Amino acids side chains

This pattern details how to make each of the 20 amino acids found in the human body. It focuses particularly on the sides groups, with the basic structure basic to all molecules being represented by a box (apart from proline). I have previously published a pattern for the basic 3D structure of amino acids.

The amino acids can be referred to in a variety of different ways. They each have a full name, and a 3 letter abbreviation, which is almost always the first 3 letters of the full name (the only exceptions are for Asparagine (Asn), Glutamine (Gln), and Isoleucine (Ile)). They also have a single-letter abbreviation, which is sometimes the first letter of the full name, but not always, since this letter needs to be unique. I have colour-coded the amino acids in this pattern so that the first letter of the colour corresponds to the single-letter abbreviation of the amino acid. This does sometimes mean that the colour names are somewhat obscure (eg. there's not many colours beginning with E), but I hope these allow you to remember the abbreviations a little better (it you need to).

The amino acids are molecules that combine together to form protein chains. There are 20 of them, and they each contain a central carbon atom attached to an amine group, a carboxyl group, a hydrogen atom, and a side chain. This side chain differs between each of the amino acids and it determines its properties. I have included  fair amount of extra information about these molecules interspersed with this pattern, but if you wish to learn the basics in the form of a video, I recommend watching this video.

The crocheted section of each of the amino acids follows a very similar pattern with regards to how they are made (Proline is slightly different but not by too much). I'm hoping the written pattern will make sense on its own, but I have included a photo tutorial for Leucine so you can get more an idea of what you should be doing if you get stuck. If you are still unsure, please get in contact with me by leaving a comment below or via my Ravelry or Instagram and I'll try to help you out in any way I can.

Difficulty:

Easy - medium

You will need:

• A 2.5mm crochet hook
• dk yarn in black, grey, amber, violet, lime green, indigo, magenta, charcoal, white, forest green, silver, tan, yellow, khaki, red, hazel, dark brown, electric blue, navy, pink, and multicoloured.
• 4ply yarn in white
• #8 or #10 crochet cotton in black, white, pink, yellow, and red (alternatively you can use pink, yellow, and red embroidery thread)
• A darning needle
• Polyester sewing cotton
• A pair of scissors

Note:

• 'Fasten off neatly' refers to a special way of fastening off which is neater and makes it easier to see where you should be crocheting on the next round (also known as invisible fastening off). This involves pulling up your yarn through your stitch, threading the yarn underneath the second stitch from where you pulled your yarn up, then threading your yarn back through the top of this stitch and down through the back of the work. There is a very helpful site that explains it clearly found here. Just make sure when you do this that you thread your needle through the SECOND stitch after the last stitch you made, otherwise you will end up with an extra stitch which may mean that all of the following rounds are out of line with each other. The false stitch that you create is referred to in this pattern as the 'new' st. If you are unsure which stitch this is, it's the one that tightens when you pull on the loose end.

To make up:
Each amino acid should be made up in exactly the same way. After making the crocheted sections you should use crochet cotton (#10 or #8) to embroider the layout of the atoms onto both the front and back crochet sections. Carbon atoms, hydrogen atoms, and bonds should be sewn in either white or black, nitrogen atoms in pink or purple, oxygen atoms in red, and sulfur atoms in yellow (the pink, red, and yellow is needed a lot less so you can use embroidery thread for this if you'd prefer). I have included photos of both my embroidery and a drawing of the structure to help you know where the atoms should go.
After you've done this you should embroider the name of the amino acid onto one side, and then make the eyes as follows:
With black dk yarn make a magic loop with 6sc
Make a slip stitch to secure, then fasten off

Use white 4ply yarn to embroider white highlights onto the eyes, then sew these inside the rectangle without the name on it. Use black or white crochet cotton to embroider the mouth on underneath.
Sew the front and back sections together (I did this using a running stitch around the outside), stuffing the 'head' section slightly as you do so.



There are various different ways that you can classify the amino acids, and I have gone with the way I think is most straightforward.

1. Hydrocarbon side chains

The first 5 amino acids we will be looking at have side chains that are hydrocarbons, meaning that they contain only hydrogen and carbon atoms. The first 2 amino acids, glycine and alanine, are straight-chained, whereas valine, leucine, and isoleucine all have branched-chains.

Fun fact 1:

In 1969 the Merchison Metiorite fell to Earth, of which was discovered 52 different amino acids, most of which do not occur naturally on Earth.

