Knit Hedgehogs
The first hedgehog I ever met was Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle, Beatrix Potter’s kindly washerwoman of the Lake District. From her tiny country cottage to her “little black nose [that] went sniffle, sniffle, snuffle, and her eyes [that] went twinkle, twinkle”, she was everything I thought charming and good as a child.
Since then I have always felt a love and affinity for hedgehogs. But not until I sat down to write this story did I actually realize that Mrs. Tiggy-Winkle was not only the first hedgehog I ever met, she is the only hedgehog I’ve ever met.
You see, I’ve always vaguely imagined that hedgehogs were all around me, hiding in burrows and hollow logs and hedgehog-sized cottages, but a quick look into the matter has thoroughly disavowed me of my silly assumptions. Hedgehogs don’t even live in the United States, let alone outside my window! They live most everywhere else, but not here. I’m sure this doesn’t surprise our worldly readers, but to me this information was a little bit shattering.
This newfound knowledge only makes my trio of Knit Hedgehogs more germane, because now they’re not just cute and adorable, but they also offer a very practical way to hang out with hedgehogs if you happen to live in the Americas!
England is one place hedgehogs do live (just ask Beatrix Potter!), and so for a truly native hedgehog, we turn to British crafter Julie Williams of Little Cotton Rabbits. Just before posting this story, Little Cotton Rabbit’s equally adorable Little Oddment Hedgie was pinned to our Pinterest page. We love it!
For our hedgie I used Manos del Uruguay’s pretty Silk Blend for its head and belly. With a gentle handspun shine, Silk Blend makes a lovely contrast to the Cascade yarns I used for the hedgehog’s garter stitch back. Both Eco Cloud and Superwash 128 are great heavy worsted weight choices for cuddling!
These guys are seriously fun to knit with not one lick of sewing or even grafting! So, if you’d like to populate your world with adorable little Knit Hedgehogs, get knitting! -Whitney
Designed by Purl Soho designer, Whitney Van Nes.
Share your progress and connect with the community by tagging your pics with #PurlSoho, #PurlSohoBusyHands, and #PurlSohoKnitHedgehogs. We can’t wait to see what you make!
Materials
- Main Yarn: 1 skein (or approximately 128 yards) of a worsted weight yarn.
- Contrast Yarn: 1 skein (or less than 150 yards) of a DK weight yarn.
- A set of US 4 (3.5 mm) double pointed needles
- A set of US 8 (5 mm) double pointed needles
- Stuffing
- Scrap yarn in a heavy worsted or chunky weight for the eyes and nose. I used Purl Soho’s Super Soft Merino in Soft Black.
Here’s what we used for our samples…
For the Pink Hedgehog
- 1 skein of Main Yarn, shown on left: Cascade’s Eco Cloud, 70% Undyed Merino Wool and 30% Undyed Baby Alpaca. This color is Ecru.
- 1 skein of Contrast Yarn, shown on right: Manos del Uruguay’s Silk Blend, 70% Merino Extrafine Wool and 30% Silk. This color is Shocking.
For the Natural Hedgehog
- 1 skein of Main Yarn, shown on left: Cascade’s Eco Cloud, 70% Undyed Merino Wool and 30% Undyed Baby Alpaca. This color is Wild Dove.
- 1 skein of Contrast Yarn, shown on right: Manos del Uruguay’s Silk Blend, 70% Merino Extrafine Wool and 30% Silk. This color is Natural.
For the Blue Hedgehog
- 1 skein of Main Yarn, shown on left: Cascade’s 128 Superwash, 100% Superwash Merino. This color is Feather Grey.
- 1 skein of Contrast Yarn, shown on right: Manos del Uruguay’s Silk Blend, 70% Merino Extrafine Wool and 30% Silk. This color is Juniper.
Gauge
7 stitches = 1 inch in stockinette stitch using Contrast Yarn and smaller needles
5½ stitches = 1 inch in garter stitch using Main Yarn and larger needles
Size
About 6 inches long and 11½ inches around
Pattern
Head
With the Contrast Yarn and the smaller double pointed needles, cast 6 stitches onto three needles. We used a basic Long Tail Cast On.
Join for working in the round, being careful to not twist the stitches.
Round 1: Knit.
Round 2: K1, make 1 left (m1l), k1, make 1 right (m1r), k4. (8 stitches)
Round 3: K2, m1l, k1, m1r, k5. (10 stitches)
Round 4: Knit.
Round 5: K7, m1l, knit to end of round, m1r. (2 stitches increased)
Repeat Round 5 until there are a total of 36 stitches.
Arrange the stitches so that the first 7 stitches of the round are on one needle and the remaining 29 stitches are distributed between the second and third needles.
Belly
NOTE: For this section you will just be working back and forth on the first 7 stitches.
Row 1 (right side): K1, m1r, knit to last stitch on the needle, m1l, k1. (9 stitches)
Row 2 (wrong side): Purl.
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 five more times. (19 stitches)
Next Row (right side): Knit.
Next Row: Purl.
**Next Row: Repeat Row 1. (2 stitches increased)
Next Row: Purl.
Next Row: Knit.
Next Row: Purl.
Repeat from ** one more time. (23 stitches)
Next Row (right side): K1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches on the needle, k2tog, k1. (21 stitches)
Next Row: Purl.
Next Row: K1, ssk, knit to last 3 stitches on the needle, k2tog, k1. (2 stitches decreased)
Next Row: P1, p2tog, purl to last 3 stitches on the needles, p2tog tbl, p1. (2 stitches decreased)
Repeat last 2 rows two more times. (9 stitches)
Next Row (right side): K1, slip 1, ssk, pass the slipped stitch over the ssk, k1, k2tog, place the k2tog-stitch onto the left needle, pass the next stitch over the k2tog-stitch, put it back on the right needle, k1. (5 stitches)
Cut the yarn. The 5 Belly stitches remaining on the double pointed needle will be on hold until the end of the next section.
