Christmas Knitting Shop
Enjoy this Lovely FREE Mini Christmas Tree Knitting Pattern. This cute tree is made with oddments of white and green double knitting yarn, 3mm single pointed needles. Although any yarn and needles will work. It is about 9cm tall when finished. Made in 3 pieces and slotted together, no toy stuffing is needed.
You could add a loop and hang as an ornament or add it to your Christmas lunch table as a treat for your family. Sit it on a shelf after adding ribbon and beads as you prefer.
For those mathematically minded, you may notice a pattern in the numbers, then you will see it will be easy to add more tiers to the bottom and make your tree taller. I will leave that up to you to work out for fun.
Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row). inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch
Piece 1 – Lower, Large Piece – Make 1
With white, cast on 42 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 5 rows
Change to green
Next: (k5, k2tog) to end (36 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k4, k2tog) to end (30 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k3, k2tog) to end (24 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (18 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (12 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (6 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends and make a cone shape. Allow the white edge to curl.
Piece 2 – Middle Piece – Make 1
With white, cast on 30 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 5 rows
Change to green
Next: (k4, k2tog) to end (25 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k3, k2tog) to end (20 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (15 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (10 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (5 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends and make a cone shape. Allow the white edge to curl. Insert a finger into the larger cone shape and insert it inside the medium size cone.
Piece 3 – Upper, Small Piece – Make 1
With white, cast on 20 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 5 rows
Change to green
Next: (k3, k2tog) to end (16 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (12 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (8 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (4 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends and make a cone shape. Allow the white edge to curl. Insert a finger into the larger and medium cone shape and insert it inside the small size cone. It will stand without further attention but add stitches to keep it in place if needed.
© Copyright 2019 Knitting by Post Ltd
Are you ready for a bigger Christmas tree pattern?
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Deck the halls with a knitted Christmas tree! This unique pattern lets you create a festive, handmade tree with individually attached leaves.
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Show Mum some love with this heart-filled knitting pattern. A sweet and sentimental project perfect for Mother’s Day or special occasions.
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Knit a purr-fectly cozy pyjama case that’s as practical as it is cute. A great project for cat lovers and anyone who enjoys adding a handmade touch to their home.
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This knitted cat hand puppet is ready to put on a purr-fect performance. A fun and easy project for storytelling, playtime, or just for feline good.
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Deck the halls—and the fireplace! Knit 4 unique Christmas stockings with this must-have festive knitting pattern collection.
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Caught in the act of being adorable! Knit Burglar Bill, a playful character soft toy perfect for storytelling and fun.
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Donkey is happily sat here quietly waiting for you. He needs to be knitted so he can give you lots of love.
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A knitting pattern is simply a set of instructions for a hand knitter to use so she can recreate an item such as a garment or toy.
The craft of hand knitting is an act of taking two needles and yarn and creating an item or part of an item and creating stitches in various quantities and combinations.
A knitting pattern is like a recipe in that it has a set of ingredients and a method section. The ingredients will typically tell the knitter what kind of knitting needles are needed and what kind of yarn as well as a quantity. There will also be a list of other materials such as toy stuffing if they are needed.
It may be tricky at first when initially looking at a pattern and it may seem overwhelmingly difficult to understand. Taking the instructions a bit at a time and picking a simple knitting pattern to learn first will help.
What does a knitting pattern look like?
A knitting pattern can come in two media formats. Knitting leaflets, booklets and books are physical copies of the information needed to make a knitted item. They will typically have a photograph of the completed item and assembly photographs of the item in pieces if needed. There will be a written section of the information you need to know such as abbreviations and yarn requirements and then the instruction themselves.
A knitting pattern can also come in a downloadable or electronic version. This will include the same information but in a way that can be read on an electronic device such as a tablet or phone and could also be printed by the end user.
What Do I Need to Start Knitting ?
At the start of the pattern there will be a section dedicated to laying out what is needed to get started, including materials and knitting needles. There will also be a section on the knitted tension needed to get the desired results. This is especially important if making garments but not so important with toys.
Abbreviations are used to make the pattern shorter and able to fit into a reasonable space on paper. These will also be explained at the start of the pattern. Abbreviations are helpful so the knitter can follow the pattern. An example would be “k2tog” which means knit 2 stitches together. There may be the need to do this hundreds of times in a pattern so abbreviations are used to keep the text short.
Some knitters are known to take a knitting pattern before it is made and re-write the abbreviated sections out in long hand on a piece of paper in a way that is easier to follow for that person.
Abbreviations are also explained at the top of the knitting pattern before coming to the method section. A general assumption is made on a knitting pattern that the knitter knows how to produce a knit stitch and other combinations of stitches as the pattern will not explain how to do this, only that it needs to be done.
Ther isn’t any standardised set of abbreviations and it is up to the knitting designer to define their abbreviations on the pattern so it is clear what is to be done. That said, generally the knit stitch is “k” and purl stitch is “p”
How Do I Start to Knit?
