The Secret Lives of Letters: 26 Easy-to-knit Alphabet Plush Toy Knitting Patterns

26 easy-to-knitAlphabet Plush Toy

Knitting PatternsDani Church

Is Dolly too demanding?

What’s Harry hiding from Monica?

Is Carl really all that creepy?

Peek into “The Secret Lives of Letters”

while creating your own unique plushies!


Knitting Patterns

A special thanks to the wonderful people

who helped me put this book together:

my graphic designer,

Lee Mundy,

who turned a batch of photos

and patterns into lovely eye-candy;

my proofreaders,

Daneen Kemple and Jackie Werth,

who made sure it all made sense;

and my husband, David,

who provided encouragement and support

every step of the way.

Published in 2011 by Dani ChurchThe Knit Knoodler

www.KnitKnoodler.etsy.com

www.Ravelry.com/designers/dani-church

Text and patterns copyright © Dani Church 2011Design and photography copyright © Dani Church 2011

The author’s moral rights have been asserted. All rights reserved. No part of this publication may be reproduced, stored in a retrieval system, or transmitted in any form or by any means, electronic, mechanical, photocopying, or otherwise, without the prior permission of the publisher.

The knitting patterns in this book are copyright and must not be knitted for resale without the permission of Dani Church.

Printed in USA

Writer & Photography: Dani ChurchGraphic Design: Lee MundyEditors: Daneen Kemple & Jackie Werth

Contents

Introduction . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 1

andré . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 2

babette . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 4

carl . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 6

dolly . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 8

esteban . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 10

fran . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 12

gwendolyn . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 14

harry . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 18

ingrid . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 20

jonathan . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 22

karianne . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 24

lars . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 27

monica . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 30

nicholas . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 32

ophelia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 34

paco . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 37

quintessa . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 40

rodney . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 43

shemika . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 46

trevor . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 50

ursula . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 52

vincent . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 54

wendy . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 57

xavier . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 60

yolanda . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 64

zenobia . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 66

Abbreviations & Gauge . . . . . . . . . 68

Adding Embroidered Features . . . 68

Stitches . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . . 69

How to Stuff Your Plush Toy . . . . . 70(So it Looks Great)

Shaping & Attaching Arms . . . . . . 71

1

IntroductionKnitting is just plain FUN!

Half the pleasure of knitting is the time spent wandering through your favorite yarn shop, ogling gorgeous colors, feeling sumptuous textures, then taking home armloads of joy. All you fellow yarn junkies out there know exactly what I’m talking about!

The other half of the thrill is watching delightful items—some functional, some just for fun—materialize out of the enchanted motions you’re making with two little magic wands and one of those lovingly wound balls of colorful joy.

The alphabet plush toys in this book make the knitting experience even more creative, more magical. It’s only after the knitting is completed that you really begin to breathe life into your little creatures with facial expressions and hair styles. It’s totally up to you how your plushies turn out: sweet, sad, ecstatic, or with a bit of an attitude.

I call it “knit knoodling” and encourage everyone to experiment and come up with their own creations! By the time I’ve finished a letter, I know exactly who she is, what she likes to do in her spare time, and even…some of her secrets…

Happy Knitting!

Dani Church “The Knit Knoodler”

P.S. – I’d love to see your creations, and hear some of their stories. Email me at [email protected], convo me at KnitKnoodler.etsy.com, or message me on Ravelry.com, username KnitKnoodler.

the secret lives of letters2

NAME: andré ProFESSIoN: aspiring actor INTErESTS: animé, archery, antiquing, astrology FAvorITE FooDS: anchovies, asparagus, apricots, apples, almonds, avocadoes (but not guacamolé) PErSoNALITY: always anxiously awaiting approval

Materials Needed for Body

• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles

• 2 stitch holders

• 1 ball medium-weight yarn – (207 yd/188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)

• Tapestry needle

• Washable toy stuffing

• 2 yd (1.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair

• Embroidery thread for facial features

• Embroidery needle

andré

3andré

Abbreviations & Gauge See page 68

FroNT & BACK (make 2 identical pieces)

Shaping Left “Leg”

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts. Rows 1-16: Work in st st Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping right “Leg”

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts.Rows 1-16: Work in st st (10)

Joining “Legs”

Row 17: K10; cast on 5 sts; K sts from holder. (25) Row 18: P

Shaping Main Body

Rows 19 – 26: Work in st st (25) Row 27: K10, bind off 5 sts, K to end of row (2 sets of 10 sts) Row 28: P10 to break; place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.

Shaping Upper Left Side

Rows 29 - 38: Work in st st (10)Row 39: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1Row 40: P* Rows 41 - 42: Repeat * through * (10)

Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Upper right Side

Transfer sts (10) from holder #1 onto needle, or work off of holder.Row 28: Join yarn; P to end of row Rows 29 - 38: Work in st st (10)Row 39: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 40: P*Rows 41 - 42: Repeat * through* (10)Row 43: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1; K sts from holder #2 to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (19)Row 44: PRow 45: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 46: P*Rows 47 – 58: Repeat from * through *Bind off (5)Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing

as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great),” see page 70. You can add embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – TopKnot Mop

Cut 12 lengths of yarn, 6” (15cm) in length. Using a sewing needle or thin crochet hook, thread one strand through the very top crown of the letter so that even tails hang out each side. Bring the tails together and tie in a tight knot on the top of the head. Next, bundle the rest of the threads together and lay them across the top of the head, between the attached strands. Bring the ends of the original attached strands together and tie a tight knot around your bundle of threads. Now take each individual thread within that bundle and tie its ends together in a tight knot to secure all of the hairs into place. It will seem like a jumble of threads, but that’s what will create your TopKnot Mop! Separate the strands in each piece of yarn to make the hair fuller and more curly-fun.

Adding Embroidered Features See page 68

Directions for Shaping & Attaching Arms (optional) See page 71

Materials Needed for Arms (optional)• US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles or US 5 (3.75mm)circular needle

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn– Color A

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn– Color B

• Tapestry needle

4 the secret lives of letters

Materials Needed



Shaping Lower Section

Cast on 21 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 4: P* Rows 5 - 10: Repeat * through * (25)Rows 11 - 14: Work in st stRow 15: K10, bind off 5, K to end of row (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.

Shaping Bottom Left Side

Rows 17 - 24: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

NAME: babette ProFESSIoN: baker of baguettes INTErESTS: baseball, bowling, bingo, plays in a bagpipe band FAvorITE FooDS: bean burritos, brownies, bananas, blueberry buckle, bagels PErSoNALITY: bouncy & bright



• 1 ball medium-weight yarn (207 yd/188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)

• Tapestry needle


• ¾ yd (0.7m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A

• ¾ yd (0.7m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B



babette

5babette

Shaping Bottom right Side

Transfer sts on holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 17 - 20: Work in st st (10)Row 21: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 22: P*Rows 23 - 24: Repeat * through * (10)

Shaping Center Section

Row 25: K1, SKPO, K to end of row; cast on 3 sts; K sts from holder #2 (22)Row 26: P Row 27: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (21)Row 28: P Row 29: KRow 30: PRow 31: K1, M1R, K to end of row (22)Row 32: P Row 33: K1, M1R, K to end of row (23)Row 34: PRow 35: K1, M1R, K8; bind off 4 sts; K10 (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 36: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.


Rows 37 – 42: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Transfer sts on holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.

Row 36: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Row 37: K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 38: PRows 39 – 42: Work in st st (10)Row 43: K10; cast on 5 sts; K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: P

Shaping Top

Rows 45 – 48: Work in st st (25)Row 49: *K1, SKPO, K to end of rowRow 50: P* Rows 51 - 56: Repeat * through * Bind off (21)Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see page 70. You can add embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Braids

Cut six strands of yellow yarn and six strands of brown yarn (or what-ever colors you’ve chosen), about 24” (61cm) long each. Separate into two equal bunches, one for each braid (3 yellow and 3 brown strands in each bunch).

Choose your spot for a braid at the upper corner of Babette’s head. Your stitch should span two rows across the seam of the head. Use a tapestry needle and, one at a time, draw six strands through the same hole. Pull each strand through so that there are equal lengths on each side of the hole. Separate these strands into 3 braid-able bunches: each bunch containing 2 brown and 2 yellow strands. Braid these bunches to the length you desire, then tie the entire end of the braid into a big knot and pull it very snug. Trim the excess hair beneath the knot to 1” (2.5cm). Repeat for the other braid on the other corner of the head.





FroNT & BACK

(make 2 identical pieces)

Shaping Bottom Section

Cast on 19 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P* Rows 5 - 8: Repeat * through * (25) Rows 9 - 14: Work in st st Row 15: K10, bind off 5, K to end of row (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.

Shaping Left Side

Row 17 - 42: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Bottom right Side

Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 17 – 24: Work in st st Bind off (10)


Cast on 10 sts.Rows 33 - 42 (Although it seems like this is Row 1 on your needle, this section of the “C” matches up to Rows 33 - 42 on the spine of the letter): Work in st st (10)

Shaping Top

Row 43: K10, cast on 5 sts, K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 50: Work in st st (25)Row 51: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 52: P* Rows 53 - 56: Repeat * through * Bind off (19)Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing


Adding Hair – Fuzzy Mop Top

I used some leftover angel hair yarn to fashion Carl’s hair. Cut 18 lengths of yarn, 4” (10cm) long each. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of Carl’s head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a double knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until Carl has a full head of hair. Next, cut 3 more lengths of yarn, 4” (10cm) long each. Thread these into Carl’s chin, tie them off securely and trim them to give him a little soul-patch beard.



Materials Needed• Pair of US 2 (3.0 mm) knitting needles



• Tapestry needle





carl

7carl

carlNAME: carl

ProFESSIoN: custodianINTErESTS: coin collecting, checkers

FAvorITE FooDS: cantaloupe, carrots, crumb cake, cupcakes, chicken croquettes

PErSoNALITY: constantly complaining




Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 21 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 4: P* Rows 5 - 10: Repeat from * through * (25)Rows 11 – 14: Work in st stRow 15: K12, bind off 3, K to end of row (2 sets of sts, 12 and 10) Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 12 sts on holder #1.