Body
(FYI, the Main Yarn shown in the following photographs isn’t the Eco Cloud that I ended up using for my finished hedgehog. It’s another yarn that proved to be too thin. Live and learn!)
NOTE: For this section you will be working back and forth on the 29 Head stitches that have been on hold.
With the right side facing you and using the Main Yarn and the larger double pointed needles, knit 29 stitches onto three needles.
NOTE: The following instructions have you picking up stitches from the Belly selvages. Be sure to pick up every other row. You’ll know you have it right if between each picked up stitch, you see two vertical strands of the Contrast Yarn, like this:
Row 1 (wrong side): Knit to last 3 stitches, ssk, k1, pick up 1 stitch purlwise from the Belly. (29 stitches)
Here’s how to pick up purlwise: start with the yarn in front like you’re going to purl, bring the right needle from the right side of the fabric to the wrong side, wrap the yarn as if to purl, then bring the stitch out to the right side.
Row 2 (right side): Knit to last 3 stitches, ssk, k1, pick up 1 stitch knitwise from the Belly. (29 stitches)
Repeat Rows 1 and 2 until all the Belly’s edge stitches have been picked up and you have reached the 5 stitches on hold. End with a wrong side row.
Next Row (right side): *K5, k2tog, repeat from * to last stitch, k1, with the same double pointed needle, k the 5 stitches that have been on hold. (30 stitches)
Place a marker and continue to work with the right side facing you so that you’re now working in the round…
Round 1: Purl.
Round 2: *K4, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round. (25 stitches)
Round 3: Purl.
Round 4: *K3, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round. (20 stitches)
Round 5: Purl.
Now is a good time to turn your hedgehog inside out so you can weave in the ends. Then turn it right side out and fill it with stuffing, making it nice and chubby.
Round 6: *K2, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round. (15 stitches)
Round 7: Purl.
Round 8: *K1, k2tog, repeat from * to end of round. (10 stitches)
Round 9: Purl.
Round 10: *K2tog, repeat from * to end of round. (5 stitches)
Cut the yarn and thread it through the remaining stitches. Then thread the tail through the hedgehog so it comes out somewhere else and cut the tail.
Ears
With the smaller double pointed needles, the Contrast Yarn and the nose facing you, pick up 4 stitches from the top of the head where it meets the body. Pick up off to the right side, where an ear might be.
Row 1 (wrong side): Purl.
Row 2 (right side): Knit.
Row 3: P2tog, p2tog through the back loop. (2 stitches)
Row 4: Pass the left stitch over the right stitch. (1 stitch)
Cut yarn and pull it through the remaining stitch.
Now make a left ear just the way you made the right one!
Weave in the ends.
Eyes and Nose
Thread some scrap yarn onto a tapestry needle.
Poke the needle into the body of the hedgehog and bring the needle out under an ear, right where you’d like an eye.
Now insert the needle one stitch away from where it came out, and bring the needle out under the other ear.
Again, insert the needle one stitch away from where it came out, and now bring the needle out at the top of the nose.
Make four vertical stitches over the tip of the nose, then poke the needle out of the body somewhere.
Cut the tails, plump up your new friend and you’re done!
Looking for more inspiration? Explore all of our free knitting patterns and knitting tutorials, buy one of our many knitting kits and yarn bundles, and shop for beautiful yarn. We have over 35 gorgeous natural fiber yarns in 100’s of magnificent colors, designed to bring integrity, beauty, and joy to your next knitting project and only available at Purl Soho!
This is just too cute! I knit the big snowy owl for my friends little girl and this little hedgehog will be perfect for her new baby sister/brother.
Heading over to get the pattern! Absolutely adorable. Love the colors you used.
They are just too cute. I'll have to find someone to knit them for.
Absolutely love your hedgehogd. Thank you for the pattern,will be knitting some soon.
Thank you Lois
Unbelievably cute! I have some leftover Eco Cloud from a Bandana cowl project and am wondering how much of the skein is needed for the hedgehog?
Thanks!
My husband loves hedgehogs. I will make him one for valentine's day.
Your website is beautiful! The pattern is detailed and the work along photographs are very helpful. My daughter loves hedgehogs. This is now in the queue. Thank you for sharing your creative genius!
HI Jane,
I used about 20 grams of the Eco Cloud for one hedgehog (or about 33 yards). A whole skein, by the way, is 100 grams.
Thanks for your question! I hope you have enough!
Whitney
They are just so cute and with your directions and pictures they look easy to make. My granddaughter wanted to buy a hedgehog but this will be better for her and the hedgehog. LOL I love your site and look forward to reading it and seeing all your wonderful projects. Thank you for letting us share in your wonderful world of beautiful, whimsical and fun projects and seeing the marvelous yarns, pattterns and all the great items to help us be creative.
So adorable! One question-how do you keep the first and last stitch of the eyes and nose from loosening, since the ends are not woven in?
Oh how cute! I have knit several other hedgehogs already, but I think I'll give this one a try as well..
Love,
Ilse
these are so terribly sweet. Thank you!
Thanks so much, Whitney! I have 21 grams of Eco Cloud – just enough!
Am casting on now. Thanks again for your inspiration and generosity.
Juniper not available? Would lapis work or is some juniper coming in? LOVE your patterns; they are so clear and detailed. Followed your instructions and yarn choices for the Kahoon(?sp) bunny family and it was just great so thanks.
Hi Ann Marie-
Juniper will be coming back in stock. If you drop us a line at customerservice AT purlsoho DOT com we can let you know when it's back. Or, if you'd rather start now Lapis would be a great substitute.
Thanks for your question!
Molly
Thanks for the wonderful pattern and the priceless photos! I love hedgehogs and fortunately here in Germany they do live just outside my window. One is currently sleeping winter away on the other side of the wall 50cm from where I am sitting now on my sofa. Two years ago I fed a whole family (mother and 3 kids) so that they had enough fat to survive the winter. Will knit these to remind me of that adorable family.
