Three patterns were designed as keychains from the start: a true keychain PDF, a micro monkey in embroidery floss, and a classic sock-monkey head from 2011.
The 2011 classic
The Mock Sock Monkey Head key chain is one of the oldest free monkey keychain patterns online — the charm of sock monkeys never dates.
A clinging monkey
Red Ted Art's long-armed monkey wraps around a bag strap. Work it in thin cotton with a smaller hook to reach keychain size.
Beginner-friendly minis
Chai Coffee Crochet's 4-inch mini is already keychain size. Just add a jump ring through the top of the head and you're done.
Shrink the big toys
Full-size monkeys shrink beautifully: switch to fingering or sport yarn with a hook 1-1.5mm smaller, and a 12-inch toy lands at keychain size.
Attach the ring right
Sew a short crocheted loop (6-8 chains) firmly to the head, connect a jump ring with pliers — far stronger than threading through single stitches.