Shaping Left Side

Rows 17 - 42: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping right Side

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle or work off of holder. Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (12)Row 17: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (11)Row 18: PRow 19: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 20: PRows 21 – 38: Work in st st (10)Row 39: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 40: PRow 41: K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 42: P

Shaping Top

Row 43: K12, cast on 3 sts, K sts from holder (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st stRow 49: *K1, SKPO, K to end of rowRow 50: P*Rows 51 - 56: Repeat from * through * Bind off (21)

Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam

last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see page 70. You can add embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – The Perm

For Dolly’s hair, I used yarn that had already been knitted, thus the “permed” look. So, either tear an old knitted piece apart and use the kinky yarn, or knit a swatch using your US2 needles and let it sit a few days to “set” the perm.

Take your knitted swatch and gently pull it apart. You’ll have a clump of kinky yarn that makes wonderful hair for your alphabet plushies! Hold the clump of yarn on the top of Dolly’s head, and arrange it as you would like it. Then lay the yarn on a tabletop, being careful to maintain the general arrangement you’ve come up with. Cut two short lengths of matching yarn, about 5” (12cm) long. Tie one around your bundle of yarn hair about 1/3 of the way in from the right, knotting it tightly. Then tie one around the bundle about 1/3 of the way in from the left, knotting it tightly.

Next, position the bundle of yarn hair on Dolly’s head. Use the tails of the tie-offs to secure the hair by threading each tail through a stitch on the top of her head and knotting it tightly. Trim the long, straight tails so they blend into the mop of hair. You’ll notice that various strands still flop around out of place. Thread a tapestry needle with more of the

Materials Needed• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles



• Tapestry needle





Materials Needed for Arms (optional)• US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles or US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle

• 8 yd (7.5m) medium-weight yarn – complementary color for arms

• Tapestry needle


dolly

9dolly

NAME: dollyProFESSIoN: dog trainer

INTErESTS: drawing, darts, dachshunds, decoupage, her daughter daphne

FAvorITE FooDS: doughnuts, dates, dumplings, danishes, anything from a deli

PErSoNALITY: demanding of her dogs and a determined debater

matching yarn, and make a few stitches here and there to secure main pieces to Dolly’s scalp. Just a few stitches keep the entire hair-piece in place.



dolly


NAME: estebanProFESSIoN: entomologistINTErESTS: egyptian emblems, elephants, elizabethan economics FAvorITE FooDS: eggrolls, endive, escargot, edam, eggs (over easy, not scrambled)PErSoNALITY: earnest, earthy and easy-going

esteban

11esteban




Cast on 25 sts.Rows 1 - 14: Work st st (25)Row 15: Bind off 15, K to end of row (10)Row 16: P


Rows 17 – 23: Work in st st, ending on a K row (10)Row 24: P10, cast on 9 sts (19)Rows 25 – 33: Work in st st, ending on a K row Row 34: P10, bind off 9 sts (10)Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail. Rows 35 – 42: Join yarn, and work in st st (10)

Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: Cast on 15 sts; K sts from holder (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (25)


Finishing


Adding Hair – Long on the Top, Short on the Sides

First, create a buzz cut across the top of the head and down the sides a bit. I used a soft, thick yarn to make the buzz-cut more brush-like. Cut yarn into 32 lengths, 4” (10cm) each. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of Esteban’s head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together

tightly in a double knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until Esteban has a full head of hair that also runs down the side seams a bit. Clip hair to a Number 5 Buzz length. Next, cut 10 lengths of yarn 6” (15cm) long each. Using a tapestry needle, thread these into Esteban’s scalp, just along the top, throughout the buzz-cut. Tie each one tightly in a double knot. Then clip to shape the top part of his hair.




• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle







FroNT Shaping Bottom Section

Cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 - 23: Work st st, ending on K row (10)


Row 24: P10, cast on 9 sts (19)Rows 25 – 33: Work in st st, end-ing on K row Row 34: P10, bind off 9 (10); cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.Rows 35 – 42: Join yarn; work in st st Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leav-ing 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: Cast on 15 sts, K sts from holder (25)Row 44: P

Rows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (25)

BACK You will be knitting the reverse/mir-ror image of the front.


Cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 - 23: Work st st, ending on K row (10)Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leav-ing 6” (15cm) tail.


Row 24: Cast on 9 sts, P sts from holder (19)Rows 25 – 33: Work in st st, end-ing on K row (19)Row 34: Bind off 9 sts, P10 (10)Rows 35 – 42: Work in st st

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: K10, cast on 15 sts (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (25)

Finishing


Adding Hair – Long Pony-Tail

Cut 26 pieces of yarn, each 17” (43cm) long. Start at the center point of her scalp. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one single piece of yarn (a half-stitch) along the top seam of Fran’s head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Facing Fran, and starting from the center, weave the strands of hair along the left side of the top of her head (see photo for placement). To do this, thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until you reach the left corner of the top of her head. You don’t need to run the hair down the back spine of the letter; the thickness of the ponytail will cover this area.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb each piece of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Next, arrange hair into a pony tail and tie tightly with a short length of complementary-colored yarn. Trim bottom of pony tail to desired length.




• 1 stitch holder

• 1 ball medium-weight yarn (207 yd/ 188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)

• Tapestry needle


• 12.5 yd (11.5m) medium-weight yarn for hair

• 6” (15cm) medium-weight yarn to tie back hair



fran

fran 13

fran

NAME: franProFESSIoN: firefighterINTErESTS: feminism, falconry, fly fishing, flamenco, fighting forest firesFAvorITE FooDS: french fries, fried fish fillets, farm-raised fresh flounder, figs PErSoNALITY: fearless and free-spirited


gwendolyn

14

NAME: gwendolynProFESSIoN: geologist

INTErESTS: gardening, gargoyles, plays guitar, grows grapes

FAvorITE FooDS: grapes (of course), gorgonzola, gingerbread, glazed donuts,

gnocchi, gum-drops PErSoNALITY: gritty & gung-ho

about geodes

15gwendolyn

Materials Needed • Pair of US 2 (3.0 mm) knitting needles



• Tapestry needle


• 4.5 yd (4.25m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A

• 3.5 yd (3.25m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B (highlight color)





Cast on 24 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P* Rows 5 - 10: Repeat * through * (28)Rows 11 - 14: Work in st st Row 15: K10; place remaining 18 sts on holder #1 Row 16: P (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Bottom right Side (the “Hook”):

Row 17: Cast on 3 sts; K sts from holder #2; cast on 3 sts (16)Row 18: PRows 19 - 26: Work in st st Bind off (16)

Shaping Left Side

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 15: Join yarn; bind off 7 sts, K to end of row (11)Row 16: PRow 17: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 18: PRows 19 - 40: Work in st st (10)Row 41: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 10 stsRows 35 - 40 (Although it seems like this is Row 1 on your needle, this section of the “G” matches up to Rows 35 - 40 on the spine of the letter): Work in st stRow 41: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 42: P

Shaping Top

Row 43: K11, cast on 6 sts, K sts from holder (28)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st stRow 49: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (27)Row 50: PRow 51: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 52: P* Rows 53 - 56: Repeat * through * Bind off (21)

BACK

You will be knitting the reverse/ mirror image of the front.


Cast on 24 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to end of row (25)Row 4: P* Rows 5 - 10: Repeat * through * (28) Rows 11 - 14: Work in st st Row 15: K11, bind off 7, K to end of row (2 sets of sts, 11 and 10)Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 11 sts on holder #1.

Shaping Bottom Left Side (the mirror image of the “Hook”):

Row 17: Place 10 sts on holder #2; cast on 3 sts, K sts from holder #2, cast on 3 sts (16)Row 18: PRows 19 - 26: Work in st stBind off (16)


Cast on 10 sts.Rows 35 - 40 (Although it seems like this is Row 1 on your needle, this section of the “G” matches up to Rows 35 - 40 on the spine of the letter.): Work in st stRow 41: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

gwendolyn

continued on next page


Shaping right Side

Transfer sts from stitch holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (11)Row 17: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 18: PRows 19 - 40: Work in st st Row 41: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 42: P

Shaping Top

Row 43: K11, cast on 6 sts, K sts from holder #2 (28)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st stRow 49: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (27)Row 50: PRow 51: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 52: P*Rows 53 - 56: Repeat * through * Bind off (21)

Finishing


Adding Hair – The Braided Mullet

Cut 9 pieces of yarn, each 18” (46cm) long – 6 of Color A (I used burnt orange) and 3 of Color B (I used black with a twist of gray).

Choose your spot for the braid at the upper corner of Gwen’s head. Your stitch should span two rows across the seam of the head, going from front to back. Use a tapestry needle and, one at a time, draw all of the strands through the same hole. Pull each strand through so that there are equal lengths on each side of the hole. Separate these strands into three braid-able bunches: each bunch containing a mixture of colors. Braid these bunches to the end, then tie the end with a small piece of yarn. Trim the hair beneath the tie-off point to make it even. When you’re finished, Gwen will have a lovely braid, but will be bald on top.

Next, cut 20 pieces of yarn, each 6” (15cm) long – 10 each of Colors A and B.

Start at the point where the braid is connected. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Work your way across the top seam of the head. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up

against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top until you reach the other corner.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb some—but not all—pieces of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Trim to desired length. I cut Gwen’s hair shorter on top and left it longer by the braid to give her a care-free, funky look.



continued from previous pagegwendolyn

17Name

Carl could barely concentrate while consolidating his coin collection. As he carefully considered the consequences of

continuing to collect even more coins—the colossal cabinetry in which he cached them was chock full—his mind once again

careened off-course to another corner of his consciousness.

Dolly. Deliciously delightful Dolly.