Hi Patricia,
I find that the eyes and nose hold their position just by sewing the tail through the stuffing. If you're worried about it, you can sew the tail in an out of the body several times. If you do this, you may find that it's a little tricky to keep the black yarn hidden, which is why I just went through the body once.
Thanks for the great question!
Whitney
Love the pattern but confused on section when picking up belly stitches. So I pick up every other row. On the rows I'm not picking up stitches do I knit all stitches and not do the ssk and knit one? I'm running out of stitches on the needles as I've been decreasing stitch on rows I'm not picking up stitch. Just can't wrap my brain around how it's done.
Hi Cindy,
I understand the confusion! You should decrease and pick up at the end of every row, but the stitch that you're picking up is from every other row of the body piece.
I hope this makes more sense to you now! Thanks for your question and good luck!
Whitney
These are fabulous! I shared them over at a fb-page I'm moderating: https://www.facebook.com/todamer/posts/213800342097291
Thanks for sharing!
These are too much. I want to eat them!!! I can't wait to try my hand at these little guys!
These are so cute. They are on my list for when I learn to use DP needles.
adorable!
Living in Sweden I not only have the hedgehogs outside, but I am also so lucky as to have an African pygmy hedgehog as my pet and friend at home.
None the less, I am sure that he would love to have a knitted friend like this.
Thank you for the pattern, and I do hope that you will meet more hedgehogs as time goes by. They really are nice creatures.
I am making two of these little guys for my cousin's twin boys. This is such a cute stuffy! Here's the first one:) thank you so much, Purlbee, for such wonderful and easy to find instructions! http://www.facebook.com/photo.php?fbid=751338065491&set=pcb.751338305011&type=1&theater
Thank you for the the inspiration! I have, however, some issues with the end of the belly part;
"Repeat last 2 rows two more times. (9 stitches)
Next Row (right side): K1, slip 1, ssk, pass the slipped stitch over the ssk, k1, k2tog, place the k2tog-stitch onto the left needle, pass the next stitch over the k2tog-stitch, put it back on the right needle, k1. (5 stitches)"
How do I go from 9 to 5 stitches with only 1 ssk and 2 k2tod? I should add that Im a beginner…
Hi Sara,
First, when you "slip 1, ssk, pass the slipped stitch over the ssk" you're actually decreasing two stitches: one when you ssk and one when you pass the slipped stitch over. ("Passing the slipped stitch over," by the way, is the same motion as binding off.) So, we're down to 7 stitches…
And then, when you "k2tog, place the k2tog-stitch onto the left needle, pass the next stitch over the k2tog-stitch" you're again decreasing 2 stitches: one when you k2tog and one when you pass the next stitch over. And that brings you to 5 stitches!
That last step is a bit unconventional. Please let me know if you need any more help with it and thanks for your question!
Whitney
I saw this cute little guy and had to make one!! I just finished the body, now I only have the eyes/ears/nose left – and I'm finished with the toughest project I've done to date – thanks for the step-by-step, the pictures you have were supremely helpful!
Used Paton's Classic Wool (Worsted) and Paton's Bamboo for the contrast. So cute!
Thank you very much, didnt realize that passing stitches meant "dropping" them (both beginner and swedish…) thank you so much, got it know.
Thanks so much for sharing this sweet project. It makes the short list on my knitting projects !!!!! SMILE
I'm trying to convince a hedgehog to come live at my house but having a problem
getting the directions to print … hedgehogs always need directions … could you
check your print button … thanks …t.
a beautiful sight … just what former city dwellers need when they move to the country
Hi Thomas-
So glad to hear that you want to knit these! If you're having trouble printing from the print button we suggest that you copy and paste the text into a Word or Text doc and print from there. We know this isn't ideal and it's something we're working on but right now that is the best fix.
Thank you!
Molly
I had insomnia last night and made one of these in the wee hours, it came out beautifully, just looking for some stuffing today to finish it up. Will make two more, they are so quick and easy! I used some left over Jade 4ply cashmere in cream for the belly and a wool/alpaca blend for the body, it's so incredibly snuggly!
I just got started and already have a q. What do you mean by M1left and M1right? Sorry, I just don't get it. thanks
Hi Maureen,
Make 1 Left and Make 1 Right are methods of increasing. Here's a tutorial that shows you how to do both: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/make-1-right-left-tutorial/2008/4/23/make-1-right-make-1-left-tutorial.html
Also, when words are red in our patterns, that means you can click on them and be sent right to the tutorial that explains that particular term!
Please let us know if you have any other questions and thanks for this one!
Whitney
HI Margaret,
Your comment was accidentally deleted during some recent site construction, but luckily I had it on file! For curious readers, you wrote:
Hi!
What a great design and such a cute little guy.
One tiny typo I wanted to point out:
"Round 10: *K2tog, repeat from 8 to end of round. (5 stitches)"
I think the 8 should be a * .
Thanks for all your beautiful work!
-Margaret
Anyway, thanks so much for pointing that out. It's been fixed!
Whitney
I just wanted to say that I love this pattern! I have been looking for weeks to find the perfect hand made pressie for my twin nieces soon to be arriving later this month, and I found it! What better way to celebrate the birth of two beautiful twin girls with matching hedgehogs complete with monogram on their bellies made with love from their uncle!
This project is a lot of firsts for me; double pointed needles, increasing, decreasing.The instructions were very well written and easy to follow. It took me a couple of goes in the beginning of the head (my man hands kept getting in the way of things) but once I got the hang of it I was off and the first one a good 4 hours later has turned out great!
I used a beautiful light pink cotton for the head and belly and a mid/light grey melange alpaca/merino for the body, the texture contrast is beautiful and works brilliantly with this design and shows off the different stitches perfectly.
Thanks again for sharing this with us! I had so much fun making this that I'm sure everyone I know will end up with their own personalized hedgehog for their birthday or Christmas!
Thanks so much for this post! Just made one for my nephew's first birthday. It turned out so cute! Love love love this!!