If your pattern is written, (and not a chart) the method part of the pattern provides instructions on each component part of the finished item. The section is followed sequentially from top to bottom. At the beginning it will tell the knitter how many components to make. For example it may say “Arms – Make 2”
The first line of instructions will typically tell the knitter how many stitches and what yarn to use. The act of starting knitting is called casting on. The knitting pattern may say “With pink yarn, cast on 50 sts”
How do I Knit the Pieces?
The knitter then takes the yarn and begins the process of casting on. The instructions will then continue and the knitter can follow them to create the knitted piece required. The next row may contain a combination of knit and purl stitches, just knit or just purl or something else. The pattern will explain what comes next.
A written knitting pattern may include brackets or braces “(” and “)” to show that a section is to be repeated. This is another method to keep a knitting pattern short and easy to read. There will be an indication after the brackets how many times it has to be repeated. For example it may say (k1, k2tog) 6 times. Meaning that both the k1 and k2tog has to be repeated 6 times in the row.
At the end of a knitted row, if the number of stitches changes, the pattern will give you a count of how many stitches you should have left. For example, it may say (30 sts). This means after the row is completed there should be 30 sts remaining.
At the end of knitting a piece the act of casting off is done. This is taking the remaining stitches on the knitting needle and binding them so they cannot unravel after they are removed from the needle. There are lots of ways that this can be done.
This itemised process is repeated for all the pieces required on the pattern by following sequentially the instructions.
What is a Knitting Chart?
Knitting charts can be included in the instructions or a chart may be provided as the only instructions and needs to be followed. A chart consists of a grid with a number of squares going horizontally from left to right and back again to create a pattern in the knitting or provides details of colour changes.
A chart is followed backwards and forwards as the item is knitted and after each row of knitting the next row on the chart is knit in the opposite direction. The pattern will say how many times this is to be repeated over a row or section. Charts are especially useful if knitting argyle items.
The letters or symbols or colours will be defined in a separate key to make it possible to follow.
How do I Sew Knitted Pieces Together?
Some knitting patterns will have assembly instructions as you go and some will leave it to the end. The instructions are generally written in English and long hand (without abbreviation) but it may be brief and the knitter will again have to use their skill to sew up at the end.
Even More Patterns
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We are off to the Tower of London to make a cute little Beefeater.
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Knit your own Yummy Tummy Dolly with this fun and easy pattern. Create an adorable doll with a secret tummy pocket for storing sweet treats!
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A festive little robin that has a chocolate orange in his belly. A double winter gift.
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A cute little giraffe, great for small hands. Quick and easy to knit.
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The first in a new series of smaller knitting patterns for little hands. Here is our Short and Sweet Raccoon.
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Squishy dinosaur, not scary really. He is a lovely one colour knit. He is deliberately left plain so you can add ribbon, a bow tie, spikes or any other dinosaur customisation that you can think of.
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A knitting obsession is a positive addiction to everything knitting related. This becomes a way of life for some and affects us in many different ways.
Here is a fun look at the knitting obsessed like us. Home, travel, family and our way of life for addicted knitters.
Your Way of Life
- You have at least one knitting tattoo
- You own several knitting bags and use them all
- If you are sitting you are knitting – no matter where you are
- Having no knitting leads to stress and withdrawl
- You fall asleep knitting as it’s almost finished and I want to get it done. Then if you make it into bed…
- You get up in the night to finish that project
- Pulling work back to rectify a mistake is really satisfying
- Your knitting bag goes everywhere with you
Knitting
- One more row always ends up with a finished item at 3 in the morning
- You know what yarn any knitted item has been made with
- If you see someone with a hand made item you have to ask if they made it.
- You always have to talk to someone who has a hand knitted item on as they understand the need for knitting
Your Home
- You have an entire room devoted to your craft
- And then more stash besides
- You hide your stash from your family
- You look down and there are always a couple of yarn ends on the floor
- When you see someone knitting on the telly you get all giddy
- Your monthly budget includes rent, utilities and knitting
- You go to bed and knit in your sleep
- You own more yarn and patterns than you could ever knit but that doesn’t stop the desire for more
- You leave a project in the loo because if you are sitting, you are knitting
Family
- People call you the knitting lady (or man!)
- All you get for birthdays and chirstmas is yarn, patterns, needles….
- Your family remind you about the yarn in the cellar, kitchen, bedrooms…
- You make up reasons not to go out, even on special occasions so you can stay home and knit
Buying Yarn, Patterns and Accessories
- To protect your latest purchase you say things like, “I’ve had this yarn for ages”
- You get home and immediately stuff your new purchase down the back of the sofa with the other 20 purchases so nobody sees
- The local craft shop is too much to walk past without going in
- Then you can’t leave without buying something
- You know all your local craft shop owners by name
- You see a new yarn or pattern and have to have it
Spare Time, Holidays and Travel
- You would rather stay home and knit than, shopping, days out, holidays, seeing family, walking the dog…
- Leaving home to go anywhere is difficult as you want to finish the end of the row and then – there’s time for one more – isn’t there?
