Knitted Square Bumble Bees

Knitted Square Bumble Bees by Linda Morris Tomlin

Project Overview

This downloadable knitting pattern from Linnypin Designs UK features two charming bumble bee toys created using the modular square knitting technique. The project includes instructions for making both Buzzy (a large bee) and Bee (a small bee), making it an ideal beginner-friendly toy knitting project suitable for crafters new to the medium.

What Is Being Made

The pattern produces two distinct bumble bee designs constructed from individual knitted squares that are assembled together. Buzzy represents the larger bee variation, while Bee

Knitting Techniques Used

This project employs the modular square knitting technique, where individual colored squares are knitted separately and then sewn together to create the final three-dimensional form. This approach breaks down the construction into manageable, straightforward components ideal for beginners. The technique allows crafters to work on small, discrete pieces before assembling them into the complete toy.

Stitches Used

The pattern utilizes garter stitch exclusively, which is created by knitting every row. Garter stitch is one of the most fundamental knitting stitches and is perfect for beginners as it requires only basic knit stitch knowledge. The repetitive nature of garter stitch creates a textured, bumpy fabric that works well for toy construction and provides good structure for stuffed projects.

Materials and Specifications

• Yarn Weight: DK (double knitting) weight yarn
• Yarn Quantities: Black squares require 50 gm, yellow squares require 100 gm, and white squares require 20 gm (sufficient yarn provided for both bee variations)
• Needles: 3.75mm knitting needles
• Additional Materials: Safety eyes, sewing needle and thread for assembly, felt for details

Tension and Sizing

Proper tension is essential for this project. For Buzzy (Large Bee): work to 14 stitches and 22 rows over a 6cm square using garter stitch on 3.75mm needles. For Bee (Small Bee): work to 10 stitches and 16 rows over a 4.5cm square using garter stitch on 3.75mm needles. If your tension square measures larger than specified, switch to smaller needles to ensure proper sizing and finished proportions.

Square Components

Each bee is constructed from multiple colored squares that are knitted individually:

• Black squares: 13 squares per set (representing stripes and bee features)
• Yellow squares: 27 squares per set (forming the primary body color)
• White squares: 4 squares per set (for details such as eyes or accents)

Difficulty Level

This pattern is rated as beginner difficulty, making it accessible to knitters with minimal experience. The use of simple garter stitch, small individual squares, and detailed instructions ensures that crafters new to knitting can successfully complete this project. The modular construction method allows beginners to practice fundamental skills on manageable pieces before assembly.

Pattern Support

The pattern includes full working instructions designed to be detailed and easy to follow. Designer Linda Morris Tomlin from Linnypin Designs UK provides customer support for any questions or difficulties encountered during the making process, ensuring a positive crafting experience.