For Glycine, G (make 2 the same):

With grey make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, Sc in the next 2sts of the main section, make 3sc in the next st, (sc5, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the first 3sts up the chain sts, slip3, sc3, make 3sc in the next st, (sc7, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc3
Round 5: sc in the first st
Fasten off neatly



For Alanine, A (make 2 the same):

With amber make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and in the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and in the next 2 chain sts, then sc in the remaining 3 chain sts of the ch7 section. Sc in the next 2sts of the main section, make 3sc in the next st, (sc5, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loops of the first 3 chain sts of the ch7 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and in the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loops of the next 3sts of the ch7 section, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip 6, sc3, make 3sc in the next st, (sc7, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6
Fasten off neatly


Fun fact 2:

The Hydrocarbon chain amino acids are all hydrophilic, meaning that they don't mix well with water

For valine, V (make 2 the same):

With violet make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch10 section, ch7, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch7 section, sc in the next 3sts of the ch10 section, sc in the next 2sts of the main section, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the first 2 chain sts, sc2tog between the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 sts of the ch10 section from the previous round, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts. Sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section from the previous round, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip9, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip21, sc3, slip1
Fasten off neatly



For leucine, L (make 2 the same):

With lime green make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch13, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch13 section (Image 1), ch7, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch7 section (Image 2), sc in the next 3sts of the ch13 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the last 3sts of the ch13 section. sc in the next 2sts of the main section, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 2sts of the ch13 section from the last round (Images 3/4), sc2tog between the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 sts of the ch13 section from the previous round, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts. Sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section from the previous round (Images 5/6), slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip9, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6. sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3

Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip8, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip21, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3

Fasten off neatly

Image 1

Image 2

Image 3

Image 4

Image 5

Image 6

For isoleucine, I (make one of each):

For the front:

with indigo make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch7, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section, sc in the next 3sts of the ch10 section, ch7, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section, sc in the next 3sts of the ch10 section, sc in the next 2sts of the main section, (make 3sc in the following st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 6 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, sc6, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip9. sc3, (make 3sc in the following st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip15, sc in the back loop of the next 3sts, slip18, sc in the back of the next 3sts, slip9, sc in the back of the next 3sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For the back:

with indigo make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch10 section, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the second ch7 section, then sc in the next 3 chain sts of the first ch7 section you made. Sc in the next 3sts of the ch10 section, sc in the next 2sts of the main section, (make 3sc in the following st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the first 6 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 6 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts. slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, slip3, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, slip3. sc3, (make 3sc in the following st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip30, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip18, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly



2. The sulphur-containing side chains

Depending on which source you are looking at, the grouping of these 2 amino acids may be different. In some textbooks methionine is grouped with the 5 previous amino acids we have looked at, and they are classified together as being the hydrophobic (or non-polar) amino acids. Cysteine is also sometimes included in this classification, but this is debated, because it is able to form weak hydrogen bonds with water. (You can watch this video on Hydrogen bonds to find out more if you're interested)


For methionine, M (make 2 the same):

With magenta make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc
Round 3: sc, ch16, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 6 sts of the ch16 section, (ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch16 section) twice, sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 6 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip9, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip9, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For cysteine, C (make 2 the same):

with charcoal make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd st from hook and in the next 5 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and in the next 2 chain sts, then sc in the remaining 3 chain sts of the ch7 section. Sc in the next 2sts of the main section, make 3sc in the next st, (sc5, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loops of the first 3 chain sts of the ch10 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and in the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back loops of the next 6sts of the ch10 section, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip 6, sc3, make 3sc in the next st, (sc7, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6
Fasten off neatly


Fun fact 3: 
The terminal -SH group of cysteine means that 2 cysteine molecules are able to form a covalent bonds between the sulphur atoms, known as a disulphide bond. This is particularly important regarding the structure of certain proteins. The 3D structure of proteins is held in place mostly by non-covalent forces of attraction between the amino acids, but these disulphide bonds are also present in some proteins to stabilise they structure further. Eg. insulin contains 3 disulphide bonds that help to keep it rigid.