This has got to be the cutest thing I've ever made. Thanks for the pattern. I'm gifting this with the book titled The Mitten, I'll also add a white mitten. If you haven't read that children's book, you should
would you kindly tell me how many hedgies can be made from the 2 skeins required?
i'm planning on making a few, and need to know if i have to buy 2 skeins per hedgie.
thank you!
jen
This pattern is absolutely ingenious–I am working on my third hedgehog, using various combinations of leftover yarn as well as the various weights of Icelandic Lopi (I have a large collection having lived there where it's very cheap, and the texture is perfect for this). I've been knitting for a long time, and while I haven't done many stuffed animals or 3-D projects, I'm just so impressed by this pattern. It's complex enough to create a precise shape without being overly complicated and has zero unnecessary steps or tricks (a pet peeve of mine in ANY craft project). I keep wanting to make more just because I enjoy the pattern. Thank you so much for sharing it for FREE!
Hi Jen –
I'm sorry to be so delayed in answering you. I've been trying to track down my leftover skeins, but my stash has reached a point of unwieldiness! I did find an Eco Cloud skein which shows that you could make about 8 Hedgehog backs with one skein. And as for the Belly and the Manos Silk Blend, I would guess at least the same!
Thanks so much for your question and please let us know if you have more (I promise to answer more quickly next time!).
Whitney
I really want to make this but I'm only 11 and live in the uk !! Help! I find the abbreviations confusing and the picking up stitches from the belly and stuff!!
I've never knit with 4 needles, any chance of a 2 needle pattern being produced?
Hi Jan-
We don't have plans to rework this pattern but knitting with double pointed needles isn't too hard. We have a tutorial here if you'd like to give it a try!
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/double-pointed-needles-tutoria/
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
HI Char,
Do you know anyone who knows how to knit? He or she could be such a great help because some of the more complicated techniques (like picking up stitches) are more easily learned in person. Even a local knitting shop can be a great resource!
Otherwise, go to this link to learn about all of the abbreviations we use: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-terms-tutorials/ . You'll also find there lots of tutorials (some photo and some video) which will answer some of your questions.
And if you get started and have trouble you can always write to us and we'll try to get you out of whatever sticky wicket you're in! I encourage you to give it a try!
Thanks for writing in and good luck!
Whitney
Thanks Whitney
OMG, my sister said her son, my 11 year old nephew, would LOVE this for Christmas! I just finished it and can't wait to give it to him! I always wondered what an 11 year old boy would like knitted by his favorite Auntie 🙂
Cheers,
Sandy
So adorable!! Will share on my Hedgehog Care website on our "Hedgehog Crafts" page and link back! 🙂
Do you think this adorable hedgehog can be done using 9" circular needles?
Hi
I'm a french woman but i don't understand the pattern !!
Do anyone speak french and translate this to me
It would be great and helpfull
thank you
do you belong to Ravelry.com? They will help you to understand the English.
Put the pattern into Google translate ( copy and paste)
Hi Caroline-
We don't speak French so unfortunately we can't be of much help! Sorry!
Molly
Hi Marny CA,
I think you would run into a couple of spots where you'd need a set of double pointed needles, most notably, at the beginning when you knit the head. For most of the body, however, you should be fine with very short circular needles!
Thanks for asking and good luck!
Whitney
If you cast on with Judy’s Magic Cast On or a bellybutton / disappearing loop cast on (which are neatest anyway) circs with an average and flexible cable will do magic loop for this pattern perfectly. If you have interchangeables it’s even easier because you can leave the first 7 stitches on the needle, unscrew the cable and screw end caps on the cable. That way the 28 stitches are more secure and you can screw a shorter cable on the tip for the belly.
Hello Elizabeth!
Thank you for sharing your pro tips! Keep up the great work! -Alyson
Hi I think the hedgehogs are sooooo cute. But am wanting to know is the wool used for his back Double Knit or thicker please. Emailing from New Zealand.
Thank you
Hi Jeanette-
The yarn used for the back is a heavy worsted which is a bit thicker than Double Knit weight yarn. Thank you!
Molly
Really loved these when I found them on you site. They do work up very fast. And sooo much fun. Love Love them:)))
Hi,
I live in South Africa and can't buy this wool here; what weight is it so I can find a substitute? I clicked on the link and unfortunately it doesn't list the wool weight either.
Thank-you!
Hi Samantha-
The face is knit from a light worsted yarn (this is called the Contrast Yarn in the pattern) and the body is knit from a heavy worsted (called the Main Yarn.)
Just make sure you are getting the proper gauge before you start! The gauge is listed under "The Pattern" headline.
Thank you for getting in touch!
Molly
Hello,
Very cute pattern and working on my first stuffed toy! I was a little confused with the start of the belly section. It says to put the first 7 stitches of the round on one needle, but the pictures shows the last 7 stitches on one needle. The following instructions for working back and forth on those stitches has the first 7 stitches on one needle. Am I just looking at the picture wrong? Because the finished belly also looks like it's made from the stitches in the picture, so I'm not sure how to arrange my stitches. Just let me know.
Thanks!
Hi Jovana,
I think in the picture it kind of looks like the working yarn is coming from the front needle, but really it's coming from the back needle. So, you should follow the pattern which says to put the first 7 stitches onto one needle and to work just those 7 stitches for the Belly section.
I'm sorry for the confusion. I hope this clears things up for you! Please let us know if you have any other questions and thank you so much for this one!
Whitney
First of all thank you *so much* for this pattern, I loved it the minute I saw it! It was so cute that I overcome my fear for double pointed needles and now I have one lovely hedgehog sitting in my pillow! I decide to make two more of them as a gift to a newborn and I' m wondering if it is possible to double the pattern in order to make one of them bigger than the other. I have also a question about the head because mine isn't as perfect as yours. You write:
<i>"Rounutd 5: K7, m1l, knit to end of round, m1r. (2 stitches increased)"</i>
As "knit to end of round" you mean that I m1t after the 10th stitch or between 9th and 10th? And if it is after how I will do it?
I knit like this ?
xxxxxxx m1l xxxx m1r x
At this point we have 12 stitches.
