Excerpt

INTRODUCTION

I have always been surrounded by creatures. As a child I adored the panda family who took residence in my doll's house and between my sisters and I there were hundreds of plush toy animals. Even now, a collection of toy sheep peak though the mountains of yarn in my studio. I don't think you're ever too old to have a pinch of Neverland here and there. Once I had learnt to knit it was only a matter of time before these influences began appearing in my work. It started with foxes and before I knew it I had created a whole world of animal friends. I could never bring myself to own a real trophy animal head or touch a real mink stole in a vintage shop, but knitting my own representations of them allowed me to delight in these things in my own way. The patterns in this book reflect a life-long love of toys and an admiration for taxidermy.

Within these pages you'll find a hoard of wild things: from beasts to be worn with pride, to nestlings that'll preserve the warmth of your tea to critters to keep you company on those cold wintery nights. You may recognise a few faces, such as my Fox Stole and a baby version of my Badger Head (who I couldn't resist including). I've given each piece its own personality but feel free to experiment yourself. Try making the crocodile grumpy or the moose a little shocked.

There's something for everybody. Beginners can keep themselves warm with the quick knit Raccoon Hat or, if superstitious, the Lucky Rabbit's Foot. Along the way there will be plenty of help. Clear diagrams and explanations of techniques mean there are no excuses for not trying the intermediate creatures. The book is packed with amusing projects that knitters of all abilities will enjoy making (I know I certainly did!) because what's life without a few pheasants hanging in your kitchen or a mole making mounds in the doorway.