This free bear pattern is recommended for experienced knitters. Knitters who haven't tried 3 color knitting can choose to make the sweater a solid color or easy stripes, or leave the sweater off altogether. The sweater is a great way to use up various bits of leftover yarn, or a good excuse to buy more!
Tips for Knitting This Teddy Bear
The bear shown here was knitted from the pattern with fewer sweater colors than the pattern suggested. He stands about 18" tall. The yarn and needle size will determine the size of the bear. I used round needles, the bear is completely knitted straight, there was no need for double pointed needles.
Stuffing the bear will stretch the stitches some, so it is a good idea to choose a needle size that gives a good firm knit so the stuffing doesn't show. Lighter weight scrap yarn for the sweater can be used doubled, if the sweater yarn is heavier than the body yarn, that's okay, too.
Knitting the Head
The head is knitted and stuffed separately. After it is knitted, before it is stuffed, check the area of decreases (the eye area) where the nose begins for gaps in the stitches that the stuffing can show through. I like to add a little extra yarn on the back to fill in the gaps.
Instead of beads for eyes for small children, large French knots can be made with a tapestry needle and black yarn. Make them and tie them firmly in place before stuffing the head. The nose and mouth can be stitched and securely tied before stuffing as well.
What to Use for Stuffing the Bear
The pattern calls for polyester fiberfill. If a softer, less fuzzy fill is desired, the stuffing from an old favorite pillow can be used, or even look for an inexpensive pillow that has a good feel.
The other area that needs reinforcement on the back is at the intersection of the legs just above the thigh gusset. The Foot pads and ears can be knit easily with 2 on the needle at one time. For a large bear, sewing the arms onto the body is easier with a large doll making needle than a regular yarn needle.
Knit one of these bears from the free pattern and you'll be hooked. It's a good bet you won't be able to knit just one. There are always good causes that can use handmade teddy bears. Check with your local hospital, church, or police group, and bring a smile and comfort to all who see them.
And now, I'm off to knit a white girl bear...
Corinne Shibley - Corinne Shibley studied sculpture in art history and created her own sculpture on the way to a B.A. in Studio Art. "There's something ...
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