Then you write:
<i>"Repeat Round 5 until there are a total of 36 stitches."</i>
I didn't very well understood from which stitch we start count the first seven in the next round and if as and of round you mean the m1r of the previous round.
For example (i use y to mark previous round m1l and m1r stitch )
12 stitch round: xxxxxxx m1l xxxx m1r x
14 stitch round: xxxxxxx m1l y xxxx y m1r x
16 stitch round: xxxxxxx m1l yy xxxx yy m1r x
Is this correct or I have to count as first or seven the last stitch after the m1r?
Please forgive me for my mistakes as English is not my mother tongue.
And thank you again, your site is awesome!
HI Nancy,
You could try to change the pattern to increase the size of the hedgehog, but you may run into a few tricky moments! An easier approach may be use much bigger yarns, keeping them at the same proportions to each other as they are in this pattern, i.e. 7:5.5 stitches to the inch.
For Round 5, you should actually "make 1 right" after you knit the last stitch of the round. You do this the same way you would make 1 anywhere else in a pattern. Here's our video tutorial that reviews make 1 right and left: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/knitting-tutorials-increases/2013/8/13/make-one-right-m1r-make-one-left-m1l.html.
And as far as continuing to repeat Round 5, your chart is correct except for the make 1 right happening before the last stitch instead of after. To clarify, you should always just knit the first 7 stitches of the round, then make 1 left, knit the remaining stitches in the round, make 1 right.
I hope this helps improve the look of your next hedgie's head! Congratulations on having made the first one and thank you for your questions!
Whitney
Dear Witney, thank you for your quick answer. You are right, I can make the 1r the same way I can do it anywhere else because I knit circular… As a newbie this isn't obvious.
Thank you again and many greetings from Greece!
Nancy
I love this hedgehog and am enjoying knitting it. The question that I have is in regards to picking up stitches around the belly. The directions say to pick up every other row and we can tell we're doing so when there are two vertical strands. When I try, not only am I not getting the two vertical strands, I am seeing some significant gaps between the picked up stitches. How do I avoid the gaps and get a nice seam like in your photos? Thanks!
Hi Dana,
My guess is that you're having problems because you're sometimes picking up every row and sometimes every other row, or you're picking up sometimes right at the selvedge and sometimes a stitch or two away from the selvedge.
Picking up stitches neatly (and confidently!) is a technique that seems to require a lot of practice and/or experience. The single most important tip I can give is to be consistent! Even if you don't pick up your stitches in exactly the same place I picked up my stitches, if you find a pick-up spot that makes sense to you and you do the same thing every time, you'll have a nice seam.
I hope this helps! Thanks so much for your question and please let us know if you have any others!
Whitney
Thanks so much for this fun pattern! I loved making it and my hedgehog looks great resting on my fireplace hearth.
So cute! Whitney, do you think it would to do the hedgehog's garter stitch back with two strands of the Anzula Sebastian yarn instead of the thicker yarns recommended? I have some extra Sebastian yarn from a different baby project and would love to use it up with a matching hedgehog!
Hola, acabo de terminar el hermoso Erizo con cara Rosa fuerte y cerpo color natural qued hermoso, no habpia hecho un amigurumi con agujas aspi que me gust el proyecto, adems de lo bie explicado, espero encontrar otros animalitos, para poder hacerlos, Gracias por su pgina me ha gustado mucho, felicidades. desde Mxico, D. F.
Hi Sigrid,
Sure! As long as you're getting the same garter stitch gauge as the pattern you're all set; or, at least as long as the stockinette gauge and the garter stitch gauge are in the correct ratio to each other you're all set!
Thanks for asking and please let us know if you have any other questions!
Whitney
Hello, I have my double pointed needles out and have started the nose over countless times. Are there any tricks to using double pointed needles with so few stitches? My needles are slipping all over the place and I lose track of the order in which the needles are supposed to go and by the time I get to round two, it is such a mess that the m1l is impossible… any tips?
Thanks… I love these hedgehogs and am determined to succeed!
Hi Pastille-
Double pointed needles can be tricky and confusing! Mostly they just take practice and patience but our Double Pointed Needle Tutorial also might help: https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2008/07/25/double-pointed-needles/
Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Oh my goodness I had the same problem with the nose because I have never worked with so few stitches! I was using stainless steel needles and the stitches kept slipping off. Almost quit! I did eventually get the nose started. Not perfect but I kept on anyway. Now working on picking up the belly stitches.
Jackie
Hello !
Thank you so so much for this pattern. I was a bit afraid at first, but really enjoyed knitting this hedgehog. It is so cute. http://annaetlespetiteschoses.blogspot.fr/2014/09/mon-petit-herisson-dautomne.html
Annabelle
Ps : I’ve seen there are French people asking for a translation of this tutorial. If you ever want one, feel free to ask. I could give you the one I’ve made to knit mine… 🙂
Hello, I would like to receive the explanations of the hedgehog in French. It would be really kind.
I began but it is really very hard to understand(include).
I am very grateful.
Thank you very much. Brigi
Hi Brigitte,
Thank you for the comment! Unfortunately we are unable to translate our patterns into other languages at this time. None of our blog staff are able to translate accurately enough for us to be sure it is correct.
I apologize that I can’t be of more assistance. If you have any other questions about the pattern feel free to reply!
Good Luck!
Jake
Dear Purl Bee,
love this pattern, I have a question regarding the start of the stronger yarn – do I pick up the knitting with “working in rounds” with 4 needles? Like in the beginning with the thinner yarn – or do I continue knitting like the end of the belly section with two needles back and forth, each of the three needles separately. I am sorry if this seems confusing, I just cannot get my head around “starting from the wrong side” and then working with the usual “rounds”… Thanks for the clarification.
Antje
Hi Antje,
You knit the Body back and forth in rows (turning the work at the end of each row), like you did at the end of the Belly, only now you’re using three double pointed needles instead of two.
I hope this clears things up for you and thanks for your question!