- Going anywhere, even for an hour needs at least 3 projects to be on the safe side
- All holidays are planned around knitting
- You go on holiday to visit a yarn shop that you haven’t been to before
- You have a knitting group for every day of the week
- You plan your holiday so you can visit that yarn show everyone is talking about.
- You have a “just in case” project with you at all times
Did we miss anything? Leave a comment below and we will add it to the list.
Even More Patterns
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Knit a mermaid that’s ready for adventure! This enchanting soft toy knitting pattern is perfect for ocean lovers and fairy tale fans.
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Are you knitting for a new baby? Here is a collection of knitting patterns ready for your new arrival.
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This Bee Chocolate Orange Hugs Knitting Pattern is the sweetest way to gift a chocolate orange and toy — wrapped in a bee-utiful handmade beehive.
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Make your bathroom magical with this Unicorn Toilet Roll Cover. A fun and quirky knitting project that’s sure to bring a smile.
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Knit an elephant that never forgets to keep things tidy. A lighthearted and practical bathroom decor project.
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Make a splash with this adorable knitted duck! Perfect for spring, Easter, or any duck lover, this soft toy pattern is an easy and fun knit.
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Enjoy this Lovely FREE Postbox Knitting Pattern. This cute post box is made with black and red double knitting yarn, 3mm single pointed needles and toy stuffing. Although any yarn and needles will work. It is about 13cm tall when finished.
Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row). inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch
Post Box—Make 1
Made in one piece from under the base to the top
With black, cast on 10 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (20 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, inc1) to end (30 sts)
Purl 1 row
Knit 3 rows
Starting with a purl row, st-st 9 rows
Purl 1 row (define the colour change)
Change to red
Starting with a purl row, st-st 13 rows
Next: k11, p8, k11 (Mark for letterbox)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k11, p8, k11 (Mark for letterbox)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Top of post box
Next: (inc1, inc1, k1) to end (50 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k4, inc1) to end (60 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 5 rows
Next: (k3, k2tog) to end (48 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k2, k2tog) to end (36 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (24 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k2tog) to end (12 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends of the piece. Stuff well , make sure the base is flat and it will stand. Then seal up.
Letterbox—Make 1
With black, cast on 8 sts
Knit 1 row
Purl 1 row
Cast off
Sew the letterbox to the extra purl stitches on the front of the post box. It may be easier to do this before the main piece is stuffed.
Add any additional decorations such as ribbon and beads that you desire.
© Copyright 2019 Knitting by Post Ltd
Even More Patterns
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Knitting pattern instructions to knit a little Dog Comforter Blanket
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Ewe won’t believe how cute Shirley the Sheep is! This fluffy Easter knitting pattern makes a sweet, cuddly sheep soft toy. A baa-rilliant gift idea or craft stall favourite.
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Let it snow in the bathroom—with a snowman that won’t melt. This fun toilet roll cover knitting pattern adds a frosty, festive touch while keeping spare rolls neatly hidden.
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Who needs a bedtime routine when you have Buster the Dog? This fun knitting pattern makes a cute and practical pyjama case, perfect for kids or anyone who loves a handmade touch.
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Wrap your gifts with a little extra bear hug and bunny charm. These knitted drawstring bags make presents even more special—because good things come in handmade packages.
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Get 5 knitting patterns for the price of 4. Buy this collection of 5 knitting patterns.
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Christmas is the time of the year that we all gather together with our loved ones and friends to celebrate the kindness, joy and peace. Also, this is the time when we exchange gifts to value each other’s presence in our lives. This is the time of the year that we — the knitters — surprise our loved ones and friends with our completed masterpieces that are hand knitted with lots of love.
Hand knitted goodies are the best gifts that they can receive from us. These Christmas themed knitted goodies don’t really have to be ultra fancy or expensive! In fact, most of them won’t even cost more than a few pounds to knit. However, the value these gifts provide to your loved ones is priceless!
Here are some Christmas gift ideas that will get your needles clicking for the festive season.
Knitted Stockings
The hand knitted stockings make lovely Christmas gifts. All you have to do is select some yarn that you like, pick vibrant colours as a traditional theme or go with greys and browns for a more contemporary look. Santa red and while are always cheerful colours for children of all ages.
Hand knitted stockings are in demand during the cold winter evenings, they make great ornaments on a mantlepiece. So knit some for your loved ones. Create a stocking and fill it with goodies for the kids in your family. They will adore them.
Deck the halls—and the fireplace! Knit 4 unique Christmas stockings with this must-have festive knitting pattern collection.
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A stocking straight from the North Pole! Knit this festive Santa stocking, perfect for filling with Christmas gifts and treats.
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Here is a twist on a traditional Christmas favourite. He is a larger knit than our usual patterns so you can get your needles clicking with this one. Fill the reindeer with Christmas goodies.
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Here is a twist on a traditional Christmas favourite. He is a larger knit than our usual patterns so you can get your needles clicking with this one. Fill the snowman with Christmas goodies.