She was a demanding dame, no doubt about it. But Carl craved her caress even more than he coveted uncirculated

coins. He took a cursory glace at the caricature he’d cranked out the night before. It lay half-concealed under the corner

of a copious pile of coins. He carefully slid the caricature into view and cringed. He had smudged the charcoal used to capture Dolly’s characteristics. But he could still clearly

see her curves, her curls, her coquettish countenance.

His roommate André suddenly ambled into the apartment, all awash in the afterglow of the acting audition

he’d attended that afternoon.

“I aced that audition!” André announced.

Carl quickly concealed Dolly’s caricature. He didn’t dare let André see the drawing.

You see, André and Dolly were dating.

To be continued…

the secret lives of

letters #1

carl’s crush

harry

NAME: harryProFESSIoN: harbormaster

INTErESTS: hamsters, hang gliding, harmonizing, helicopters

FAvorITE FooDS: honey-glazed ham, hot dogs, hamburgers, hummus, havarti

PErSoNALITY: happy to help


19harry

Materials Needed for body• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles

• 1 stitch holder

• 1 ball medium-weight yarn – (207 yd/188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)

• Tapestry needle






• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color A

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color B

• Tapestry needle



Shaping Bottom Left “Leg”

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 20: Work in st stPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Bottom right “Leg”

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 – 20: Work in st st


Row 21: K10, cast on 5 sts, K sts from holder (25)Row 22: PRows 23 - 36: Work in st st (25)Row 37: K10, bind off 5 sts, K to end of row (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 38: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder.


Rows 39 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (10)


Transfer sts on holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 38: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 39 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (10)


Finishing


Adding Hair – The Double Sideways-Mohawk

Cut 28 lengths of yarn each 6” (15cm) in length. Separate into two equal piles of yarn for each top of the “H”. You should have 14 pieces of yarn in each pile.

Choose either side of Harry’s head to begin. Start at the inner corner of the top seam (refer to photo for hair placement). Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Work your way across the top seam of the head. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top to the outer corner of the head, and then about 1.5” (about 4cm) down the outer side seam.

Repeat for the other side of Harry’s head.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb all of the pieces of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Lay Harry down on a table and, with your tapestry needle and fingers, gently comb all hair straight out from his scalp so it looks like he has two big flat mops of hair around each top of his head. Then trim to form two “Sideways-Mohawks”, tapering the hair at the beginning and end of each swatch of hair.






Shaping Bottom

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 26 sts.Rows 1 – 14: Work in st stRow 15: Bind off 8 sts, K10, bind off 8 sts (10)Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Center

Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 17 – 42: Work in st stPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top

Row 43: Cast on 8 sts; K sts from holder; cast on 8 sts (26)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (26)


Finishing


Knitting the Teeny Tiny ribbed Scarf

Using US 1 (2.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 85 sts.Row1: *KRow 2: PRow 3: K*Rows 4 - 12: Repeat * through *Bind off. Weave in ends.

Adding Hair – Long & Loose

I used three colors of yarn to give Ingrid’s hair depth: brown, lavender, and yellow. Cut 12 strands of each color, each strand 16” (41cm) long. Alternate the colors as you weave them into Ingrid’s scalp.

Start at either corner of the top of Ingrid’s head. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top of the head until you have a full head of hair.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb each piece of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Trim and style to your liking.



Materials Needed for Ingrid• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles

• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle


• 5.5 yd (5m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A

• 5.5 yd (5m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B

• 5.5 yd (5m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color C



Materials Needed for Teeny Tiny ribbed Scarf• Pair of US1(2.0mm) knitting needles

• 5 g lace-weight yarn or tapestry thread

ingrid

21ingrid

ingrid

NAME: ingridProFESSIoN: immunologist

INTErESTS: ice skating, interior design, icelandic intarsia

FAvorITE FooDS: indian food, italian ice PErSoNALITY: introspective;

immediately impressed by intuitive intellect




Cast on 25 sts.Rows 1 – 14: Work in st stRow 15: K10, bind off 5 sts, K10 (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder.

Shaping Hook

Rows 17 - 20: Work in st st Bind off (10)

Shaping “Spine”

Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work sts off of holder. Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 17 – 42: Work in st stPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: Cast on 3 sts, K sts from holder, cast on 15 sts (28)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (28)




• Tapestry needle


• 4 yd (3.5m) medium-weight yarn for hair & eyebrows

• 3 yd (2.5m) medium-weight yarn for tongue



jon tha

NAME: jonathanProFESSIoN: jockeyINTErESTS: japanese woodcuts, jeeps, jugglingFAvorITE FooDS: java, jerk chicken, jelly doughnuts, jujubes, and japanese foodPErSoNALITY: just joking (most of the time)

23jonathan

BACK



Cast on 25 sts.Rows 1 – 14: Work in st stRow 15: K10, bind off 5 sts, K10 (2 sets of 10 sts)Row 16: P10 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.

Shaping “Spine”

Rows 17 – 42: Work in st st.Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: Cast on 15 sts, K sts from holder #2, cast on 3 sts (28)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (28)

Shaping Hook

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder. Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (10) Rows 17 - 20: Work in st st Bind off (10)

ToNGUE

Cast on 4 sts, leaving a 12” (30cm) tail.Rows 1 – 17: K in garter stRow 18: K1, K2TOG, K1Row 13: Bind off and weave tail into work. (3)

Finishing


Attaching Tongue

Position tongue by referring to the photo. The wider (4 sts) end of the tongue with the 12” yarn tail goes against the body, the tongue seam crossing the vertical seam of the body (so the tongue sticks straight out, flat to the horizon). Use the 12” tail to sew the tongue onto the body of the letter.

Adding Hair – Loopy Curls

Cut a manageable length of yarn. You’ll need to re-thread your needle several times with new lengths of yarn by the time you’re finished. Use the photo as a guide to position the loops of hair along the top seam of Jonathan’s head.

Thread a tapestry needle and knot one end of the yarn. Poke the needle through the backside of the head and out through the stitch where you wish to begin the hairline; gently draw the knot into the head. Make one single stitch

along the top seam of the head to secure yarn.

Next, draw your needle through those same stitch holes, but leave a 1-inch-long (2.5cm) loop (2 in/5cm length of yarn if the loop were to be unfolded). Make a single stitch next to the loop, but parallel to the loop stitch rather than in a running stitch. Draw the single stitch tight, but not so tight that it pulls your loop; this help to secure the hair loop that you just created. Make your next loop on top of this single stitch (using the same holes). Make a single stitch next to and parallel to your loop and draw it tight, but not so tight that it pulls your loop. Continue with loops and single stitches until you have created Jonathan’s head of hair (or partial head of hair…I gave him a receding hairline). If you do it right, you shouldn’t be able to move the yarn by pulling on either side of a loop. The trick is to make sure your stitches are parallel to one another, like rungs on a ladder, rather than in a running straight line.







Cast on 11 sts.Rows 1 - 18: Work in st st Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 11 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 4: PRow 5: K to last st, M1L, K1 (13)Row 6: PRow 7: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 8: P*Rows 9 – 18: Repeat * through * (13)


Row 19: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1; K first st from holder, M1R, K to end of row (25)Row 20: PRow 21: *K1, SKPO, K to end of row Row 22: P*Rows 23 – 28: Repeat * through * (21)Row 29: K Row 30: PRow 31: **K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 32: P**Rows 33 – 38: Repeat ** through ** (25)Row 39: K1, M1R, K11, bind off 2 sts, K to end of row (2 sets of sts, 13 and 11)Row 40: P11 (to break); place remaining 13 sts on holder.

Shaping Upper Left Section

Rows 41 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (11)

Shaping Upper right Section

Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder. Row 40: Join yarn; P to end of row (13)Row 41: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 42: P*Rows 43 – 52: Repeat * through * (13)Row 53: **K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 54: P**Rows 55 - 56: Repeat ** through **

Bind off (11)


Finishing


Adding Hair – Thick Pony Tails

Cut twelve strands of each hair color (Colors A, B & C – I used charcoal, lime and burnt orange), about 12” (30.5cm) long each. Separate into two equal bunches, one for each pony tail, six of each color in each bunch.

As you weave the hair into the scalp, alternate colors. Start at either corner of one top of the “K.” Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each


• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle


• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color C



karianne

25karianne

other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top until you reach the other corner. It should take nine strands of yarn to reach this point. Then continue back the opposite way, on the other side of the seam, creating a double row of hair. To finish, tie the end strand of your last tuft to the end strand of the first tuft. Repeat on the other top of the “K.”

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb each piece of

yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Style the two sections of hair into pony tails and tie them with short lengths of yarn or ribbon. Trim the pony tails to desired shape and length.



karianne

NAME: karianneProFESSIoN: kindergarten teacherINTErESTS: kayaking, karate, knitting, keyboards & kazooFAvorITE FooDS: kiwi fruit, kahlua, kidney kabobs with ketchup PErSoNALITY: a bit of a klutz, but kindhearted


Monica didn’t normally meddle; she mostly minded her own matters. But her husband Harry was hiding something from her. He wasn’t

his habitual happy-go-lucky self. When he got home from his harbormaster duties, he had excuses why he had to hurry out again,

and he’d be gone for hours. on Monday, Monica made a monumental decision…she would monitor her mate’s movements.

The next night, Harry hunkered down at the table, hogged down his hamburger, then hopped on his Honda and hit the highway. Monica didn’t even get a moment to serve the macadamia meltaways she’d so meticulously made that morning. It made her mad, so she mounted

her own motorbike and maintained a manageable distance. She mapped his movements for miles across mid-town to a mansion just

off Main Street, where he hid his Honda next to some honeysuckle and hammered at the front door.

Monica’s mind raced maniacally as she melted into the muddled shadow of a monument. Maybe he was merely meeting a man. Harry

was hers. Hopefully he hadn’t…

The door whipped open and Monica witnessed her wayward husband whisked within by a willowy wench, the most wickedly beautiful “W”

Monica had ever seen.

