No home gnomes

No Home Gnomes Knitted Dolls by Phoenixknits

What Is Being Made

This downloadable knitting pattern creates a charming family of gnome dolls designed by Phoenixknits. The pattern includes instructions for making mother, father, children, and dog gnomes. The finished adult gnomes measure 5 inches in height, while the child gnomes are 3 inches tall including their hats. This beginner-friendly project is perfect for crafters new to doll making who want to create a whimsical gnome collection.

Techniques Used

The pattern employs fundamental knitting techniques suitable for beginners. Key methods include working in the round using stocking stitch, which creates a smooth stockinette fabric ideal for stuffed dolls. Decreasing techniques are used to shape the gnome bodies and hats, including knit two together (k2tog) decreases that taper the structure. The pattern demonstrates how to increase stitches by knitting into the front and back of a stitch, allowing for shaping and expansion where needed. Finishing techniques include breaking yarn and drawing it through remaining stitches to close openings, and optional brushing of mohair for texture.

Stitches Used

• Knit (K): The primary stitch creating the fabric structure
• Purl (P): Used to create texture variation and pattern definition
• Stocking Stitch (Ss): The main fabric construction, created by alternating knit and purl rows to produce a smooth, uniform surface
• Knit Two Together (K2tog): A decrease stitch used to reduce stitch counts and shape the gnome bodies and hats
• Increase (Inc.): Increases created by knitting into the front and back of a single stitch to add stitches where shaping requires expansion

Materials and Tools

This pattern requires minimal materials, making it economical for crafters. Yarn: Small amounts of DK weight yarn in flesh tone for the gnome bodies and chosen colors for clothing details. Optional faux fur or mohair adds textural interest to beards and hair, with a note that mohair should be brushed after completion for optimal appearance. Needles: 3mm needles are used throughout the pattern for working the gnome pieces. Additional supplies: Polyester stuffing fills the gnomes to create dimension, a twig or bamboo skewer provides internal structure and support, and small scraps of material can be incorporated for details such as a mother gnome's bag accessory.