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageHand Made Gift Bags
Hand knitted gift bags make trendy and usable presents. The best thing about knitting these little bags is that you can create them with all the leftover yarn from your main projects. They will make great accompaniments if you have made a main gift and have some leftovers.
This is a one size that fits them all! Pop little gifts into the bags and make a double gift. You can improvise with your creativity further and switch them up into other items such as eyewear pouches, TV remote keepers, cosmetic bags, mobile phone covers.
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This reindeer won’t fly, but he’ll hold your Christmas treats! Knit a festive reindeer gift bag for holiday surprises.
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This Reindeer is Here to Sleigh. He is Keeping Your Chocolate Orange Cosy
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Let it snow… with treats! Knit this adorable Snowman Gift Bag to hold Christmas surprises.
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Santa’s reindeer have a new job—keeping pyjamas tidy. This soft and functional knitting pattern is perfect for adding a bit of holiday magic to bedtime.
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageKnitted Toys
Toys are your go to knitting idea if you want something traditional for little ones. If you have grandchildren, then knit them some beautiful Christmas themed toys. Toys can be a lifetime keepsake at any age and look great on a shelf as well as in the toybox with the other toys.
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Here is a twist on a traditional Christmas favourite. He is a larger knit than our usual patterns so you can get your needles clicking with this one. Fill the snowman with Christmas goodies.
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This sweet Elf will sit in your doorway this Christmas and welcome everyone as they go past. Made in Chunky yarn he will grow fast.
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A hint of pink! Not all Elves are green. Knit a little pink Elf.
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Attention all Christmas knitters! Here is a Nutcracker Soldier knitting pattern A5 Booklet.
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageKnitted Decorations
This idea knows no boundaries whatsoever. You can create decorative ornaments to hang on to your Christmas tree, decorate your mantlepiece, tables, doors and bathroom too! House decorations and Christmas themed decorations like knitted Christmas crackers never go out of fashion. Gifting decorations can be an unusual and unique gift that will be cherished. You can also decorate your home knitted Christmas trees, baubles and table decorations. Don’t forget Santa characters and Christmas themed doorstops. There are even Christmas themed toilet roll covers for your bathroom.
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This sweet Elf will sit in your doorway this Christmas and welcome everyone as they go past. Made in Chunky yarn he will grow fast.
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Santa’s sleigh won’t be complete without a knitted reindeer to lead the way. This pattern is perfect for holiday decorations, gifts, or a cozy Christmas display.
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Frankly my deer, its nearly Christ-moose! Super sweet reindeer bauble pattern in 3 sizes.
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This Reindeer is Here to Sleigh. He is Keeping Your Chocolate Orange Cosy
This product has multiple variants. The options may be chosen on the product pageThese are some ideas for you to start ticking off your Christmas gift list. Christmas is a time when hearts are filled with joy and your art of knitting is pure joy. These ideas are only to show you the doors. Choose the one you like, improvise and get knitting!
Visit Our Christmas Knitting ShopEven More Patterns
Get 5 knitting patterns for the price of 4. Buy this collection of 5 Pyjama Case knitting patterns
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This lion pyjama case is as cuddly as it is useful. A soft and functional knitting project that makes a great gift or bedtime buddy.
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This ballerina elephant is on her tip toes ready for her pirouettes. Her tu-tu is fixed to her waist and she is complete with ballet slippers. Make your own with this original knitting pattern.
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This duck isn’t quacking—he’s carrying an Easter treat! Knit a fun and festive soft toy with a hidden chocolate egg inside.
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This Bog Dog toilet roll cover is ready to sit and stay on your bathroom shelf. A quirky knitting pattern that keeps spare rolls covered while adding a bit of tail-wagging charm.
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This cute Handy Owl knitting pattern will make a great knitted gift for friends, family or even a special teacher. He has 10 pockets for all those little knick-knacks.
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Knitting has been in existence since the Egyptian mythologies glory days! The archaeologists have discovered traces of hand knitted garments in the pyramids that house queens and princesses post death. This is indicative of the fact that knitting hasn’t been all about looping threads together to make the cardigan you have always wanted. There are scientific evidences backed by full fledged research that knitting activity is an efficient antidote for anxiety, stress and pain.
There are countless studies that indicate the positive impact of developing knitting into a habit. Compared to the commonly available anxiety relievers and stress balls, knitting stands out as a better remedy with productive results.
There are a variety of health benefits associated with knitting. These include lowering stress levels, reduced blood pressure, escaping the daily routine to relax, reduce the feeling of loneliness helping with arthritis and other chronic pain as well as many other positive benefits.
Knitting is considered a great tool to enjoy a better focus with great mental and physical health.
Following are some health benefits of knitting:
Lower Anxiety and Stress:
There has been countless research on the subject of knitting that prove the positive effects of knitting on mental health. The most cited study in support of this has been a 2007 research conducted by Harvard University’s Institute of mind and body. The study shows that knitting actually helps lower blood pressure. This has a domino effect on the knitter’s health. The lowering of blood pressure helps calm down anxious and stressed state of mind. Researchers also credit the arrangements of the knitters arms during the process. The arms’ arrangement during knitting resembles a protective dome. This dome helps create a safe zone which is helpful in comforting the people with anxiety.