Monica’s heart hammered so hard it hurt. A “W”??!! But, but…she’s just an upside-down version of me!

the secret lives of

letters #2

mysterious meetings

lars 27

NAME: larsProFESSIoN: landlord who also owns a laundromatINTErESTS: lacrosse, lawn dartsFAvorITE FooDS: leg of lamb, lemon cookies, lobster, lime in his lagerPErSoNALITY: lousy at lawn darts, lucky in love

lars


the secret lives of

letters #3

fran’s fantasy




Shaping “Spine”

Row 15: Bind off 15 sts, K10Row 16: PRows 17 – 56: Work in st stBind off (10)

BACK




Shaping “Spine”

Row 15: K10, bind off 15 stsCut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.Row 16: Join yarn, P to end of row (10)Rows 17 – 56: Work in st stBind off (10)

Neck Warmer

Using US6 (4.0mm) knitting nee-dles, and Color A, cast on 15 sts.Rows 1 – 7: Work in st stRows 8 – 14: Switch to Color B, and work in st st.Bind off.

Using mattress stitch, sew short ends together to form a little tube. You can dress Lars in his neck warmer any time after completing the finishing work.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see

page 70. You can add embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Messy Locks

Cut 20 strands of yarn, each 6” (15cm) in length. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of the head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top of the head until you have a full head of hair. Trim hair to desired length.



Materials Needed for Lars



• Tapestry needle


• 3.5 yd (3m) medium-weight yarn for hair



Materials Needed for Neck Warmer

• Pair of US6 (4.0mm) knitting needles

• 5 yd (4.5m) medium-weight yarn – Color A

• 5 yd (4.5m) medium-weight yarn – Color B

• Tapestry needle

lars

29Name

“I just don’t know what to do about André,” Dolly declared, dawdling over her doughnut at the diner. “He’s so annoying,

so full of himself!”

“Follow your heart,” said Fran, stuffing a fistful of fries in her face. She was famished. She’d just flown in from Florida where

she’d been fighting fires.

“Easy for you to say. You already have a great guy and your dream job!”

Fran frowned. She had fulfilled her fancy of being the first female firefighter in their small town, and her fiancé was fantastic.

rodney was not only ripped, but also held a responsible job as a radiologist and made a righteous ravioli. But sometimes Fran

missed her freedom.

“Are you listening?” demanded Dolly.

“Yes, of course I’m listening.” Fran was fast becoming fatigued.

But Dolly’s energy didn’t diminish. She droned on. Her dog training business was doing well, but she dreamed of doing some-thing different. She debated whether she should dump André and move to Delaware. André was an airhead, but what did she expect

from an actor, and his roommate Carl was kind of creepy…

Fran began to fantasize. She’d always found André fascinating.

the secret lives of

letters #3

fran’s fantasy

monica

NAME: monicaProFESSIoN: magicianINTErESTS: mazes, mechanical monkeys, merry-go-roundsFAvorITE FooDS: muffins, macaroni, macadamias, malted milk, meatballs, marzipanPErSoNALITY: manipulative & mysterious




• Tapestry needle


• 2 yd (1.75m) + 6” (15cm) medium- weight yarn for hair – Color A


• 2 yd (1.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color C


• Embroidery needle 30 the secret lives of letters

31monica




Cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 – 28: Work in st stPlace sts on holder #1. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Center “Dip”

Note: Row 1 of this Center “Dip” section coincides with Row 21 in the overall pattern, but for simplicity’s sake, we’ll call this Row 1.

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 4 sts.Row 1: K Row 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P* Rows 5 - 8: Repeat * through * (10)

Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 – 28: Work in st st.


Row 29: K 9, M1L, K1; K9 sts from holder #2 (the Center Dip), M1L, K final st from holder;K sts from holder #1 (the Left “Leg”) (32) Row 30: PRows 31 – 36: Work in st st

Row 37: K14, bind off 4 sts, K to end of row (2 sets of 14 sts)Row 38: P14 (to break), place remaining 14 sts on holder.


Row 39: *K1, SKPO, K to end of rowRow 40: P*Rows 41 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (5)


Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder. Row 38: Join yarn; P to end of row (14)Row 39: *K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 40: P*Rows 41 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (5)


Finishing


Adding Hair – Thick Braids

Cut six strands of each hair color, about 12” (30.5cm) long each. Separate into two equal bunches, one for each braid, three of each color in each bunch.

Choose your spot for a braid at the upper corner of Monica’s head. Your stitch should span a full knitted stitch at the seam of the head. Use a tapestry needle and, one at a time, draw nine strands of yarn through the same hole (three strands of each color). Pull each strand through so that there are equal lengths on each side of the hole.

Separate these strands into three braid-able bunches: each bunch containing six strands of each color. Braid these bunches to within an inch of the end, then tie a 6” (15cm) strand of yarn around the end of the braid, double-knotting tightly. Wrap that same strand of yarn around the braid again and double-knot it tightly on the backside as well. Trim the strand so it blends into the rest of the end of the braid.

Repeat for the other braid on the other corner of the head.





FroNT:


Cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 24: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leav-ing 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 10 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K to last st, M1L, K1Row 4: P*Rows 5 – 24: Repeat * through * (21)


Row 25: K to last st, M1L, K1; K sts from holder (32)Row 26: PRows 27 - 32: Work in st st

nicholas

NAME: nicholasProFESSIoN: naturalist INTErESTS: narwhals, nautiluses, playing ninepinsFAvorITE FooDS: neapolitan ice cream, nuts, noodlesPErSoNALITY: neglectful of his own needs


• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle





33nicholas

Row 33: K10, bind off 1 st, K to end of row (2 sets of sts – 10 and 21)Row 34: P21 (to break); place remaining 10 sts on holder.


Row 35: *K1, SKPO, K to end of rowRow 36: P*Rows 37 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (10)


Transfer sts on holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 34: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 35 - 56: Work in st stBind off (10)

BACK:



Cast on 10 sts. Row1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 4: P*Rows 5 – 24: Repeat * through * (21)Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 24: Work in st st (10)


Row 25: K9, M1L, K1; K sts from holder (32) Row 26: PRows 27 - 32: Work in st stRow 33: K21, bind off 1 st, K to end of row (2 sets of sts – 21 and 10)Row 34: P10 (to break); place remaining 21 sts on holder (10)


Rows 35 - 56: Work in st stBind off (10)


Transfer sts on holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 34: Join yarn; P to end of row (21)Row 35: *K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 36: P*Rows 37 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (10)

Finishing


Adding Hair – The Frizzy, Fun Look

I used a multi-colored twist yarn so the hair would have highlights. Cut 24 lengths of yarn, 6” (15cm) in length.

Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of the head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie in a single knot. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this along the top of the letter until you have a full head of hair.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, separate the strands in each piece of yarn to make the hair fuller.






Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 12 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: P Row 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P* Rows 5 - 14: Repeat * through * (24)

ophelia

NAME: opheliaProFESSIoN: opera singerINTErESTS: origami, ornithology, orchids FAvorITE FooDS: oranges, oreos, oatmeal, oysters in olive oil, onions, okraPErSoNALITY: outrageously opinionated orator

Materials Needed for Body• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles



• Tapestry needle





Materials Needed for Arms (optional)• US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles or US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle

• 8 yd (7.5m) medium-weight yarn

• Tapestry needle


35ophelia

Row 15: K1, M1R, K10, bind off 2, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of 12 sts)Row 16: P12 (to break); place remaining 12 sts on holder #1

Shaping Left Side

Row 17: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (11)Row 18: PRow 19: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 20: PRows 21 – 38: Work in st stRow 39: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 40: PRow 41: K1, M1R, K to end of row (12)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping right Side

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder. Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (12)Row 17: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (11)Row 18: PRow 19: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 20: PRows 21 – 38: Work in st st (10)Row 39: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 40: PRow 41: K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 42: P

Shaping Top

Row 43: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1; K first st from holder, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (24)Row 44: PRow 45: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 46: P*Rows 47 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (12)


Finishing


Adding Hair – The Mod Up-Sweep

Cut 36 pieces of yarn, each 6” (15cm) long. Start at either corner of the top of her head. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top of the head until you have a full head of hair.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb each piece of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Sweep hair straight up in the air for the mod/mad look—the tangles of hair stay up fairly well with the Cotton Ease yarn that I used—or trim and style to your liking.




Monica moped about until minutes before Harry was due home from the harbor. Then she hurriedly hopped heels-up

into a headstand in the hallway. Moments later, Harry hustled into the hallway, halted and scratched his head. He asked if

she’d had her hair highlighted.

Heaving herself upright, Monica moaned, “You don’t love me any more!”

“Sure I do!” said Harry, “I just asked about your hair, didn’t I?”

“I know where you’ve been going, to that…that…W! Well, I can be a W, too, Harry! Any time you want!”

She began to weep and wail about what a waste their wedding had been, and how W’s and H’s make questionable couples,

always wondering “Who?” “What?” “Where?” and “When?” with the H only allowed one question of his own, “How?”

Harry heaved a sigh. “Wendy’s teaching me to dance.”

Monica was not mollified. “I’ll bet she is!”

Harry hung his head and said he had hoped to make Monica happy. For their wedding anniversary, he wanted to whisk her away for a weekend at a hoity-toity hotel, where they could mambo till midnight and waltz till the wee hours.

Monica was mute, her mien motionless for only a moment before she happily hugged her husband. “oh Harry, I love you!”

the secret lives of

letters #4

harry speaks his heart

37Name

paco

NAME: pacoProFESSIoN: paleontologistINTErESTS: pilates, parakeets, parisian paintings, plays pianoFAvorITE FooDS: pumpkin pie, peaches, pears, pickled peppers, pancakes, peasPErSoNALITY: predominantly a pessimistic pacifist


Materials Needed • Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles


• 1 ball medium-weight yarn – Color A for body (207 yd/188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)

• 1 ball medium-weight yarn – Color B for stripes*

*NOTE: You can skip the stripes if you don’t want to work with alternating colors.

