- Yarn needle (tapestry needle)
- Stitch marker or safety pin
- Fiberfill stuffing (polyester)
- Scissors
- Optional: Pins for facial feature placement
- Optional: Small amount of white felt for eyes

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## ABBREVIATIONS
- ch = chain
- sc = single crochet
- inc = increase (2 sc in same stitch)
- dec = invisible decrease (insert hook in front loops of next 2 stitches, yarn over, pull through both loops, yarn over, pull through both loops on hook)
- st(s) = stitch(es)
- rnd(s) = round(s)
- [ ] = stitch count at end of round

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## SPECIAL NOTES

### Technique Tips
- **Magic ring tutorial:** If unfamiliar, you can chain 2 and work into 2nd chain from hook instead
- **Work in continuous rounds:** Do not join or turn unless specified. Use stitch marker to track beginning of rounds
- **Invisible decrease:** This creates a smoother finish than regular sc2tog
- **Stuff as you go:** Much easier than trying to stuff at the end
- **Tension:** Work tightly so stuffing doesn't show through

### Meme Context
The classic joke: "Why is 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 (ate) 9!" Your 6 should look worried/nervous, while 7 looks mischievous or confident. Have fun with the facial expressions!

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## PATTERN INSTRUCTIONS

## NUMBER 6

The number 6 consists of a vertical stem (cylinder) with a circular loop at the top.

### LOOP (Top Circle of the 6)
This creates the rounded top portion of the number 6.

**Rnd 1:** 6 sc in magic ring [6]  
**Rnd 2:** inc in each st around [12]  
*Check: 2 inc per st, 6 × 2 = 12 ✓*

**Rnd 3:** (sc, inc) around [18]  
*Check: 6 repeats of (sc, inc) = 6 + 6 = 12... wait, starting with 12: 12 ÷ 2 = 6 repeats, 6 sc + 6 inc = 18 ✓*

**Rnds 4-6:** sc in each st around [18]  
*These 3 rounds create the height of the loop*

**Rnd 7:** (sc, dec) around [12]  
*Check: 6 repeats of (sc, dec) = 6 + 6 = 12 ✓*

**Begin stuffing the loop lightly.** Don't overstuff - you want it to maintain its curved shape.

**Rnd 8:** sc in each st around [12]

**DO NOT fasten off.** Continue directly to the stem.

### STEM (Vertical Part of the 6)

**Rnds 9-20:** sc in each st around [12]  
*These 12 rounds create the vertical stem (approximately 2 inches tall)*

**Stuff the stem firmly as you work.** Add small amounts of stuffing every 3-4 rounds.

**Rnd 21:** dec around [6]  
*Check: 12 ÷ 2 = 6 ✓*

**Add final stuffing.** Make sure the stem is firmly stuffed so the number can stand.

**Rnd 22:** dec around [3]  
*Check: 6 ÷ 2 = 3 ✓*

Fasten off, leaving a 6-inch tail. Thread yarn needle and weave through remaining 3 stitches. Pull tight to close hole. Weave in end securely on inside.

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## NUMBER 7

The number 7 consists of a vertical stem with an angled top bar.

### VERTICAL STEM
Start at the bottom and work upward.

**Rnd 1:** 6 sc in magic ring [6]  
**Rnd 2:** inc in each st around [12]  
*Check: 6 × 2 = 12 ✓*

**Rnds 3-14:** sc in each st around [12]  
*These 12 rounds create the main vertical portion (approximately 2 inches tall)*

**Stuff the stem firmly as you work.** Add stuffing every 3-4 rounds.

**DO NOT fasten off.** Continue to the top bar.

### TOP BAR (Horizontal Part of the 7)

Now we'll create the distinctive angled top of the 7 using short rows.

**Rnd 15:** sc in each st around [12]

**Row 16 (now working in rows):** ch 1, turn, sc in next 8 sts, leave remaining 4 sts unworked [8]  
*We're creating a flattened section that will become the top bar*

**Row 17:** ch 1, turn, sc in each of the 8 sts [8]

**Row 18:** ch 1, turn, sc in each of the 8 sts [8]

**Row 19:** ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc 4, sc2tog [6]  
*Check: 1 dec + 4 sc + 1 dec = 6 ✓*

**Row 20:** ch 1, turn, sc in each of 6 sts [6]

**Row 21:** ch 1, turn, sc2tog, sc 2, sc2tog [4]  
*Check: 1 dec + 2 sc + 1 dec = 4 ✓*

**Row 22:** ch 1, turn, sc2tog twice [2]

Fasten off, leaving a long tail. Thread yarn needle through remaining 2 stitches and pull tight. 

**Stuff the top bar lightly.** Use small pieces of stuffing to fill the bar section, keeping it relatively flat but giving it dimension.

**Finishing the base:** Go back to the bottom of the stem.

With yarn needle and matching yarn, weave through the 6 stitches at the base and pull gently to close. This creates a flat bottom so the 7 can stand upright.

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## ASSEMBLY & FINISHING

### Facial Features

This is where you bring the meme to life! The expressions make the joke work.