Whitney
Hello,
I had a similar question regarding knitting back and forth on the three double pointed needles for the start of the body section. Does this require a fourth needle? You mention that it is similar to the belly, in that you turn the work around after each row; but, do we only use three needles at any given time, or do we need a fourth to begin knitting? Does adding a forth needle make it knitting in the round?
Thank you!!
Hello Maggie,
You’re correct! You are holding the body stitches on 3 needles, and you will need a fourth needle to knit with. You are still turning the work each row and therefore knitting with a wrong side and a right side, so you aren’t knitting in the round. Hope this helps!
Alyson
Hi, I am trying to make a “baby” hedgehog to go with the two regular sized parents. Can you suggest how to decrease the number of stitches so it will work with the pattern please?
Hi ximena!
For a 3D object like this, I think the best thing to do is to use a smaller size yarn and smaller needles!
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Love this pattern. I noticed several folks on Ravelry have turned the head around so that the nose turns up which I must admit, is pretty darn cute. Can you offer instructions for doing this?
Thanks!
Hi Basia!
We wouldn’t be able to write out specific instructions, unfortunately, but I can suggest that the folks on Ravelry must be doing this by changing the very first step of the “Belly.” I can only guess that they are working back and forth on the 7 stitches across from the Beginning of Round instead.
Happy Knitting!
Thomas
Can I get a crochet pattern for the Hedgehog ?
Hi Geri-
Unfortunately we don’t have this in a crochet version. Maybe you could try to do a web search for a crocheted hedgehog pattern?
Sorry we can’t be of more help.
Best-
Molly
I came across this just in time to make one as a Christmas present for a friend who loves hedgehogs. I substituted a sparkly eyelash yarn for his back and was very pleased with how it came out. Thank you for sharing this pattern!
I made several of these from leftover handspun of different weights, and I stuffed them with wool roving. Cats LOVE them.
Thank you for the pattern and wonderful photo instructions. I hope to make this soon.
Hi
I have unpicked the hedgehog twice now.
As I knit I am left with a hole where the nose should be but in all your pictures, the nose is knitted over, there is no hole.
What am I doing wrong pleas?
Regards
Minnie
Hi Minnie,
Thank you for the comment! The nose is the very beginning of the pattern and is made with the 6 casted on stitches so I recommend trying to knit them as tight as possible to help close it up. Then at the end you stitch the black onto the nose with a tapestry needle so if there is a hole there you can create the stitches in a way that close up the hole nicely.
I hope this helps and feel free to write us back if you are still having trouble or if anything else comes up!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Hi
Hedgehog, am I casting on 6 stitches in total, or 6 on each of 3 double pointed needles please?
Regards
Minnie
Hi Minnie,
Thank you for the comment! You are casting on 6 stitches total and then dividing it amongst the 3 needle, so you will have 2 stitches on each needle.
Feel free to respond if you have any other questions!
Happy Knitting!
Jake
Hi,
I couldn’t quite figure out the first part of the pattern with the face.
I felt like I was doing it right but it’s not turning out the way it should. Can you please help me?
-Grette
Hi Grette,
Starting a project on double pointed needles with so few stitches can be a little tricky because the needles want to wriggle around a whole lot. You may find it easier to work the first few rounds flat on just two needles and to join into the round a few rows later (once you’re finished, you’d have to sew a little seam to join those first few rows).
If you want to try that method, you’d…
Cast on 6 stitches.
Row 1 (wrong side): Purl.
Row 2 (right side): K1, make 1 left (m1l), k1, make 1 right (m1r), k4. (8 stitches)
Row 3: P5, m1l, p1, m1r, p2. (10 stitches)
Slip a third of the stitches onto a third needle and with the right side facing you, join to work in the round, starting with Round 4.
Another thing to consider is that you may need some brushing up on your increases. If so, please make sure you view our video tutorial on the subject…
https://www.purlsoho.com/create/2013/08/13/make-one-right-m1r-make-one-left-m1l/
I hope this helps! If not, please let us know exactly where you think you might be going wrong and we’ll try to sort it out. Thanks so much for your question and good luck!
Whitney
Hi again,
I figured it out on my own before I saw your response, but thanks so much anyways!
I just got confused at round 5 because I didn’t realize that the m1r stitches were stitches at the end of the round, so I wasn’t knitting to the end of the round completely like the pattern said to.
Also, I modified this pattern a little bit so that the head was upside-down because I thought that it looked cuter, and I also added feet to it.
Thanks again, and thanks so much for this wonderful pattern!
-Grette
Hi Grette,
Sounds adorable! I’m so glad it worked out for you!
Whitney
Loved the story and the photos. The directions that appear with this pattern are quite clear. However, the printout is confusing (and I am an experienced knitter) because it does not reflect the simplicity of the design that I read on the screen. I am faced with the reference to a site that explains a stitch, etc. So I just hand copied the original.
Hi Barbara-
I’m so sorry to hear you’re having trouble printing out this pattern. Are you using our print feature? If not here are some instructions on how to use it…
If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print†icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print†icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials.
I hope this helps! Please let us know if you have any more questions!
Molly
Hi, does casting 6 stitches onto 3 kneedles mean 6 each or 6 between the three needles?
x
Hello Lauren!
Great question! This means cast on 6 total stitches and then distribute them between 3 needles so that there are 2 stitches on each needle. You’ll be increasing quickly so it won’t be so sparse for long! Please write again if you need anything! -Alyson
I’m a still a novice knitter, so I’m still looking up a lot of the techniques you mention. But I really want to make this as a gift for a hedgehog owner, and I’ve got the belly done, so I’m not giving up!
I’m a little confused when it comes to starting the body. I’ve only ever done basic things like scarves and a hats, and this is my first time trying a pattern that involves picking up stitches and knitting onto edges.