3. The aromatic amino acids

Aromatic molecules are those containing a benzene ring.  There are 3 of these, phynylalanine, Tyrosine, and Tryptophan. However, I have included tyrosine under the alcohols group, since it contains an -OH group.
Whilst phynylalanine is hydrophilic, the other two amino acids are less easily classified. The -OH group of tyrosine is able to form hydrogen bonds with water, as is the nitrogen atom of tryptophan. Whilst this makes the molecules somewhat hydrophilic, the large benzene rings are very hydrophobic, meaning that the overall classification of the molecules is up for debate.

For tryptophan, W:

For the benzene ring (make 2):
With white make a magic loop with 6sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (12sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (18sc)
Round 3: (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (24sc)
Fasten off neatly


For the nitrogen ring (make 2):
With white make a magic loop with 5sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (10sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times (15sc)
Round 3: ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, (sc2, make 2sc in the following st) 5 times
sc in the back of the 3 chain sts
Fasten off neatly

For the front:
With white make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch6, slip the 14th st from the new st of the nitrogen ring, slip the next 17sts, slip the 3rd st after the new st of the benzene ring, then slip19, skip 4sts on the nitrogen ring, then slip the next 4sts, sc in the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts, sc2, make 3sc in the next st, (sc5, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc3 in the back of the chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip45, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc3 in the back loops of the chain sts.
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
With white make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch6, slip the 10th st from the new st of the nitrogen ring, slip the next 3sts, slip the 3rd st after the new st of the benzene ring, then slip19, skip 4sts on the nitrogen ring, then slip the next 18sts, sc in the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts, sc2, make 3sc in the next st, (sc5, make 3sc in the following st) 3 times, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc3 in the back of the chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip45, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc3 in the back loops of the chain sts.
Fasten off neatly




For Phenylalanine, F (Make 2 the same):

For the benzene ring:
With forest green make a magic loop with 6sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (12sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (18sc)
Fasten off neatly

For the main section:
With forest green make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, maeke 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch6, sc in the 3rd st after the new st you made when fastening off neatly on the benzne ring, sc in the next st, make 2sc in the following st, (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times, sc in the first 3 chain sts back down the ch6 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip27, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6,  sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off


4. The alcohol side chains

In organic chemistry the -OH group is known as the alcohol group. This group makes the following amino acids hydrophilic (apart from possibly tyrosine, see section 3 description), as they can form hydrogen bonds with water.

For serine, S:

For the front:

With silver make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc
Round 3: sc, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip7, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
With silver make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc
Round 3: sc, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch7 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 4 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly


For Threonine, T (make 2 the same):

With tan make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) x3, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the chain 10 section, ch5, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 3sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch10 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts,sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3, sc inthe back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 4 chain sts, slip7, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain st, slip3
Fasten off neatly


For Tyrosine, Y (make 2 the same):

For the benzene ring:
With yellow make a magic loop with 6sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (12sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (18sc)
Fasten off neatly

For the main section:

with yellow make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) x3, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch6, sc in the third st from the 'new' st in the benzene ring, sc, make 2sc in the next st, (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) twice, ch5, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3sts, (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) 3 times around the benzene ring, sc3 down the ch6 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc int he next 3 chian sts of the ch6 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip12, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip19, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly



5. The charged side chains

These are sub-divided into 2 groups, the acidic, negatively charged amino acids, and those that are basic  (positively charged).

In this context, acidic means that the amino acid is able to donate a proton (hydrogen ion) from solution, and basic means that it is able to accept a proton from solution. The forms given in this pattern are the forms they would be found in aqueous solution. That  is, they have accepted or donated their proton and become charged. Aspartic acid and glutamic acid are known as aspartate and glutamate when in their ionised forms. Be careful not to confuse these with the amide derivatives asparagine and glutamine, given in part 6.

For Lysine, K (make 2 the same):

With Khaki make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch19, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts,  (ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) twice, (sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch19 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) 4 times, sc in the next 3sts of the ch19 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc in the back loop of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) 5 times, (sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) twice, (slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) 4 times, slip3, sc3, (make 3sc in the next, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6) 4 times, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly



For Arganine, R:

For the front:

With red make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch22, sc in the 2nd loop and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch22 section, ch7, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch7 section, sc in the next 6sts of the ch22 section, (ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch22 section) 3 times, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts of the ch22 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) 4 times, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts of the chain 22 section, sc2tog between the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next chain st, sc2tog between the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip12, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6) 3 times, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, (slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) 4 times
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
With red make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch22, sc in the 2nd loop and the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 sts of the ch22 section, ch7, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch7 section, sc in the next 3sts of the ch22 section, (ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the ch22 section) 4 times, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts of the ch22 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) 3 times, sc in the back of the next 5 chain sts, sc2tog between the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next chain st, sc2tog between the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip9, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6) 4 times, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, (slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) 3 times
Fasten off neatly

