Prehistoric Squirrel

Prehistoric Squirrel Knitted Toy

What is Being Made

The Prehistoric Squirrel is a small knitted stuffed toy designed by Phoenixknits, standing approximately 5 inches high when completed. This charming amigurumi-style project creates a whimsical squirrel character suitable for display, play, or gift-giving. The finished toy features a dimensional body constructed through strategic increases and decreases, with distinctive details that bring the prehistoric squirrel to life.

Techniques Used

This intermediate-level knitting project employs fundamental shaping techniques to create a three-dimensional toy form. The pattern utilizes increases (inc1) worked across rows to expand the piece during the body's widest sections, building volume and creating the characteristic rounded shape of the squirrel. Decreases (k2tog) are strategically placed to taper and shape the form as the knitter progresses. The designer incorporates stockinette stitch as the primary fabric structure, alternating knit and purl rows to create a smooth, finished appearance. Additional embellishment techniques include stuffing the completed knitted form to achieve a plush, three-dimensional toy, and assembly of various materials to complete the character details.

Stitches Used

• Knit (k) – the fundamental stitch creating the primary fabric
• Purl (p) – used in alternation with knit stitches to form stockinette stitch
• Increase (inc1) – worked to add stitches and build volume in the body
• Knit two together (k2tog) – a decrease technique used to shape and taper the form
• Stockinette stitch (ss) – the combination of alternating knit and purl rows creating the smooth fabric base

Materials and Tools

This project requires DK weight yarn or equivalent in multiple colors to create the prehistoric squirrel's distinctive appearance. Yarn colors needed include beige for the primary body, black, white, dark grey, dark brown, and rust for color work and details. The knitter will need a pair of 3mm needles for working with the DK weight yarn. Additional materials include two 10mm plastic beads for eyes (or alternatively, white and black felt or felt-tip pens for facial features), a tiny scrap of white felt for teeth detail, two 6-inch pipe cleaners for poseable arms, polyester stuffing to fill the completed toy, clear glue for assembly, and hair spray for finishing. The pattern is provided as a downloadable PDF format, making it accessible for immediate use once purchased.