With the wrong side facing me (head at the top), the working yarn (main) is on the right side of the piece at the end of the head after. This is after knitting onto the 29 head stitches, as I think is how it should be. But I’m not sure where to go from there. Do I start knitting onto the body, following the “pick up and knit” technique as a lot of video tutorials show? You mention that Row 1 should have 29 stitches, which makes me think I’m supposed to knit around the head again? I’m just confused as to what I should be knitting onto (which last three stitches?), and what you mean by “knit,” as in the standard knit or “pick up and knit.”
I apologize for the lengthy comment. Appreciate your help!
Hello, Christina!
Thank you so much for writing in and sorry for the very delayed response! It sounds like you’re on the right track! For the body you will be working back and forth on the 29 Head stitches that have been on hold. So, with the right side facing you and using the Main Yarn and the larger double pointed needles, knit 29 stitches onto three needles (it sounds like you’ve got this part).
For Row 1 you’ll knit along those 29 stitches. So, for row 1 you’ll knit 27 stitches then you ssk, k1 and then you pick up 1 stitch knitwise from the Belly (remember that when you are picking up stitches from the Belly selvages you should be picking up every other row – we’ve got a picture of what this looks like in the pattern).
So, essentially you’re knitiing around the head picking up stitches along the body as you go. If you have further questions please let us know!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
I love this pattern! Thanks so much for sharing it. The hedgehogs have such sweet little faces, which I think are the most crucial part of any handmade little animal. I also appreciate the way you write patterns–it seems very logical and efficient to me, and I really enjoyed knitting a few of these little guys!
Hi,
Thank you for this lovely pattern! I made one from leftover yarn and due to this imperfect yarn choice and slight overfilling it ended up looking like anteater’s and hedgehog’s fat lovechild. Also my kids insisted that this creature must have feet as well so I made four “ears” to it’s belly where one could think feet might be. Came up pretty cute after all 🙂
Thank you for the feet idea! You saved me! I was trying to make little circle feet that look terrible. The ear/foot worked great! THANKS!
Is there a PDF download for this pattern? Thank you.
Hi Clare,
Thanks for writing in! You certainly can download a PDF of this pattern. If you’re on a desktop version of the site, you will find a “print” icon in the right column just below the date and tags. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find a “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Follow the easy on-screen instructions to delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print or save. For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials.
Happy knitting!
Cassy
Just made an adorable hedgehog, and want to make a larger one. Do you think I could just double the yarns I used and increase the needle size?
Hi Ellen,
Thanks for writing in! This is a great idea. All you have to do is double the yarn and up the needle size. You could also just use thicker yarns. Good luck!
Best,
Adam
I want to download the hedgehog off your web sit
Hi Beverley,
Thanks for writing us! If you want to download a PDF, simply click the print button on the right side of the screen and you can click PDF in the pop-up window. There you can also print and email the pattern to yourself. Thanks again!
Best,
Adam
Any way to modify the pattern to double the size. I’d love to make a small children’s pillow for the car or plane.
Hi Shawna!
Thank you for writing in! To make a larger hedgehog you can double the yarn and up the needle size. You could also use thicker yarn. Best of luck!
Best wishes,
Kumeko
quick question: I can’t find on the pattern how to make the tail?
Thanks,
Gale
Hi Gale,
Thanks for writing in! This lovely little pattern does not have a tail for the hedgehog.
Best,
Cassy
Hi! Love this pattern! If I wanted to size it up, what would be the best way to pick needles sizes? Should I double the smaller size or just go up by multiples of 4? Like, if I use a size 8 for the belly, would I use a size 16 for the back? Or a size 12? I would obviously size up the yarn as well.
Hi Maggie,
Thanks for writing in! It all depends on the yarn you choose. I would definitely pick a bulky weight yarn for the back and a worsted for the belly. The needle size you choose all depends on the yarn because different yarns require different needles. Best of luck and happy knitting!
-Adam
Cute pattern. Can’t wait to try. Also hedgehogs do live in the US, not wild but you can keep them as pets. Only a handful of states say they’re illegal. ?
I looove this pattern and have begun adapting it – the first on my list was a little pink pig! I just changed the snout & added a knotted I-cord tail – adorbs!
Hi!
Very beautiful hedgehog!
I’ve knitted one, you can see the video in this link:
https://vimeo.com/307309425
Thank you for this cool pattern, I love it!
Thx for the tutorial, it’s easy to understand, it is very kind of you to share your great work. I really appreciate it. Love from Turkey 🙂
Thank you! I loved this tutorial, it was my second knitting project ever. I used Patton’s worsted weight 100% wool yarn for both sections and it still turned out fine.
Soooo cute!
Hi! I’m writing from Italy, I love this pattern and I would like to make a hedgehog as a birthday present for a friend of mine but I’m not an advanced knitter, I was wondering, is this pattern really difficult? Do you suggest it for not advanced knitters?
Thanks and have a nice day!
Hi Chiara
Thanks for writing in! We don’t rate our patterns for difficulty, but I wouldn’t consider this advanced. We have great tutorials available Using Double Point Needles M1L & M1R and Picking up Stitches are a few you might want to watch before starting, and this pattern has great pictures attatched for reference. I hope this helps, and reach out if you have any more problems!
Happy knitting
Jessica
Thank you for sharing such a lovely pattern. I adore your hedgehogs, they are beautifully knitted.
Hi: I’d like some advice for stuffing this. I am using natural wool.
Is it good to err on the side of overstuffed, as over time the stuffing will get compressed? Or should I stuff it just enough so that it still is a bit squishy?
(By the way, do you sell stuffing?)
Hi Natalie,
Thanks for reaching out! I think this mostly comes down to preference! If you prefer a bit of squish I would recommend not over stuffing it, but if you prefer it to be more dense and not as squishy than I would say to add some extra stuffing. Since these are smaller items you wont need to worry about the stuffing getting compressed over time like what may happen in a bigger project, like a pillow, since the stuffing wont be getting moved around as much inside!
And yes! We do sell stuffing, we carry a Poly-Fil Stuffing and a 100% Cotton Stuffing!
I hope this helps!
Warmly,
Gianna
Thanks Gianna!