For histidine, H:

For the ring (make 2):
With hazel make a magic loop with 5sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (10sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times (15sc)
Fasten off

For the front:
With hazel make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: Sc, ch4, sc in the small section you made in the 2nd st from the 'new' st created when fastening off neatly and the next 3sts, ch6, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the same st as before the chain sts, sc2, make 2sc in the next st, sc3, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the same st as before the chain sts, sc2, make 2sc in the next st, sc2, sc in the same st as the first st you crocheted into on the small section, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the 6 chain sts you made earlier on in this round, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2

Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip4, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip12, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip14, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts , slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: Sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
With hazel make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: Sc, ch6, sc in the ring in the 2nd st from the 'new' st and the next 2sts, make 2sc in the next st, sc3, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the same st as the one you crocheted into before you made the chain sts, sc2, make 2sc in the next st, sc3, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the same st as before the chain sts, sc2, sc in the same st as the first st you crocheted into on the ring, sc in the first 3 chain sts of the ch6 you made at the start of this round, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: Sc, sc3, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, slip8, sc in teh back of the next 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, slip11, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip10, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the first st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc3
Round 5: Sc, slip3 up the chain, slip3

Fasten off

For Aspartate, D:

For the front:

With dark brown make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)

Round 3: sc, ch11, sc in the 2nd st from hook, sc in the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog, sc in the next 2sts,  ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3sts of the chain 11 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip5, sc2tog between the next st and the next chain st, sc in the next 2 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For the back:

with dark brown make a magic loop with 8sc

Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch10, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next chain st, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts of the ch10 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back of next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain st, slip5, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip5, sc2tog between the next st and the following chain st, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip4
Fasten off neatly


For glutamate (glutamic acid), E:

For the front:
With electric blue make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch13, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog between the following 2 chian sts, sc in the next 2 chain sts, (ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch13 section) twice, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) twice, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, slip3, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip7, (sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, slip6) twice, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
with electric blue make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch14, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 chain sts, (ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch13 section) twice, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc int he following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts) twice, sc in the back of the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip4, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, (sc in the back of the first 3 chain sts, slip6) twice, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc int he following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly




6. The amide derivatives

For Asparagine, N:

For the front:

With navy make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch13, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next chain st, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch13 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch13 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the first 3 chain sts of the ch13 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 6 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip5, sc in the back of the next 4 sts, slip7, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip8, sc2tog between the next st and the back loop of the following chain st, sc in the back loop of the next 2 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off

For the back:
With navy make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch11, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, ch7, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next chain st, sc2tog, sc in the next 2 sts of the ch7 section, then sc in the next 3sts of the ch11 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts of the ch13 section, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc2
Round 4: sc, sc in the back loop of the first 3 chain sts of the ch13 section, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, sc in the back loop of the next 4 chain sts, slip4, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 2sts, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip8, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6, sc3, (make 3sc in the next st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the following st, sc3
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip16, sc2tog between the next st and the back loop of the following chain st, sc in the back loop of the next 2 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off


For glutamine, Q:

For the front:

With multicoloured yarn make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch16, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next st, sc2tog between the next chain st and the following chain st of the ch16 section, sc2 down the chain, (ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 4 chain sts, sc in the next 3 chain sts down the ch16 section) 3 times, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the follwing st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc3 up the chain, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next st) twice, sc5, sc2tog, sc2, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip5, (sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip6) 3 times, sc3, (make 3sc in the first st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc3
Round 5: sc, (slip3, sc in the back of the 3 chain sts, slip3) twice

For the back:
With mulicoloured yarn make a magic loop with 8sc
Round 1: (sc, make 3sc in the next st) 4 times (16sc)
Round 2: sc2, (make 3sc in the first st, sc3) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc (24sc)
Round 3: sc, ch16, scin the 2nd loop from hook and the next 2sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next st, sc2tog between the next chain st and the following chain st of the ch16 section, sc5 down the chain, (ch4, sc in the 2nd loop from hook and the next 4 chain sts, sc in teh next 3 chain sts down the ch16 section twice, sc2, (make 3sc in the next st, sc5) 3 times, make 3sc in the follwing st, sc2
Round 4: sc, (sc3 up the chain, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next st) 3 times, sc2, sc2tog, sc2, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip8, (sc in the back loops of the next 3 chain sts, slip6) twice, sc3, (make 3sc in the first st, sc7) 3 times, make 3sc in the next st, sc3
Round 5: sc, (slip3, sc in the back of the 3 chain sts, slip3) 3 times




