Round Elephant

Round Elephant by Natty Knits

What is Being Made

The Round Elephant is a stuffed toy designed by Clare Doornbos of Natty Knits. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a three-dimensional elephant approximately 6 inches tall and 8 inches from nose to tail. The finished toy features a rounded body with an integrated nose, making it an engaging handmade companion piece suitable for children or as a decorative item.

Finished Dimensions and Materials

The completed elephant measures approximately 6 inches in height with a nose-to-tail length of 8 inches. The pattern requires approximately 160 yards of grey worsted weight yarn. Additional materials include fiberfill for stuffing, a small scrap of black yarn for embroidered eyes, a tapestry needle for finishing, and US size 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles.

Knitting Techniques and Construction Method

The Round Elephant employs an unconventional construction approach that distinguishes it from symmetrical toy patterns. Rather than knitting the body in the round from top to bottom, this pattern is worked sideways, creating the characteristic rounded shape through strategic shaping techniques. The nose is integrated directly into the body during knitting rather than being constructed as a separate component and sewn on afterward.

Short Row Shaping is the primary advanced technique used throughout this pattern. This method creates three-dimensional form by strategically turning the work before completing a full row. The pattern uses the "yfwd, turn work" method, which creates a loop of yarn under a stitch. When knitting back over a stitch containing this loop, the knitter must work into both the loop and the stitch above it simultaneously. This technique allows the designer to sculpt the elephant's body without binding off between sections, maintaining continuity and structural integrity.

Stitches and Gauge

The primary stitch used in the Round Elephant is garter stitch, created by knitting every row. This fundamental stitch provides a dense, textured fabric ideal for a stuffed toy, offering both durability and visual interest. The pattern is worked to a gauge of 5 stitches and 10 rows per 1 inch in garter stitch using US size 5 (3.75 mm) needles, though adjustments may be made as needed to obtain proper gauge.

Yarn and Needles

This pattern calls for worsted weight yarn in grey, requiring approximately 160 yards total. Worsted weight yarn is a medium-weight option that works well for toy construction, providing good stitch definition and structural support for the finished piece. The pattern is worked on US size 5 (3.75 mm) double-pointed needles, which facilitate the sideways construction method and short row shaping techniques employed throughout the design.

Skill Level Considerations

Rated as an intermediate project, the Round Elephant is suitable for knitters with foundational skills who are ready to expand their technical repertoire. The primary challenge lies in mastering short row shaping and understanding how to work into yarn loops created during the turning process. Knitters new to this technique are encouraged to consult detailed photographic references and supplementary explanations available through the designer's resources before beginning.