Chronic Pain:
Chronic pain is another health condition that knitting can help with. Although knitting isn’t really a part of medical pain management techniques, however, it has helped countless individuals lower down the effects of the pain. Knitting is an activity that helps the mind and body to synchronize. This repetitive synchronization during knitting helps release serotonin. This organic chemical with the human body helps with exalted positive moods that partially mutes the feelings of pain.
Loneliness
Knitting can also help individuals to fight of their loneliness and feelings of gloom. The art of knitting is a productive exercise and it keeps the individual occupied. This helps in keeping the focus and attention of the individual to the knitting task at hand and not let it wander to the loneliness that surrounds them. Also, there are knitting groups and societies in many countries that let individuals come together to knit. The social inclusiveness of the activity helps people if they have a social disorders and cope with the feelings of sadness that may occur.
Knitting is an art that helps people with their health issues and keeps them productive. Most of the knitters feel great when they complete a project and share it with their loved ones. Many knitters around the world claim a better focus and less stress when they are engaged in the process of lopping the threads. Learning to knit isn’t really difficult. Knitting can be learned for free online. You’ll come across scores of tutorial videos on the topic in your preferred language on YouTube.
If you are already a seasoned knitter, you will know the health benefits and like me will already feel them in every day life. If not then I would urge you to give it a go as it is a wholesome activity that will improve the way you feel and your wellbeing.
Even More Patterns
No need for snow—just grab your knitting needles and stitch up a snowman that lasts all year. A fun and interactive puppet pattern perfect for winter fun.
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Keep Your Chocolate Orange Under Elf Supervision This Christmas Time.
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Have fun with Frankenstein. Another cute knit all ready for the Halloween season. He is made with double knitting. He makes a great friend to the Wizard and Witch Festive Friends.
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Hip Hop and Get this Spring Time Easter Buttercup Bunny Knitting Pattern
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Feeling the chill? This "It's a Bit Breezy" knitting pattern has you covered—literally. A light and airy knit that’s perfect for when the weather just can’t make up its mind.
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Patch is pretty cool for a cat. He has a hoodie and a cheeky cat face too. Knit your own Patch with this knitting pattern.
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On the surface at least, toy filling isn’t very interesting. If like me however, you use it to make toys, then knowing all about the toy filling that you use can give you better finished results.
Toy filling is known by lots of names and can vary from country to country. Here are some of the terms I have come across. Toy stuffing, fibrefill, polyflock, wadding, batting, I am sure there are more names for it too.
Why does my choice of filling matter?
Your choice of filling matters because it can significantly change the finished toy look and feel of your toy. For example, you may like recycled poly filling but it will not be completely white. So if you make a toy that is mainly knitted in white then you may see the filling through the finished work and it will not look as ‘clean’ as you would like.
You may decide to go for a wool stuffing and keep to natural fibres. If you are on a low budget and have a large toy to stuff then it may not be an option.
Think about the receiver of the toy. Will they be children? If so then safety is important and be cautious. Could it be a choking hazard? Does the receiver have allergies or intollerancies to certain materials. It may need to be hypoallrgenic or bacterial resistant. It is all about what is right for you, the recipient and the toy you are crafting at the time.
What are the legalities of toy stuffing?
If you plan to give away or sell a toy that you have made then there are certain laws to consider. I am not going go into too much depth here as it is another topic completely. You will need to CE Mark and test your finished toys. There is a GOV.UK article here all about it.
It is possible to purchase toy stuffing that has been tested to the appropriate standard for CE Marking. Ask the toy filling retailer before you purchase to see any certificates they have on safety tests of their stuffing if you plan on selling or giving away. Keep them and add them as your compliance evidence.
The finished items still need to be safety checked by you before you can add the CE mark to your toys as the law applies to the finished article and not component parts. All CE testing must be made on new materials so recycling your filling is out of the question here too.
What can I use as a toy filling?
There are so many options for you to fill your toys with. Here is a long list of things that you could use to stuff your toy with.
- Polyester / Acrylic toy stuffing
- Cotton stuffing
- Wool
- Fabric Scraps
- Bamboo
- Old Socks
- Old Clothes shredded
- An old stuffed toy
- Shredded Paper
- Tissue
- Pillow Filling
- Recycled Cushions / Quilt Filling
- Old Packaging Materials such as Bubblewrap
- Lavender or Dried Flowers (Makes the toy smell nice)
- Rice (Can be used to add weight but watch if there is a chance of vermin)
- Beads (in combination with other stuffing to give it a different texture)
- Polystyrene Beads
- Sand (Wrapped up of course. Adds weight)
- Fish Tank Gravel (Again to add weight)
What do I need to consider when choosing a toy filling?
How much filling do you need to buy to fill your toy? This is a really tricky question to answer as different types of toy filling have different densities and you may prefer to stuff your toy a little firmer or lighter as you desire.