#### NUMBER 6 (Worried/Scared Face)
Place face on the upper portion of the stem, just below where it connects to the loop.

**Eyes (Embroidered):**
- Use black yarn or embroidery floss
- Create two wide, round eyes using satin stitch or French knots
- Position eyes slightly apart (about 3-4 stitches between them)
- OR cut two small circles from white felt, add black pupils, and sew on

**Mouth:**
- Create a small "O" shape or downturned mouth using backstitch
- Position below eyes (2-3 rows down)
- The expression should look worried or surprised!

**Optional:** Add small eyebrows angled upward in the middle (worried expression)

#### NUMBER 7 (Mischievous/Confident Face)
Place face on the vertical stem, approximately 1/3 down from the top.

**Eyes:**
- Two small eyes with a confident or slightly narrowed look
- Use French knots or small satin stitches
- OR use felt circles with half-closed eyelids for a sly look

**Mouth:**
- Create a smirk or confident smile using backstitch
- Slightly angled up on one side works great for "mischievous"
- Position below eyes (2-3 rows down)

**Optional:** Add eyebrows angled for a determined or sneaky expression

### Facial Feature Placement Tips
1. **Pin first:** Use pins to position features before embroidering
2. **Use a photo reference:** Look at meme images online for expression inspiration
3. **Keep it simple:** Simple faces are often cuter and clearer than complex ones
4. **Test expressions:** Try different mouth positions to get the personality right

### Making Them Stand
- Ensure the base of each number is firmly stuffed
- The bottom should be relatively flat
- If numbers tip over, add a small cardboard or plastic canvas circle inside the base for weight
- Alternatively, display them leaning against something

### Display Ideas
- Set them up side by side on a desk or shelf
- Create a small scene with number 9 (using same techniques) running away
- Add to a math teacher's classroom
- Gift as a set to a math/joke enthusiast

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## VARIATIONS & CUSTOMIZATION

### Size Adjustments
**Smaller (3" tall - keychain size):**
- Use DK weight yarn (3) with 3.0mm hook
- Reduce rounds: Loop rnds 4-5 only, Stem rnds 9-14 only

**Larger (7-8" tall):**
- Use bulky yarn (5) with 5.5mm hook
- Add more stem rounds: Rnds 9-28 for 6, Rnds 3-20 for 7

### Color Ideas
- **Rainbow numbers:** Use a different color for the loop and stem of 6
- **Glitter yarn:** Add sparkle with metallic worsted yarn
- **School colors:** Match a favorite teacher's school
- **Pastel set:** Soft colors for a gentle, friendly look
- **Bold contrast:** Bright complementary colors (orange/blue, red/green)

### Expression Variations
- Make 6 look terrified with huge eyes
- Make 7 look evil with angled eyebrows
- Add rosy cheeks with pink embroidery or makeup
- Give 7 a cape or villain mustache

### Add Number 9 (The Victim!)
Use the same pattern as 6, but:
- Make the loop at the TOP instead of continuing to stem
- Work stem downward from loop
- Reverse the construction order
- Give it a scared expression too!

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## TROUBLESHOOTING

**Numbers won't stand up:**
- Stuff more firmly, especially at the base
- Add cardboard circle at bottom
- Make sure bottom is closed flat and even

**Stuffing shows through:**
- Work with tighter tension
- Use a smaller hook (try 3.0mm)
- Use lighter colored stuffing to match yarn

**Loop on 6 looks misshapen:**
- Don't overstuff the loop - keep it light
- Block gently with steam to shape
- Ensure increases and decreases are worked evenly

**Top bar of 7 is too floppy:**
- Add a pipe cleaner or wire inside for structure
- Use firmer stuffing
- Work with tighter tension on rows 16-22

**Faces look wonky:**
- Practice on paper first to plan placement
- Use removable stitch markers to test positions
- Remember: handmade charm includes slight imperfections!

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## CARE INSTRUCTIONS

- **Washing:** Hand wash gently in cool water if needed
- **Drying:** Reshape and air dry flat; do not wring
- **Storage:** Keep in dry place away from direct sunlight to prevent fading
- **Child safety:** If gifting to young children, ensure all embroidery is very secure with no loose threads

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## PATTERN NOTES & CREDITS

This pattern celebrates the classic mathematical joke that's become an internet sensation. The beauty of amigurumi is that you can bring any concept to life - even abstract numbers with personality!

**Skill Building:** This pattern teaches you continuous rounds, basic shaping, working in rows after rounds, and simple embroidery techniques.

**Time to Complete:** Approximately 2-3 hours total for both numbers (experienced crafters may work faster)

**Share Your Work:** These make fantastic gifts for teachers, math lovers, and anyone who appreciates a good pun. Don't forget to add the joke when you gift them!

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### Why was 6 afraid of 7? Because 7 8 9! 😄

**Now you can display this classic joke on your shelf forever!**

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*Pattern designed for beginner crocheters. Feel free to sell finished items made from this pattern, but please do not redistribute the pattern itself. Tag your creations with #67memecrochet!*