• Tapestry needle






FroNT

Shaping Bottom “Leg”

NOTE: If you don’t want to change yarn colors, cast on 10 sts and sim-ply knit rows 1 – 23 as stockinette stitch ending on a K row, all in the same color as the rest of the body.

Cast on 10 sts; work the following rows in st st, ending on a K row. Rows 1 – 6: Color B (stripe color) Rows 7 – 12: Color A (main body color) Rows 13 – 18: Color B Rows 19 – 20: Color A Rows 21 – 22: Color B Row 23: Color A


Row 24: P to end of row, cast on 8 sts (18)Row 25: *K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 26: P*Rows 27 - 32: Repeat * through * (22)Row 33: K1, M1R, K to end of row (23)Row 34: P10, bind off 3, P to end of row (2 sets of 10)Place last set of 10 sts on holder #1. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Rows 35 – 42: Join yarn; work in st st (10)Place sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Transfer sts on holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 35: Join yarn; *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 36: P*Rows 37 - 38: Repeat * through *Rows 39 – 42: Work in st stRow 43: K10; cast on 5 sts; K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: P

Shaping Top

Rows 45 – 48: Work in st st (25)Row 49: *K, SKPO, K to end of row Row 50: P* Rows 51- 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (21)

BACK


Shaping Bottom “Leg”

NOTE: If you don’t want to change yarn colors, cast on 10 sts and simply knit rows 1 – 23 as stockinette stitch ending on a K row, all in the same color as the rest of the body.

Cast on 10 sts; work the following rows in st st, ending on a K row. Rows 1 – 6: Color B (stripe color) Rows 7 – 12: Color A (main body color) Rows 13 – 18: Color B Rows 19 – 20: Color A Rows 21 – 22: Color B Row 23: Color A Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Row 24: Cast on 8 sts; P sts from holder (18)Row 25: *K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 26: P* Rows 27 – 32: Repeat * through * (22)Row 33: K to last st, M1L, K1 (23)Row 34: P10, bind off 3 sts, place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.


Row 35: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 36: P*Rows 37 - 38: Repeat * through * (10)

paco

39

Rows 39 – 42: Work in st stPlace sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 34: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 35 – 42: Work in st st Row 43: K10, cast on 5 sts, K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: P

Shaping Top

Rows 45 – 48: Work in st st (25)Row 49: *K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 50: P* Rows 51 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (21)

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see See page 70. You can add embroi-dered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Wavy Hair

I used yarn that had already been knitted, thus the wavy look. So, either tear an old knitted piece apart and use the kinky yarn, or knit a

swatch using your US2 needles and let it sit a few days to set the wave.

Cut 25 pieces of yarn, each 4” (10cm) long. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of the head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top of the head until you have a full head of hair. Trim any long strands that might be hanging in front of his eyes.



paco

qui t ssathe secret lives of letters40

NAME: quintessaProFESSIoN: quality control specialistINTErESTS: quoits, quantum physics,

quarter horses, quiltingFAvorITE FooDS: quinces, quail, quaker oats, quiche, quesadillas

PErSoNALITY: quiet, yet quizzical

41quintessa

Materials Needed • Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles



• Tapestry needle


• 16 yd (15m) medium-weight yarn for hair




FroNT Shaping Bottom

Cast on 25 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 - 8: Repeat * through * (31)Row 9: K to last st, M1L, K1 (32)Row 10: PRow 11: K6, bind off 5 sts, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of sts – 6 and 22)Row 12: P22 (to break); place remaining 6 sts on holder #1**Row 13: K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 (24)Row 14: PRow 15: K1, M1R, K10, bind off 2 sts, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of 12)

Row 16: P12 (to break); place remaining 12 sts on holder #2.

Shaping Left Center Section

Row 17: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 18: PRow 19: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (11)Row 20: PRows 21 – 38: Work in st st Row 39: K1, M1R, K to end of row (12)Row 40: PRow 41: K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (12)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder #3. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping right Center Section

Transfer sts from holder #2 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (12)Row 17: K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (12)Row 18: PRow 19: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (11)Row 20: PRows 21 – 38: Work in st st Row 39: K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 40: PRow 41: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 (12)Row 42: P

Shaping Upper Section

Row 43: K1, SKPO, K to end of row; cast on 2 sts; K sts from holder #3 to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (24)Row 44: PRow 45: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 46: P*Rows 47 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (12)**

Finishing “Tail”

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 12: Join yarn; P to end of row (6)Row 13: KRow 14: PBind off (6)

BACK


Shaping Bottom

Cast on 25 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 - 8: Repeat * through * (31)Row 9: K1, M1R, K to end of row (32)Row 10: PRow 11: K1, M1R, K20, bind off 5 sts, K to end of row (2 sets of sts – 22 and 6)



quintessaRow 12: P6 (to break); place remaining 22 sts on holder #1.Row 13: KRow 14: PBind off (6)

Shaping Left & right Center Sections and Upper Section

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 12: Join yarn; P to end of row (22)Repeat from ** through ** in “FRONT” directions.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see page 70. You can add embroi-dered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – one Giant Braid

Cut 24 strands of yarn, each 24” (61cm) long.

Start at either side of the top of the letter (see photo for placement). Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even. Continue doing this until the

hair is all woven into the scalp. No need to knot the strands, since you’ll be weaving them all into one braid and leaving them unknotted will create a smoother hairline.

If, however, a child will be playing with this, and might take the braid apart to try to create new hairstyles, you’ll want to secure the individual strands of hair. Tie each strand in a single knot after threading it through the top of the scalp. Work your way across the top seam of the head, threading the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top until you reach the other corner.

Now braid the hair. Separate the strands into three braid-able bunches: each bunch contain-ing an equal number of strands. Braid the bunches to within an inch of the end, then tie a 6” (15cm) strand of yarn, embroidery thread or ribbon around the end of the braid, double-knotting tightly. Wrap around the braid again several times and double-knot it tightly on the backside as well; trim or tie in a bow, depending on the look you desire. Trim the uneven ends of the braid.



continued from previous page

43Name

rodney

NAME: rodneyProFESSIoN: radiologist

INTErESTS: road rallies, rollerblading, rap, reading, religious relics

FAvorITE FooDS: ripe red raspberries, radishes, risotto, ribs, ravioli

PErSoNALITY: rarely ready with the right response


FroNT Shaping Bottom Left “Leg”

Cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 23: Work in st st (10)Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 10 sts.Rows 1 – 20: Work in st stRow 21: K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 (10)Row 22: P


Row 23: K1, SKPO, K to end of row, cast on 4 sts, K sts from holder (23)Row 24: PRow 25:*K1, SKPO, K to end of row Row 26: P*Rows 27 - 28: Repeat * through * (21)Row 29: KRow 30: **PRow 31: K1, M1R, K to end of row**Rows 32 - 33: Repeat ** through ** (23)Row 34: P10, bind off 3, P to end of row (2 sets of 10 sts)Place last set of 10 sts on holder #1. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Rows 35 – 42: Work in st stPlace sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Transfer sts on holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 35: Join yarn; *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 36: P*Rows 37 - 38: Repeat * through *(10)Rows 39 – 42: Work in st st

Shaping Top

Row 43: K10, cast on 5 sts, K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st st (25)Row 49: *K1, SKPO, K to end of row Row 50: P* Rows 51 - 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (21)

BACK



Cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 20: Work in st st (10)Row 21: K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 22: PPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.



• 1 ball medium-weight yarn – (207 yd/ 188m should make 3 alphabet plushies)


• 2 yd (1.75m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A





• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color C

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color D

• 2 yd (1.75m) medium-weight yarn – Body color for “hands”

• Tapestry needle


rodney

45rodney


Cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 22: Work in st st. (10)


Row 23: K10; cast on 4 sts; K7 sts off holder, K2TOG, K1(23)Row 24: PRow 25: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (22)Row 26: PRow 27: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (21)Row 28: PRow 29: KRow 30: *PRow 31: K to last st, M1L, K1* Rows 32 - 33: Repeat * through * (23)Row 34: P10; bind off 3 sts; place remaining 10 sts on holder #1.


Row 35: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 36: P*Rows 37 - 38: Repeat * through * (10)Rows 39 - 42: Work in st stPlace sts on holder #2. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Transfer sts on holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 34: Join yarn; P to end of row (10)Rows 35 – 42: Work in st st

Shaping Top

Row 43: K10; cast on 5 sts; K sts from holder #2 (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st st (25)Row 49: *K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 50: P*Rows 51 - 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (21)

Finishing


Adding Hair – Carefree Tangles

Cut 12 lengths of yarn, 6” (15cm) in length of Color A. Cut 12 lengths of yarn, 6” (15cm) in length of Color B. (I made one of these yarn choices a two-color wrapped yarn to get an extra color mixed in there.) Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of Rodney’s head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a double knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one

you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until Rodney has a full head of hair. Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, separate the strands in each piece of yarn to make the hair fuller.



shemika

NAME: shemikaProFESSIoN: sells seashells by the seashore in her souvenir shopINTErESTS: sailing, sculling, scuba diving, sandcastles FAvorITE FooDS: strawberries, scones, shrimp salad sandwiches, seafood, salmon PErSoNALITY: seldom shy; sometimes suddenly sassy


47shemika



Cast on 17 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1Row 4: P*Rows 5 - 10: Repeat * through * (25)Rows 11 – 14: Work in st st Row 15: K11, bind off 3 sts, K11 (2 sets of 11)Row 16: P11 (to break); place remaining 11 sts on holder.Row 17: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 18: PRow 19: KBind off (10)


Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (11)Row 17: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 18: PRow 19: KRow 20: PRow 21: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 22: PRow 23: K to end of row; cast on 9 sts (20)Row 24: PRow 25: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 26: P*Rows 27 - 34: Repeat * through * (20)

Shaping Top Section

Row 35: Bind off 9 sts, K11 (11)Row 36: PRow 37: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 38: PRow 39: KRow 40: PRow 41: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Cast on 10 sts.Row 38: PRow 39: KRow 40: PRow 41: K9, M1L, K1 (11)Row 42: P