7. Proline, P
Technically proline isn't an amino acid, although it is commonly referred to as such as it can combine with the 19 other amino acids to form protein chains. Oficially it is an imino acid, since it contains an imine (NH2) group in place of the usual amine (NH3) group. Because of this it forms a cyclical structure, as can be seen below.

For the front:
With pink make a magic loop with 5sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (10sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times (15sc)
Round 3: (sc2, make 2sc inthe following st) 5 times (20sc)
Round 4: sc4, ch8, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc2tog between the following 2 chain sts, sc in the next 2 chain sts, sc in the same st as the last one you crocheted into before the ch8, (sc4, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the same st as you crocheted into before the ch4) 4 times, sc3
Round 5: sc, sc in the first 3 chain sts, ch4, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts of the ch7 section, slip6, (sc5, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) 4 times, sc4
Round 5: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 4 chain sts, slip4
Fasten off neatly

For the back:
With pink make a magic loop with 5sc
Round 1: make 2sc in each st (10sc)
Round 2: (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times (15sc)
Round 3: (sc2, make 2sc inthe following st) 5 times (20sc)
Round 4: sc4, ch7, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next chain st, sc2tog in between the following 2 chain sts, sc in the next 2 chain sts, sc in the same st as the last one you crocheted into before the ch7, (sc4, ch4, sc in the 2nd st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the same st as you crocheted into before the ch4) 4 times, sc3
Round 5: sc, sc in the first 3 chain sts, ch5, sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 3 chain sts, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts of the ch6 section, slip5, (sc5, sc in the back loop of the next 3 chain sts, slip3) 4 times, sc4
Round 6: sc, slip3, sc in the back of the next 3 chain sts, slip3
Fasten off neatly

That's all from this pattern - I hope you have found it interesting! If you have any questions please feel free to contact me, either by leaving a comment below or via my Ravelry or Instagram pages. You can also follow me on there to keep up to date with the latest projects I'm working on. You are very welcome to sell finished products, but I do ask that you don't re-post this pattern or claim it as your own. Thank you!

References:

interestingfactsworld.com
Biochemistry and molecular biology, Papachristodoulou et al. 

Female reproductive system

This female reproductive system is part of a series of life-sized organs I've been working on. It contains a uterus/ fallopian tubes, a pair of ovaries, and a vagina. The face is entirely optional - I added it to make it cute and cuddly, but you may decide you wish to leave it out.

If you would like to find out more about what the female reproductive system does and how it works, I highly recommend this Crash Course video.

Difficulty:

Easy - medium

Tension:

The tension for this project isn't particularly important, as human organs are highly variable, but the tension I used was approx. 13sts and 14 rows per 5x5cm square (working in the round)

You will need:

• 1 ball of pink 4ply crochet cotton - I used Anchor creativa fino
• A small amount of cream dk crochet cotton
• A 2.5mm crochet hook
• A 2mm crochet hook
• A small amount of black 4ply yarn
• White sewing cotton
• A regular sewing needle
• A darning needle
• Polyester toy stuffing
• A pair of scissors

For the uterus:

