Lacewing larva
(Chrysoperla spp.)

Lacewings look very different in their immature stage (larvae) compared to adults. In this stage, they are voracious predators, eating pest insects like aphids. Their “jaws” may look scary, but if you find these little “alligators” hunting in your garden, consider yourself lucky!

Learn more about lacewings: https://cals.cornell.edu/integrated-pest-management/outre...

Materials:

• US G6/4 mm crochet hook; smaller (size 0 if you can find it) hook for antennae
• 3 double-pointed knitting needles (~2.75 mm, US 2) for jaws and legs
• Brown or mottled brown yarn for head and body; I used a sport or DK weight. If you use thicker yarn, this pattern will make a larger insect.
• Slightly lighter weight yarn in a similar color for antennae
• Worsted weight yarn for legs in a shade of brown that coordinates with the body color
• Fiber fill or yarn scraps of similar or lighter color to stuff your insect
• Tapestry needle for assembly
• One 12-inch long pipe cleaner, preferably in a color similar to yarn for legs
• 2 short pieces pipe cleaner (~1.25” each) for jaws
• 12-18” piece of black yarn for the eyes