Row 43: K to end of row; cast on 3 sts; K sts from holder (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st stRow 49: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 50: P*Rows 51 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (17)

BACK



Cast on 17 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 - 10: Repeat * through * (25)Rows 11 – 14: Work in st st Row 15: K11, bind off 3 sts, K11 (2 sets of 11 sts)Place last 11 sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.Row 16: Join yarn, P to end of row (11)Row 17: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 18: PRow 19: KBind off (10)


Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (11)




• Tapestry needle



• 11.5 yd (10.5m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B





shemika

Row 17: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 18: PRow 19: KRow 20: PRow 21: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 22: P to end of row; place sts on holder.Row 23: Cast on 9 sts; K sts from holder (20)Row 24: PRow 25: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1Row 26: P*Rows 27 - 34: Repeat * through * (20)

Shaping Top Section

Row 35: K 11, bind off 9 sts. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.Row 36: Join yarn; P to end of row (11)Row 37: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 38: PRow 39: KRow 40: PRow 41: K to last st, M1L, K1 (11)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder #1. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Cast on 10 sts.Row 38: PRow 39: KRow 40: PRow 41: K1, M1R, K to end of row (11)Row 42: P to end of row; place sts on holder #2 (11)

Transfer sts from holder #1 to needle, or work off of holder.Row 43: Join yarn; K11, cast on 3 sts, K sts from holder #2 (25) Row 44: PRows 45 – 48: Work in st stRow 49: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 50: P*Rows 51 – 56: Repeat * through *Bind off (17)

Finishing


Adding Hair – Medusa Braids

Cut 12 strands of Color A and 12 strands of Color B, about 17” (43cm) long each.

Start at either the top left or top right corner of Shemika’s head. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of yarn through one stitch along the top seam of her head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a double knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until you reach the other corner of the top of her head.

Using three strands at a time, braid Shemika’s hair, creating braids across the entire top of the head. You will have an even number of yarn strands, so somewhere around the middle of her scalp where it isn’t so noticeable, use four strands for one of the braids. To do this, simply hold two strands together and braid with two other single strands.



continued from previous page

49Name

André had decided Dolly was dull. (His attention-span was a bit abbreviated when it came to amore.) So when

Carl confessed his crush on Dolly over a couple of Coronas at the cantina, André announced, “She’s all yours.”

He declared he was done with Dolly and her dreams of always doing something different.

While André ate an amazing amount of avocadoes, Carl composed some couplets on the back of a coaster.

Cheeks of crimson, complexion so clear I’m so content when you are near

I hope you’ll come have coffee with me Or cocoa, or cola, or Ceylon tea

Carl’s concentration crumbled when André said, “Hi, Quintessa!”

A cute Q had come up to their table. André introduced Carl and asked Quintessa to join them. She ordered quiche,

but when told the cantina only served quesadillas, didn’t quibble. Carl’s questions revealed she was a bit quirky

and quite a good quoits player. As the evening wore on, she quoted lines from Quincy (Carl’s favorite Tv show) and quipped that she’d stand on queue any day of the week to

get the quarters she needed to complete her collection.

The three conversed for quite a long time, and when Quintessa took her leave, Carl quietly slipped the coaster into her coat.

the secret lives of

letters #5

done with dolly



Shaping Body

Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 – 40: Work in st st Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Head

Row 41: Cast on 9 sts; K stitches from holder; cast on 9 sts (28)Row 42: PRows 43 – 56: Work in st stBind off (28) Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing


Adding Hair – The Flat-Top

Cut 9 strands of each color—Colors A, B, & C—each 3” (8cm) long, for a total of 27 pieces of yarn.

Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam of the head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together in a single knot. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top of the head until you have a full head of hair. Trim the ends to create a lovely flat-top look.




• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle


• 27” (69cm) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color A

• 27” (69cm) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B

• 27” (69cm) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color C




• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color D

• 4 yd (3.75m) medium-weight yarn – Color E

• Tapestry needle


trevor

51trevor

trevor

NAME: trevorProFESSIoN: tree trimmerINTErESTS: train spotting, table tennisFAvorITE FooDS: toast and tea, thai take-outPErSoNALITY: a tad temperamental




Shaping Bottom

Cast on 17 sts. Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 – 10: Repeat * through * (25)Rows 11 - 16: Work in st stRow 17: K11, bind off 3 sts, K11 (2 sets of 11 sts)Row 18: P11 (to break), place remaining sts on holder (11)

Shaping Left Side

Row 19: K1, SKPO, K to end (10)Row 20: PRows 21 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (10)

Shaping right Side

Transfer sts from holder onto needle, or work off of holder.Row 18: Join yarn; P to end of row (11)Row 19: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (10)Row 20: PRows 21 – 56: Work in st stBind off (10)


Finishing


Adding Hair – Short Braids

Cut 14 strands of yarn, each 12” (30cm) long. Separate into two equal bunches of 7 strands, one bunch for each braid.

Start at either corner of one top of the “U.” Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top until you reach the other corner. It should take seven strands of yarn to reach this point.

Repeat on the other top of the “U.”

Now braid each bunch of hair. Separate the strands into three braid-able bunches, and braid these bunches to within an inch of the end, then tie a 6” (15cm) strand of yarn, embroidery thread or ribbon around each braid, double-knotting tightly. Tie in a bow. Trim the uneven ends of the braids.

Note: I deliberately tied my braids off within a few inches of Ursula’s scalp, so they’d be short and stick straight up in the air. But you can make them any length you want!




• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle





ursula

ursula

NAME: ursulaProFESSIoN: urologist

INTErESTS: unicorns, umpiring, unicycles FAvorITE FooDS: upside-down cake, ugli fruit, unbaked cookie dough

PErSoNALITY: unpretentious, upbeat & unique

53ursula

ursula


vincentNAME: vincent

ProFESSIoN: velcro salesmanINTErESTS: vaudeville, ventriloquism, vampires

FAvorITE FooDS: veal, venison, vegetablesPErSoNALITY: vacillates between valorous

and venomous

55vincent


Shaping Bottom

Cast on 4 sts. Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 – 24: Repeat * through * (26)Row 25: K1, M1R, K11, bind off 2 sts, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of 13 sts)Row 26: P to break (13), place remaining 13 sts on holder.

Shaping Left Side

Row 27: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 28: P*

Rows 29 - 30: Repeat * through * (13)Row 31: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (12)Row 32: PRows 33 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (12)

Shaping right Side

Transfer sts from holder onto needle, or work off of holder.Row 26: Join yarn; P to end of row (13)Row 27: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 28: P*Rows 29 - 30: Repeat * through * (13)Row 31: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (12)Row 32: PRows 33 – 56: Work in st st Bind off (12)


Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see page 70. You can add embroi-dered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Semi-Bald Side Loops

To explain this stitch, we’ll need to name the stitch holes on either side of the seam. Looking directly at the seam of your letter, picture the following letters and numbers: A1 is the hole you initially bring your yarn up through. A2 is the hole directly across the seam from A1. B1 and B2 are the next set of holes moving up the seam (or down, depending which way you prefer to work). Visually, it would look like this…the slash represents the seam:

A1 / A2B1 / B2C1 / C2D1 / D2

…and so forth.

Here’s how to make loopy hair, step by step:

1.) Cut a 45” (114cm) length of me-dium-weight yarn and thread it onto a tapestry needle. Insert needle into the back side of the body and out through A1. Pull the yarn snug so the knot disappears inside the body, but not so hard that you yank the knot out the other side.

2.) Insert needle into A2 and back out A1, using your finger as a form to create a loop.

3.) Insert needle into B1 and out A2, drawing yarn snug to make a single flat stitch (be careful not to lose your A loop).


• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle








vincent continued from previous page

4.) Insert needle into B2 and out B1, drawing yarn snug to make a single flat stitch.

You should now have one secure loop with a single stitch at each end of the loop.

Repeat steps 2 – 4, progressing along the line of holes (A, B, C, D…etc) until you have a crop of hair created along the one side of the head.

This can be a little confusing until you do it a few times, so let’s do another loop together. Note how the following steps are basically the same as 2 – 4, except we’ve moved along to the next set of holes.

• From B1, insert needle into B2 and out B1, using your finger as a form to create the loop.

• Insert needle into C1 and out B2, drawing yarn snug to make a single flat stitch (be careful not to lose your B loop).

• Insert needle into C2 and out C1, drawing yarn snug to make a single flat stitch.

You should now have a second secure loop with a single stitch at each end of the loop.

Continue until you have as much hair as you want. End your hairline by forming a loop, then making your final secure stitch back into the existing hairline so it doesn’t show. Draw your needle through the body of the letter and out the other side. Cut the yarn close to the body. The end will disappear into the stuffing.

Repeat for the other side of the head.



57wendy

wendy

NAME: wendyProFESSIoN: waitress

INTErESTS: whittling, wax museums, westerns, whirligigs, whack-a-mole

FAvorITE FooDS: whole wheat waffles, walnuts, white wine

PErSoNALITY: winsome with well-mannered ways



• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle


• 10 yd (9m)medium-weight yarn for hair






Cast on 5 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 – 12: Repeat * through * (15) Place sts on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Cast on 5 sts.Row 1: KRow 2: PRow 3: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 4: P*Rows 5 – 12: Repeat * through * (15)


Row 13: K15; cast on 2 sts; K sts from holder (32)Row 14: PRows 15 – 28: Work in st st (32)Row 29: K11, bind off 1 st; place remaining sts on holder (10)


Row 30: PRows 31 - 56: Work in st st Bind off (10)

Shaping Center Peak

Row 29: Join yarn; from holder, K10; leave remaining sts on holder.Row 30: PRow 31: KRow 32: PRow 33: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 34: P*Rows 35 - 36: Repeat * through * (6)Row 37: K1, SKPO, K2TOG, K1 (4)Row 38: PBind off (4)


Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 29: Join yarn; K1, SKPO, K to end of row (10)Row 30: PRows 31 - 56: Work in st st Bind off (10) Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing


59wendy

Adding Hair – Thick Braids

Cut 18 strands of yarn, each 20” (51cm) long. Separate into two equal bunches of 9 strands, one bunch for each braid.

