directions for yarn ball

I got this pattern for the knitted ball from A First Book of Knitting for Children.




You will need

1. 1 pair of knitting needles (what ever you feel comfortable with)
   
2. cotton yarn, stripped or plain. I used stripped yarn and the brand was cookies 'n cream. You can use chunky weight in various colors. You'll just need to change the colors when you want.
   
3. fleece for stuffing
4. sewing up needle

Cast on 16 stitches and knit 48 rows. I just realized I only knitted 40! Oh well :)

If you are changing the yarn colors, remember to make the changes so the strings face the wrong side.

Sewing up:

The directions are little confusing; just so you know. First, put the casting off and casting on edges together. You need to have the right sides facing each other, so the wrong side is facing you. Sew up the casting off and casting on edges by doing oversewing. Make a locking stitch at the other end.

Do not cut the yarn. Now, with the same yarn, weave through the very top stitches. You are making a circle. Once you are done weaving, pull the string so that it is tight and no hole showing. Make a locking stitch. Cut yarn off.

Flip it inside out. The wrong side is now facing in, and the right side is facing you. Stuff with fleece so it is firm and round. Push it down and keep stuffing. You will need to make it fuller than you think it should be.

Now, with a new piece of yarn do the same thing you did on the other end. Do not forget to pull it tight enough. Make a locking stitch.

You have now made a neat little toy! If you make this, send me your photo of your creation, and I'll add it to the website!

Tomorrow: I'll tell you about, our new PET!

May the Force be with You,
Grace