Seven Softies from Simple Squares

Seven Softies from Simple Squares: Beginner Knitted Soft Toys

What is Being Made

Seven Softies from Simple Squares is a downloadable knitting pattern collection by designer Rian Anderson that provides instructions for creating seven different small soft toys. This pattern set includes designs for an owl, cat, sausage-dog, bird, chicken, penguin, koala, and snowman. Each toy is constructed from simple knitted squares, making this project ideal for novice knitters who want to create charming handmade playthings. The finished toys typically measure between 11 to 14 centimeters tall, depending on yarn weight and needle size choices.

Techniques and Construction Methods

The primary technique used throughout this pattern collection is knitting simple squares, which form the foundation of each toy design. The pattern emphasizes ease of construction by breaking down each soft toy into basic geometric shapes that are straightforward to knit. Beyond the knitting itself, the collection includes detailed sewing instructions and diagrams that guide makers through assembling the individual knitted pieces into three-dimensional toys. This combination of simple knitting followed by structured assembly makes the project accessible to beginners while still producing finished toys with character and charm.

Stitches and Knitting Details

While the pattern focuses on fundamental knitting rather than complex stitch work, the instructions emphasize creating dense fabric that is thick enough to conceal the toy filling and maintain the toy's shape. Tension and gauge are noted as not critically important for this project, as long as the resulting knitted fabric achieves adequate density. This relaxed approach to gauge makes the pattern particularly forgiving for beginner knitters who may still be developing consistent tension control.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

The pattern is designed with flexibility in mind regarding yarn selection. Samples in the pattern were created using 8 ply or DK weight yarn, though crafters are encouraged to choose yarn according to their preference. The needle size used for samples was 3.5 mm (US 4), selected to be slightly smaller than typically recommended for the yarn weight, which helps create the dense fabric necessary for toy construction. Yarn thickness, needle size, and the number of stitches cast on can all be adjusted to vary the final toy size.

Additional materials required include a tapestry needle for sewing the pieces together, safety pins for holding pieces during assembly, and dacron or polyester toy filling (pillow or cushion inserts work well as economical alternatives). For finishing details, the pattern accommodates both small sew-on or safety toy eyes as optional embellishments, while also noting that embroidering eyes directly onto the toys is a safer option for toys intended for children under three years old.

Pattern Suitability

Designed specifically for beginner knitters, this pattern collection demonstrates that novice crafters can successfully complete these projects. The emphasis on simple squares and straightforward assembly, combined with flexible gauge requirements and customizable sizing, makes Seven Softies from Simple Squares an excellent introduction to toy making through knitting.