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About the Toy Patterns When I started knitting toys several years ago, I was thrilled with the results, but I have to admit, I really fell short when it came to seaming everything up. Most toy patterns are written to be knit flat on two needles, then sewn together. Then, suddenly, one day without any warning, I thought of two things. First, why not knit the toy in the round?? And then, why not felt it so it would be strong and sturdy? From then on, patterns started popping into my head. I started looking at everything in the world differently!. Everything, I noticed for the first time, was made of shapes! This was a breakthrough. A real light-bulb moment. I realized that the shapes in the world are repeated again and again, with just slight variations. Once you master the basic shapes, you can really knit anything ... anything at all. My toy patterns take advantage of this amazing fact! They are, indeed, knit in the round, on double-pointed needles. The bodies and heads are all one piece. Only the limbs and extras, like ears, tails or feathers, are sewn on separately. Most of the animals have moveable arms and legs, as they are attached by the old-fashioned method of using string for joints. I like to use glass eyes because I think they give the animal a more realistic look; however, you could certainly embroider the eyes, instead. The patterns are not really designed for infants or small children. They are really meant for the school-aged child who can respect a toy. They are also great for decorations. If you've not ever knit on double-pointed needles before, please don't be afraid to try! Check out my little video tutorial by clicking on the link on the techniques page. Felting is a great place to start, as the process magically melts away any little mistakes! And, the projects are all portable, too. Most take only one skein of yarn (or less) and, as you're going to wash it in very hot water before it's through, it doesn't matter where it's been! I can't count how many of my animals have rolled onto the floor in hospital waiting rooms and doctors' offices, recreation centers, lunchrooms and hair salons while they were being knit! I hope you will enjoy these patterns as much as I do. Feel free to email me with any questions or concerns
you may have regarding any of the patterns. I'll try to help! And if you have
any suggestions for a new animal or doll that's not offered here, I'll do my
best to figure out a pattern for that, as well. I love a challenge.
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