The “banana” ears of the llama give you a chance to practice German short rows – a great technique for sock heels. The llama is a South American cousin of the camel. It needs little water and can carry about a quarter of its weight for up to 20 miles. You don’t have to worry about overloading one, because it knows its limit and will lie down or refuse to move if you try packing on too much. Llamas prefer being with other animals, have an excellent sense of sight, smell, and hearing, and are alert and protective, so they’re often used as guards for sheep. When agitated, a llama will stick out its tongue or spit - but mostly at other llamas. Yarn made from llama fiber is soft, lightweight and remarkably warm. Confused about the difference between a llama and an alpaca? Look at the ears and the size. Llamas are about twice the size of alpacas and their “banana” ears stick straight up. One more fun fact: llama poop isn’t very smelly, so it makes a great fertilizer!
You need to have…

• Yarn in desired colors and weight (~3.5oz/100g for sport weight;
~18oz/525g for worsted)
• Dark contrast yarn for eyes, nose, and eyelashes
• Knitting needles at least 2 sizes smaller than those recommended for the yarn used
• Stuffing
• Tapestry needle
• Crochet hook for fringe stitch

You need to know (or learn)…
• Stockinette stitch
• Increase and decrease stitches
• German short rows (explained in pattern)
• Fringe stitch
• Seed stitch for ears
• Mattress stitch for sewing seams