Pride Sheep

Did you know around 8% of sheep are gay? I was inspired to create this pattern after reading about Michael Stücke's amazing gay sheep flock in Germany! He saves 'unproductive' rams from being slaughtered, and instead keeps them as part of his "Rainbow Wool" business. After reading about Stücke's amazing flock (and being part of the lgbtq community myself) I was inspired and so decided to create this pattern so that anyone could make their own little queer flock! This is a written crochet pattern for the “Pride Sheep”- an amigurumi plushie sheep, with a removable rainbow pride jumper. The pattern also briefly explains how to alternatively create other pride flag jumpers that have a different number of flag stripes (3 to 7 stripes). The pattern is available in both US and UK terms. The PDF file is 16 pages long with detailed instructions and lots of photos. In addition to Ravelry, this pattern is also available on my Etsy store to purchase. This pattern is suitable for crocheters that are already familiar with amigurumi and basic crochet stitches/techniques (e.g MR, sc, hdc, dc, inc, dec, FLO, BLO etc). One speciality stitch is used (bobble stitch)- a detailed tutorial with images explains how to complete this. Please note however that the bobble stitch is used extensively in the sheep, so you will need to be (or able to become) confident with it in order to complete the pattern. Most stitches are worked in rounds- some elements of the jumper requires working in rows (e.g the ribbing). Materials & Tools Required: Yarn: • For the sheep: Colours white (in chenille or similar texture), beige and brown. All in (roughly) the same yarn weight category. I used: o KnitCraft Tiny Chenille Off-White DK yarn (100% polyester) o KnitCraft Tiny Friends Beige DK yarn (50% cotton, 50% acrylic) o KnitCraft Tiny Friends Brown DK yarn (50% cotton, 50% acrylic) • For the jumper: Colours of your choosing, in a matching yarn weight category to your sheep yarn. o For my jumper I used: KnitCraft Tiny Friends DK yarn (50% cotton, 50% acrylic), in the relevant colours. Crochet Hook: • You should chose a hook size based on your yarn’s weight. I used a 3mm hook throughout for my DK weight yarn. Safety Eyes x2: • I used black 9mm diameter safety eyes. • You can alternatively choose to embroider eyes if you prefer, or if you are giving the sheep to a young child. Toy stuffing Scissors Tapestry/finishing needle Stitch marker (recommended) Pins to help with assembly/sewing (recommended) Using a 3mm hook and DK weight yarn my finished sheep measured 12cm tall and 12cm long.