Knitted Farm Friends

Sarah Keen is a freelance pattern designer and finds calculating rows and stitches challenging but fascinating. She is experienced in designing knitted toys for children, and also enjoys writing patterns for charity. She lives in Aberystwyth, Wales.

• Introduction 6Gallery 8Pig 16Cow 24Ewe 30Ram 36Rooster 42Hen 48Dog 54Cat 60Rabbit 66Pony 74Donkey 82Billy goat 88Alpaca 94Highland bull 100Goose 106Fox 112Turkey 120Pheasant 126Rat 132Bee 140Techniques 146Index 158

In this genial guide, pattern designer Keen (Knitted Menagerie) shares how to knit stuffed barnyard animals. A brief overview of basic techniques explains knit, purl, garter, stocking, and moss stitches, and recommended materials included light worsted yarn and acrylic stuffing. The expected animals are represented (a cow, donkey, hen, pig, pony, and rooster, for instance), as well as some less obvious ones, including a highland bull, pheasant, and bumblebee, all of which stand upright and are outfitted in overalls or a dress. Eyes, nostrils, and other facial features are mostly added with embroidery; the rabbit’s nose requires satin stitches, while stem stitches comprise the bee’s smile. Pipe cleaners are recommended to give form to the ram’s and bull’s horns, as well as the bee’s antennae. Though the plush animals are endearing, they’re likely a bit complex for beginners. For example, recreating the pheasant’s distinctive plumage requires making facial markings, the two-pronged tail, and two pieces for each wing, which then need to be embroidered. Still, experienced knitters will get a kick out of this.”