A 1kg bag of stuffing will have a different volume or size depending on what it is made from and how much air there is inside. New toy stuffing is sold by weight. This is why none of the Knitting by Post knitting patterns specify a stuffing quantity as it would be impossible to accurately measure as the weight has no bearing on the volume needed to stuff a toy completely.
If you plan on sending your finished toy abroad for any reason – e.g as a gift or if it has been sold. Be aware that if you use natural fibres such as bamboo or lavender inside, that you will have to declare them as the enter the country.
If you are recycle mad like me, then find something soft and squisy and get to it! It is good fun if you want to keep the toy yourself and experiment with different materials. You don’t have to use just one material, I make little bags to weigh down my toys with uncooked rice and add cotton stuffing round the edges.
Carding a filling product makes it more light and fluffy as it goes through a carding machine and introduces air. It is possible to buy uncarded toy stuffing and this is more dense and works well if you want a very firm and weighty toy.
What are the toy specific types of filling I can buy in the shops?
Polyester and Acrylics
A non-natural product that is inexpensive on the pocket and is also widely available. Most haberdasheries in the UK will carry a stock of this kind of toy stuffing. If the man-made element doesn’t bother you too much, it is good for toy stuffing as it has a consistent feel throughout and will give your finished toy the same feeling.
It can be good if you have large toys to fill as it is less dense than other kinds of filling and goes further by weight. If they are labelled high-loft this means that there is lots of air in it and it will be more bouncy.
Polyester filling can be siliconized. This means that the fibres of the filling are produced in such a way that they will minimise an allergic reaction (hypoallergenic). Siliconized polyester filling is designed to resist bacteria and dust. The filling may can be washed but take care with your toy as the fibres absorb heat and it may be difficult to remove stains.
Cotton
If keeping things natural is your thing then Cotton filling is great. It is more dense than the man made alternatives and may also come in an organic version too.
If you plan on washing your finished toy – maybe it is going to be given to a child then purchase cotton that is pre-shrunk as it may get a bit smaller after a wash.
Wool or Lambswool
An animal based natural fibre from sheep. If you make toys with natural fibres, it may make sense to use a wool based toy filling too. Sheep have been around for thousands of years so it would make sense that early soft toys were stuffed with wool too. Wool toy stuffing can also come carded and uncarded. It is also a bio-degradable material and is naturally fire resistant.
So which one do I use?
It is entirely up to you what materials you choose to fill your creations with. There are up and down sides to using all the different kinds of fibrefill. Hopefully you have read this article and can make a more informed choice for your knitted toys.
Do you have anything to add to this? If so, leave a comment below.
Even More Patterns
It’s bedtime for Beau, Belle, Boo, and Bess! This charming booklet follows the bears on their sleepy-time adventure, making it a cozy read for little ones.
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Make playtime extra fun! This knitted elephant hand puppet pattern is perfect for storytelling and little hands.
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Here is our Barker the Dog knitting pattern. He has floppy ears and he is laying on his belly. Another easy knit.
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No ice required—just yarn and stitches! This knitted penguin soft toy is a delightful and simple winter knitting project.
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A beary cute addition to the BearWick family! Knit this soft and huggable teddy bear.
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Squishy dinosaur, not scary really. He is a lovely one colour knit. He is deliberately left plain so you can add ribbon, a bow tie, spikes or any other dinosaur customisation that you can think of.
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Enjoy this lovely FREE dishcloth / washcloth /pan holder knitting pattern. It can be used as a dishcloth or wash cloth. You could also add a backing and use it as a pan holder. Keep reading for the instructions.
An easy pattern using just combinations of knit and purl stitches to create a lovely effect.
Abbreviations : k – knit, p – purl, st – stitch, st-st – stocking stitch (k1row, p1row), tog – together
This cloth was made with double knitting cotton and 3mm needles. Approx 25g used and 1 small button needed too. This is just a guide, use any yarn or needle combination that you like to get the effect and size you want.
The measurements at this tension were approx 19cm wide and 26cm tall including the handle. For a wider or smaller cloth, add or remove stitches in groups of 4.
Cloth – Make 1
With your desired colour, cast on 48 sts
Knit 4 rows
Next: (k2, p2) to end
Next: (k2, p2) to end
Next: (p2, k2) to end
Next: (p2, k2) to end
Complete the last 4 rows 3 times in total (12 rows)
Knit 1 row
Optionally, if a stripe is desired, change to stripe colour now
Starting with a knit row, st-st 4 rows
For a stripe, change back to main colour
Lower centre section. Knit 2 rows
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Next: (p1, k1) to end
Complete the last 2 rows 4 times in total (8 rows)
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Knit 1 row
For a stripe, change to stripe colour
Starting with a knit row, st-st 4 rows
For a stripe, change to main colour
Knit 2 rows
Next: (k2, p2) to end
Next: (k2, p2) to end
Next: (p2, k2) to end
Next: (p2, k2) to end
Complete the last 4 rows 10 times in total (40 rows)
For a longer cloth, add more rows here in groups of 4 rows
If you intend on lining the back of your cloth, measure now add a backing now before any reductions.