What are the differences between the stuffings? Poly-fill , cotton, or wool? I am trying to decide what the best option is. Why might I choose one over another? 🙂
Is the Poly-fill less likely to compress?
Hi Natalie,
Thats a great questions! I would say cotton stuffing is the best choice for quilting or stuffing a blanket for instance. For a smaller item like this I would narrow it down to Wool or Poly-fill for the stuffing! Wool stuffing is very common in toys and might have a better overall feeling. Poly-fill is a bit more cost effective and machine washable! Wool will also be a bit more dense while Poly-fill is a bit lighter! Either way I don’t think you’ll have to worry too much about compressing!
I hope this helps!
Gianna
Hi,
I am working on the face- my tapestry needle seems too blunt to pierce through the stuffing for making the face. Can you recommend another tool that make work better?
Hi Natalie,
Thanks for reaching out! I’d suggest you take a look at the Clover’s Chibi with Darning Needles set as an option. It comes with three different needle sizes, and it sounds like a finer needle might be just what you need!
I hope this helps, and please let me know if you have any other questions!
All the best,
Kelsey
Thanks for the suggestion!
They may indeed be better than the Clover Jumbo Bent Tip Tapestry Needles…. but also hope it is possible to thread the bulky yarn through it!
Can someone make a video on how to make this? im a beginner and everything looks so hard!
Hi Ashley,
Thanks for reaching out! We don’t currently have the resources available to film a tutorial for this pattern, but thank you for expressing your interest! I will be sure to pass this along to the rest of the team. I know this pattern may seem complicated but it is actually pretty easy and straightforward! If you decide to knit this and run into any issues I am happy to help at any point here in the comment section or you can reach out to us directly for assistance by emailing our team at [email protected]
I hope this helps, happy knitting!
Gianna
Hallo ich habe Gesicht und Bauch fertig, jetzt komme ich nicht weiter 3Maschen stricken, 2 zusammen stricken, 1 Masche stricken und dann eine Masche vom Bauch dazu, ich bin doch vielzuweit weg vom Bauch dafür.
Danke für die Hilfe
Hi Brunni,
Thanks for reaching out! Please email a photo of your work to our customer service team at [email protected] and they can help you further from there!
Warmly,
Gianna
It looks like the recommended yarn is no longer available on the Purl Soho website. Can you offer other yarn suggestions that you sell? Many thanks!
Hi Alissa,
Thanks for reaching out! Yes, we no longer sell the yarns listed but luckily I have some great alternatives available! For the body, I would suggest using our Worsted Twist, Linen Quill Worsted, or WOOLFOLK YARN Tov. For the contrasting color, I would suggest using our Flax Down, or Kersti Merino Crepe, Solid and Multi!
I hope this helps and please let me know if you have any more questions!
Gianna
When you are starting the head, is it 6 stitches on each needle or 6 stitches spread across the three needles? I’m trying to increase the stitches with 2 stitches on each needle to start out with can’t m1r due to there not being any stitches to do it.
Hi Sydney,
Thanks for reaching out. You’ll be starting with 6 stitches spread out between all three needles, so 2 stitches per needle. It’s a little tricky to maneuver for the first few rows, but I’d recommend shifting your stitches on the needles to make it easier to work the increases at the beginning! So you can move one of the stitches over to the current needle so that you can do the m1r next to it, even though that would mean only 1 stitch on the next needle. Then you can keep shifting the stitches around like this whenever it becomes difficult to work any of the increases. Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
Hi,
This is my first time using double point needles and the tutorials for joining the round that I’m seeing say to cast on an extra stitch. So to start should I be casting on 6 stitches or should I cast on 7 and decrease to 6 to join the round?
Thanks,
Katie
Hi Katie,
Thanks for reaching out. When I made the hedgehog, I did not add an extra stitch and it came out great! While I know that that is a technique that is often used when knitting in the round, I think that in this case–even if you decrease it out on the next round–it would make the hedgehog’s nose too bulky. The cast on becomes the tip of the nose, so you’ll want to make sure that’s still small and pointy! Hope this helps!
All the best,
Lili
I am new t at using DPN and I on on Round 5. I don’t understand the pattern when it says K7, m1l, knit to end of round, m1r. (2 stitches increased)
I knitted 7, did the m1l and I don’t understand when I do m1r. I am on the first needle. Do I knit till the end and the last one I do m1r?
Hi Sharri!
Thank you so much for your question. Yes, you are correct! After you knit 7 and M1L, knit the remaining stitches in the row on your needles, and then at the very end of the round on the last needle, M1R. We also have a tutorial for Knitting in the Round on Double Pointed Needles if you are interested!
I hope this helps!
All the best,
Margaret
Thank you for donating this pattern to all us knitters.
hello! this is my first time using DPN. how do I switch to the main yarn while still having the contrast yarn on my needles?
Hi Em,
Thanks for reaching out! When beginning with a new ball of yarn, all you need to do is start knitting with it! We have a great tutorial that demonstrates this, if you want a good visual: Adding a Ball of Yarn. The only difference is that you’re beginning with the new ball of yarn at the edge of a row, rather than in the middle!
All the best,
Lili
Pages 10 and 11 for the start of the body are not clear as it has printed over itself and the directions cannot be read. Please correct so I can continue with my hedgehog. Thank you.
Hi Christine,
I’m sorry to hear that the pattern didn’t format correctly when you printed it! I’d recommend using the print function on this page to create a printer-friendly version. If you’re on your computer, you’ll find a “print” icon in the right column just below the “Save To Favorites” button. If you’re on a mobile version of the site, you will find the “print” icon below the pattern and above the comments.
Click on this button, and a window will pop up where you can delete whichever parts of the pattern you don’t want to print. When you hover over any image or a text block, it will be highlighted in yellow and a “trash” icon will appear. Just click on this icon to delete anything that’s not necessary to the pattern! For example, you may decide to shorten the pattern by omitting certain images or the list of materials. Then, just click on the “Print” button in the upper left-hand corner of the pop-up window!
All the best,
Lili