With pink 4ply yarn ch5
Round 1: sc in the 2nd chain st from hook and the next 2 chain sts. Make 2sc in the first chain st you made, then sc in the back of each of the 2 previous chain sts you crocheted into in turn. Make 2sc in the back of the first chain st you made (10sc)
Round 2: make 2sc in the first st, sc2, make 2sc in each of the next 3 sts, sc2, make 2sc in both of the last 2sts (16sc)
Round 3; sc, make 2sc in the next st, sc2, (sc, make 2sc in the next st) 3 times, sc2, (sc, make 2sc in the next st) twice (22sc)
Round 4: sc2, make 2sc in the next st, sc2, (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) 3 times, sc2, (sc2, make 2sc in the next st) twice (28sc)
Round 5: make 2sc in the first st, sc9, make 2sc in the next st, sc3, make 2sc in the following st, sc9, make 2sc in the next st, hdc, ch2, skip2 (32sts)
Round 6: Hdc, Sc12, hdc, ch2, skip2, hdc, sc13, make 2sc in the hole underneath the 2 chain sts from the previous row (32sts)
Round 7: Sc14, make 2sc in the hole underneath the chain sts from the previous round, sc16 (32sts)
Rounds 8 - 9: (2 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 10: (Over 1 round) Sc31, sc2tog (31sc)
Round 11: sc14, sc2tog, sc15 (30sc)
Round 12: Sc in each st
Round 13: (Over 1 round) Sc29, sc2tog (29sc)
Round 14: Sc13, sc2tog, sc13 (28sc)
Round 15: Sc in each st
Round 16: (Over 1 round) Sc27, sc2tog (27sc)
Round 17: Sc13, sc2tog, sc12 (26sc)
Round 18: (Over 1 round) Sc25, sc2tog (25sc)
Round 19: (Over 1 round) Sc12, sc2tog, sc10, sc2tog (23sc)
Round 20: Sc10, sc2tog, sc11 (22sc)
Rounds 21 - 23: (3 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 24: Sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, sc2, (sc, sc2tog) 3 times, sc3, sc2tog, sc (16sc)
Round 25: Sc2tog twice, sc2, sc2tog 3 times, sc2, sc2tog (10sc)
Stuff firmly
Round 26: Sc2tog, sc2, sc3tog, sc, sc2tog (6sc)
Fasten off neatly

Fun fact 1: 

During development the uterus starts off as 2 separate tubes, which fuse to create a single structure. However in about 1 in 2000 women this doesn't occur correctly, leading them to possess 2 separate (but usually fully functional) uteruses. In 2011 a woman with this condition, know as didelphys, gave birth to a set of twins, each of which had developed in a separate uterus.

For the fallopian tubes:
Rejoin yarn to the first of the sts you skipped when making one of the 2 holes on round 6

Round 1: Sc6 around the edge of this hole, as shown in the image below (6sc)

Rounds 2 - 15: (14 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 16: make 2hdc in the first st, sc2, slip1, sc2
Round 17: Sc in each st
Round 18: Hdc2, sc2, slip1, sc2
Round 19: Hdc, make 2hdc in the next st, hdc, sc, slip2, sc
Round 20: Hdc4, sc, slip2, sc
Round 21: Sc, hdc4, sc, slip2
Round 22: Sc2, hdc, make 2hdc in the next st, hdc, sc2, slip1
Rounds 23 - 24: (2 rounds) Slip1, sc, hdc4, sc, slip2
Round 25: Sc, (Ch4, slip3 down the chain, sc in the next st) 9 times, ch4, slip3 down the chain, slip1 the next st
Fasten off
Repeat for the other falopian tube

For the ovaries (make 2):
With cream yarn ch3

Round 1: sc in the 2nd chain st from hook, then make 3sc in the next chain st. Make 2sc in the back of the first chain st you crocheted into (6sc)

Round 2: make 2sc in each st (12sc)

Rounds 3 - 6: (4 rounds) sc in each st

Round 7 (note that this is slightly more than a single round): sc2tog twice, sc, sc2tog twice, sc, sc3tog (6sc)

Round 8: sc, sc2tog (5sc)

Fasten off

Sew the ovaries to the ends of the tube, and then use a strand of yarn to attach the ends of the tube to the start, so that they keep their correct position (see image below)

Fun fact 2:
Kangaroos have 3 vaginas: The central one is used for birth, whilst those in front and behind are used for insemination.

For the vagina:
With a 2.5mm hook and pink yarn ch20
Round 1: Sc in the first chain st you made, then sc in every following chain st to make a loop (20sc)
Round 2: (sc3, make 2sc in the next st) 5 times (25sc)
Rounds 3 - 11: (9 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 12: (Sc6, sc2tog) 3 times, sc (22sc)
Rounds 13-15: (3 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 16: Sc3, sc2tog, (Sc5, sc2tog) twice, sc3 (19sc)
Rounds 17 - 19: (3 round) sc in each st
Round 20: Sc7, sc2tog, sc8, sc2tog (17sc)
Rounds 21 - 23: (3 rounds) sc in each st
Round 24: (Sc3, make 2sc in the next st) 4 times, sc (21sc)
Round 25: Sc, make 2sc in the next st, (sc4, make 2sc in the following st) 3 times, sc3 (25sc)
Fasten off neatly

Sew the vagina to the bottom of the uterus. Note that the cast-on end should be sewn to the end of the uterus.

