This pattern is a PDF, written in English for intermediate knitters knitting flat on two needles. It comes in two parts:

1. General instructions, which include: Body and leg variations, assembly instructions, special stitch and technique instructions

2. Specific animal instructions for shaping animal heads and tails, and adding animal-specific details

The bear is one of the easier animals to knit. You have the option of giving the bear a different color muzzle or stomach, but it isn’t necessary. Use the same pattern for a black bear, brown bear, or polar bear, changing the color and size of yarn according to the type of bear you want to make.

You need to have…
• Yarn in desired color(s) and weight (~3oz/50g for sport weight; ~12oz/350g for worsted)
• Dark contrast yarn for eyes and nose
• Knitting needles at least 2 sizes smaller than those recommended for the yarn being used
• Stuffing
• Tapestry needle

You need to know…
• Stockinette stitch
• Increase and decrease stitches
• Mattress stitch for sewing seams
• Basic color change techniques (optional)

© Sherri Sagers, Painted Cricket, 2015, All rights reserved