Reduce for the hanging loop
Next: k2tog to end (24 sts)
Next: k2tog to end (12 sts)
For a different colour handle, change colour now
Loop
Next: (k1, p1) to end
Complete the last row 32 times (or more rows if a larger loop is needed)
Buttonhole
Next: pattern for 5 sts, cast off 2 sts, pattern for 5 sts (10 sts)
Next: Pattern for 5 sts, cast on 2 sts, pattern for 5 sts (12 sts)
Next: k2tog, (k1, p1) to last 2 sts, k2tog (10 sts)
Next: k2tog, (p1, k1) to last 2 sts, k2tog (8 sts)
Next: k2tog, (k1, p1) to last 2 sts, k2tog (6 sts)
Next: k2tog, p1, k1, k2tog (4 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Tie in the row ends. Add a button to the front of the cloth.
I hope that you have enjoyed this pattern. Please use it to make lots of washcloths. You are free to sell the finished items for profit or charity as you please. Just please don’t copy and share the pattern but send knitters here if they want to make one for themselves.
Even More Patterns
Two Patterns for a Fiver. Cheap Christmas Knitting
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Knit a pug with plenty of personality! This adorable soft toy pattern features a hoodie and a cheeky little tongue sticking out.
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Burrr it's cold. I think there could even be a Blizzard. A cute sitting reindeer soft toy knitting pattern
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Roarrrrrrr. Laa La Lion is a fun knit for girls and boys. He is a cutie with a hoodie and orange mane. You will love him so much that you may end up with your own pride of lions!
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Attention! Knit a King's Guard of your own. He is another Royal character keeping guard at Buckingham Palace.
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No need for snow—just grab your knitting needles and stitch up a snowman that lasts all year. A fun and interactive puppet pattern perfect for winter fun.
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Enjoy this lovely toadstool pattern. It can be made with any odds and ends that you have left and a little bit of toy stuffing.
Abbreviations : k – knit, p – purl, st – stitch, st-st – stocking stitch (k1row, p1row), tog – together, inc—increase by knit-ting into the front and back of the stitch.
Toadstool—Make 1
At the bottom of the stem, cast on 12 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: inc knit wise into every stitch (24 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 13 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to end (16 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 5 rows
Change to the colour for the top of the toadstool
Next: (inc1, inc1, k1) to last stitch, k1 (26 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, inc1, inc1) to last 2 sts, k2 (42 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 13 rows
Next: (k2, k2tog) to last 2 sts, k2 (32 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to last 2 sts, k2 (22 sts)Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (11 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends of the toadstool and stuff carefully to get the correct shape. Gather the cast on stitches at the bot-tom and make the base of the toadstool as flat as possible so it will stand. Optionally add a small sealed bag of rice or sand at the bottom of the stem to weigh it down.
Door and Window—Make 1 each
Cast on 5 sts
Next: k1, p1, k1, p1, k1 Complete this row 7 times for door and 4 times for window. Cast off in pattern.
Sew the door to the front of the toadstool at the bottom of the stem. Sew the window higher and to the right of the door.
Spots—Make 4
Cast on cast on 7 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (14 sts)
Starting with a purl row, stocking stitch 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end (7 sts)
Draw thread through the remaining stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends, then fold flat with the bound off stitches in the centre front. Sew spots randomly to the top of the toadstool.
How about Burny the Dragon too?
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Be careful this week, things could drag-on a bit! Watch those fingers as it all gets a bit Burny too. Here is Burny the Dragon knitting pattern. He is breathing fire and ready to fly away at any minute.
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This knitted snowman won’t melt, but the chocolate orange might!
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Prescribed: One knitted nurse soft toy! This adorable pattern is perfect for thank-you gifts or get-well surprises.
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As sweet as sugar and cool as ice, Fondant the Snowman is a delightful Christmas knitting pattern. A perfect handmade winter decoration or cuddly toy.
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Here is another cute variation on our baby themed knitting patterns. Complete with separate sleeping bag, make your own cute little bundle.
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Pig Tails and as Cute as Her Button Nose. Janet the Dolly Knitting Pattern. A5 Booklet
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Clucky the Hen is waddling around the place. She has room in her wings for lots of chocolate surprises. Knit one with this leaflet or PDF knitting pattern.
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Enjoy this lovely little octopus pattern. He can be made with odds and ends that you have left and a little toy stuffing. Why not make a little pocket mascot in your team colours?
Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row). inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch
Use 3mm single pointed needles and oddments of double knitting yarn. You will also need some stuffing. He is 15cm across and 7cm high.
Body—Make 1
With orange, cast on 11 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (22 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k1, inc1) to last 2 sts, k2 (32 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 2 rows
Knit 1 row (Attach the legs to this row later)
Starting with a knit row, st-st 10 rows
Change to pink and knit 4 rows
Change to green, starting with a knit row, st-st 6 rows
Next: (k1, k2tog) to last 2 sts, k2 (22 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: k2tog to end (11 sts)
Purl 1 row
Draw thread through stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends of the body, add stuffing and seal up.