Start at either corner of one top of the “W.” Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one full stitch along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely.

Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top until you reach the other corner. It should take nine strands of yarn to reach this point.

Repeat on the other top of the “W.”

Now braid each bunch of hair. Separate the strands into three braid-able bunches: each bunch containing six strands of yarn. Braid these bunches to within an inch of the end, then tie a 6” (15cm) strand of yarn, embroidery

thread or ribbon around the end of each braid, double-knotting tightly. Wrap around the braid again several times and double-knot it tightly on the backside as well; trim or tie in a bow, depending on the look you desire. Trim the uneven ends of the braids.



NAME: xavierProFESSIoN: x-ray technician

INTErESTS: xylography, xebecs, plays the xylophoneFAvorITE FooDS: xigua, xmas cookies, xylocarps

(esp. coconuts)PErSoNALITY: x-treme

xavierthe secret lives of letters60

61xavier



Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 - 4: Work in st stRow 5: *K1, M1R, K to end of rowRow 6: P*Rows 7 – 10: Repeat * through * (13)Row 11: **K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 12: P**Rows 13 - 14: Repeat ** through ** (13)Place stitches on holder. Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail.


Using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles, cast on 10 sts. Rows 1 - 4: Work in st stRow 5: *K to last st, M1L, K1Row 6: P*Rows 7 – 10: Repeat * through * (13)Row 11:**K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 12: P**Rows 13 - 14: Repeat ** through ** (13)

Shaping Center

Row 15: K1, SKPO, K to end of row; cast on 2 sts; K sts from holder to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (26)Row 16: PRow 17: *K1, SKPO, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 18: P*

Rows 19 – 28: Repeat * through * (14)Row 29: KRow 30: PRow 31: **K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 32: P**Rows 33 - 42: Repeat ** through ** (26)Row 43: K1, M1R, K to end of row, bind off 2 sts, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of 13 sts)Row 44: P13 (to break), place remaining 13 sts on holder.


Row 45: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 (13)Row 46: P*Rows 47 - 48: Repeat * through * (13)Row 49: **K1, SKPO, K to end of row Row 50: P**Rows 51 – 54: Repeat ** through ** (10)Row 55: KRow 56: PBind off (10)


Transfer sts from holder to needle, or work off of holder.Row 44: Join yarn; P to end of row (13)Row 45: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (13)Row 46: P*Rows 47 - 48: Repeat * through * (13)

Materials Needed for body• Pair of US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles

• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle





Materials Needed for arms (optional)• US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles or US 5 (3.75mm)circular needle

• 8 yd (7.5m) medium-weight yarn

• Tapestry needle




xavier continued from previous page

Row 49: **K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 50: P**Rows 51 – 54: Repeat ** through ** (10)Row 55: KRow 56: PBind off (10)


Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see See page 70. You can add embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Short & Messy

Feel free to use more than one color! Cut 20 lengths of yarn, each 4” (10cm) in length. Separate into two equal piles of yarn for each top of the “X”. You should have 10 pieces of yarn in each pile.

Choose either side of Xavier’s head to begin. Start at the inner corner of the top seam (refer to photo for hair placement). Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of hair through one piece of yarn (one-half

of an existing stitch) along the top seam. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot.

Work your way across the top seam of the head. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Next, take one strand from each of the tufts you just tied off—the two strands that are right next to each other—and tie those together in a single knot. Continue this across the top to the outer corner of the head.

Repeat for the other side of Xavier’s head.

Using a blunt tapestry needle and your fingers, comb all of the pieces of yarn to separate the individual fiber strands. Lay Xavier down on a table and, with your tapestry needle and fingers, gently comb all hair straight out from his scalp so it looks like he has two big flat mops of hair.



63Name

Dolly decided to depart for Delaware. She had had enough of André the Actor’s antics; she found him absolutely annoying. She would stay with her sister,

Shemika, who had a shop at the shore where she sold souvenirs and seashells.

one Saturday, Dolly watched the store so Shemika could sift through the sand in search of more shells. A tall “T”, all tan and toned, wearing

turquoise trunks, a towel tossed across one shoulder, tripped across the threshold around three o’clock.

“Hi, I’m Trevor,” he said.

Dolly’s heart danced and she dropped the Delftware dish she’d been displaying next to a dinghy and two dolphins; it was destroyed. She desperately tried to

be dainty and demure as she reached for the dustpan.

“Hi, I’m Dolly.” She wondered if she dared ask him for a date.

“Where’s Shemika?”

“oh, are you a friend of hers?”

Trevor’s eyes twinkled. “I guess you could say that.”

Shemika, all sandy and suntanned from her search along the shore, sashayed back into the shop with a sack of shells. She sidled up to Trevor and stretched

up to give him a smooch.

Shemika and Trevor were a striking couple. When they stood together, they made quite a statement. It seemed as though the world stood still, with

Shemika’s stud by her side. Even Dolly, who could sometimes be dense, deftly determined that a D and a T would never quite go together like an S and a T.

The next day, Dolly declared that she desired to drive home, devote herself to her dog-training, and date Esteban, who’d been eagerly emailing her e-vites for

events since Easter.

“E and D…” said Shemika. “What a perfect ending!”

“or,” said Dolly, dreamily, imagining herself standing on the other side of Esteban, “a lovely beginning!”

the secret lives of

letters #6

an ecstatic ending




Shaping “Leg” Cast on 10 sts.

Rows 1-22: Work in st st.


Row 23: *K1, M1R, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 24: P*Rows 25 - 36: Repeat * through * (24)Row 37: K1, M1R, K10, bind off 2 sts, K to last st, M1L, K1 (2 sets of 12 sts)Row 38: P12 (to break), place remaining sts on holder

Shaping Left Side of Head

Row 39: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 40: P*Rows 41 – 44: Repeat * through * (12)Row 45: **K1, SKPO, K to end of rowRow 46: P**Rows 47 – 56: Repeat ** through **Bind off (6)

Shaping right Side of Head:

Transfer sts from holder onto needle, or work off of holder.Row 38: Join yarn; P to end of row (12)Row 39: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 40: P*Rows 41 – 44: Repeat * through * (12)Row 45: **K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 46: P**Rows 47 – 56: Repeat ** through **Bind off (6)Make a second side, identical to what you have just completed.

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuff-ing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see See page 70. You can add

embroidered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Braids

Cut 4 strands of each color (I used green, blue, and charcoal), 12” (30cm) long each. Separate into two bunches, one for each braid. Each bunch should have 6 strands—2 of each color.

Start on one side of her head with one bunch of hair strands. Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of yarn through one stitch along the top seam of her head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a single knot. Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until all six strands have been sewn into the top of one side of Yolanda’s head.

Separate these strands into 3 braid-able bunches: each bunch containing 4 strands. Braid these bunches, then tie the entire end of the braid into a big knot and pull it very snug. Trim the excess hair beneath the knot.

Repeat for the other braid on the other side of Yolanda’s head.




• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle



• 1.5 yd (1.3m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color B

• 1.5 yd (1.3m) medium-weight yarn for hair – Color C



yolanda

yolanda

65yolanda

NAME: yolandaProFESSIoN: yeoman 1st classINTErESTS: yarn, the yankees, yodelingFAvorITE FooDS: yams, yogurt PErSoNALITY: youthful

NAME: zenobiaProFESSIoN: zookeeper

INTErESTS: zebras, zombies, zeppelins, the zodiacFAvorITE FooDS: zucchini

PErSoNALITY: zesty, zealous, zippy and somewhat zany


• 1 stitch holder


• Tapestry needle





zenobia


67zenobia



Cast on 25 sts.Rows 1 - 14: Work in st st


Row 15: Bind off 12 sts, K13 (13)Row 16: P Row 17: K1, M1R, K to end of row (14)Row 18: PRow 19: *K1, M1R, K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 Row 20: P*Rows 21 - 40: Repeat from * through * (14)Row 41: K to last 3 sts, K2TOG, K1 (13)Row 42: P

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: K to end of row, cast on 12 sts (25)Row 44: PRows 45 – 56: Work in st stBind off (25)

BACK

You will be knitting the reverse/mirror image of the front.


Cast on 25 sts.Rows 1 - 14: Work in st st


Row 15: K13, bind off 12; cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail. (13)

Row 16: Join yarn; P to end of row (13)Row 17: K to last st, M1L, K1 (14)Row 18: PRow 19: *K1, SKPO, K to last st, M1L, K1 Row 20: P*Rows 21 – 40: Repeat * through * (14)Row 41: K1, SKPO, K to end of row (13)Row 42: PPlace sts on holder. Cut yarn, leav-ing 6” (15cm) tail.

Shaping Top Section

Row 43: Cast on 12 sts; K sts from holder (25) Row 44: PRows 45 - 56: Work in st stBind off (25)

Finishing

Use mattress stitch to join the two pieces. Stitch around the outside edge of the letter, pausing to weave loose yarn ends into your seams. If the letter has an inside opening, like “O” or “D”, sew that inner seam last. Stuff with washable toy stuffing as you go. For “How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So it Looks Great)”, see See page 70. You can add embroi-dered features, hair and arms in any order after your plush toy is finished.

Adding Hair – Dreadlocks

I used a wrapped yarn because I thought the texture looked fun and kind of like dreadlocks. Plus, I liked the way the wrapping threads

came loose and added even more texture. And the wrapped yarn has many colors in it, which gives the hair a sense of depth. I used mostly green, with a few strands of blue thrown in for highlights.

Cut 12 pieces of yarn 6” (15cm) in length and 12 pieces of yarn 10” (26cm) in length. Use the shorter pieces on the left section of Zenobia’s scalp, over her eyes, and the longer pieces toward the right section.

Using a tapestry needle, thread a strand of yarn through one stitch along the top seam of her head. Pull the strand through so that the two sides are even, then tie the ends together tightly in a double knot.

