The nine-banded armadillo is the official Small Mammal of the State of Texas. Unlike some of his cousins, he can’t really curl up into a protective ball, but his leathery outer skin works well against most enemies… except motor vehicles. Don’t be fooled by his tough exterior; he’s all soft fuzzy tummy and big feet underneath.

Sam’s body and protective armor are crocheted both flat and in the round, then sewn and slipstitched together. His stripes are backstitched onto his back and tail. You will need two colors of yarn (dark gray and light gray) in the weight of your choice, two black buttons, a yarn needle and a hook which will give a nice tight stitch. Gauge is important only so far as it is consistent throughout the piece.