Prickles the Hedgehog

Prickles the Hedgehog Knitted Toy

What Is Being Made

Prickles the Hedgehog is a charming knitted stuffed toy designed by Ann Franklin. This intermediate-level knitting project creates a finished hedgehog measuring approximately 28 to 30 centimeters in overall length. The toy features a distinctive textured appearance with a soft body and characteristic spiky outer shell that gives the hedgehog its authentic prickly appearance.

Knitting Techniques Used

The primary construction method for Prickles involves stocking stitch, which creates a smooth, classic knit fabric that forms the foundation of the toy's body. The signature feature of this design is the innovative technique used to create the hedgehog's 'prickles' or spikes. Rather than relying on embroidery or appliqué, the prickles are constructed by strategically casting on and casting off stitches to build a thick outer 'shell' that gives the toy its distinctive texture and three-dimensional spiky appearance. This technique adds both visual interest and tactile appeal to the finished toy.

Stitches and Stitch Details

The pattern is worked primarily in stocking stitch, the fundamental knit stitch that alternates knit and purl rows to create a smooth, flat fabric. The creative use of cast-on and cast-off techniques throughout the pattern forms the decorative prickle elements that define the hedgehog's character and charm.

Materials and Yarn Requirements

This project requires DK weight yarn, a medium-weight yarn ideal for creating toys with good stitch definition and appropriate fabric density. The original pattern was created using Hayfield Bonus DK, a 100% acrylic yarn with a yardage of 280 meters per 100 grams. The color palette consists of:

• Colour A (Light Brown): 50g of DK yarn—originally knitted in Hayfield Bonus DK in Oatmeal (shade 964)
• Colour B (Mid Brown): 50g of DK yarn—originally knitted in Hayfield Bonus DK in Walnut (shade 927)

Any DK weight yarn may be substituted as available, making this pattern adaptable to yarn stash and personal color preferences. Additional materials include 100g of toy stuffing for filling the completed knitted pieces, and 3.25mm knitting needles for working the DK yarn.

Tension and Fit

The recommended tension is 26 stitches and 36 rows to 10 square centimeters. However, the pattern notes that tension is not vital to this project, provided that the stitches are worked closely enough together to prevent the stuffing from showing through the finished toy. This flexibility makes Prickles an accessible project for knitters still developing consistent tension control.