Seal and Penguin

Seal and Penguin Knitted Toys by Sachiyo Ishii

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from independent designer Sachiyo Ishii features two charming small toys: a Seal measuring 10cm and a Penguin measuring 7.5cm. Both projects are suitable for knitters with intermediate skill levels and use DK weight yarn with 3mm knitting needles to create adorable finished pieces perfect for collectors or gift-giving.

What Is Being Made

The pattern includes instructions for creating two distinct toy animals using the knitting craft. The Seal is the larger of the two finished pieces, while the Penguin is a smaller companion project. Both toys are three-dimensional stuffed animals constructed from knitted fabric pieces that are assembled together.

Knitting Techniques and Methods

These projects employ fundamental knitting techniques appropriate for intermediate crafters. The construction method involves knitting flat pieces in rows, then assembling them using mattress stitch seaming. The pattern emphasizes practical assembly tips, including leaving long yarn ends at the beginning and end of pieces for efficient sewing, and recommends sewing seams with the right side facing outward for a neat, professional finish.

Stitches Used

• Stocking Stitch (St st): The primary stitch throughout both projects, created by alternating knit and purl rows to form the smooth, classic fabric base
• Knit (K): Basic knit stitch forming the foundation of the fabric
• Purl (P): Used in alternation with knit stitches to create stocking stitch
• Kfb (Knit through front and back): An increase technique used to shape the toys
• K2tog (Knit two together): A decrease method for shaping
• P2tog (Purl two together): A purl-based decrease for shaping
• Skpo (Slip, knit, pass slipped stitch over): An alternative decrease technique for refined shaping
• Mattress Stitch: The seaming method used to join pieces together invisibly and securely

Materials and Yarn

The pattern calls for DK weight yarn in specific colors from established yarn brands. The primary yarn is Sirdar Country Style DK in Cream (411), with approximately 10g required. A secondary yarn color is Sirdar Snuggly DK Tweed in Eeyore (460), needing about 5g. Additional small amounts of dark brown, yellow, and black DK yarn are needed for details and features on the finished toys. A small amount of pink felted tweed provides accent details.

Tools and Equipment

• 3mm knitting needles: The primary tool for constructing the fabric pieces
• Chenille needle: Used for sewing pieces together and adding embroidered details
• Stitch holder: For managing active stitches during construction
• Scissors: For cutting yarn
• Toy stuffing: Essential filling material for creating three-dimensional, plump toys

Tension and Gauge

The pattern specifies a tension of 24 stitches by 32 rows over 10cm measured in stocking stitch. While noted as not essential, achieving proper tension ensures the finished toys match the intended dimensions and have the correct fabric density for stuffing and durability.

Construction Details

The Seal body begins with casting on 15 stitches and working in stocking stitch. The pattern progresses through multiple row sections, including rows 1-5 and rows 23-31, with specific instructions for shaping. The Penguin follows a similar modular construction approach. Both toys are built from individual knitted components that are subsequently sewn together using mattress stitch for seamless assembly.