Thread the next strand into the stitch right up against the one you just finished, and tie securely. Continue this until you reach the other corner of the top of her head.

Trim the hair to shape it up, but fray some of the ends if you want a wilder look.




AbbreviationsSt(s) = stitch(es)

st st = stockinette stitch

K = knit

P = purl

SKPO = slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over

K2TOG = knit two together

M1L = make one stitch slanting left

M1R = make one stitch slanting right

KFB = knit front and back

GaugeAlthough it isn’t essential to check your gauge when knitting a toy, it will help your finished plush toys look better. Proper gauge ensures the stitches are tight enough so the stuffing doesn’t show through. It also keeps your plushies from looking saggy or droopy.

Gauge for body: 5 ½ sts and 9 rows per inch, over st st, using US 2 (3.0mm) knitting needles

Each completed letter, excluding hair or arms, is approximately 6” (15cm) tall and 4” (10cm) wide, using the recommended materials.

Adding Embroidered FeaturesSince these letters are more than likely being created for young children, or will attract the attention of young children, please DO NOT use buttons or plastic eyes. They are a choking hazard! Use embroidery thread to create eyes, eyebrows and nose on your completed letter after it has been stuffed. You can stitch a mouth, or, if the letter shape naturally has a center hole, use that opening as the mouth.

1.) Thread your embroidery needle and knot the thread. Poke the needle through the backside of the head to the front, gently drawing the knot into the head.

2.) Stitch the facial features using chain stitch and satin stitches. Feel free to “knoodle” with it and do your own thing! I formed each eye by satin stitching with black embroidery thread (the full thread) across 1½ stitches, going from side to side, to create a square. Then I out-lined the sides and top of the dark square with white embroidery thread, about 3 satin stitches per side.

3.) When finished, poke your needle back through the front of the face and out the back, further down the letter’s body. Snip your yarn or embroidery thread close to the surface. The thread will disappear into the body and is held in place within the stuffing.

69Stitches

StitchesSt st (stockinette stitch) – Simply alternate knit and purl rows, starting with a knit row and ending with a purl row. The knitted side is considered the right side for these patterns.

SKPO (slip one, knit one, pass slipped stitch over) – Decreases one stitch on the right-hand side of your work, by essentially binding off a stitch.

1.) Insert your needle into the first stitch as if to knit, but DON’T knit it – instead, slip it off the left needle and onto the right needle.2.) Knit the next stitch.3.) Then, using your left needle, slip the unknitted slipped stitch over the knitted stitch and allow it to drop off the needles.

K2TOG (knit two together) – Decreases one stitch on the left-hand side of your work, by combining two stitches together. Simply insert your needle into two stitches at once, and knit.

M1L (make one stitch left) – Increases one stitch that slants to the left. To M1L, stretch your two needles apart just a bit so you can see the “ladder” between them. Pick up a stitch by inserting your left needle beneath that first ladder rung from front to back. Knit into the back of that stitch.

M1R (make one stitch right) – Increases one stitch that slants to the right. To M1R, stretch your two needles apart just a bit so you can see the “ladder” between them. Pick up a stitch by inserting your left needle beneath that first ladder rung from back to front. Knit that stitch.

KFB (knit front and back) – Increases one stitch. Knit one stitch as you normally would, then before you slide the stitch off the needle, knit into the back of the stitch as well.

Mattress Stitch – Use this stitch to sew the front and back pieces together, as well as to attach arms. It creates a virtually invisible seam.

1.) Thread a tapestry needle with the same yarn you used to knit your two pieces.

2.) Match the two pieces together, wrong sides together, then open flat, right sides (knitted) up, so the two edges you will sew together are lined up next to each other.

3.) Secure your yarn: Starting at the bottom corner of the left piece, insert tapestry needle into the corner stitch hole, from back to front. Do this again. Then, insert tapestry needle in corner stitch hole of right piece, from back to front. Your yarn is now secured.

4.) Begin stitching: Insert tapestry needle in corner stitch hole of left piece, from front to back, and pick up two rungs of the stitch “ladder” above it, bringing your needle out the front. Do the same on the right side. Continue alternating sides, picking up two rungs of the stitch ladder each time. Do not pull stitches tight to close the gap between the two pieces until you’ve completed 3 or 4 stitches.

5.) Close the gap between the two pieces by pulling the yarn tight after making 3 or 4 stitches. Don’t be afraid to pull it too snug; you can always gently stretch your seam to loosen it back up.


How to Stuff Your Plush Toy (So It Looks Great)You would think that stuffing a plush toy would be the easiest part. But there’s a knack to doing it so your cute little creature doesn’t come out lumpy or weirdly shaped.

1. The first trick is to stuff it while you’re sewing it together. As a leg or arm or head is formed, before it gets too far along, gently place some stuffing in that cavity. Notice that I said “gently.”

2. The second trick is to stuff your plush toy gently. If you cram a piece of stuffing in and pack it down, it’ll form a hard wad. The next piece you cram in will form another hard wad, and before you know it, your poor little guy will be all lumpy and bumpy. So, gently place a fluffy, un-wadded piece of stuffing into the cavity. Press it into place with care, then add another fluffy piece and press it into place with care. This way, the fluffy pieces will mesh together and retain their soft, cuddly texture.

3. Don’t overstuff your plush toy. Add enough stuffing to give it shape, but no more. Your goal is to create a plush toy that looks really nice and feels good. If you overstuff, the knitted fabric will stretch too far. You’ll see the stuffing through the stitches, your seams will show, and your plush toy will look bloated.

4. Take time to look at what you’re doing. Think of your plush toy as a soft sculpture, and you’re the artist. As you gently press the stuffing into a cavity, look at its shape. Is there enough stuffing in the far corner? Is this arm/leg shaped the same as the other matching arm/leg? Every so often during the finishing process, hold the plush toy away from you, or prop it against something and stand back so you can evaluate how it looks. Are the knitted rows still neat and fairly straight? If you overstuff in spots, it will stretch the knitted mate-rial and the rows will look crooked. There should only be gentle, natural swells where the pattern has called for shaping.

5. Use your fingers to shape corners while sewing it together. Your finished corners should be ever so slightly rounded, not squared-off with a point. Stitch right up to a corner and pull your stitches tight. As you start down the next horizontal/vertical, make about three or four loose stitches. Then, on the wrong side of the piece, insert one finger into where the corner will be and pull your yarn tight. This helps to form that corner shape.

6. Weave your yarn ends into the seams as you go. A lot of loose ends can get tangled up in the stuffing and prevent it from meshing together properly. And by now, you know what that could mean – lumps in your plush toy! You won’t be able to weave the last few ends into the seams, but just trim those to about two inches and tuck them neatly along the sides as you stuff and sew.

7. Make your final corner match the rest. When you get to the final few stitches at the very end, gently press those corner edges into themselves as you stitch. This will help to shape it into a slightly rounded corner to match the rest. Make your final stitch directly into the corner and bring your needle out another place on the body of the plush toy. Pull gently on the yarn to help your final corner be more of an “insy” than an “outsy.” Clip the yarn close to the body; the end will disappear inside.

8. Give your plush toy a massage. When you’re finished, gently massage the plush toy into just the right shape. If it’s a little bit lumpy, massage those lumps until they loosen up and redistribute a bit. If a limb is sagging, tug it into place. Smooth the knitted rows into place. Don’t be afraid to work with your finished plush-ies to make them look their very best.

71Shaping & Attaching Arms

Shaping & Attaching ArmsArms or no arms? You can design your plush toy any way you’d like. You can knit arms with stripes, or make them a solid color and embellish with embroidery. Add Velcro® to each hand so you can string your alphabet plushies together. You can even use these instructions to create dangly legs or little antennae for the tops of their heads. Remember, it’s all about having fun and being creative!

Materials Needed:

• US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needles or US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle

• 8 yd (7.5m) medium-weight yarn – complementary color

• Tapestry needle

Shaping Arms: (make 2)

Using a US 5 (3.75mm) double-pointed needle or US 5 (3.75mm) circular needle, cast on 5 st, leaving a 12” (30cm) tail (this will be used to sew the arm onto the body).

Row 1: K

Holding needle in same position, slide sts to other end of needle.

Row 2: K, keeping yarn behind needle. Pull first st tight to close gap in back.

Tug that first stitch tightly to close the stitches across the back of your work and create a tiny tube. Be care-ful not to pull yarn super tight after that first stitch, or it becomes very difficult to knit.

Continue knitting in this fashion until the tube is about 2.5” (6cm) long…or as long as you like!

To form the hand, KFB each stitch to double the number of stitches (10). Knit 4 rounds, using the same

technique as for the arm. Remember to pull the first stitch in each round tightly across the back.

Cut yarn, leaving 6” (15cm) tail. Thread tail through tapestry needle and pass through loops on knitting needle. Remove knitting needle. Pull tail tight to close the end of the hand. Using same tail on tapestry needle, make an extra stitch into the end of the hand to secure the closure, then squeeze needle through closed hole and up into arm, coming out at any place. Cut tail close to the body of your work. Tail will disappear into work. Flatten the finished hand between your fingers to make a little mitten hand.

Attaching Arms:

Add each arm onto the finished piece with mattress stitching, using the existing tail on the arm.

1.) Decide where you want to place the arm, then either hold it or pin it into place.

2.) Use mattress stitches through single yarn strands (as opposed to the typical mattress stitches that go through two strands) and work your way around the entire base of the arm so that it’s securely sewn into place.

3.) Make an extra stitch at the end to secure your yarn, and then thread the yarn out the other side of the body.

4.) Trim the excess tail close to the surface of your work; it will disappear inside the body.

the end


Knitting PatternsDani Church

Is Dolly too demanding?

What’s Harry hiding from Monica?

Is Carl really all that creepy?

Peek into “The Secret Lives of Letters”

while creating your own unique plushies!


Knitting Patterns

Documents

The Secret Lives of Letters: 26 Easy-to-knit Alphabet Plush Toy Knitting Patterns