Q&A for How to Crochet a Ball

Yes, although it would be difficult and quite time-consuming. Many people prefer to use painted Styrofoam balls instead.

Make the balls as described in article, leaving an extra long tail on each ball. Once you have enough balls to form a cluster, begin crocheting the tails together two at a time. Start at the base where the yarn is still attached to the balls. Make a slop-knit as close to this base as you can, but relax; a bit of "looseness" in a grape-cluster is good. Alternate pulling a loop of yarn through the loop on your hook from one ball-tail to another until a cluster forms.

For most beginners, making dishcloths, scarfs and afghans are the best and easiest way to learn. Try finding a pattern for a simple dishcloth or other flat piece of work before trying dimensional.

Yes, you can sew on ears and eyes. Some people use safety eyes that look like black dots. You could even add tails if you wanted to.

Yes, you can, but try using thicker yarn as it will be easier for your fingers.

You could modify the pattern by multiplying everything by the same number to maintain symmetry. Alternatively, you could add dry beans or plastic pellets instead of cotton to increase the weight.

If you have extra yarn, you can sew the bottom shut. In my experience, I use the yarn from my magic ring to close it up.

Yes, usually yarn has a label indicating the hook size you need, but I recommend choosing a hook that's 0.5-1mm smaller to make your stitches tighter.