Fun fact 3:

The female ovum (i.e. the egg) is the largest cell in the human body, measuring about 120 microns in diameter. This is just a little larger than the diameter of a human hair, making it just about large enough to be seen with the naked human eye! By contrast the Sperm is the smallest cell in the human body, being only 5 microns long.

For the eyes (make 2):

With black 4ply yarn and a 2mm hook make a magic loop with 6sc

Fasten off

Use white thread to embroider highlights onto each eye then sew them to the face. Use black yarn to embroider eyebrows and a mouth. You can also add other facial features if you wish.

That's all for this pattern! You are very welcome to sell finished products but I do ask that you don't re-post this pattern, or claim it or any of the images as your own. If you have any questions about this or any of my other patterns, please don't hesitate to contact me. You can leave a comment below, or message me on my Ravelry page, through the best way to contact me is through my Instagram page, where you can keep updated with all the projects I'm currently working on.

References:
livescience.com

Anatomical eyeball

This eye is part of a series of life-sized anatomical organs. This eye is to-scale and the pattern includes 2 possibilities - one which opens up at the back so you can see inside and one which doesn't.

Difficult:

Medium

You will need:

• A 1mm crochet hook
• A 0.8mm crochet hook
• White #10 crochet cotton
• Embroidery thread in dark pinky-red and a colour for the iris (I used green)
• red sewing cotton
• An embroidery needle
• A glue gun and some glue
• If you wish to make an eye that opens up you will also need red and dark blue embroidery thread
• A pair of scissors
• A clean metal spoon

If you want to find out more about how exactly the eye works, I would recommend watching this crash course video.

For the iris:
With a 1mm hook and 6 strands of embroidery thread ch5
Round 1: sc  in the first st, then make 6sc into the hole in the centre of the ring of chain sts (7sc)
Round 2: make 2sc in each st (14sc)

Fasten off neatly

For the Sclera (the whites of the eye):

Openable:
With a 1mm hook and white #10 crochet cotton ch18

Round 1: sc in the first chain st you made, sc in the following chain st, then make 2sc in the next chain st. (sc in the following 2 chain sts, make 2sc in the next chain st) twice, sc in the last 3 chain sts (23sc)

Round 2: sc, (sc4, make 2sc in the next st) 4 times, sc2 (26sc)

Round 3: sc6, make 2sc in the next st, sc12, make 2sc in the following st, sc6 (28sc)

Rounds 4 - 7: (4 rounds) sc in each st

Row 8: sc6, sc2tog, sc6. ch1, turn (13sc)

Row 9: bfsc2, bfsc2tog, bfsc5, bfsc2tog, bfsc2. ch1, turn (11sc)

Row 10: sc, sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, sc2, sc2tog, sc. ch1, turn (8sc)

Row 11: bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog. ch1, turn (5sc)

Row 12: sc2tog, sc, sc2tog (3sc)

Fasten off

With a 1mm hook and white #10 crochet cotton

Row 1: sc in the 2nd chains st from hook, then in the following chain sts: sc5, sc2tog, sc6. ch1, turn (13sc)

Row 2: bfsc2, bfsc2tog, bfsc5, bfsc2tog, bfsc2 (11sc)

Row 3: sc, sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, sc2, sc2tog, sc (8sc)

Row 4: bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog (5sc)

Row 5: sc2tog, sc, sc2tog(3sc)

Fasten off

You should now have a spherical section with a semi-circle cut out of it, along with a separate semi-circular shaped piece. Place the smaller section into the hole in the larger spherical section so that it lines up, then sew along half of the flat side of the smaller section to join it.

