Free Knitting Pattern for Hugs Monkey Toy.
The “Hugs Monkey Toy” is a free knitting pattern that guides you through creating an adorable, seated monkey plush. This intermediate-level project results in a huggable friend approximately 30cm (11.8 inches) tall, perfect for gifting or keeping for yourself. The monkey is characterized by its playful stripes, created using a specific 24-row sequence of eight different colors, giving it a vibrant and cheerful appearance.
The construction of the monkey involves knitting several separate pieces, including the head, snout, ears, body, arms, legs, and an optional tail. The head features a unique intarsia face, with contrasting colors cleverly forming the eye area and background, giving the monkey a distinct personality. The snout is knit separately and then carefully sewn onto the face, adding a three-dimensional element that enhances the toy’s charm. The pattern provides the option of adding either a crocheted or knitted belly button, allowing for a touch of customization.
The pattern primarily utilizes stocking stitch (alternating knit and purl rows), making it accessible to knitters familiar with basic techniques. However, the intermediate rating comes from the shaping required for the various body parts, which involves increases (M1 – make one) and decreases (k2tog, sl1-k1-psso, p2tog, p2tog tbl). Careful attention to the stripe sequence and the intarsia section of the face is also crucial for achieving the desired look. The pattern recommends using mattress stitch for seaming, ensuring a neat and professional finish.
Once all the pieces are knitted, the monkey is assembled by sewing the seams together and stuffing with hobby fill. The legs and tail are positioned so that the monkey can sit upright. Finally, the facial features (mouth, nose, and eyebrows) are embroidered using black yarn, bringing the monkey to life. The pattern offers a choice between using safety eyes or embroidering the eyes, providing flexibility based on preference and safety considerations. While the pattern suggests specific colors of ‘Bella Baby’ Hugs yarn, knitters are free to personalize their monkey with their own color choices. A firm tension is critical when working the pattern.
- Measurements:
- Seated Height (approx): 30 cm / approximately 11.8 inches
- Skill Level: Intermediate
- Materials Needed:
- Yarn: DK weight yarn in eight colors (M, C1-C7). The pattern specifies:
- ‘Bella Baby’ Hugs 50g:
- Main Colour (M – cream): 2 balls
- Contrast Colours (C1-mauve, C2-pale khaki, C3-dusty pink, C4-blue, C5-aqua, C6-nude, C7-mid blue): 1 ball of each
- ‘Bella Baby’ Hugs 50g:
- Needles: 4mm (UK 8 – US 6) knitting needles
- Notions:
- 4mm crochet hook (optional, for crocheted belly button)
- Hobby fill (stuffing)
- Small quantity of black yarn (for embroidery)
- 1 pair 12mm safety eyes OR black yarn (for embroidered eyes)
- Scissors
- Yarn needle
- Tape measure
- Stitch Markers
- Yarn: DK weight yarn in eight colors (M, C1-C7). The pattern specifies:
