Sharon Zientara - 3 Skeins or Less--Modern Baby Crochet

In this, the latest addition of the 3 Skeins or Less series, we thought it only fitting that we focus on some of the cutest, most crochet-worthy people in our livesbabies! The three skeins or less concept is perfectly suited to baby projects because little ones grow so quickly. The faster a baby item is to make, the longer he or she can wear it! Each one of the patterns youll find here is handpicked for maximum cuteness, as well as how fun it is to make.

Baby projects are great opportunities to hone your crochet skills. If you are a new or intermediate crocheter, there are plenty of interesting techniques in each pattern, but in a tiny, less intimidating project. We also included a few fantastic little sweaters, and if you're thinking about dipping your toe into garment making, these are great patterns to help ease you into it and teach you some valuable lessons. Of course, if all youre looking for is an adorable group of patterns to crochet for the wee ones in your life, we have plenty of those. Whatever the reason you pick up this book, enjoy making something special for some very sweet recipients.

DESIGNED BY BRENDA K. B. ANDERSON

Most babies have lots of stuffed animals but few as special and unique as this darling little handmade octopus. This sweet friend takes just one skein of yarn and has the versatility to be a cuddly toy and a stimulating rattle. Either way, Octavia is a toy that baby is sure to love.

Model shown measures about 512" (14 cm) tall and head measures about 1034" (27.5 cm) in circumference after stuffing with polyester stuffing.

DK weight (#3 Light).

Shown here: Berroco Weekend DK (75% acrylic, 25% Peruvian cotton; 268 yd [247 m]/312 oz [100 g]): #2983 Cottage, 1 skein.

Size E/4 (3.5 mm) and steel hook size 6 (1.6 mm). Adjust hook size if necessary to obtain correct gauge.

Stitch markers (m); yarn needle; polyester stuffing; small amounts of black and white felt (for eyes); black and white sewing thread and needle; sewing pins; black embroidery floss; embroidery needle; 2 squares of fabric or 1 square of felt that measures about 9" 9" (23 23 cm) (optional; for bottom appliqu); matching thread (for appliqu); 1 small plastic container with lid that holds about 1.18 oz (35 ml); 12 oz (14 g) bag of poly pellets (or something that makes noisesee ); superglue (optional, for plastic container lid).

20 sts and 16 rnds = 4" (10 cm) in esc worked in the rnd. To make a gauge swatch, work through Rnd 6 of head instructions. Circle should measure 3" (7.5 cm) in diameter.

Octavia is crocheted in two pieces and then slip-stitched together after stuffing.

Mouth and outline around eyes (including eyelashes) are crocheted bits of embroidery floss that are sewn onto Octavias face.

Hidden inside Octavias head is a tiny plastic container filled with poly pellet beads (plastic pellets) to make a little noise when she dances. This container must be small enough so that it can fit inside Octavias head with space around it to stuff with polyester stuffing. A Sistema brand 1.18 oz (35 ml) dressing container is used here with 1 Tbsp (12 oz) of poly pellets. Make sure lid is fastened well. Use dab of superglue to make sure it wont come off.

Octavia has an optional contrasting appliqu stitched to her underside, but if you prefer, you can omit appliqu and make her crocheted underside out of a contrasting-color yarn instead.