For the non-openable eye:

With a 1mm hook and white #10 crochet cotton ch18

Round 1: sc in the first chain st you made, sc in the following chain st, then make 2sc in the next chain st. (sc in the following 2 chain sts, make 2sc in the next chain st) twice, sc in the last 3 chain sts (23sc)

Round 2: sc, (sc4, make 2sc in the next st) 4 times, sc2 (26sc)

Round 3: sc6, make 2sc in the next st, sc12, make 2sc in the following st, sc6 (28sc)

Rounds 4 - 7: (4 rounds) sc in each st

Round 8: sc12, sc2tog, sc12, sc2tog (26sc)

Round 9: sc4, sc2tog, sc5, sc2tog, sc6, sc2tog, sc5, sc2tog, sc2 (22sc)

Round 10: sc, sc2tog, sc2, sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, sc, sc2tog, sc2, sc2tog, sc, sc2tog (16sc)

Round 11: sc2tog, sc, sc2tog twice, sc, sc2tog twice, sc, sc2tog, sc (10sc)

Round 12: sc2tog 5 times

Fasten off

For the retina:

For the non-openable eye:
You don't have to make this for the non-openable eye as it will be enclosed inside the scelera, but it will match the openable eye better if you're choosing to make one of each.

Using a 0.8mm hook and 3 strands of embroidery thread ch20
Round 1: sc in the first chain st you made, then sc in the next 2sts. Make 2sc in the next chain st. (sc3, make 2sc in the next chain st) 4 times (25sc)
Round 2: (sc4, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (30sc)
Round 3: (sc5, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (35sc)
Rounds 4 - 7: (4 rounds) Sc in each st
Round 8: Sc8, sc2tog, sc15, sc2tog, sc7 (33sc)
Round 9: Sc, (sc2tog, sc6) 4 times (29sc)
Round 10: Sc3, sc2tog, (Sc4, sc2tog) 4 times (24sc)
Round 11: (Sc2, sc2tog) 6 times (18sc)
Round 12: (Sc, sc2tog) 6 times (12sc)
Round 13: Sc2tog 6 times (6sc)
Fasten off

For the openable eye:
With a 0.8mm hook and 3 strands of embroidery thread ch20
Round 1: sc in the first chain st you made, then sc in the next 2sts. Make 2sc in the next chain st. (sc3, make 2sc in the next chain st) 4 times (25sc)
Round 2: (sc4, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (30sc)
Round 3: (sc5, make 2sc in the next st) 6 times (35sc)
Rounds 4 - 7: (4 rounds) Sc in each st
Row 8: Sc8, sc2tog, sc15, sc2tog, sc7. ch1, turn (33sc)
Row 9: Sc, (sc2tog, sc6) twice. ch1, turn (15sc)
Row 10: Bfsc3, bfsc2tog, bfsc4, bfsc2tog, bfsc4. ch1, turn (13sc)
Row 11: (Sc2, sc2tog) 3 times, sc. ch1, turn (10sc)
Row 12: (Bfsc, bfsc2tog) 3 times, sc. ch1, turn (7sc)
Row 13: Sc2tog 3 times, sc (4sc)
Fasten off

Ch17
Row 1: sc2tog between the 2nd chain st from hook and the next chain st, sc in the next 6 chain sts, Sc2tog, sc6. ch1, turn (14sc)
Row 2: Bfsc2tog, bfsc4, bfsc2tog, bfsc4, bfsc2tog. ch1, turn (11sc)
Row 3: Sc, sc2tog, (sc2, sc2tog) twice, ch1, turn (8sc)
Row 4: Bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog, bfsc, bfsc2tog. ch1, turn (5sc)
Row 5: Sc2tog, sc3tog (2sc)
Fasten off

Sew these 2 pieces together as you did before, lining up the smaller section inside the larger sphere and sewing along half of the larger edge. Make sure the the edge you sew along is opposite to the one sewn for the scelera (so that they match up when this retina section is turned inside out)

To make up:
For the retina:
If your eye is being made openable, use red and blue embroidery thread to sew veins onto the 'right side' of the crochet. This will later be turned so that the embroidery is on the inside and inserted into the eye.

Place the iris inside the eye. Sew in place around the front opening, and around the back opening for the openeable eye.

For the lens:

Get a clean spoon and use a glue gun to add a blob of glue to the curved surface. This should ideally be around 2cm in diameter. Once it is cool peel it off and insert it into the eye, so that it sits behind the hole in the front of the eye.

Sew the iris over this hole in front of the lens so that the wrong side is facing outwards.

Finally finish off by using red embroidery thread to add blood vessels to the outside of the scelera, as shown below.

That's all from this pattern, I hope you have enjoyed it! You are very welcome to sell finished products but I do ask that you don't re-post this pattern, or claim it or any of the images as your own. If you have any questions about this or any of my other patterns, please don't hesitate to contact me. You can leave a comment below, or message me on my Ravelry page, through the best way to contact me is through my Instagram page, where you can keep updated with all the projects I'm currently working on.