Tentacles—Make 8
With orange, cast on 8 sts
Purl 1 row
Next: increase into every stitch (16 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 10 rows
Change to pink and st-st 2 rows
Change to green and st-st 3 rows
Next: k2tog to end
Draw thread through stitches and pull tight
Sew down the row ends and add a little stuffing. Sew the tentacles to 4 sts on the extra knitted row on the body of the octopus. All tentacles sit side by side.
Add two eyes and a mouth to the front of the octopus in black. Add a few loops in pink to the top of the hat.
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This reindeer won’t fly, but he’ll hold your Christmas treats! Knit a festive reindeer gift bag for holiday surprises.
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A treat, not a trick! Knit up four Halloween-themed soft toys with this collection of spooky knitting patterns.
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A beary cute addition to the BearWick family! Knit this soft and huggable teddy bear.
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Ding Dong. Here is the Third Knitted Bell Pattern from The Christmas Bells Collection. Elf is Ready to Go.
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Come and Join the Rodeo! Andy the Cowboy Knitting Pattern is Here.
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Burrr it's cold. I think there could even be a Blizzard. A cute sitting reindeer soft toy knitting pattern
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Yarn : Double knitting. Oddment of white and a contrast colour.
Needles : 3mm Single Pointed Needles
Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row). inc— increase. Knit into the front and the back of the stitch
Tension : 26 sts x 33 rows = 10cm x 10cm in st-st with double knitting yarn
Dimensions : Approx. 10cm from hem to shoulder straps.
Dress—Make 1
Start at the top. With white, cast on 36 sts
Knit 1 row
Next: (k2, inc1) to end (48 sts)
Purl 1 row
Next: (k3, inc1) to end (60 sts)
Next: k6, cast off 18 (in knit), k12, cast off 18 (in knit), k6 (24 sts)
Change to contrast colour
Knit along all stitches (24 sts)
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Change to white
Knit 2 rows
Change to contrast colour
Knit 1 row
Next: (inc1, p1) to end (36 sts)
Next: (inc1, p2) to end (48 sts)
Next: (k2, p2) to end
Complete the last row 7 times in total
Change to white
Knit 3 rows
Purl 1 row
Knit 1 row
Cast off in knit
Sew down the row ends. Fold the bottom flat and sew along the hem.
Add ribbon and embellishments as desired.
Here is Cerise if you like dollies.
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Knitting pattern instructions to knit Cerise in her little skirt and pom-pom hat.
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Knitted Baby Comforter. Only the feet and hands are stuffed so the centre is floppy. This makes it very tactile and great for small hands.
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No drama, just llama! This adorable alpaca soft toy pattern is a fun and simple project, especially when knitted in soft alpaca wool.
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Knitting pattern instructions to knit this Chocolate Orange Dog
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A magical way to give gifts! This Unicorn Baggles Gift Bag knitting pattern creates an enchanting unicorn-themed pouch for treats and treasures.
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This rabbit hand puppet is all ears and ready for fun. A delightful knitting pattern for kids, puppet shows, or anyone who loves a little hoppy entertainment.
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No fairy tale is complete without a little magic! This knitted boy fairy is the perfect partner to the classic fairy soft toy.
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Materials : Oddments of yellow, dark yellow and white double knitting. 3mm single point needles. Tension isn’t important for such a small piece.
Finished butterfly is approximately 7cm high
Abbreviations : k – knit. p – purl. st – stitch. tog-together. st-st – Stocking Stitch (k1row, p1row). Knit into the front and the back of the stitch
Wings – Make 2
With white or yellow, cast on 30 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 15 rows
Cast off
Sew down the row ends so the wings are double thickness. Allow the cast on and cast off edges to curl. The centres will be gathered at the end.
Antennae – Make 1
With dark yellow, cast on 20 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Cast off
Allow the piece to curl upon itself and secure with stitches if needed
Body – Make 1
With dark yellow, cast on 26 sts
Starting with a purl row, st-st 3 rows
Cast off
Allow the piece to curl upon itself and secure with stitches if needed
Gather the wings in the centre and place the antennae at the top. Wrap the body piece round the wings and antennae and secure with stitches.
Even More Patterns
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This rabbit hand puppet is all ears and ready for fun. A delightful knitting pattern for kids, puppet shows, or anyone who loves a little hoppy entertainment.
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You can't beat a squishy Snowman. This soft toy pattern is really cuddle worthy and another one to get your knitting needles going.
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No puddles needed—this knitted duck is ready to waddle into your heart! A cute soft toy pattern featuring little boots for extra charm.
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Whooo needs a plain toilet roll when you can have an owl watching over it? This knitting pattern turns an everyday item into a cute and quirky bathroom companion.
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Maggie Mouse is a little squeaker. With two tone clothing she is great for little hands to hold.
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A Christmas comforter blanket that’s as cute as it is cozy! This snowman comforter makes a wonderful handmade gift for winter babies.
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