This pattern is written for three different weights of yarns, three different sizes, and three different stripe patterns, which makes for lots of flexibility!

Each yarn weight has a corresponding recommended needle size (US 7 for worsted, US 8 for aran, and US 9 for bulky) and desired stitch gauge. Gauge is not critical for this pattern, but you’ll want to make sure your stitches aren’t so loose that you’ll be able to see the ball’s stuffing through them.

Yarn: 45 (55, 65) yards total of worsted weight yarn, or
40 (50, 60) yards total of aran weight yarn, or
35 (45, 55) yards total of bulky weight yarn
We used our various leftover yarns such as Malabrigo Worsted, Berroco Catena, The Fibre Co. Tundra, and Blue Sky Woolstok.

Needles: US 7 / 4.5 mm straights or circulars, or
US 8 / 5 mm straights or circulars, or
US 9 / 5.5 mm straights or circulars

Notions: darning needle, tape measure, and scissors

Gauge: 5 stitches & 9 rows per inch in garter stitch with worsted weight yarn and smallest needles, or
4.5 stitches & 9.5 rows per inch in garter stitch with aran weight yarn and middle needles, or
3.5 stitches & 10 rows per inch in garter stitch with bulky weight yarn and largest needles

Sizes: Small (Medium, Large)

Measurements: 5 (5.5, 6)” wide &
7.5 (8.25, 9)” long before seaming
3.5 (4, 4.5)” in diameter after seaming