Penguins have a strong family loyalty which is put to the test throughout the bitter Antarctic winter. Before the very coldest weather, the mother penguins lay one large egg and then disappear into the sea to feed. The father penguins are left on their own to look after the egg, which they dutifully carry balanced on their feet to keep warm. Only when the mother returns will the male finally go off to find some food for himself.

With just simple variations of colours and markings, you can make different species of penguin using one pattern for an adult and one for a baby penguin. Very soon, you could have a whole flock of these comical little birds!

Materials
Adult Adelie penguin (the variation with white marks around its eyes), materials:

• 40g DK in black
• 25g DK in white
• scraps of DK in dark grey

Adult Emperor Penguin (the variation with the bright orange markings), materials:

• 40g DK in black
• 25g DK in white
• scraps of DK in dark brown, orange, and yellow

The pattern also suggests using 10mm (3/8 inch) toy safety eyes, but felt eyes or black stitches would also be appropriate.