Knitted Animal Friends

Amelia the Duck, Charlotte the Fox, and Harry the Ram are just a few of the adorable, and nattily attired, animal toys that can be made from the designs in this beautiful book from Crowther (My Knitted Doll), creator of the Boo-Biloo knitting pattern brand. The bodies of the 13 dolls are all quite similar, and Crowther encourages knitters to be creative by mixing and matching them with any of the tiny sweaters, shorts, and other garments included. Before beginning on a project, aspiring doll makers should note that the charming patterns—there are more than 40 in total—are also quite small, requiring very small knitting needles, US size 2 for the animals and 2½ or 4 for their outfits. Tiny clothing pieces, such as Noah the Horse’s denim overalls, Tilly the Hare’s Fair Isle cardigan and George the Dog’s sassy red bandana, are all miniature versions of items one might make for life-sized family and friends, and demand comparable skill. Advanced knitters looking for a new challenge will find one in Crowther’s beautiful designs, and children will love the whimsical results. (June)