To begin, I’d love to take credit for the original idea, but it’s not mine. I discovered Angry Angel’s Cork Soldiers, Ninjas, and Gnomes on Craftster (http://www.craftster.org/forum/index.php?topic=337126.msg... ) and knew that I had to do something similar. Without her original work, and permission to repost her patterns with my variations, this wouldn’t have been possible.

Materials:

• You’ll need a supply of corks, a permanent black marker (Sharpie), and a small piece of chenille stem for the shepherd’s crook.
• Small amounts of several colors of yarn. I used Red Heart Solids.
• Crochet hook - the original designs called for a F/3.75mm, but that didn’t gauge right for me, so I dropped down to an E/3.5mm.

Notes:

• Work in rounds except where noted, and do not join the rounds.
• Work through both loops, except when noted.
• A stitch marker or scrap of yarn to mark the beginning of each round might be helpful. (Especially if you have distractions!)
• Depending upon your yarn, hook, tension, and cork size, you may need to add an additional row or two to cover the entire cork.
• Modifications are encouraged, and I’d love to see any additional figures or animals that you add to the scene.