Butterflies and moths (Lepidoptera) are some of the most conspicuous and colorful creatures found in nature. If you ever considered memorizing all butterfly species, you’ve got your work cut out for you, as there are over 20.000 species!
Three of these you can get to know a bit better through this pattern.

Included in this pattern are the Southern swallowtail, the large tortoiseshell and the wall brown and the flower St John’s wort. Each butterfly measures 5.5 cm and is an easy, fun and fast project to be finished in an evening or so.
The butterflies were knitted flat on 1.25 mm double pointed needles in a lace-gauged yarn, but can be done in heavier yarn (and will turn out a little larger). For the antennae you’ll need some sewing yarn and hair spray or gel. Some i-cord knitting and loop stitches (explained in the pattern) are needed for the flower.

The colors in the pattern are mere suggestions. Using different colors adds to the life-like appearance of your butterfly. Small and cheap cartons of lace-gauged, but sturdy mending yarn (like Scanfil) can provide you with a considerable, affordable array of yarns in all manner of hues.
Only small amounts of yarns are needed, so a butterfly is also a great project to use up any scraps you have lying around.

The butterflies can be attached to just about anything, as an embellishment. Or, start your own butterfly collection or lepidopterarium, as there are more patterns available!

May you knit with flying colors!
Viv