The Snuggle Cloud Sheep: A Free Knitting Pattern for a Textured, Weighted Stuffed Animal Blanket
Introducing the Snuggle Cloud Sheep
This isn't just a blanket; it's a cuddly companion. The Snuggle Cloud Sheep combines a soft, textured throw with a built-in, weighted sheep head for a uniquely comforting and adorable design. Perfect for children or anyone who loves a touch of whimsy, this project is a wonderful way to practice basic knitting techniques while creating a truly special keepsake. The combination of a smooth stockinette blanket with a garter stitch border and a small, round, weighted sheep head makes this a standout piece in any home.
Materials Needed
To create your Snuggle Cloud Sheep, gather the following materials:
- Yarn: Worsted weight (#4) yarn in two colors:
- Main Color (MC): Cream/Off-white for the blanket and sheep body. Approximately 600 yards.
- Contrast Color (CC): Light Grey for the sheep face and ears. Approximately 150 yards.
- Knitting Needles:
- US Size 8 (5.0 mm) knitting needles (straight or circular for the blanket).
- US Size 6 (4.0 mm) double-pointed needles (DPNs) for the sheep head.
- Notions: Stitch markers, tapestry needle.
- Filling: 1/2 cup of polyester fiberfill and 1/2 cup of plastic pellets or glass beads for weight.
Step-by-Step Instructions
Blanket (Knitted, flat)
Using your larger needles (US Size 8) and MC yarn, cast on 80 stitches.
- Rows 1-6: Knit all stitches (this creates the garter stitch border).
- Row 7 (RS): Knit 6 (border), purl 68, knit 6 (border).
- Row 8 (WS): Knit 6, purl 68, knit 6.
- Repeat Rows 7-8 until the blanket measures 24 inches from the cast-on edge, ending with a WS row.
- Rows Final 6: Knit all stitches. Bind off loosely.
Sheep Head (Knitted, in the round on DPNs)
Using your smaller DPNs (US Size 6) and CC yarn, cast on 6 stitches. Distribute evenly on 3 DPNs (2 stitches per needle). Join for working in the round, being careful not to twist.
- Round 1: Knit all stitches.
- Round 2: *K1, M1L* repeat around (12 stitches).
- Round 3: Knit all.
- Round 4: *K2, M1L* repeat around (18 stitches).
- Round 5: Knit all.
- Round 6: *K3, M1L* repeat around (24 stitches).
- Rounds 7-12: Knit all (6 rounds even).
- Round 13: *K2, K2tog* repeat around (18 stitches).
- Round 14: Knit all.
- Round 15: *K1, K2tog* repeat around (12 stitches).
- Round 16: Knit all.
- Stuff the head: Firmly stuff the head with fiberfill, then add the plastic pellets/glass beads in the center for weight. Continue stuffing with fiberfill to shape.
- Round 17: *K2tog* repeat around (6 stitches). Cut yarn, thread through remaining stitches, pull tight, and secure. Weave in end.
Ears (Make 2, Knitted flat)
Using your smaller DPNs (US Size 6) and CC yarn, cast on 5 stitches.
- Row 1: Knit all.
- Row 2: K1, M1L, K3, M1L, K1 (7 stitches).
- Row 3: Knit all.
- Row 4: K1, M1L, K5, M1L, K1 (9 stitches).
- Rows 5-8: Knit all (4 rows).
- Row 9: K1, K2tog, K3, K2tog, K1 (7 stitches).
- Row 10: Knit all.
- Row 11: K1, K2tog, K1, K2tog, K1 (5 stitches). Bind off. Leave a long tail for sewing.
Assembly
- Sew the ears: Sew the ears to the sides of the sheep head, slightly curved forward.
- Embroider the face: Using CC yarn, embroider a small 'X' for each eye and a small vertical line for the nose/mouth on the face.
- Attach the head to the blanket: Position the sheep head in the center of the blanket, about 2 inches from the top edge. Sew securely around the base of the head to the blanket using MC yarn. Ensure the head is firmly attached.
- Weave in all ends.
Your Snuggle Cloud Sheep is now complete! Enjoy your new, cozy companion.
